McLean, VA February 2026

February- Short but Sweet!

February may be our shortest month, but it certainly doesn’t lack reasons to smile. Even with the winter chill, the month brings moments that remind us how much joy there is to be found in small, meaningful gestures.

Valentine’s Day is one of those special moments. From choosing the perfect card, sharing chocolates or flowers, or planning a small outing with someone you care about, it’s a chance to show appreciation and brighten a day. And let’s not forget the delight of kids’ Valentine cards, still full of playful messages that make us grin: “You’re PURR-fect!”, “I’m not LION — you’re awesome!”, or “What did the stamp say to the envelope? I’m stuck on you!” These simple, cheerful notes remind us that showing someone they’re appreciated—no matter their age—never goes out of style.

Even in the chill of February, our community has a way of feeling warm. Maybe it’s the hope of a snow day—those magical mornings that transform the winding streets of Great Falls or the familiar neighborhoods of McLean into quiet, glittering scenes—or simply the everyday acts of kindness we share with one another. Whether it’s a friendly wave on your morning walk, a chat with a neighbor at your local café, or a small gesture at one of our favorite shops, these moments remind us why our community is so special.

I’m grateful, as always, to be part of a community that brings so much warmth and connection to even the coldest days of winter.

Sweet Valentine Wishes,

SUZANNE PURDY, PUBLISHER @MCLEANCITYLIFESTYLE

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Suzanne Purdy | suzanne.purdy@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

AJ Jones | aj.jones@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

AJ Jones, Bailey Hall

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Proverbs 3:5-6

TRAIN SMARTER, FEEL BETTER

GROUP FITNESS CLASSES

ADULT MARTIAL ARTS: HAPKIDO

FEBRUARY 2026

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: A silver Claddagh ring embraces a crystal stem, a timeless token of love and loyalty. 2: An intricate silver heart, a delicate heirloom holding the light of a thousand memories. 3: Golden mementoes of affection, resting elegantly on porcelain like a quiet love letter. 4: Delicate winter berries and a conch shell, a hand-drawn sketch of seaside serenity. 5: A soft bouquet of roses and hydrangeas, blooming with the gentle colors of romance. 6: Faded petals in vintage vessels, a nostalgic tribute to love that never wilts. 7: Rich chocolate cake and sweet strawberries. A decadent indulgence made for sharing with someone special.

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We know that buying or selling a home is more than just a transaction - it’s one of life’s most significant investments and we are here to guide you every step of the way. With deep roots in Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington DC we combine unmatched local expertise with a personalized high touch approach to ensure a seamless experience.

business monthly

Michelbach’s: Personalized Furniture for Every Home

At Michelbach’s Creative Classics, every piece of furniture is crafted to fit your home. We specialize in furnishing unique and smaller spaces.  Offering American-made, chemical-free, and high-quality pieces with customizable options in size, fabric, leather, wood, and finish. The Alexandria showroom combines timeless craftsmanship with expert design support. Our team ensures a smooth, personalized experience, from selection to in-house delivery, helping homeowners create functional and stylish spaces.  Come see the difference Michelbach's can offer.

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LifeWave Light Therapy: A Better You

Discover how wearable light therapy patches can promote improved health and wellness. The X39 patch, powered by your body’s heat and light, is designed to help relieve pain, boost energy, and support deeper, restorative sleep. Learn more about this innovative approach at an informative session hosted by LifeWave.  To register, call Kimberly Hartke 703-675-5557 When: February 11, 7:00 PM  Where: Mason Enterprise Center, 10300 Eaton Place, Fairfax, 1st Floor Conference Room

Fall in Love with Your Home Again

McLean-based Pembrook Interiors has launched Designer on Demand, offering accessible design expertise without the commitment of a full-scale project. This tailored 3-hour consultation addresses specific design questions—from color palettes to furniture placement—while providing professional guidance and a clear, actionable plan clients can implement themselves. “We help homeowners fall in love with their homes again,” says Jennifer Fordham, AD PRO Directory designer and owner. “Spaces should feel collected, not contrived.” PembrookInteriors.com | 703.336.2886

Love Your Fitness at FLEXX

Celebrate February by loving your fitness journey at FLEXX Fitness in McLean. From customized training plans to energizing group classes, their team provides guidance and motivation to help members achieve results. Whether boosting strength, flexibility, or overall wellness, FLEXX creates a welcoming space to prioritize self-care, feel empowered, and make healthy choices you’ll love.

