Search Results

By Louise Seirmarco-Yale, Reston Artist If I were to ask if you like art, what would you say? I’ve often gotten the same reply: “I don’t know anything about art, but I know what I like.” Some claim not to be creative or able to draw. Those responses make me wonder. We mostly agree that sports are for everyone; either you are an athlete or a fan. When asked if we like a sport, we usually don’t feel the need to say, “I’m not athletic,” or conclude that sports are only for an elite few.  We assume we can appreciate athleticism without being talented ourselves. Why then do people become defensive when it comes to art? When you ask little children if they like art, the answer is always the same: They love art. So, what happened to the natural love of art we had as children? Our innate openness to human creative expression seems to be in our DNA. Since the dawn of man, people have decorated their houses (or caves). There also seems to be a natural inclination to make stuff. Once it is formally declared “art,” however, many adults become intimidated. The elitist notion that one must be talented, rich, and educated to enjoy art leaves out most of us. I call this “The Art Myth.” The notion that somehow one must “know about art” to enjoy it is false. Yet we deny ourselves this pleasure. What a shame. Art enriches life. I’ve often thought that the sometimes barren, all-beige environment of corporate cubicles could use a bit of livening up with some art. What if it’s true that art makes people happier? A happy employee is more productive, right? Wouldn’t that be good for the bottom line? Why then live without art on the job as well as at home? We are insecure about our choices. What will others think? Leaving the walls beige is the safer choice, albeit boring. Too bad. Good news: We can change. Needing experts to guide us is firmly entrenched in society’s thinking. As children, we naturally need adults for guidance even if they misguide us. Do you remember a hurtful incident around art? Did it cause you to mistrust your art instincts? We can change how we feel about art as adults. We don’t need an expert to pick out the color of our car, or the clothes we wear. Maybe it’s because these are not considered art choices? But they are. You are already good at it, right?  You buy what you like, and you feel good about it. Every month, I will bring you ways to help you to trust your art instincts again. We will look for erroneous notions about art from childhood that no longer work. Begin to look around you. Start noticing art. You will discover that you do know what you like. And, that it is enough.   Louise Seirmarco-Yale is a Reston artist, speaker, teacher, and suthor of  “Art. You Be The Judge. Reawaken Your Instincts and Enjoy Art on Your Own Terms,” available on Amazon. Learn more at www.peopleneedart.com , or email: hello@peopleneedart.com .

By Dylan Murphy, Staff Writer photos by Benjamin Burgess and Isadora Guerreiro The Washington Capitals and the Fairfax County Park Authority’s [FCPA] brand-new inline skate rink at Lake Fairfax Park has opened. In the wake of the Capitals’ controversial attempt to establish a new arena in Alexandria, this project became a welcome endeavor that furthered the Caps’ goal of promoting the game of hockey, and the FCPA’s goal of providing community recreation opportunities.  Donated by the D.C.-based National Hockey League team, the 85-foot-by-185 -foot roller rink is unlike any other facility in the county’s park system, and is complete with bleachers, hockey goals, and penalty boxes. FCPA board member Benjamin Boxer describes the rink as a “new opportunity for adults and children of all ages to recreate, skate outdoors, and enjoy the game of hockey.”  Lake Fairfax was chosen for its available space as well as to appeal to a vocal community interest.  The project came about as a result of a community member’s suggestion to FCPA.  The NHL and the Caps were eager to collaborate with the FCPA to turn that idea into a reality, and bring the rink to Lake Fairfax.  The partnership between FCPA and the Capitals began in 2021, after the Fairfax County Public Schools  joined the Caps’ Hockey School Program. This program, offered in more than 1,600 schools, provides  floor hockey equipment, training, and P.E. curriculum to elementary and middle schools.   The installation, which cost the county about $1.9 million, was a combined effort of FCPA, who organized the site preparation and supported the infrastructure ,and the Caps, who donated the rink. The development involved clearing and grading, the construction of a paved rink and a new gravel parking area, LED lightning, and stormwater management facilities.  The rink will be open daily from 9 a.m. until dark; once the lights are programmed, the rink will stay open until 9:30 p.m., according to Boxer. Admission is free for the general public, and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. The entire rink can be reserved for $75 per hour. For availability and reservation information, contact the Park Authority’s picnic department, at FCPApicnics@fairfaxcounty.gov .

