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By Mark Hazlin, SLHS marching band parent Seahawks band members at the USS Missouri in Honolulu. Photo contributed by Mark Hazlin Before dawn on Thursday, Dec. 4, members of the South Lakes High School “Spirit of Reston” Marching Band gathered at BWI Airport for a bleary-eyed journey to Hawaii to participate in the 2025 Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade. Band Director Grayson Fore led a combined group of South Lakes and Marshall High School band members on the educational trip. Before parade day, students toured historic Pearl Harbor sites, including the USS Arizona Memorial, where they viewed a documentary film and heard from veterans and historians about the Dec. 7, 1941, attack that drew the U.S. into World War II. After visiting the USS Missouri, the combined band delivered its first tribute performance at the memorial site. On Dec. 7, the 84th anniversary of the “Day That Will Live in Infamy,” the band rehearsed at Fort DeRussy, an active military installation, and joined a mass band performance of “God Bless America” ahead of the evening parade. South Lakes students march in Hawaii. Photo by Dan Greene While units staged for the parade, the South Lakes-Marshall drumline became part of an impromptu “drum battle” with another school’s percussion section. What began as warmups quickly turned into a lively exchange of cadences that drew a crowd of spectators. Fairfax County School Board member Melanie Meren shared the moment on social media, giving viewers back home a glimpse of the students’ camaraderie and competitive spirit. The band then took part in the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade, marching approximately one mile through downtown Waikiki along Kalakaua Avenue and performing for thousands of onlookers. The evening concluded with dinner at Kapiolani Park, where the Marine Forces Pacific Band provided entertainment. Students also experienced Oahu beyond the memorial events, visiting the North Shore, the Dole Plantation, and beaches including Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, and the Banzai Pipeline, with lunch in Hale‘iwa. At the Polynesian Cultural Center, they toured island village exhibits, participated in canoe activities, and viewed the IMAX film “Hawaiian Journey,” followed by the evening production “Ha: Breath of Life.” The trip concluded with additional sightseeing, including a hike at Diamond Head, before the group returned home—bringing with them a shared experience that blended history, music, and representation of their Reston community on a national stage.

By Kaydence Smith, Staff Writer Reston students read their writing for the CBS news crew. Pictures by Steven Brasley, Fairfax County Public Schools Langston Hughes Middle School [LHMS] students stepped into the spotlight after earning a chance to showcase their writing in a CBS News segment honoring America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. The feature is part of “America A to Z,” a CBS series celebrating the nation through the voices of Americans across generations. LHMS was selected to represent the letter “B,” themed “America the Beautiful,” after CBS producers specifically sought out middle school students to share their perspectives. According to Jackie Durr, LHMS Teacher of the Year and instructor of the selected class, the opportunity came together quickly. A CBS producer contacted district leadership, which then worked with school administrators to identify a class that could best represent the school and respond to the prompt. With just one day’s notice before winter break, students took on the prompt “America the Beautiful” with complete creative freedom. Durr encouraged them to “use your most sincere voice.” Some students chose poetry, others wrote essays, and a few addressed their pieces directly to America in letter form. Each student offered a distinct perspective. One wrote that “America holds an unlimited amount of opportunities for all sorts of people,” while another reflected that “the dreams we create along the way, the freedom to be whoever we want, and the hopes we set for our future” are what make America beautiful. Students could opt out of appearing on television, and several chose to do so. From those who volunteered, nine students were selected based on the sincerity of their work. In collaboration with the school division’s communications team, Durr helped ensure the final group reflected a wide range of voices and viewpoints. The selected pieces included vivid