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NEW TO GERMAN?

No problem! Our FastTrack program welcomes motivated students and families ready to embrace bilingual learning. With dedication, strong academic habits, and our support, your child can join a community that values effort, growth, and global citizenship.

Discover the German International School Washington D.C.!

With over 550 students from preschool to 12th grade, we offer rigorous academics in a warm, multicultural setting since 1961. Our German curriculum, combined with a global perspective, leads to a dual diploma graduation: the German International Abitur (DIA) and a high school diploma. Focused on world languages and science, we nurture critical thinking and prepare students for top universities worldwide.

Please contact admissions@giswashington.org for your personal campus tour. German language skills are NOT required for admission to all grade levels.

THE Soul OF THE Suburb

ARTICLE BY AJ JONES PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE MCLEAN ART GALLERY

You’re likely at the Chesterbrook Shopping Center to pick up groceries or grab a coffee, but lately, a different kind of storefront has been stopping residents in their tracks. It’s a space filled with canvases and sculptures that feel remarkably like home.

For Jane McElvany Coonce, Gallery Director of the McLean Art Gallery, this “pop-up” space is the latest chapter in a story that began in 1955. What started as the McLean Art Club has evolved into a vital cultural anchor. “A community without art lacks a soul,” Jane says. As high rents force many local galleries to close, this partnership with Federal Realty allows art to remain exactly where the people are.

FINDING YOUR FOCUS

For many, walking into a gallery feels like an invitation to be judged on what they know, or don’t know, about art history. Jane is determined to change that. To her, the gallery isn’t a museum; it’s a place to practice the simple act of looking.

“Galleries should not be intimidating,” Jane explains. “I encourage people to like what they like and not feel that you need an advanced degree to enjoy art.”

She often gives first-time visitors a homework assignment: walk the room and pick the one piece you would take home if you could. It’s a strategy designed to transform passive observers into active participants. Jane recalls a visitor transfixed by a painting of a boat moored along an autumn shoreline. Puzzled by her own fascination—especially since she didn’t even like boating—the woman listened as Jane explained the visual science at work. The artist had used complementary colors, pairing the deep blues of water with the vibrant oranges of leaves to naturally stimulate the eye.

“As I talked about the artwork, she agreed that the colors really did catch her eye,” Jane says. “She ended up buying the piece.”

A NEIGHBORHOOD CONNECTION

Instead of sourcing talent from international hubs or major cities like New York, the gallery stays close to home intentionally. The artists on the walls are the same neighbors you run into at the post office. During “First Friday” receptions, the people standing next to the paintings are often the creators themselves.

That connection extends behind the desk. Mentorship has become a consistent aspect of Jane’s approach to the community-based gallery, as she has taken two local college students under her wing. After meeting them at a reception, she invited them to see what it takes to maintain a cultural hub.

“We have them assist with receiving artwork, hanging shows, and gallery sitting,” Jane explains. It’s a hands-on education in the “whole gamut” of the industry, teaching them that a successful gallery requires as much logistical coordination as it does creative vision.

MORE THAN JUST A SHOW

The gallery’s mission extends far beyond the frames. To satisfy a growing appetite for hands-on creativity, the Society offers classes in watercolor, drawing, and pen-and-ink. It also hosts practical workshops, such as a recent lecture by interior designer Barbara Hawthorn on the nuances of selecting and placing art within a home.

The beauty of a pop-up gallery is its immediacy. While its stay in Chesterbrook depends on when the storefront is permanently leased, the impact on the town’s cultural fabric feels anything but temporary. Whether you’re looking for a new centerpiece for your living room, a new skill, or simply want to take Jane’s “homework assignment” for a test drive, the gallery offers a rare chance to slow down and connect.

