AJ OSKUIE
The Spirit of
Vienna
Cover photo by Mauricio Cordiero
ENRICHING EACH OTHER, ENHANCING OUR COMMUNITY!
PUBLICATION TEAM
A Season of Energy and Connection ©
SPRING TRADITIONS IN VIENNA
Publisher Carmella Antonino
Content Coordinator Tania Reyes
Spring has a special way of waking everything up. After the quieter rhythm of winter, April arrives with fresh energy, brighter mornings, and that unmistakable feeling that something new is beginning. Trees begin to bloom, neighbors spend a little more time outside, and our beautiful town of Vienna feels alive in a way that only spring can bring.
Designer Nadine Schmitt
Contributing
Photographer Mauricio Cordeiro
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IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
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At Vienna Living, we love this season because it re ects what our community does so well—renew, reconnect, and come together. There’s a sense of momentum in the air, and everywhere you look there are people working behind the scenes to make Vienna an even more vibrant place to live.
That spirit of leadership and service is exactly why I’m so excited about this month’s feature on A.J. Oskuie. Many of you know A.J., and many more have experienced the events he has helped bring to life without even realizing it. Based here in Vienna, A.J. is a dedicated professional and an extraordinary community leader. He currently serves as Co-Chair of Viva! Vienna!, the beloved three-day Memorial Day weekend celebration that welcomes more than 70,000 visitors each year. A.J. has also served as Chairman in the past, helping guide the event’s success and its impact on local charities. In addition, he is an active member of the Rotary Club of Vienna, contributing to community favorites like Chillin’ on Church. What makes A.J. especially inspiring is that much of his work happens quietly behind the scenes, supporting local causes and strengthening the community we all cherish. We are honored to share his story in this issue.
Our Non-Pro t Spotlight this month shines on another beloved Vienna tradition—Vienna Little League. For generations, this allvolunteer organization has brought families together while teaching young athletes the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and community spirit.
This year is particularly special, as Vienna Little League celebrates its 75th season in 2026. Opening Day on Saturday, April 11, 2026, will be a wonderful celebration honoring the league’s rich history, its players and families, and the bright future ahead. Like so many great community traditions, Vienna Little League thrives because of the sponsors, volunteers, coaches, and families who give their time, energy and nancial support to make it possible.
As always, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our sponsors who make Vienna Living possible. Your support allows us to continue sharing the stories that celebrate the people, organizations, and traditions that make our town so special.
And to the many wonderful businesses here in Vienna, I warmly invite you to join them. Sponsoring an advertisement in Vienna Living is more than marketing—it’s a meaningful way to connect your business with the neighbors and families who make up our beloved community.
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.
As April unfolds, take a moment to enjoy the sunshine, the blossoms, and the renewed energy of spring. It’s a beautiful reminder that when a community comes together, wonderful things grow.
Warmest wishes,
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Vienna’s Ultimate Work‑Hard, Play‑Harder Guy
SUBMITTED BY TANIA REYES
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY AJ Oskuie
f Vienna had an unof cial hype man, it would be AJ Oskuie.
He’s the guy you spot at the pool, the festival, the lodge, or the concert and somehow, he’s not just there, he’s helping run the show. Raised in the Vienna area since 1977, AJ has spent nearly his entire life turning a small town into a big community, blending service, sports, and just the right amount of mischief.
ROOTED IN TOWN, ALWAYS IN MOTION
AJ’s Vienna story starts like many others: Oakton High School, then Virginia Tech, then right back home. He’s owned three houses in the Vienna area and is already eyeing a fourth, the real-estate version of saying, “Yeah, I’m not going anywhere.” What keeps him here is that unmistakable small-town feel—neighbors who show up, familiar faces at local spots, and a community that feels like one.
His family is part of that story too. His daughter, Alex, 26, is a copywriter in New York City, proving you can grow up in a town of regulars and thrive in a city of millions. His son, Davis, 22, is an electrician’s apprentice in Ashburn, building a solid future not far from where he grew up. And then there’s Stevie, the one-year-old Boston terrier who’s quickly becoming a star in her own right.