descriptions of sunrises and beaches inspired by family trips, reflections on friendships and neighborhoods, and heartfelt tributes to teachers and learning. Two students collaborated on a two-voice poem, alternating sections as they recited it together. “Middle schoolers are still very hopeful,” Durr said. “They are great examples of hope for the country and the future.” For the school community—and especially the students chosen—the experience is both a point of pride and a rare opportunity. “I focus a lot on validating that their ideas are worthy of putting pen to paper,” Durr said. Adding another local connection, the Annandale High School band recorded a rendition of “America the Beautiful,” which played during the segment. The feature, titled “Sixth-grade students share what they believe makes America beautiful,” aired Jan. 15 during the 8 a.m. hour on CBS News and is now available on the CBS News website. LINK: https://www.cbsnews.com/video/sixth-grade-students-share-what-they-believe-makes-america-beautiful/?intcid=CNM-00-10abd1h/

by Gene Powell, staff writer Mother-daughter duo Denise and Nia Harrington own their communication training business Speaking With Impact, launching services in Reston this month. Photo contributed by SWI “Speaking with Impact,” opening a location in Reston, is more than a company that improves speaking skills – much more, said co-owners Denise Harrington and daughter Nia Harrington. The company’s tag line identifies its goals, the pair said. “We take great people and turn them into great presenters,” Denise said. “We are hands-on and we guarantee transformation … something you can apply today” Nia said. Denise started working a with communications consulting firm in 1991 in the San Francisco Bay area. “Most of my clients at that time were … executives from the top tier Silicon Valley companies,” “Speaking with Impact” services include development of leadership speaking skills, effective change management, crisis communication training, and the effective showcasing of products and services. The range of communications training runs from skills for in-person remarks in small corporate groups to speaking at convention “main stage” events. “What sets us apart and has allowed us to last more than 30 years, is we do more than training and coaching … we’re able to see the holistic version of people and provide them with their direct needs,” Nia said. “We’re not looking to create cookie cutters … What we bring to the table is an ability to see the person and help them begin to utilize their skills,” Denise said. Training can include body language, posture, eye contact and learning to use a “pause” while speaking. “If they have a shaky voice … a good pause can help,” Nia said. The idea for the stand-alone company was prompted by Denise’s desire to have a family, and a move to Portland, Ore., where Denise became an independent contractor. Nia was born as initial clients came on board. Shortly after relocating, Denise said she gave a speech titled “Speaking with Impact” – which became the company’s name. Among her first clients was Nike, “which remains with me today.” “Speaking with Impact” has grown to include clients in Texas, Detroit, and New York. “And now, a lot of our clients are growing in Reston, which is becoming the (regional) tech area,” Nia said. “We never completely focused on Washington DC … but in 2020 we decided it would be nice not to have to travel so much,” having relocated their home to the Middleburg area about 15 years ago. “And the good news is there are so many clients in the Reston area who have their home offices in Silicon Valley, and who are people we’re used to working with.” The company held a Reston launch party in early February, in partnership with Carr Workplaces on Library Street at Town Center, to explain their work as well as how to use the Carr space. The open house featured a session on “practical strategies from communication experts for being more effective in the boardroom, followed by time to connect with others.” “Speaking with Impact” also is offering a two-day, in-person course Mar. 25-26. “Bring a friend, bring five friends, bring your whole team,” Nia said. The program will cover “virtual platforms, hybrid platforms, and face-to-face interactions when presenting, talking to customers, conducting team meetings, and “All Hands” sessions.” The Reston Letter readers, using the code Impact15, are offered a discount from the standard $2,550 cost. To register, visit their website, speakingwithimpact.com/ , and click “Register Now.”

