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By Sarah Golden, staff writer Reston Girl Scouts gather on World Thinking Day. Photo by Elizabeth Witter Reston Girl Scouts celebrated the 100th anniversary of World Thinking Day in February, joining troops around the globe in honoring the diversity of the international sisterhood. Troops based in Reston each selected a different country to study, exploring traditions, food and culture. At an event at Forest Edge Elementary School, Scouts presented what they learned to fellow troop members and families. Countries highlighted included Australia, Austria, Costa Rica and France. Scouts also performed skits, building public speaking skills, while older Scouts led the program. A power outage at the school forced the event outside to the parking lot, but Scouts adapted quickly, using cellphone flashlights and continuing the presentations despite the cold. The local troops operate entirely on a volunteer basis through the Girl Scouts of the USA. After a slowdown during the COVID-19 pandemic, membership interest in the Reston area is growing, and Service Unit 51-5 is seeking additional adult volunteers. Unit managers Kaitlin Collier and Melissa Hess can be reached at gs.sum51.5@gmail.com. Those interested in joining, volunteering or starting a troop can visit the Girl Scout Troop Catalog at https://mygs.girlscouts.org/search;type=TROOP/

by Scott Parkin, staff writer "Move to Reston for the kids and stay for the parents. And that it be possible for anyone to remain in a single neighborhood throughout his (her) life, uprooting being neither inevitable nor always desirable.” -- Robert E. Simon For many Americans, “home” means a single-family house. Culture often reinforces that expectation. But Robert E. Simon envisioned something different for Reston. He designed a suburban community with a range of housing options—not rows of detached houses stretching to the horizon. Today, Reston includes more than 130 townhome communities alone. If you haven’t watched “Another Way of Living—The Story of Reston, Virginia,” a video produced by the Reston Community Center, it’s worth your time. The film explains what sets Reston apart and why its mix of housing was so innovative. Simon’s planning allowed many of us to choose options that once seemed unusual in suburbia. My family started in a small townhouse in South Reston, moved to a larger one nearby and later to an even larger home in North Reston as our budget allowed. Today, we live in an apartment—and we consider it home. So what defines home for you? In his book “The Good Life,” Dr. Bill Thomas asks questions that resonate, particularly for older adults: Are you living where you want to live? Are you living how you want to live? What is the best thing about your home? What is the most challenging aspect? When do you feel safest? When do you feel least safe? If you could describe your home in one word, what would it be? For many older Restonians, the answers center on independence, the ability to live life on their own terms. Safety also ranks high, especially for those who hope to age in place. If you are 65 or older and haven’t talked with your spouse, family or close friends about what home means to you, consider starting that conversation now. Scott Parkin is a cofounder and board member of Reston for a Lifetime, a nonprofit organization with a mission to educate and inform residents about aging in place. www.RestonforaLifetime.org/

by Reston Letter staff Photo contributed by Reston Raiders The Reston Raiders 16U ice hockey team defeated their counterparts from Capitals Hockey Academy (Arlington, VA) in a white-knuckle brawl to win the Virginia state championship tournament, which was held at SkateQuest in Reston. The win punched the Raiders' ticket to the USA Hockey National Championship tournament in Anaheim, CA later this month. The Capitals, victorious against the Raiders in all three previous meetings this season, scored a late goal to tie the game and force overtime, but the undaunted Raiders brought home the Virginia crown with a thrilling sudden death goal on a wild scramble in front of the opposing goalie.