HOW TO STAY CONNECTED

The gallery rotates its entire collection at the start of every month.

• Visit: Stop by the Chesterbrook Shopping Center to see the latest specialty show.

• Meet the Artists: Join the community for “First Friday” receptions.

• Learn: Check https://www.mcleanartsociety.com for a schedule of upcoming classes.

• Join the List: Email gallery@mcleanartsociety.org for event announcements.

Jane McElvany Coonce shares how to make your next gallery visit meaningful:

1. Play the Take Home Game: Don’t feel pressured to love everything. Challenge yourself to pick exactly one piece you’d hang in your home. “It makes you a better observer,” Jane explains.

2. Spot the Technical Magic: If a piece draws you in, look at the colors. Artists use complementary colors (opposites like blue and orange) to create visual vibrance that naturally attracts the eye.

3. Talk to the Artist: The gallery is all-volunteer, so the person greeting you is likely an artist on the wall. Ask about their process; the story behind a piece creates a lasting connection.

Tradition Meets Modern Care

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Discover a holistic path to healing and balance at Balance Art Acupuncture McLean — where your well-being is our top priority.

We are a local acupuncture clinic that combines ancient healing wisdom with modern expertise to offer effective acupuncture treatments for pain relief, stress reduction, and natural fertility support.

Our clinic is committed to helping our community find natural relief and lasting wellness.

As the season changes, your body deserves extra care and support. Our services, acupuncture and massage, can help strengthen your immune system, relieve stress, and bring your body into balance — naturally and effectively.

Book your wellness session today and feel the calm, energy, and resilience your body needs this season.

A Handmade Date Night

A date night at home is the perfect occasion to shower your loved ones with affection and appreciation. While storebought gifts and cards have their charm, there’s something incredibly special about receiving a handmade gesture. By opting for a handmade date night, you’re not just expressing love but also showcasing your thoughtfulness and effort. These handmade creations convey a personal touch that can’t be replicated.

Make

From-Scratch

Pasta

what you need

Yield: 1 pound

2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting 4 large eggs

what you do

1. Mound the flour in the center of a work surface with a well in the middle. Crack the eggs into the well and beat with a fork until smooth, then work flour into eggs with the fork. Use a bench scraper to work in the rest of the flour a little at a time. When the flour is incorporated, form the dough with your hands into a rounded mass for kneading. Lightly dust your workspace with flour and knead dough about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover dough with a bowl or plastic wrap and rest 1 1/2 hours, or chill overnight.

2. To roll by hand, flour a clean work surface. Vigorously roll dough to a very thin circle and roll constantly with even pressure as it stretches for several minutes until as thin as possible, almost translucent.

3. To cut by hand, lightly fold sheets one at a time into thirds and cut to desired thickness. Recipe from MarthaStewart.com .

Lavender Bath Salt Blend

what you need

16 ounces Bokek Dead Sea Salt

20 drops lavender essential oil

what you do

In a mixing bowl, add drops of the essential oil to the bath salt and mix well; store in a glass jar. Add 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the scented salts to a bath for a relaxing experience. SeaSalt.com

Dark Chocolate Truffles

what you need

1/2 cup heavy cream

8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 cup cocoa powder, for dusting

what you do

1. Bring the cream to just a simmer in a saucepan over low heat. Pour the cream over the chocolate in a bowl and let stand about 10 minutes to melt the chocolate. Add the vanilla, stir until smooth and set aside to cool for 1 hour at room temperature.

2. Beat chocolate at medium speed until thick and light-colored. Spread over the bottom of a baking dish, smooth and refrigerate 2 hours until firm.

3. Pour cocoa powder onto a deep plate or shallow bowl, and using a melon baller or small ice cream scoop, scoop out balls of chocolate. Roll in cocoa powder until coated and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Recipe from FoodNetwork.com

FEBRUARY BLISS: BUY

Creating a HOME NOT JUST A HOUSE

Designing award-winning and best-selling homes for over twenty years, James McDonald Associate Architects’ goal is to create a custom home made for you, helping to make the realization that your dream home is only an ask away.