By Ellyn Wexler, staff writer John E. Foster—better known as the man with the purple pants at Reston Farmers Market—helps locals navigate job loss through Career Network Ministry. Photos contributed by John E. Foster On any given Saturday morning at the Reston Farmers Market, regulars know to look for John E. Foster. He’s easy to spot, welcoming visitors at the GreenFare Organic Café booth, greeting neighbors by name, and wearing his now-signature purple pants. What many shoppers may not realize is that Foster, a Herndon resident with deep ties to Reston, has spent more than 15 years helping local residents navigate job loss, career transitions, and the emotional toll that often comes with both. Since 2009, Foster has been a volunteer with Career Network Ministry (CNM), a free, community-based organization that supports job seekers throughout Northern Virginia, including many from Reston and Herndon who first learn about the group through neighbors, churches, or local word-of-mouth. Foster’s involvement began during a period that may feel familiar to many in the community. In 2009, he lost his job due to a departmental downsizing, an experience that forced him to stop, reassess, and reimagine what came next. “When you lose a job, it gives you the chance to relook at where you are,” Foster said. As a job seeker himself, Foster found CNM and began attending meetings while searching for new opportunities. Through relationships built there, he was introduced to a startup company and eventually found his way forward. When CNM later needed help teaching LinkedIn skills, he stepped in, not as an expert looking to lecture, but as someone who understood firsthand the uncertainty of starting over. Today, Foster is part of a team that teaches LinkedIn classes to job seekers, many of whom are local residents navigating layoffs, career pivots, or reentry into the workforce. He has watched LinkedIn evolve into a critical tool for modern job searches. “If you’re not on LinkedIn, you don’t exist to recruiters,” he said. But the technology, Foster emphasized, is only part of the equation. What keeps people coming back to CNM, and what sets it apart, is its sense of community. “Career Network Ministry isn’t just about jobs,” he said. “It’s about relationships.” Originally founded as a ministry of McLean Bible Church, CNM has grown and adapted over the years. It now partners with Holy Trinity Church in McLean, offering in-person meetings on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month, as well as a full schedule of online programming. That hybrid model has made it accessible to job seekers across Reston, Herndon, and surrounding neighborhoods. The organization is entirely free and open to everyone, a core value Foster believes is essential, especially during times of economic uncertainty. “When people lose their jobs, many can’t afford to pay for coaching or résumé help,” he said. “We meet them where they are.” CNM offers multiple programs, including live workshops, online sessions, and small job-search teams that provide accountability, encouragement, and peer support. For many participants, that emotional support is as critical as résumé reviews or interview prep. “So many people tie their self-worth to their job,” Foster said. “When that’s gone, they feel lost. CNM reminds them they’re not alone, and that they’re more than their job.” That spirit of connection carries into Foster’s other local work. Since 2018, he has served as an ambassador for GreenFare Organic Café at the Reston Farmers Market, helping educate shoppers about plant-based nutrition and wellness. The purple pants that have become his calling card began as part of the uniform for a fathers’ cheerleading team with the Chantilly Youth Association, a detail that reflects his sense of humor, visibility, and community pride. GreenFare’s mission, Foster said, mirrors the values that keep him involved with CNM. Through educational programs and a popular 21-Day Kickstart initiative, the café helps residents improve their health, a foundation Foster sees as inseparable from professional and personal resilience. “All of this is about building a better community,” he said. After more than a decade of volunteering, Foster says it’s the people (neighbors helping neighbors) that keep him coming back. “Every one of us makes a difference,” he said. “Sometimes we see it. Sometimes we don’t.” For Reston and Herndon residents facing a career transition, Foster offers a simple reminder: help is closer than you think. “Sometimes taking the first step is the hardest,” he said. “But we’re a click away.” More information about Career Network Ministry, including meeting times and resources, is available at www.careernetworkministry.com/

Contributed by Food for Neighbors Reston resident Aiden Smith helps collect food on MLK Day of Service. Photo contributed by Food for Neighbors Volunteers from Reston and Herndon turned the Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service on Jan.19 into a day of action, volunteering with Food For Neighbors to help restock school food pantries serving local students. Now in its ninth year, the Reston-based nonprofit works with area middle and high schools to operate in-house food pantries, relying on community volunteers and donations collected through its Red Bag Program. This year’s MLK Day of Service drew support from across the community, including staff from Reston Hospital Center and a first-time volunteer from Herndon High School. Despite cold winter temperatures, more than 800 volunteers participated across Northern Virginia, gathering, sorting and delivering food. The effort resulted in a record 31,186 pounds of food collected to support more than 10,000 students facing food insecurity in Fairfax, Loudoun and Arlington counties. Reston Hospital Center contributed nearly 300 pounds of food. Sarah Murray of Reston Hospital organized doctors and staff from the ICU and trauma departments, finding a creative solution to busy schedules by making a food donation the “admission ticket” to the hospital’s holiday gathering. “Each bag of food matters,” said Karen Joseph, founder and executive director of Food For Neighbors. “It represents one less student going hungry. Community partners like Reston Hospital help ensure school pantries are stocked for students who rely on them.” At a Food For Neighbors sorting site, Jack, a Herndon High School ninth-grader, volunteered for the first time. “It was good to help out in a new way in our own community,” he said. His mother, Katie, has previously volunteered as a Food For Neighbors driver, picking up donation bags from neighborhood homes. “I’ve seen how a small impact brings big results when all those donations are added together,” she said. “It’s inspiring to see how our community comes together to help students in need.”