Sports have always been a big part of AJ’s rhythm. Since 1992, he has completed over 40 triathlons, which tells you about his energy level. That “go” button rarely switches off, and Vienna is better for it.
VIENNA WOODS AND THE HEART OF SUMMER
If you’ve ever spent a summer at Vienna Woods Swim and Tennis Club, chances are you’ve crossed paths with AJ. He’s been on the board since 1994 and has served as president for the past eight years. For him, Vienna Woods isn’t just a club; it’s a summer soundtrack of splashing kids, cookouts, and friendships that span generations.
Under his leadership, the club has remained exactly what longtime members and new families love: a place where kids grow up on the pool deck, neighbors become friends, and the phrase “See you at the club” is just part of the local vocabulary.
GOLF, GRANTS, AND GIVING BACK
AJ gured out early that he doesn’t just like living in Vienna, he likes doing something for Vienna. Twenty-three years ago, he joined forces with fellow locals Kevin Warhurst and Tommy McVean to start a golf tournament fundraiser supporting Hartwood Foundation. What began as an idea has turned into a long-running force for good.
Hartwood Foundation serves adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them live fuller, more independent lives right here in the region. AJ doesn’t just lend his name; he still writes grants and stays actively involved in their work. He’s proud that what started as a community golf outing has become a local lifeline for people who need it.
ROTARY LIFE AND THE MAGIC OF VIVA! VIENNA!
About 20 years ago, AJ made what he calls one of his best
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life decisions: joining the Rotary Club of Vienna. It gave him a bigger platform to do what he does best, connect people, spark ideas, and turn good intentions into real impact.
If you’ve ever walked through Viva! Vienna! over Memorial Day weekend, you’ve seen AJ’s ngerprints at work. He chaired the event for seven years and now serves as a vice chair, focusing on sponsorships while keeping the energy high. Under the leadership of a strong team, now helmed by Gunnar Spafford, Viva! Vienna! has grown into a beloved hometown tradition and a fundraising powerhouse. Last year, the event helped channel more than $300,000 back to local causes, which says a lot about the town, and about the crew behind the scenes.
CHAMPION OF SECOND CHANCES
By day, AJ’s full-time job” ts right in with his community. He serves as Director of Development for OAR Nova, which works with more than 1,800 justice-involved individuals in the area. The mission: help people carve out a new path for themselves and their families after involvement with the justice system.
Through reentry support, resources, and relationships, OAR Nova works quietly but powerfully in the background of our region. AJ’s role is to make sure they have the funding and support to keep going. One of his favorite ways to bring people into the fold is OAR Nova’s free Sunset Celebration at the Winery at Bull Run, an evening of good food, great wine, live jazz, and powerful stories about second chances. It’s very AJ: an event that’s fun and social, with a mission that really matters.
THE MAN BEHIND THE MOTTO
Ask AJ what makes him tick and he’ll give you his motto with a grin: “WORK HARD, PLAY HARDER!” It’s not just a slogan on a t-shirt. It’s the way he moves through town. He roots hard for local sports teams, especially the Capitals and the Commanders, and he’s just as comfortable talking forechecks and fourth-quarter drives as he is talking grants and sponsorships.
You’ll often nd him at Vienna staples like the Vienna Inn or the Moose Lodge, where the conversations are easy, the faces are familiar, and community feels like family. One of his personal heroes is his brother, Chris Oskuie, current president of the Moose Lodge. AJ credits Chris for doing so much for the community and for being a steady role model to him, his kids, and others who cross their paths.
DARES, PIES, AND LOCAL LEGENDS
Of course, no portrait of AJ is complete without mentioning his mischievous side. He’s been known to throw out a friendly dare to the mayor, which has resulted in more than one pie-in-the-face moment—sometimes for town leaders, sometimes for AJ himself. Those lighthearted antics capture what people love about him: he takes the work seriously, but he never takes himself too seriously.