By Louise Seirmarco-Yale, Reston Artist Want to know how much a tiny flower can influence a society in an artful way? Consider the attraction of the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C. Why? Because cherry blossoms are beautiful. Like all art, they make us feel good. On March 27, 1912, Japan formally presented 3,020 cherry trees to Washington, D.C. First Lady Helen Taft and Viscountess Chinda, wife of the Japanese ambassador, jointly planted the first two trees along the Tidal Basin. That moment became the foundation of the festival that unfolds every spring. Sharing art, gardens, and traditions was seen as a peaceful bridge between nations. Cherry blossoms came to represent renewal, beauty, mutual respect, and a shared appreciation of nature. Cherry trees often bloom almost simultaneously. The entire landscape shifts at once. People gather simply to walk among the trees and celebrate the blooming season, known in Japan as sakura. The Tidal Basin offers a setting where seasonal blooms create a dramatic public experience. Clouds of pink blossoms are visually juxtaposed with the Jefferson Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial. The fragility of the petals set against the endurance of stone and marble is striking. It is not just the blossoms that make sakura art. The clarity of spring’s blue sky provides an important contrast, making the experience even more emotionally potent. There is a subtle lift in our mood — another gift of powerful art. Cherry blossoms appeal to us because soft, pale pink tones are often associated with calmness, renewal, and gentleness. These clouds of color offer relief from winter fatigue as daylight increases and temperatures rise. As with meaningful artistic moments, we feel renewed energy. The blossoms become symbolic markers of emotional reopening. They are fragile, yet powerful — moving us from winter to spring, from dormancy to emergence, from quiet stillness to energy. These threshold moments resonate because they mirror our own psychological transitions: beginnings, endings, and personal change. To artists, cherry blossoms suggest abundance. Their softness contrasts with the strength of dark branches. They bloom suddenly, reach peak beauty briefly, and then fall within days. Many artists are drawn to this final phase, when drifting petals create movement, atmosphere — poetry. Falling petals stir emotion because we are deeply sensitive to transience. We place greater value on what is fleeting. The awareness that “this won’t last” intensifies the experience. Like art, it is powerful precisely because it is temporary. In Japan, cherry blossoms have inspired centuries of poetry. The rare female haiku master Chiyo-ni (1703–1775) wrote of suspended time in sakura: “Blossoms at dawn — even the sky seems to pause.” Haiku so often captures art’s quiet effect on us. This year’s blossoms are expected between March 20 and April 12 (dates vary with weather). It is our annual invitation to recognize the power of a tiny flower as art. Look up! Louise Seirmarco-Yale is a Reston artist, speaker, teacher and author of “Art, You Be The Judge: Reawaken Your Instincts and Enjoy Art On Your Own Terms.” It is available on Amazon or for free download at peopleneedart.com/ . Email her at hello@peopleneed this. com.

By David Michaelson, MRI Spring is usually when people start noticing their roof again. The light changes, the trees fill in, and after a winter of wind and rain, something about it just feels worth a second look. Having grown up in Reston and now working on roofs here every day, I’ve learned that our homes tend to age quietly. We rarely see the dramatic storm damage reported in other parts of the country. Instead, it’s the small things, like loosened flashing, worn sealants and drainage issues, that slowly add up over time. I often suggest to neighbors that they simply get to know the condition of their roof before a problem arises. Spring is an ideal time for that—no urgency or pressure, just an opportunity to understand what’s there and what might need attention down the road. One caution I share is to avoid letting too many people walk on the roof after storms. Not every storm causes damage, and unnecessary inspections can sometimes create more questions than answers. When you already have a clear sense of your roof’s condition, it’s easier to make calm, informed decisions later if something really changes. Most of us think about our roof far less than almost anything else in our home, even though it protects everything beneath it. A little springtime attention, unhurried and thoughtful, can go a long way toward avoiding surprises later.