A frozen-solid Lake Thoreau sits silently, with Town Center and Reston Station behind it. Temperatures have rarely risen above freezing for the last three weeks. Deer by Soapstone Drive stick together. Photos by Benjamin Burgess Winter Storm Fern dropped snow, ice, and frigid temperatures across the country between Jan. 23 and Jan. 27. Reston and its surroundings were hit with up to nine inches of snow and sleet, leading to widespread accumulations of unforgiving “snowcrete.” The stubborn combination of snow and ice, further solidified by continuously brutal frigid temperatures, made the task of plowing roads and sidewalks far more difficult than normal. Icy roadways were made even more treacherous as entire lanes were coated with unyielding blocks of ice before they could be cleared. Motorists struggled with narrowed roads well after the end of the storm. Residents were stuck in their neighborhoods as clearing crews recovered from their round-the-clock battle against unrelenting conditions. Trash and recycling collection were delayed as it was impossible for trucks to make it into neighborhoods. All normal community activity was severely curtailed by travel and weather conditions. FCPS cancelled all classes for the entire week of Jan. 26, as well as the following Monday. The balance of the week of Feb. 2 was disrupted by two-hour delays to the start of each school day in response to the unprecedented challenges associated with clearing parking lots, sidewalks, and bus stops.

by Erin Gibbons Herndon High Theatre students participate at VTE. Photo contributed by HHS Theatre The Virginia Thespian Festival (VTF) brings high school theater students together from across the state for a weekend focused on hands-on learning, performance and connection. Students quickly learn how to show up prepared, accept feedback, and support each other in a setting that values effort, kindness, and growth. At the heart of the festival is the student experience. From morning until night, participants move between workshops, rehearsals, competitions, performances, callbacks, and mainstage shows. They spend the weekend doing what they love, creating a community where they feel supported and understood while learning alongside peers who share their passion. Lily Ingraham, president of South Lakes High School Virginia Thespian Troupe 4709, said the festival helped her grow both artistically and personally. “VTF is a wonderful experience, helping students expand their passion for theater and connect with like-minded peers,” Ingraham said. “I was able to grow artistically and build confidence through workshops led by professionals. By performing in the One Act Competition, I had an impactful theater experience and bonded with my peers. Through VTF, I found a theater community where art is celebrated.” Laila Tomhave, president of the Herndon High School Virginia Thespians, said she had the opportunity this year to perform in one of the festival’s mainstage productions. “This year at the Thespian Festival, I had the privilege of performing in one of the mainstages,” Tomhave said. “The mainstages are evening productions put on by thespians from all over the state. The production I was part of was a Musical Theatre International pilot production of ‘Come From Away,’ in which I played Diane with Northern Virginia Performing Arts. Through that experience, I got to meet and bond with theater students from all over Northern Virginia and share this impactful story with friends and fellow thespians.” For many students, the festival marks their first time performing outside their school, seeing high-level student productions or learning directly from professional actors, singers, dancers and designers. Workshops offer practical instruction in auditioning, movement, stage combat, scenic design, makeup, directing, and more. Students return to their schools energized, bringing new skills and ideas that strengthen local theater programs and creative communities. Aspiring performers also gain exposure to next steps beyond high school through the college fair, auditions and scholarship opportunities offered throughout the festival. In January, more than 60 students from South Lakes High School and 12 students from Herndon High School attended the Virginia Thespian Festival. South Lakes’ Virginia Thespian Troupe 4709 earned state runner-up honors in the one-act competition for “Metamorphoses” by Mary Zimmerman. Students also received 36 superior ratings, the highest possible, across musical theater, acting, playwriting, stage management, scenic design, lighting design, and makeup. The festival demonstrated how meaningful, hands-on arts experiences build confidence, strengthen teamwork and help students discover what they are capable of, onstage, behind the scenes and wherever their creativity leads them.

