The Connection

Photo by Andrea Worker

Sean Finn, owner Finn’s Pool and Spa Service. Started in Vienna, took a 12-year Centreville residency, before returning for a total of 37 years in Vienna: “I grew up in Vienna and thought it was great place to grow up. I am still friends with kids that I played with on my street. I have a daughter now and hope she has as many fond memories of growing up in Vienna as I do.”

Photo by Andrea Worker

Gloria T. Runyon, Retired D.C. school principal. Board Member, Historic Vienna, Inc.: Has lived in Vienna “all my life, except being born in the District because they had a hospital.” Ruynon’s family has owned a home in Vienna, almost as long as there has been a settlement. “My family goes back to the late 1700s and family members just keep buying the same house from each other. There is a real community feeling here. People are nice to each other, and they were even during times of segregation. There are so many things to do here, I love living so near the Community Center and being able to enjoy so many local activities. We keep our small-town ambience.”

Photo by Andrea Worker

Nancy Moats, volunteer with Historic Vienna, Inc. Resident of Vienna for 34 years: “I love all the history. We live in an historic home from the 1890s. The owner was a Town Clerk, had a sawmill, and became a Mason. I appreciate the history of people who had to do for themselves. Living within the town, it’s great to be able to walk to so many places and activities. It’s also great to be so close to D.C. and the things to see and do and experience there.”

Photo by Andrea Worker

The Oskuie family — Lauren, Jackson, Cosmo the dog, and dad Chris. Chris is in sales and marketing. Native of Vienna, resident for 40 years: “What’s best? Walking to everything,” said Chris, “and the great community atmosphere like this event tonight. [Chillin’ on Church Street] You pay a premium to live here, but it’s worth it.” Lauren likes how easy it is to get together with friends and find things to do. “And there’s lots of good food around.” Jackson agreed that there was “lots to do.” Cosmo declined to comment.

Photo by Andrea Worker

Laurie DiRocco, Mayor of Vienna, resident for 22 years: “I could go on forever answering this question! But a few things best about living in Vienna is that we have a history that is still part of our current lives in the community today. I love the Town Green, the concerts, the many activities and ways we connect with and take care of each other.”

Photo by Andrea Worker

Brian Feeney, in education. Resident for 18 years: “I enjoy the activities and things to do, community parties like ‘Chillin' on Church Street,’ the quality of life here. It’s a convenient place to live, with access to the Metro and Dulles Airport.”