By Noelle Sharbaugh, High Heeled Hostess A spring mimosa bar cart with champagne, fresh juices, and seasonal garnishes. Photo contributed by High Heeled Hostess Brunch is the ultimate crowd-pleaser and one of my favorite ways to gather people around the table. It strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and celebratory, with natural light that lifts the mood—and gives everyone a little extra glow. Best of all, brunch can feel polished without putting unnecessary pressure on the host. Whether you’re planning a casual weekend get-together or a seated affair, these simple strategies will help you host with ease. Keep the Menu Simple Brunch shines when the menu is uncomplicated. Choose items you can prepare ahead of time so you’re not tied to the kitchen once guests arrive. A few reliable options: Overnight casseroles such as French toast bakes or egg strata A frittata or quiche that reheats beautifully Fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, and pastries from your favorite bakery Fresh spring florals and a layered plate stack create an elegant brunch table. Photo contributed by High Heeled Hostess From a build-your-own casserole bar to a plated presentation, you have plenty of flexibility. Keep it casual or elevate it depending on the occasion. Create a Self-Serve Drink Station A brunch drink station sets a festive tone and frees you from refilling glasses all morning. Offer one or two fun options alongside the basics so everyone feels considered. Two simple, high-impact ideas: A mimosa station with sparkling wine and juices like orange, grapefruit, or peach A Bloody Mary bar with tomato juice, garnishes, and seasonings so guests can adjust the spice level Add coffee, tea, sparkling water, and a non-alcoholic option so guests can help themselves while conversation flows. Set a Bright, Inviting Table or Buffet Brunch is wonderfully flexible. Use your kitchen island for a casual, help-yourself spread, create a buffet table for easy flow, or set a seated table for a more traditional gathering. Incorporate a few thoughtful touches to elevate the atmosphere: a table runner, bright napkins, your favorite china, or a mix of pieces for a relaxed look. Finish with flowers, greenery, or candles to ensure guests feel welcomed the moment they arrive. Keep the Atmosphere Relaxed The best brunches feel unrushed. Play soft background music, serve food family-style if it suits the setting, and allow guests to graze and linger. If children are attending, set up a simple activity and offer kid-friendly options so adults can relax and enjoy the conversation. Brunch doesn’t need to be complicated to be memorable. Thoughtful details, an easy menu, and a welcoming table go a long way. Make It Your Own Brunch remains a favorite because of its flexibility. It can be casual or elegant, buffet-style or seated, savory or sweet—or anything in between. It beautifully combines the best of breakfast and lunch, giving guests plenty of choices. The magic lies in creating an atmosphere that encourages ease, unhurried conversation, and genuine connection. The Final Touch A fabulous brunch isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating a moment where good food and good company come together naturally. When your table feels welcoming and your guests are at ease, you’ve done it right. With a bit of planning and a few thoughtful touches, you can create memories that linger long after the plates are cleared. For more seasonal inspiration and entertaining ideas, visit www.highheeledhostess.com and follow along for updates and exclusive content. Noelle Sharbaugh, the High Heeled Hostess, is a published and award-winning tablescape designer dedicated to helping others transform dining experiences into unforgettable events. For more tips, tricks, and hosting inspiration, visit www.highheeledhostess.com/ or email noelle@highheeledhostess.com /

by Phantom Foodie House bread rolls, Tilefish, Hanger Steak Frites, Baby Gem Caesar Photos by Phantom Foodie When a restaurant carries the name of Reston’s founder, expectations come built in. The Simon, tucked inside the gleaming new JW Marriott at Reston Station, has generated buzz since opening in September. Just off the main dining room, its adjoining Schar Bar draws cocktail enthusiasts with an amaro-driven program and rare bourbon list, heightening anticipation before dinner even begins. We arrived early to experience the bar first, settling in as the room began to fill and a jazz trio set an easy rhythm. Schar Bar is named for Dwight Schar, a driving force behind the development of Reston Station, while the restaurant honors founder Robert E. Simon. Aside from cocktails such as The Simon Old Fashioned, The Lake Anne Smoke and the Simon Martini, however, the space feels largely disconnected from Reston’s heritage—a missed opportunity to introduce visiting hotel guests to the town’s character. The expansive circular bar anchors the room, ringed with high-top seating, while intimate tables line the perimeter. The wine list leans