By Lisa Johnson, Herndon High English and Writing Teacher In search of some reading inspiration for your family this summer? After teaching all different grades from elementary to high school, I have come across many insightful, funny, heartwarming, and inspirational books over the years. Here you will find some of my and my students’ all-time favorites to add to your summer reading list. Books to read with elementary schoolers   “Each Kindness” by Jacqueline Woodson While this story has a sad ending, it teaches a strong lesson on the importance of never missing an opportunity for kindness.  “Jabari Jumps” by Gaia Cornwall This is a wonderful and relatable story about overcoming fears, as Jabari overcomes his fears of the diving board with the help of his father.  “Little Taco Truck” by Tanya Valentine When Little Taco Truck’s favorite spot is taken, he learns both how to stand up for himself and make room for others – a balance that is difficult to strike. “Mother Bruce” by Ryan T. Higgins In Book One of this hilarious series, goslings mistake happily independent Bruce the  bear as their mother, and Bruce must learn how to navigate his new and unexpected  family.  “After the Fall” by Dan Santat We all know the story of Humpty Dumpty, but what happens after he can’t be put back together? This story inspires readers not to allow setbacks and fears to keep them from achieving their dreams.  “The Rabbit Listened” by Cori Doerrfeld “The Rabbit Listened” teaches children (and adults) how sometimes the best way to help is simply to be there for someone amidst their struggles.   “The Dreamer” by Il Sung Na This beautifully-illustrated picture book teaches children about the importance of perseverance, planning, determination, and how pursuing their dreams can inspire others through the story of a pig who is determined to learn to fly.    “The Remember Balloons” by Jessie Oliveros  When Jesse’s grandpa starts to lose his memory, Jesse learns the importance of  listening and carrying on his stories.  “This is Not My Hat” by John Klassen  This funny and adorably-illustrated story follows what happens to a tiny fish who steals something that he feels should belong to him.  “Beware of the Jornsnout”   by Sarah Carpenter  A Reston resident wrote this clever and entertaining collection of interactive poems and short stories. With short pieces that open opportunities for conversation, creativity, and collaboration, this book is a perfect way to connect with your child.  Middle:  “Bridge to Terabithia” by Katherine Paterson  This 1978 Newbery Award-winning novel about two friends who create an imaginary kingdom for themselves has stood the test of time as a middle school classic.  “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio An uplifting novel about a young boy with a facial deformity navigating school for the first time, “Wonder” inspires both self-love and acceptance of others.  “Inside out and Back Again” by Thanhha Lai  Through a collection of poems, the reader follows the journey of Hȧ, a recent immigrant from Vietnam, as she explores American life for the first time.  “When You Reach Me” by Rebecca Stead A Newbery Award-winning, page-turning novel about friendship and time travel, as two friends work together to prevent a tragic death.  “One Crazy Summer” by Rita Williams-Garcia Both a Newbery and a Coretta Scott King award-winner, this novel tells the story of three  girls who navigate reconnecting with their estranged mother.  “Matilda”   by Roald Dahl A forever classic, “Matilda” is about a brilliant girl who, while unappreciated by her parents, finds power and connection as she uncovers exceptional abilities.   “Esperanza Rising”   by Pam Munoz Ryan When tragedy strikes, Esperanza learns to rediscover herself after having to leave her elite, upper class lifestyle in Mexico to create a new life in the United States. “The Thief Lord” by Cornelia Funke Two orphaned boys who escape to Venice become part of a group of boys who embark on adventure, uncover secrets, and magical treasure in this thrilling story.  “Island of the Blue Dolphins ” by Scott O’Dell This  historical fiction novel based on a true story   tells how a young girl stranded on an island off the California coast, learns to survive and find joy.  “The Giver”   by Lois Lowry This utopian / dystopian novel about a young boy who uncovers the problems with his community after receiving the gift of memories has been a teen favorite for the past 30 years.  High School “The Book Thief”  by Markuz Zusak  A page-turning historical fiction novel set in Nazi Germany during World War II that explores friendship, mortality, and the importance of literature.  “Nothing to See Here”   by Kevin Wilson This humorous novel is about two high school friends who reunite later in life and lead exceptionally different lifestyles. “Everything, Everything” by Nicola Yun  An especially great story to read along with your teen, this novel explores the ideas of risks, safety, and power through the story of a girl who is allergic to the outside world, but is longing to explore it. “Fish in a Tree” by Lynda Mullaly Hunt  Through the story of a girl who navigates life trying to mask her dyslexia, this novel provides teens with empathy for those with invisible disabilities and the comfort that they are not alone in their struggles.  “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah  This historical fiction novel examines morality and impossible choices through the stories of two sisters in German-occupied France during World War II.  “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green For the past decade, this tragic but heartwarming story about a teen romance amidst a terminal disease has been a top favorite for teens.  7. “All American Boys” by Jason Reynolds This novel follows the lives of two teenage boys who navigate racism and police brutality in their community.  8. “The Sun is Also a Star” by Nicola Yun Through the story of a young couple who falls in love while one of their families faces deportation, this story explores the themes of identity, family, and love.  9. “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo”   by Taylor Jenkins Reid A current teen and adult favorite about the glamorous and scandalous life of a fictional Hollywood movie icon.  10. “Eragon” by Christopher Paolini A page-turning fantasy novel that has been a consistent teen favorite for more than 20 years tells the story of a teen boy who embarks on an epic adventure.