by Chuck Cascio, Former South Lakes Teacher Steve Trout When Steve Trout was in the fourth grade, dinner time was special. Of course he enjoyed the food, but the biggest treat was that he was permitted to leave the table each night at precisely 6:44 p.m. to watch iconic DC sportscaster George Michael's segment on channel NBC4. "I knew what I wanted to do from fourth grade on," Steve says. "That I later got to work for the George Michael Sports Machine was one of those magical full-circle moments." Over the years Steve consciously chose ways to fulfill that fourth-grader's objective. As a freshman at South Lakes High School in 1990, he started announcing basketball games and continued to do so for all four years at the school. "Tuesdays and Fridays were my favorite days at South Lakes," he says, "because that’s when the basketball teams played. Those nights at the mic were magic--they poured gas on the fire I needed to make my way in this world. I couldn't care less that announcing made me late to almost every Friday night gathering with friends." However, he acknowledges that meeting with friends around Reston was also an integral part of his life. "Reston is a magical place, and it had a massive impact on who I am," Steve says. "It’s where I learned to accept and to trust people…and to bus a table. It’s where I illegally sledded down the big hills, skipped school to go to TCBY (This Can’t Be Yogurt), and met South Lakes legends like Ms. Liz Knapp and Ms. Sharon Brophy. It’s where I had my first kiss, my first speeding ticket, and my first beer." A unique experience that impacted Steve's life choices occurred after a South Lakes basketball game he was announcing. "Washington football legend Doc Walker, then a reporter with NBC4, told me he thought I did a great job. He handed me his business card, and I carried that card in my wallet for probably 10 years. That compliment stayed with me—and fueled me—for years.." After graduating from South Lakes in 1994, Steve majored in journalism at James Madison University and became the sports editor of the student newspaper. His experience led to two summer internships at NBC4. After graduation, he spent a year with the George Michael Sports Machine before moving into on-air roles. “In 1999, I landed my first on-air job as the number-three sports anchor at WVIR-TV in Charlottesville, Va., eventually working my way up to the number-one nightly sports anchor. Naturally, I tried my best to be Central Virginia’s George Michael...but got nowhere close." The circle that began at Steve’s dinner table in fourth grade closed in 2004. That year, he joined NFL Films as a Supervising Producer and Director—and has since won five Emmy Awards. "I can say without exaggerating that I get up in the morning and I still love what I do. Twenty-one seasons at NFL Films and not one day has felt like work." Steve lives outside of Philadelphia with his wife, Ali, and their three children, but a recent project brought him briefly back to Reston with his production team to develop a segment of the show "Hard Knocks In Season" about the Washington Commanders. He and his crew stayed at the new JW Marriott at Reston Station on Wiehle Avenue, and the trip flooded Steve with Reston memories that he shared with his coworkers. “First of all, how crazy is it that there is a JW Marriott in Reston," Steve says. "The window of my hotel room literally looked out over the intersection of Wiehle and Sunset Hills. I used to roller skate up that street, rode my bike on the W&OD trail right there, and spent many a weekend night at what we called the 'McTaco Hut'.” Steve regaled his crew with stories about the area--how the hotel was on the site of his former orthodontist's office (torn down several years ago to make room for what is now Metro Plaza development); that his childhood home, where his mother still lives, was just four minutes away; that Paolo's Restaurant, where he worked for seven years, was then one of only three restaurants in the now bustling Town Center. Steve says he took his coworkers to dinner at his mother's home, on another night brought her to dinner with them, and one evening, "my mom joined us for drinks!” And then he did something directly related to the circle that had started decades earlier: “I went to a South Lakes girls' basketball game to watch my friend’s daughter play, and the young announcer there killed it! It was all such an amazing collision of my worlds.”