upscale, with selections such as Veuve, Schramsberg and Jordan offered by the glass at $16 to $28. We chose the Jordan chardonnay ($22) and a mocktail. Service at the bar was prompt and engaging, and watching the mixologists craft their theatrical creations added to the experience. After cocktails, we moved from the energy of the bar into the main dining room, where the mood softened and we were seated in a cozy semicircular booth. Our server asked whether we had dined there before but offered little additional guidance. A traditional menu and tasting insert arrived printed in tiny type on black cards under dim lighting—difficult to read and quickly set aside. An amuse-bouche from the pastry chef—a blueberry compote tart topped with shredded cheese—provided a sweet and creative start. Starters included the Burrata Salad with baby beets, charred kale and hazelnuts, and the Baby Gem Caesar with anchovy dressing, butter-toasted breadcrumbs and Parmigiano-Reggiano. The burrata was excellent, but the balsamic-heavy kale overpowered its creaminess. The dish skewed salty and would have benefited from crusty bread for balance. The house bread, arriving mid-course, proved worth the wait: warm rolls glazed with lavender honey that melted in the mouth. Sticky fingers are inevitable. Entrées followed: Pan-Seared Local Tilefish and Hanger Steak Frites, along with a side of Oven-Roasted Cauliflower. The tilefish, served skin-on with a crisp sear, paired beautifully with celeriac, baby leeks, mussels and sauce vin jaune. The cauliflower, advertised with clothbound cheddar, butter-toasted panko and chives, arrived without the promised cheese. The hanger steak met expectations, served with bordelaise, watercress salad and hand-cut fries rather than classic thin frites. A few bites were intentionally reserved for steak and eggs the next morning. Dessert was the highlight of the evening. The Schar Arrowhead, layered with crème fraîche cream, almond caramel crumble and a delicate caramel arrowhead, disappeared quickly. Chocolate lovers should not miss the Chocolate Cake, whose cocoa sponge and double-steeped cocoa cream espresso delivered a deeply satisfying finish. A candid note: prices are steep, and a few service-timing missteps suggest the team is still finding its footing. Although the posted dress code is smart casual, guests wearing baseball caps appeared at nearby tables. At this price point, details matter. Cheese selections should be shared proactively, plates cleared more efficiently and crumb sweeping handled with a proper tool rather than a napkin. The Simon is a welcome addition to Reston’s growing dining scene, and we hope it thrives. For a restaurant carrying the name of Reston’s visionary founder, the bar is set high. With refinement and attention to detail, The Simon has the potential to become a destination worthy of its name. The Simon JW Marriott Hotel 11340 Reston Station Blvd. 571-720-1085 Private events available up to 40 guests Dinner 5PM - 10PM Daily 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 Steven Brasley, FCPS Office of Communications Sixth-graders gather around artist Penny Hauffe as they begin work on their ecosystem tapestry. Photo by Steven Brasley An artist-in-residence program has shaped generations of students at Hunters Woods Elementary School for the Arts and Sciences. The tradition stretches back more than two decades, even before the current principal’s tenure. Each year, with funding from the Hunters Woods PTA, the graduating sixth-grade class partners with a local artist to create a permanent installation that leaves a lasting imprint on the school. Every class chooses a different medium and location, transforming campus spaces in creative ways. Students have designed vibrant mosaics that greet visitors at the entrance, built colorful birdhouses for the outdoor classroom, and painted murals that brighten the library walls. Together, these works give Hunters Woods its distinctive personality and tell the story of the students who passed through its halls. This year, sixth-graders have teamed up with artist-in-residence Penny Hauffe to bring a pond ecosystem to life through a richly textured tapestry. They are creating the piece with dyed and hand-stitched fabric, and when finished, it will hang in a hallway near the art classrooms. From the start, students took ownership of the project. They chose which pond creatures to create—dragonflies, slugs, frogs, koi fish and lilies—and sketched their designs directly onto fabric. Hauffe then led them through the dyeing process, helping them mix and apply colors that would make their creations shine. As the weeks progressed, students layered in even more detail. Hauffe showed them how to stitch sequins onto wings, petals and scales so each creature catches the light and stands out. With her classroom sessions complete, Hauffe will assemble the individual pieces into one cohesive tapestry, a vibrant collaboration that reflects both the ecosystem it portrays and the young artists who created it.