Photos by Isadora Guerreiro and Reston/Herndon community members South Lakes and Herndon High School seniors walked in th their grauation commencement cermonies on June 5 and June 7 at George Mason's Eagle Bank Arena. As part of both schools' traditions, graduates visit their elementary students in their caps and gowns a few days before graduation.

Contributed by Aldrin Elementary PTA photos by AES Shane Wolfe  of Aldrin Elementary School received the VA PTA Principal Partner of the Year at the group's May 19 annual meeting . Earlier in the month, he was recognized by the Fairfax County Council, who put his name forward. Principal Wolfe's collaborative approach has boosted parent engagement and created a stronger school community.  From hosting ice cream socials to cultural and heritage nights, book fairs, family reading nights, career day, and Bingo, Principal Wolfe's warm and welcoming attitude has engaged families in school activities. The Aldrin Reads initiative, where staff bring books, snacks, and activities to the community twice a year, has filled students’ homes with libraries and spread the love of reading.Wolfe has spent nearly his entire administrative career in the Herndon/Reston area, beginning as Assistant Principal at Terraset and Armstrong elementary schools.  At the time of his appointment to Armstrong, he was the youngest principal in the Commonwealth of Virginia.  Following his six-year tenure as Principal at Armstrong, Wolfe accepted a position as Principal at Bailey’s Elementary School for the Arts and Sciences in Falls Church. He returned to Aldrin as Principal in July 2012.