by Phatom Foodie Smash burgers are the speciality at Nash & Smashed. Photo by Phantom Foodie I was cooking up a storm during the recent snow and ice, but after all that digging out, it was time to dig into something new. We have a full slate of reviews prepared for 2026, and first up this month is Nash & Smashed, a halal eatery in the Home Depot shopping center featuring Nashville-style chicken and smash burgers. The space embraces a modern fast-casual aesthetic—clean, orderly, and welcoming—with a friendly staff and a touch-screen ordering kiosk. I ordered takeout, and my meal was ready on time and neatly packaged for pickup. I sampled a variety of menu items, partly out of curiosity and partly to refuel after all that shoveling—and I happily shoveled more than a little food into my face. Both the classic and mushroom smash burgers delivered the sought-after textural contrast: a crusty exterior with a juicy interior that no thick patty can match. Cheddar melted into every crevice, while the signature smash sauce added tangy sweetness without overwhelming the beef. Paired with a soft brioche bun, the crunch made for a satisfying meal. At around $10, the burger is fairly priced for the quality. (Note: the brioche bun can be substituted with a lettuce wrap.) The Golden Crunch Chicken Sandwich was equally impressive—crispy on the outside and juicy inside. A meatless pea-protein burger is also available, though it feels more obligatory than inspired. Chicken tenders, bites, wings, and thighs—oh my. The chicken is consistently crispy yet tender, complemented by an array of sauces ranging from creamy to tangy, with heat levels from classic to hot. The honey sriracha struck a perfect balance of sweet heat for my palate. Kids’ meals are available with options like chicken or cheeseburgers, paired with various side combinations. In an era of fast-casual dining dominated by overwrought menus and endless customization, this rapidly expanding chain offers a refreshing balance of quality, price, and convenience. Properly smashed. Properly delicious. So if winter weather has you feeling blue, warm up with some Nashville hot chicken. Or, if you’re craving Southern comfort food while cheering on Team USA in Milan Cortina, grab a bucket of fried chicken, cornbread, and mac and cheese. Just don’t forget the napkins. Nash & Smashed 1675 Reston Parkway in the Home Depot Shopping Center 703-988-4818 10am - 10pm (midnight on Friday and Saturday) The Reston Letter and its staff do not receive solicitation, compensation, or special endorsement from any restaurant or culinary establishment. Our reviewer dines unannounced to make the experience genuine. Our mission is to provide our readers with an accurate representation of our reviewer's experience so they may make their own informed decisions. Taste, service, and culinary preferences vary.

By Susan Kousek, Reston resident A proposed Virginia bill could have significant implications for Reston residents, particularly those already feeling the squeeze of rising costs. House Bill 978 would expand the state’s sales and use tax to include a wide range of services—many of them routine or essential parts of daily life in our community. The proposal raises questions locally. Why now, especially after Virginia closed the last fiscal year with a sizable budget surplus? And why target services that many families, seniors, and small businesses rely on—not luxuries, but necessities? If HB 978 passes, Reston residents would pay sales and use tax on the following services: Admissions, including movie tickets and events Recreation, fitness, and sports facilities, from gyms to youth programs Non-medical personal services or counseling, such as in-home support for seniors, people with disabilities, or individuals recovering from illness. These services can include help with bathing, dressing, eating, medication reminders, transportation, and other daily needs Dry cleaning and laundry services Companion animal care, including veterinary wellness exams, grooming, training, and other services that support pets’ physical and emotional well-being Residential home repair, maintenance, landscaping, or cleaning services when paid directly by homeowners Vehicle or engine repair Repairs or alterations to tangible personal property, such as furniture, appliances, or jewelry Storage of tangible personal property, including long-term storage units Delivery and shipping services, with reports elsewhere suggesting a per-delivery charge Travel, event, and aesthetic planning services, such as wedding or event planners The bill also proposes new taxes on digital services, defined as software application services, computer-related services, website hosting and design, data storage, and digital subscription services. According to the bill, these taxes would apply when the purchaser is a business, although services otherwise exempt under existing law would remain exempt. In addition, digital personal property—defined as digital products delivered electronically that a purchaser owns or can continually access without an ongoing subscription fee—would also be taxed. For Reston’s many small business owners