When the work is done (or even when it’s not), AJ loves live music. You’ll see him at Wolf Trap under the stars or at Jammin Java catching a show. Over time, he has built a wide circle of friends and fellow “difference makers”. The Billett and Spafford families, the Rotary Club of Vienna, Navy Federal Credit Union, the Vienna Business Association, and many others earn his praise as the true backbone of this town.
For AJ, Vienna isn’t just where he lives, it’s his playground, his responsibility, and his biggest source of pride. Whether he’s planning a fundraiser, chairing a festival, or laughing with friends over live music and a dare gone sideways, he’s always pushing toward the same goal: making sure Vienna feels like home for everyone who’s lucky enough to be here.
Vienna Little League:
Swing into 75 Years of Smiles and Home Runs!
SUBMITTED BY TANIA REYES | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY VIENNA LITTLE LEAGUE
Picture this: a gorgeous spring evening at George C. Yeonas Park, where the crack of a bat sends cheers rippling through the stands, kids dash bases, and parents swap stories over Vienna Inn chili at the snack bar. For over 70 years, Vienna Little League (VLL) has been the town’s ultimate summer soundtrack, serving more than 1,000 boys and girls ages 4 - 13 with baseball magic that sparks skills, giggles, and friendships for life. This all-volunteer crew, chartered by Little League International, mixes big-league rules with small-town sparkle, proving there’s no better place in Vienna to catch the fever.
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Mission and Roots: From Dusty Lots to Diamond Glory
It all kicked off in 1952, when the Lions Club of Vienna rounded up 175 eager kids for games at Glyndon Park and school elds. Parents and Lions rolled up sleeves to build the town’s rst youth diamond, jazz up dugouts by 1955, and whip up a concession stand run by the LL Ladies Auxiliary (a xture till the late ’90s!). Boom time hit in 1959: developer Steve Yeonas gifted two acres near the South Side sewer plant, and volunteers dove in. Fundraising, hammering fences, backstops, and parking to birth a bona de ballpark.
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Interstate 66 shook things up in the ’60s, but savvy land swaps landed VLL at today’s George C. Yeonas Park (1319 Ross Dr SW, Vienna). Check them out at vll.org, Instagram vienna_ little_league, or Facebook: Vienna Little League Baseball. That DIY spirit? Still swinging strong.
Programs and Impact: Hits, High-Fives, and Homegrown Stars
Dive into seven levels from Tee Ball to Intermediate Division, with spring buzzing at nearly 1,000 kids (90 teams strong) and fall’s chill vibe drawing 600 more. Co-ed fun means every 4-13 year-old gets their shot at glory, instructional drills, developmental dashes, or competitive clashes. All laced with teamwork and belly laughs.
“It’s a community within a community,” one family raves, where bleacher chats turn into playdate gold. Vienna squads crush it at District 4, state, and Southeast Regionals, and yep, alums have cracked Major League lineups. Talk about turning T-ball dreams into big-league reality!
Vienna’s Role: Park Parties and Firework Finishers
Yeonas is game central for “Friday Night Lights” thrillers under the glow, but VLL bounces to Fairfax parks, schools, and Town gems like Cervenak Field at Glyndon. The real reworks?
Hosting Vienna’s July 4 bash. Picture families picnicking, munching chili dogs, and oohing at sky bursts.
Cue the 75th season spotlight: April 11, 2026’s Opening Day Ceremony parades every team in festive frenzy. Toss in “Donuts & Dingers” homer derbies and “Girls with Game” for that extra zing of inclusivity. Who says baseball can’t be a blast for all? How Neighbors Can Jump In: Grab a Glove, Grill, or Megaphone!
VLL’s volunteer heartbeat needs you: coach the rookies, ump those close calls, sling snacks, wrangle scoreboards, or rock the sound system. Zero experience? No sweat! Just bring the hype! Hit the Volunteer tab at vll.org for easy sign-ups, especially for 75th bash duties.