Furniture for Every Home

At Michelbach’s Creative Classics, every piece of furniture is crafted to fit your home. We specialize in furnishing the unique and smaller spaces found in the VA/MD/DC Metro areas

Offering

INSIDE THE BROOKSFIELD SCHOOL

By experimenting with how pieces fit together, children develop a deep, intuitive understanding of geometry and structural balance.

A SANCTUARY FOR CHILDHOOD:

ARTICLE BY AJ JONES | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE BROOKSFIELD SCHOOL

“AT ITS HEART, BROOKSFIELD IS MORE THAN A SCHOOL: WE ARE FAMILY.”

THE VISION: FROM TOWN HALLS TO TALL TREES

The story of Brooksfield began with Mary Anne Duffus, the school’s founder and Executive Director. Growing up in McLean, Mary Anne spent her childhood exploring the woods and climbing trees. This sense of freedom is something she believes is essential to a child’s spirit. Her dream was to create a Montessori School that respected staff and children in a community that embraced positive language and curiosity for the individual. In 1987, after years of holding town hall meetings and connecting with local churches to share her vision for a school that respected individual learning styles, she opened the doors with just five students with the help of longtime friends and colleagues, Hilary Scott and Anita Labetti.

AN OASIS IN A DIGITAL WORLD

While the landscape of Northern Virginia has changed, the fundamental needs of children remain the same. In an age where digital distractions and structured schedules often dominate, Brooksfield serves as a vital oasis. The school’s curriculum is an intentional tapestry of Montessori principles, nature-infused learning, and holistic development.

At Brooksfield, we believe that children think with their hands.

By planting, tending, and harvesting, students develop a profound connection to the earth and the food they eat.

“WE HAVE RECOGNIZED A PROFOUND NEED FOR CHILDREN TO SPEND MORE TIME OUTDOORS, AS NATURE GROUNDS THEM AND CALMS THEIR NERVOUS SYSTEMS.”

Through organic gardening and exploration of local parks, the school prioritizes time spent in the natural world. “We have become aware of the profound need for children to spend more time outdoors,” Mary Anne explains. “It grounds them and calms their nervous systems.” This nature-first approach is balanced with artistic programs, including music, art, and dance, which give children the space to build lifelong habits of curiosity, problem-solving, independence, self-regulation, and mindfulness.

THE POWER OF MENTORSHIP

One of the most distinctive features of the Brooksfield experience is its mixed-age classrooms for children ages two to six. In this setting, the traditional age-segregated model is replaced by a collaborative community. Older children naturally step into leadership roles as mentors, while younger students learn from their example.

This model allows for highly personalized learning. For instance, a curious three-year-old might overhear a math or reading lesson intended for an older peer and begin to grasp advanced concepts through simple exposure. This dynamic creates a socio-emotional environment where children learn to support one another, fostering empathy alongside cognitive flexibility.

A PARTNER FOR THE MODERN FAMILY

Mary Anne and her team understand that for busy families in McLean and surrounding areas, time is a precious commodity. To support working parents, Brooksfield offers a full-day program with flexible hours and a dedicated summer camp. Through the Dragonfly Club, students have access to before- and after-care,

ensuring they remain in a nurturing environment while their parents manage the demands of professional life.

Beyond childcare, the school acts as a partner in parenting. The Brooksfield staff is trained in positive discipline, research on neuroscience principles, brain development, Montessori theory and mindful practices. The teachers utilize this training to identify challenges that could indicate the need for early intervention and also to educate parents on milestones, social, emotional and cognitive development. From offering classes on coping strategies to organizing the Outdoor Adventures Program, which has brought families together for ice skating and hiking for over 30 years, Brooksfield strives to create a unified message between home and school.