and self-employed professionals, the bill carries added responsibilities. Anyone offering these services would be required to register for a Virginia sales tax number, collect the tax from customers, and remit it to the Virginia Department of Taxation on a monthly or quarterly basis. Call to Action HB 978 was referred to the Virginia House Finance Committee on Jan. 13. Residents who oppose the bill are encouraged to contact their state representatives promptly. House Finance Committee Chair Delegate Vivian Watts, who introduced the bill, can be reached at delvwatts@house.virginia.gov. Residents can find their own state representatives by entering their address at: https://whosmy.virginiageneralassembly.gov/ For Reston residents, current representatives include: Delegate Karen Keys-Gamarra, District 7 (House Finance Committee) 804-698-1007 | DelKKeys-Gamarra@house.virginia.gov Sen. Jennifer B. Boysko, District 38 Capitol: 804-698-7538 District: 703-437-0086 SenatorBoysko@senate.virginia.gov A full list of House Finance Committee members is available at: https://www.vpap.org/general-assembly/standing-committees/house-finance/

Reston Community Center has hired Rebecca Campana as its new Arts Education Director. She began her role on Jan. 14, 2026, following the retirement of Cheri Danaher, who dedicated 35 years of service to RCC. Campana brings more than 20 years of experience in arts education and creative program leadership. Most recently, Campana served as Creative Learning Programs Director at Arena Stage, where she helped develop and expand youth focused multi-art and theatre programs. Her background also includes work as a teaching artist and more than a decade as an annual guest artist at the University of Notre Dame, leading youth playwriting programs. She holds a dual Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Mass Communication and English Literature and is currently completing a Master of Arts in Creative Writing. “Rebecca understands the power of arts education to change lives,” said RCC Board Chair Bill Bouie. “We are excited to welcome her leadership and experience to RCC’s arts programs.” “I am honored to take on this role,” said Campana. “Reston Community Center’s work aligns with my belief that every person deserves access to meaningful arts experiences.” RCC Executive Director BeBe Nguyen added, “Rebecca’s experience growing and sustaining arts education programs will be a strong asset to the Reston community as RCC continues its mission of enriching lives through the arts.” RCC’s arts education program serves learners of all ages through classes, workshops and creative experiences that support skill development, self-expression and creative growth. Over the past 35 years, the program has expanded under the leadership of Cheri Danaher, whose vision and stewardship elevated its quality, reach and role in the community. Today, the program includes visual and performing arts instruction, in-demand ceramics classes, monthly art exhibitions and community favorites such as the annual Gifts from the HeART Shopping Event and award-winning initiatives like the Unforgettable program reflect RCC’s commitment to inclusive and meaningful arts access. Cheri Danaher began at RCC as Box Office Manager in January 1991 and became Arts Education Director in November 1994. About Reston Community Center Reston Community Center provides a wide range of programs in aquatics, arts, enrichment and lifelong learning for all ages. RCC creates and sustains community traditions through special events, outreach activities and facility rentals enjoyed by all of Reston. RCC has been enriching lives and building community for more than 45 years. For more information visit restoncommunitycenter.com/ or contact us at 703-476-4500.

by Alexis Estep, mom, chef, Restonian The Estep kids had a fun time dipping bites using Leif’s new chocolate warmer that he got for Christmas. The new year is a great chance to set new goals or start new adventures. Whether you want to get outside more or read more books, you’ll need energy ! These Spiced Energy Bites (adapted from Grounduppdx.com/ ) are a simple no-bake activity that our kids loved. Store them in the refrigerator until you need a boost to fuel your greatness. Ingredients: 3/4 cup almond flour 2 scoops (35g) vanilla protein powder 1⁄2 cup Salted Eggnog nut butter (Ground Up brand), or half almond/half cashew 1⁄4 cup maple syrup 1 tbsp non-dairy milk 1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract 1⁄2 tsp cinnamon 1⁄4 tsp nutmeg 1⁄8 tsp salt 8 oz white chocolate Directions: 1. Line a sheet pan or plate with parchment paper. 2. Put all ingredients (except chocolate) in a medium bowl. 3. Using a wooden spoon, mix until dough forms a smooth, thick paste. 4. Use your hands to roll dough into 1-inch balls, and transfer each bite to the parchment-lined pan. 5. Using a double-boiler or microwave, melt the white chocolate. Remove from heat. 6. Use a toothpick to dip the bites, one by one, to coat in white chocolate. Drizzle any leftover chocolate on the dipped bites. 7. Put in the freezer until the chocolate hardens (20 min). Store in the refrigerator.