Sponsors and donors fuel the fun via the Vienna Little League Foundation—gear, xes, scholarships so every kid plays. Local spots, jump in and back a team, host an event, and watch neighborhoods light up.
Vienna Little League isn’t just baseball, it’s the whoop of a walk-off, the hug after a whiff, the spark that binds us. Hitting 75, it yells: Come play! Visit: vll.org.
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season with a full day of live music, art installations, and family-friendly activities culminating in a choreographed reworks show.
Time: 1pm-9pm | Cost: FREE www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org
Sat., April 11
DC BEER FEST
@Nationals Park
Enjoy a day at the ballpark featuring dozens of craft breweries, food trucks, and lawn games during this popular seasonal tasting event.
Time: 12pm-8pm | Cost: Admission Fee www.dcbeerfestival.com
Sat., April 18
NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL PARADE®
@Constitution Avenue
Witness one of the largest spectator events in the capital, featuring giant colorful balloons, marching bands from across the country, and elaborate oats.
Time: 10am-12pm | Cost: FREE (Grandstand seating available for purchase) www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org
@Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Experience the largest celebration of Japanese culture in the United States, featuring traditional performances, authentic food, and a vibrant marketplace.
Time: 10am-6pm | Cost: Ticket Required www.sakuramatsuri.org
Sat., April 18
SPRING FARM DAY
@Frying Pan Farm Park
Meet the newest arrivals on the farm and enjoy traditional demonstrations like sheep shearing, spinning, and cow milking.
Time: 10am-3pm | Cost: $10 www.fairfaxcounty.gov
Fri., April 24
ONE WORLD, ONE SKY: BIG BIRD'S ADVENTURE
@National Air and Space Museum
A planetarium show where Big Bird and Elmo take young explorers on a journey to the moon and back.
Time: 10:30am | Cost: FREE www.airandspace.si.edu
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.
Dust off your old prom dress or nd something fun for the ultimate ladies' night out featuring dancing, raf es, and snacks.
Time: 8pm-11pm | Cost: $100 www.tickettailor.com/events/ momprom2026/2107342
Sat., April 25
BOWMAN HOUSE POTTERY SHOW & SALE
@The Bowman House
Local artisans from the Vienna Arts Society display and sell unique, handcrafted stoneware and ceramics.
Time: 10am-4pm | Cost: FREE www.viennaartssociety.org
Sun., April 26
WALK ON THE HILL
@Windover Avenue
Explore the historic charm of Vienna during this neighborhood tradition where residents open their gardens and yards for a scenic stroll through the community. Time: 2pm-5pm | Cost: FREE www.viennava.gov
Sat., May 2
POP-UP STARGAZING AT THE MUSEUM IN DC
@National Air and Space Museum
Join staff and volunteers for an evening of telescope viewing on the National Mall to observe the moon and planets.
Time: 8pm-10pm | Cost: FREE www.airandspace.si.edu
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Sun., May 10
MOTHER'S DAY FLOWER POWER
STROLL
@Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
Fri., May 8
37TH ANNUAL EVENING OF COMEDY
@The Barns at Wolf Trap
A long-standing tradition featuring a curated lineup of some of the funniest touring stand-up comedians in the country.
Time: 5pm | Cost: $0-$40 www.viennachoralsociety.org
Thu., May 21 & Fri. May 22
STING 3.0
Take a relaxing walk through the gardens to see the peony collection, which typically reaches peak bloom right around Mother's Day.
Time: 10am-7pm | Cost: $3-$6 www.novaparks.com
Time: 8pm | Cost: $32-$45 www.wolftrap.org
Sat., May 9
FLOWER ARRANGING WORKSHOP & WINE TASTING
@The Wine Cabinet
Enjoy a sophisticated afternoon learning the art of oral design paired with a curated selection of wines at this local favorite in Reston.