A LEGACY OF BELONGING

The true measure of Brooksfield’s impact is found in its enduring bonds. It is common to see alumni return as camp counselors or as parents themselves, eager to give their own children the same cherished childhood moments they once enjoyed. One family even moved back from the West Coast specifically so their children could attend the school.

As Brooksfield looks toward the future from its state-of-the-art building at Lewinsville Presbyterian Church, it remains committed to the idea that early childhood is a phase to be celebrated, not just a step toward public school.

Mary Anne is thrilled to be joined by her daughter, Carlie, who was once a student at Brooksfield. Carlie, a licensed Marriage and Family therapist, is an administrator and a resource for teachers and families. “At its heart, Brooksfield is more than a school,” Mary Anne reflects. “We are family!”

Every successful connection of a block or gear is a boost in self-confidence.

ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Building the Perfect Bouquet

Valentine’s Day can be celebrated in many ways. Some people choose to go out for dinner and a movie, others hire a private chef for a romantic meal at home, some buy chocolates and find a fun activity in town, and some couples go out of town for an exciting getaway! One Valentine’s Day staple is giving a bouquet of flowers to someone special. Flowers are the gift that say I love you and can be given to your spouse, children, and mom. As a child, my father always got me roses on Valentine’s Day until I met my husband and he took over the tradition. A bouquet of flowers can say many things as each flower has a different meaning. If you’re wanting to say something special to the ones you love this Valentine’s Day, take a look at our list of three popular flowers, what they mean, and what flowers to pair them with.

USE THIS GUIDE WHEN ORDERING VALENTINE’S DAY BOUQUETS

Roses

LOVE & ROMANCE

Roses are by far the most popular flower to give on Valentine’s Day. They are beautiful by themselves or you can add Baby’s Breath to enhance the bouquet. These two make a romantic bouquet and are the perfect flowers to give to someone special.

Lilies

PURITY & FERTILITY

Lilies come in a variety of colors and are eye-catching! For a softer looking bouquet, pair your lilies with carnations. These two combined are fun and heartwarming and are a great gift for anyone.

Tulips

PERFECT FOR DEEP LOVE

A bouquet of tulips will brighten any space! Adding some Ranunculus, also known as buttercup, will complement the tulips wonderfully. These flowers have a refreshing look that will decorate any home beautifully in a crystal vase.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FEBRUARY 1ST

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

Warner Theatre, 513 13th St NW, Washington, DC 20004 | 7:30 PM

The Warner Theatre will host the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Gala. This event combines a high-energy premiere performance with a sophisticated post-show celebration. February 1–8: Daily performances at 2:30 PM and 7:30 PM.

FEBRUARY 1ST

Afternoon Tea at The Waldorf Astoria

Waldorf Astoria, 1100 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004 | 11:00 AM

Enjoy a luxurious escape at the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC’s Holiday Afternoon Tea, running through February 22. Located in the stunning nine-story Peacock Alley atrium, the experience features live piano music and a curated seasonal menu. Reservations are essential as seatings fill quickly.

FEBRUARY 7TH

Astronaut vs. Aquanaut

The Alden at McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave. McLean, VA 22101 | 6:00 PM

Who is the ultimate explorer? Join scientists Janet Ivey ("Janet’s Planet") and Jennifer Swanson ("Science Rocks") on Saturday, Feb. 7, at 6 p.m. for an epic head-to-head battle! It's spacesuits vs. wetsuits. Learn how they explore inner and outer space using the latest images from the James Webb Space Telescope and more!

FEBRUARY 7TH

Rumours: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute

Capital One Hall, 7750 Capital One Tower Rd. Tysons, VA 22102 | 7:00 PM

Experience the rock and roll magic of  Rumours, a meticulously detailed Fleetwood Mac tribute. Featuring talented members from Rooney and The Motels, the band comprises Jesika Miller (as Stevie Nicks), Rebecca Fishman (as Christine McVie), Ned Brower of Rooney (as Mick Fleetwood), Taylor Locke of Rooney (as Lindsey Buckingham), and Nic Johns of The Motels (as John McVie).