By Chuck Cascio, Author and Former South Lakes Teacher Ethan Goldman established the television and film production company Anchor Entertainment six years ago, and he proudly refers to his company’s Mission Statement that says, in part, “We foster an inclusive, family-first work environment that reflects a wide range of perspectives, experiences and backgrounds; all supported by our firm belief that mutual respect is an integral part of any successful endeavor.”  The 1992 South Lakes High School graduate attributes those thoughts to values he learned growing up in Reston. “Robert E. Simon’s vision was to build a community where people of all backgrounds could come together and celebrate who they are,” Ethan says. “From my own personal experience, it not only worked, it thrived. Those values taught me about the power of diversity – racially, religiously, and socioeconomically – as well as the importance of community involvement. Those are core tenets of Anchor Entertainment.” With more than 25 years in the television and film industry, during which he worked with programs that were produced on MTV, Discovery, Bravo, and many other networks, Ethan’s ambition always was to help produce meaningful shows. Some of the important transitional works he helped develop occurred during his internship with documentary filmmaker David Sutherland. “He was producing a multi-part documentary for Frontline (PBS) called ‘The Farmer’s Wife’ about a family in Nebraska facing foreclosure of their farm due to economic hardship,” Ethan says. “Even though I was just logging and transcribing countless hours of interviews, it was a really rewarding experience, and instrumental in guiding my decision years later to pursue a career in documentary storytelling.” Ethan emphasizes that being raised in Reston, where his family moved from Boston in 1978, contributed significantly to his career path, and he still reflects on the “many fond memories of growing up in Reston – from competing in swim meets for Upland, to lifeguarding and playing youth basketball and soccer in the community leagues. Reston was an ideal place to grow up.” Anchor’s developmental approach and quality of its stories has resulted in numerous awards including, in part, a Realscreen Award for the series, “The Lost Kitchen;”   two  Telly Awards for Best Documentary and Best History Series; an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Social Issue Documentary for the MSNBC series, “Model America,” as well as recently being named one of the world’s Top 10 Factual Production Companies by Realscreen as part of its “Global 100” list. Anchor’s latest feature documentary, “Rather,” about the life of legendary newsman Dan Rather, can be seen on Netflix. “We believe in the power of storytelling to unite, not divide,” Ethan says. “So much of what we do is about fostering community in the workplace at Anchor offices, among our industry colleagues with whom we collaborate, and with the audiences to whom we deliver these carefully crafted stories.”  Making an impact continues to be Ethan’s major objective. “My goal is to get involved with projects I care about deeply. Whatever I do has to be worth the emotional and financial investment. Each project is a massive time commitment, so I do everything I can to ensure that Anchor’s projects are ones that we are excited about spending the next two to four years making.”

By Ellyn Wexler, Staff Writer photo by RES Children's Center Pomposa Ferrer, affectionately known as “Miss Pompeii” at the Robert E. Simon Jr. Children’s Center, is set to retire in July. Why now, after more than 60 years in education? “Because I’m 84 years old today,” she shared on May 23, eager to embrace the next chapter. Ferrer’s journey began in the Philippines, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education at Far Eastern University, and a master’s in education with an emphasis in school administration and supervision at Ateneo de Manilla University.  Her illustrious career has included serving as a diplomat for the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs as well as teaching children of all ages wherever she has lived – in the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the U.S., including California, North Carolina, and Virginia. She also dedicated 14 years to teaching adults in ESOL [English for Speakers of Other Languages] classes in Herndon, Chantilly, and Centreville.  As part of the 28-member Philippine School Association, Ferrer established schools in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. She directed the Saudi school for eight years, handing it over to the community in 1989. Since its 1994 establishment, the Philippine School Bahrain has educated the kindergarten through 12th grade children of the kingdom’s overseas Filipino workers. Ferrer’s first-grade teacher, Mrs. Garin, kindled her passion for teaching, instilling in her a love for school, teaching, and children. In addition to catching up on her reading and travel, Ferrer intends to continue her work with the Bahrain school as a member of the Handmaids of the Lord ministry. “We’re  helping more than 200 very poor children go to school,” she said. “I’ll visit rather than live there,” she explained. Her granddaughter, a doctor in the Philippines, carries on her legacy, “helping the poorest of the poor.”  Miss Pompeii also plans to drop by the Simon Center occasionally, knowing she’ll miss the children. Leila Kaszubinski, the Simon Center director who has known her since 2004, praised her as “an amazing teacher and a terrific person,” adding that “Miss Pompeii will be missed more than words can express.”  “We have known for over a year that she would be retiring, but it was still bittersweet when she handed in her written notice,” Kaszubinski said. “We all wish her the best in her retirement.”