By Rachel Singer, LHMS Team Technosaurus Rex Photo by Rachel Singer Langston Hughes Middle School’s FTC robotics team, Technosaurus Rex, earned a spot in this year’s Regional Championships after their success at the qualifier in Laurel, Maryland, on Feb. 8. Out of 28 mostly high school teams, the hard-working Langston Hughes team was one of six to advance to the FIRST Chesapeake Regional Championships, which combine teams from D.C., Maryland and Virginia. Team 6633 Technosaurus Rex Roboteers includes Chris Hung, Kai Breitbarth, Devin Tanis, Thomas Hills, Ian Wood, Sachith Phulluke and Shreyansh Paudel. The team is coached by Paul Davis and supported by Club Director Franklin Kyle, Assistant Principal Dwayne Braxton and Principal Dr. Herman Mizell. They also collaborate with their sibling team, Team 14052 Nerdy Narwhals. Funding for the team comes in part from hardship grants provided by the DEKA Foundation, Bosch Community Fund, Timken Company and Jabil Cares Foundation.

by Holly Weatherwax, staff writer Amaya Samba aimed to help calm people with her book. Photo by Chrissy Kelley “Everyone needs help sometimes—and you can do this!” It’s simple advice, but it is also the inspiration behind "My Mindful Minis," a book written by local fourth-grade author Amaya Samba. Amaya, a Spanish-immersion student at Lake Anne Elementary School, loves to doodle and draw. Like many children, she has also experienced moments of feeling upset or anxious. Wanting to better understand and manage those emotions, she created a small book for herself, something she could carry in her backpack. Whenever she felt stressed or overwhelmed, she would flip through its pages to help calm her thoughts. It worked. She found that it truly helped. Soon, Amaya began to wonder if her book might help other students—and even adults—who feel anxious at times. She decided to publish it as a “mini book.” The size is intentional: 4-by-6 inches, about the size of a postcard or standard photograph. It fits easily into a backpack or purse. Soft-sided and lightweight, it’s designed to be carried every day and flipped through whenever needed—at school, at work or during everyday life. The project took about a year and many drafts before Amaya felt it was ready to share. With the support of her family, the book was self-published, and her mother, Rebecca, began spreading the word to friends on Facebook. It was an exciting time for everyone. Much to their surprise, the book quickly gained attention and began selling steadily. Before long, Rebecca realized that the sales had generated a meaningful amount of money. That led to an important conversation: Was there a charity Amaya might want to support with her earnings? Because Amaya believes it is hard to learn when you are hungry, she chose to support an organization focused on student hunger. The South Lakes Food Pantry was a natural fit. The pantry serves local students and their families, and Lake Anne Elementary is part of the same school pyramid. Through a mutual connection, Amaya connected with the pantry. On Jan. 15, she donated $500 from book sales to support its work. Founded in 2017, the South Lakes Food Pantry now serves approximately 500 students and families each week. Amaya’s generosity delighted the leadership team—Roberta Gosling, Amy Shaw, Abbe Pascal, Andy Sigle, Holly Vanderhoof, Laurie Asmussen, Mazie Barcus and Sherri Pudner. What began as a small, personal project to manage big feelings has grown into something larger: a book helping others and a gift supporting families in the community. For more information about "My Mindful Minis," contact Rebecca at xMymindfulminis@gmail.com /

By Taruna Rijhwani, Health Watchers PT Through years of working with individuals across different stages of life, I’ve noticed a consistent pattern: those who remain active after 50 rarely rely on luck or genetics alone. They practice intentional habits that preserve mobility, reduce pain, and support long-term independence. One of the most important lessons they embrace is that “motion is lotion.” Movement isn’t something they turn to only when they feel stiff or sore; it’s what helps prevent stiffness and soreness in the first place. They prioritize mobility and regular activity because they understand the body is designed to move. Whether it’s daily walks, gentle stretching, or simply avoiding long periods of sitting, they know that consistent motion is often the secret to feeling good. Another shared trait is their willingness to invest in their health. They view their bodies as their greatest asset. Time spent exercising, recovering properly, or seeking professional guidance isn’t optional; it’s essential. They understand that showing up for their health today allows them to continue doing what they love tomorrow, from traveling and hobbies to keeping up with family and friends. Mindset also plays a powerful role. The most active people I work with carry a sense of optimism. That doesn’t mean they never experience pain or setbacks; it means they believe improvement is possible. They recognize that mindset is half the battle when it comes to health and wellness. Rather than assuming discomfort is inevitable with age, they stay curious, engaged, and