FEBRUARY 8TH

Lunar New Year Celebration

Twin Lakes Golf Course, 6201 Union Mill Road Clifton, VA 20124 | 6:00 PM

Celebrate under the stars at Twin Lakes Golf Course! Enjoy spectacular martial arts, music, dance, and cultural crafts. Savor delicious Asian food samples and local food truck favorites! Don't miss this unforgettable cultural experience! Register by Feb 6, 11:59 PM

FEBRUARY 8TH

Great Falls

Got Talent!

Great Falls Grange, 9818 VA-193, Great Falls, VA 22066

Open to youth ages 3–18, this event offers a supportive stage for young performers. Acts must be under five minutes with minimal props. It’s a wonderful opportunity for kids to build confidence through practice and performance. Join us to cheer on our local stars!

Voted #1 in McLean, Island Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics has proudly served young smiles for over a decade. From infants to teens, our gentle, personalized care makes every visit fun, friendly, and fear-free—for kids and parents alike.

10+ Years of Trusted Pediatric Care

Specialized for Infants, Children & Teens State-of-the-Art, Kid-Friendly Office Compassionate, Experienced Team Join the families who trust us with their children’s smiles.

Brooksfield School in McLean, Virginia offers a warm, Montessori-inspired environment where children develop confidence, creativity, and a love of learning. Rooted in community, the arts, and nature, Brooksfield fosters meaningful connections and joyful exploration every day

FEBRUARY 13TH

Sweetheart Parent-Child Dance

McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave. McLean, VA 22101 | 7:00 PM

Join us for a fancy “date” night! Enjoy a live DJ, photo booth, crafts, and light refreshments. Registration: All ages! Parents and children must register individually. Create memories that last a lifetime! $20/person

FEBRUARY 14TH

Love Notes presented by the Virginia Chamber Orchestra

Capital One Hall, 7750 Capital One Tower Rd. Tysons, VA 22102 | 7:00 PM

Experience world-renowned pianist Thomas Pandolfi performing lyrical French masterpieces. The evening features Strauss’s Die Fledermaus and Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty, performed alongside the talented William & Mary Symphony Orchestra.

Don't miss this night of musical passion!

FEBRUARY 14TH

Valentine’s Day Elegance at 2941

2941 Restaurant, 2941 Fairview Park Dr, Falls Church, VA 22042

Celebrate love surrounded by stunning architecture and serene waterfalls! Experience high-end French-American cuisine with breathtaking views from floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s the ultimate sophisticated setting for an unforgettable romantic evening.

Book your table for a night of culinary art!

FEBRUARY 14TH

A Cozy Valentine’s Date at J. Gilbert’s

J. Gilbert’s Wood-Fired Steaks & Seafood, 6930 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA 22101

Looking for the perfect steakhouse experience? Cozy up in the dimly lit, upscale atmosphere of J. Gilbert’s. Enjoy top-tier wood-fired steaks and fresh seafood for a classic, intimate Valentine's dinner. A local favorite for a reason!

Reserve your spot for a delicious, candlelit night!

FEBRUARY 14TH

Heart 2 Heart Gala

The Ritz-Carlton, 1700 Tysons Blvd, McLean, VA 22102 | 6:00 PM

The  Heart 2 Heart Gala is a premier annual fundraiser benefiting Youth For Tomorrow. Founded by legendary Hall of Fame coach Joe Gibbs to support at-risk youth, this black-tie-optional gala on Saturday, Feb. 14, offers a romantic Valentine's Day celebration with a powerful mission.

FEBRUARY 16TH

Mount Vernon's "Washington's Birthday" Celebration

3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy, Mount Vernon, VA | 10:30 AM

Celebrate George Washington’s 294th birthday and America’s 250th anniversary at Mount Vernon! Highlights include Free Admission Day with military tributes (Feb. 16) and a Naturalization Ceremony featuring birthday cake (Feb. 22). For a formal experience, join the Birthnight Ball (Feb. 15), a black-tie gala featuring a three-course dinner, live auction, and a toast to the General!