By Sarah Golden, Staff Writer It’s no secret that local police were in their community’s metaphorical “hot seat” in the past few years. As a result, the Reston station, with the help of community leaders, brought back the Community Advisory Committee [CAC], a forum where Restonians can hear information about their community’s crime and safety levels, and police can take that “hot seat” to address community concerns.  A recent CAC meeting at the Reston Station kicked off with a few housekeeping items, a segment marketing an upcoming event, and a brief overview of the Fairfax County Police Civilian Review Panel from its liaison Craig Miles. The well-presented information spoke to the committee’s commitment to transparency.  Police Major Mohammed Oluwa presented some recent crime statistics, including a mini crime spree that resulted in an arrest, and an update on the increase in motor vehicle larceny (Restonians, remember to lock your car doors ! ) Major Oluma opened the floor to community questions. For the next hour or so, citizens engaged in open conversations with local police leadership, sharing specific concerns about things going on in their community – like noisy mufflers and unsafe crosswalks. Major Oluwa appeared to be aware of these situations,and shared details of how he and his team are working behind the scenes to address them.  The session also provided insight into some of the bureaucratic elements of police work – such as connecting with third parties like VDOT to coordinate speed limit adjustments.  Asked about topics he would welcome discussing at upcoming CAC meetings, Major Oluwa said that everything is on the table, and that what concerns the people of Reston concerns him as well. The CAC provides an opportunity for Restonians to foster greater engagement with the men and women that keep them safe. The next meeting will begin at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 29, in the Lake Anne Reston Community Center. It will feature a presentation by Fairfax County Detective Brian Kalf from the Cyber and Forensic Bureau.  To get more information on the CAC or updates on future meetings, request to be added to the distribution list by emailing the CAC’s Vice Chairperson John Pinkman at CACvicechair2@gmail.com .

Contributed by Friends of the Reston Regional Library Reston Regional Library still expects a new building in the coming years. However, due to various delays, the county will make some interim upgrades to the current building, which will require the branch to close for the summer. The last day of service will be Friday, June 28. After construction begins, the building will be closed into September. The current estimate is 10 weeks, but no end date has been set. Library Wi-Fi will still be available to patrons outside the building, but they must stay outside of fenced off construction areas, including the parking lot. The branch was built in 1985. A bond to support a new building was approved in 2012, but has not yet been utilized. Renovations will include health and safety updates affecting the public restrooms, lighting, and other fixtures. According to the County, “…this brief and necessary refresh will… ensure that it remains usable, clean, and safe for the duration of the building’s lifespan.” Reston staff will temporarily transfer to other branches. As always, any Fairfax County Public Library cardholder can check out and return materials at any branch, and participate in programs at any branch. Patrons accustomed to picking up holds in Reston should ask a librarian for help changing their preferred branch for pickup. The Friends of the Reston Library book donations, as well as August and September book sales are canceled. There will be a Puzzle Sale in October and a Holiday Sale in December; donations can be taken to Herndon-Fortnightly, Great Falls, or Oakton branches. For information about Reston Regional Library construction, visit the FCPL website:   https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/branches/reston-regional . For information about the Friends of the Library, visit:   www.RestonLibraryFriends.com .