Time: 2pm | Cost: $75 www.thewinecabinet.com
Sun., May 10
MOTHER'S DAY BRUNCH AT THE TOWER CLUB
@Tower Club - Tysons Corner
Treat Mom to an elegant brunch featuring seasonal breakfast favorites, savory lunch selections, and decadent desserts with a view.
Time: 11am-2pm
Cost: $75 adults / $25 kids www.eventbrite.com
Thurs., May 14
OAR'S SUNSET CELEBRATION
@The Winery at Bull Run
Event highlights: wine and jazz; hear client stories; delectable cuisine, auction and raf e.
Time: 7pm | Cost: FREE with RSVP www.oarnova.org
Fri., May 15
BIG SCREEN ON THE GREEN
@Vienna Town Green
Grab a blanket and snacks for an outdoor movie night under the stars with a feature lm the whole family will enjoy.
Time: 6:30pm | Cost: FREE www.viennava.gov
Sat., May 16
FLUTE, SITAR, AND TABLA TRIO
@The Barns at Wolf Trap
An evening of intricate Indian classical music featuring master instrumentalists in an intimate acoustic setting. Time: 8pm | Cost: $40 www.wolftrap.org
@Filene Center at Wolf Trap
Sting kicks off the outdoor summer season with his new power trio, performing hits from his solo career and The Police. Time: 8pm | Cost: $75+ www.wolftrap.org
Sat., May 23
VIVA! VIENNA!
@Church Street, Vienna
The massive annual Memorial Day weekend festival returns with carnival rides, food vendors, and live music in the heart of town.
Time: 10am-10pm | Cost: FREE entry www.vivavienna.org
Fri., May 29
BIG SCREEN ON THE GREEN @Vienna Town Green
Grab a second chance for an outdoor movie night under the stars with a feature lm the whole family will enjoy.
Time: 8:30pm | Cost: FREE www.viennava.gov
Sat., May 30
SATCHVAI: JOE SATRIANI & STEVE VAI
@Filene Center at Wolf Trap
Two of the greatest guitar virtuosos of all time join forces for a night of incredible technical mastery and rock instrumentals. Time: 8pm | Cost: $45+ www.wolftrap.org
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Why Are They Called Deviled Eggs?
According to the Oxford Companion to Food, the word “devil” first appeared in a culinary context as far back as the 18th century. It refers to cooking something “with fiery hot spices or condiments.” Deviled eggs get their name because they’re typically made with the spices paprika and black pepper.
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Tuesday:CLOSED Mon-Sat:5am~3pm Sun:6am~3pm
Provided by Carmella Antonino
DeviledE s with Jumbo Lump Crab Classic
Servings
24 | Prep Time: 2 hours 45 mins
INGREDIENTS
• 1-Dozen (12) large eggs
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 ½ tsp. yellow mustard
• 2 tsp. Kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil first press
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Gently stir together crab and onion. Whisk together vinegar and oil and fold in crab and onion mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 2 days.
2. Carefully place eggs one at a time in a large pot and cover eggs with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Cover and turn o heat. Let stand for 12 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, fill a large bowl halfway with ice, and add enough water to cover ice; set ice bath aside.
4. Using a slotted spoon, immediately transfer cooked eggs from boiling water to ice bath. Let stand until completely cooled, at least 5 minutes or up to 30 minutes.
5. Working with 1 egg at a time, firmly tap eggs on countertop or a flat work surface until cracks form all over the shell. Peel eggs under cold water.
6. Mix butter and panko breadcrumbs (1/2 tsp. garlic powder optional) and toast till golden brown.
7. Carefully cut eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove yolks. Using a fork, mash together yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Delicately fold in crabmeat mixture.
8. Spoon mixture (about 1 ½ tablespoon each) into egg whites.
9. Sprinkle with toasted panko and butter breadcrumbs and paprika (I do not use).
10. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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DR. NICKIE BASTANI