proactive about caring for their bodies. They are also attentive listeners, especially when it comes to early warning signs. Instead of ignoring stiffness, recurring aches, or subtle changes, they pay attention. Small symptoms become useful information, not inconveniences to push through. Addressing issues early often prevents them from becoming larger, more limiting problems later on. Finally, people who stay active for life are strong self-advocates. They don’t accept “it’s just your age” or “you’ll have to live with it” as a final answer. They ask questions, explore options, and take ownership of their mobility and well-being. Aging is inevitable. Losing the ability to move well doesn’t have to be. When we move well, we stay connected to our families, our passions, and our communities. Want to learn more? Contact Health Watchers Physical Therapy & Wellness at 571-308-8252 or visit www.healthwatcherspt.com/

By Chuck Cascio, author and former South Lakes teacher Photo contributed by Dawn Garcia From her childhood in the Bronx to her teen years in Reston, Dawn Garcia knew she wanted to become a teacher. However, when she graduated from Marymount University with a degree in English and a license in secondary education, she felt the need to broaden her work experience before pursuing her long-term goal. “I was not ready to transition from being in the classroom as a student to being in front of a class as a teacher,” Dawn says. “I wanted some life experiences outside of school, so I took different jobs, including retail management, government contracting, and event planning.” After five years of exploration, she was ready. “I knew all roads would lead back to teaching, and when I finally stepped into a classroom as a teacher, it felt like coming home.” Dawn began her teaching career at George Marshall High School, then moved to Falls Church High School before transferring to South Lakes High School in 2011, where she has worked ever since. A 1997 graduate of South Lakes, she recalls that when her multiethnic family (her father is Filipino and her mother is Chinese/European) moved to Reston in 1993, just before her first year at the school, she was unsure of what to expect. “I thought starting high school far from my Bronx comfort zone would be extremely challenging, so I expected a culture shock,” she says. The reality, however, was different. “What immediately struck me about South Lakes and Reston was how welcoming and diverse the community was. I made friends easily, and the diversity of Reston felt very similar to what I was accustomed to in the Bronx.” Dawn’s appreciation for diversity shapes her approach to teaching. She is keenly aware of changes in how students learn, think, and express themselves. As a result, she has adjusted her instructional methods while maintaining her primary goal: “to stimulate critical thinking.” Having seen the evolution of students from the pre-social media era to today, she believes it is more important than ever to teach them how to approach information with a discerning eye for truth. Dawn has always sought to instill a love of literature in her students and to use it for multiple purposes. “My primary focus was to foster a deep love and appreciation for literature, especially multicultural literature,” she says. “My goals were to help students learn to read deeply and to find their own voice.” In today’s constantly evolving social media landscape, she has refined those objectives. “I now see literature as a way to help students learn about themselves and the world around them in the hopes of building empathy and understanding.” That refinement includes one significant addition to her work: exposing students to current events. “I worry that a lack of awareness about what is happening in the world leads to apathy. I want students to be more involved.” To that end, Dawn has incorporated monthly current events units to cultivate interest and engagement in real-world issues. She has also developed a unit on social media to help students examine its impact on themselves and on society. “Students always feel like they learn so much from that unit. It often causes them to reexamine their relationships with social media.” Dawn points to Elie Wiesel’s classic book “Night” as an example of how she uses literature to prompt layered personal and societal reflection. “Students must understand that genocides like the Holocaust did not happen in isolation, and as much as we would like to believe such atrocities could never happen again, they have continued to occur.” Reston has been important in Dawn’s life for many reasons. She briefly dated Clint Sigmon at South Lakes, but when his family moved to Thailand, they lost touch for 10 years. They later reconnected online, went on a dinner date at Clyde's Reston in Reston Town Center, and now live in Reston with their two children—a daughter who is an eighth-grader at Langston Hughes Middle School and a son who is a sixth-grader at Terraset Elementary School. “The way this community celebrates diversity reminds me of the potential of our country,” Dawn says. “I knew I wanted to raise my own family here. It feels like Clint and I have started something of a legacy in that regard.”