Contributed by family Irma Miller Finn Brosseau, former executive director and CEO of The National Federation of Business and Professional Women (BPW), died peacefully at her home in Reston, VA, on April 15, 2023. Irma died at the age of 92 of dementia after living a full and happy life. She was preceded in death by her beloved son Jonathan Finn, her husband George Brosseau, her ex-husband David Finn, her parents Alfreda Dyer (Lee) and Harry Miller, and a large extended family. She is survived by her adoring daughters Hester Finn and Sarah (Steve) Ramos; granddaughter Daniella Ramos; stepdaughters Carole Stokes (Mike) and Catherine Brosseau (Frank Applestein); granddaughter Becca Rinas; grandson Ethan Stokes; and former stepson-in-law Mark Rinas. Irma was born in Boston, MA on September 4, 1930, and grew up on the rocky beaches of Winthrop, MA, surrounded by her close extended family. She graduated from Simmons College with a BS in Journalism in 1952. Early in her career, she worked for the Houghton Mifflin publishing company and for newspapers in Boston, Anchorage, AK and, finally, Reston, where she raised her three children. From 1977 to 1987, she proudly worked her way up from Program Director to Executive Director and CEO of BPW in Washington, DC. She was a passionate feminist and was a pivotal person in the early years of the women's movement.   Irma and her late husband George founded The Brosseau Group, a management consulting business that specialized in working with boards of directors of nonprofit organizations. Irma was awarded an honorary doctorate in 1984 from Hawthorne College in Antrim, NH and was the 1987 recipient of the Simmons College Alumnae Achievement Award. In the early 1960s, Irma and her first husband were founding members of Temple Beth Shalom in Anchorage. She was also one of the founders of the Unitarian Universalist Church in Reston, where she continued her spiritual growth while retaining her Jewish roots.   Irma was fortunate to follow her passion of writing starting as a young girl with diaries continuing through adulthood with journals and culminating with her two-volume memoir.  What a gift this was.   Throughout her long and fulfilling life, Irma always maintained her core values: motherhood, family, close friendships, and forming treasured connections with others. She was an amazing woman, the best Mom and Bubbe, and her sweet, engaging, beautiful presence is deeply missed by all who knew her.   Visitation with the family was held April 18-19, 2023 at the Ramos home and a memorial service was held on June 17, 2023 at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Reston.

Photo by Isadora Guerreiro On Saturday, May 18, John Lovaas received recognition for serving as manager of the Reston Farmers Market manager for 26 years. Lovaas started the market on a spring Saturday in 1998 when Reston’s founder Robert E. Simon and Del. Ken Plum joined him for the official opening. This year it was Supervisor Alcorn who officially honored Lovaas by reading a proclamation and presenting Lovaas with a plaque. The proclamation focused on all Lovaas has done over the years and ended with:  "Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on behalf of all Fairfax County residents, does hereby thank John Lovaas for his contributions to the community and outstanding stewardship of the Reston Farmers Market."

By Ellyn Wexler, Staff Writer Louise Seirmarco-Yale stands as a beacon in the world of visual arts, celebrated for her dedication to both creating and teaching art.  Seirmarco-Yale knew she wanted to be an artist since she was a child. She pursued her passion conscientiously, earning a bachelor of fine arts degree in studio art at Michigan State University and a master of fine arts in art history, with a minor in higher education, at Western Michigan University.  Her professional career as a painter began in 1976. “ My paintings reflect my interest in people,” she said. “From single line drawings to 12-foot stretched canvases, I have portrayed attitudes of people and their place in our natural world all my life. I like to express the 'feel' of things and communicate that to the viewer.” Thirty years ago, from her Reston home studio, Seirmarco-Yale sold more than 1,000 paintings within a single decade. Her work is always evolving in terms of subject matter, technique, and materials. She may add texture with unlikely natural items – like a shed snakeskin or a discarded wasp’s nest, or use old cigar boxes or wooden roof shingles as the basis for her creations. Her current inventory exceeds 3,000 pieces. Seirmarco-Yale’s passion for art extends beyond her own creations. Early in her career, she taught drawing and painting techniques, as well as art theory and criticism at community colleges. In her subsequent role as Director of the Toledo Museum of Arts’ Docent Educational Program, she equipped volunteer guides with the skills to make art accessible and engaging for all visitors.  As a testament to Seirmarco-Yale’s conviction that art should be inclusive and accessible, she recently published “Art, You Be the Judge: Reawaken Your Instinct and Enjoy Art on Your Own Terms.” The book guides readers to overcome their insecurities about appreciating art; its insightful exercises encourage them to reconnect with their inner creative voices and embrace their unique perspectives on art.  Beginning in this issue, The Reston Letter will feature Seirmarco-Yale’s insights in a monthly column that will bring her expertise and enthusiasm directly to our readers.