by Katy Keffer, staff writer GMU undergraduate student Lakshmi Katrapati presents at The Kensington Reston. Photo by The Kensington Reston The use of AI-generated deepfakes in scams is increasing, particularly those targeting older adults who may not recognize fraudulent activity. Lakshmi M. Katrapati, a student pursuing a computer science degree at George Mason University, is working to change that. As technology advances rapidly, she reaches out to senior living communities and centers to give back to the community. Since March 2026, she has given nearly 50 specialized presentations on deepfakes in Fairfax and Loudoun counties and Washington, D.C. At an Oct. 2 event at The Kensington Reston, she explained the topic to an engaged group that asked probing questions and left better prepared to spot deepfake videos. Katrapati’s presentation, “AI For You: Staying Safe and Creative,” introduced broad AI concepts through interactive ChatGPT prompts based on audience questions. She also highlighted recent case studies in which deepfakes were used to manipulate people for financial gain. She shared multiple examples of how to distinguish authentic videos from fake ones, including videos of former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recommending a book and American businessman Bill Gates discussing technology. Photo by The Kensington Reston But how can we recognize whether something is fake or real? That is the focus of Katrapati’s extracurricular presentations. She educates audiences about what to do if they are contacted by a stranger or believe an inquiry may not be legitimate. If on the phone, in a Zoom meeting or on a FaceTime call, “look and listen for pauses in responses,” she recommends. These could indicate that AI is taking a moment to generate a response. During a video call, “you can have the person wave their hand in front of their face to verify authenticity.” She notes that visual inconsistencies can be a sign of a deepfake, although sophisticated deepfakes can be difficult to detect. For potential voice scams, such as those targeting grandparents with a supposed grandchild’s voice, Katrapati suggests asking something personal but not sensitive that only the other person would know. Deepfakes can be created using actual video, images or audio, including material that may be available on a family member’s social media feeds. Recordings also can be created to mimic loved ones’ voices. “Deepfakes are essentially another form of misinformation,” Katrapati said, “which has been around for some time.” As with other misinformation, “it’s always important to fact-check the information with reputable sources.” Government websites, nonprofit organizations and media outlets such as The Washington Post and The New York Times are among the sources to consider. Audience members at The Kensington Reston also asked how AI can be used in daily life and how it could help in medicine and health care. “Its ability to summarize lots of material for the most relevant insight is beneficial,” Katrapati said. She also offered other tips for staying safe. “Create a family safe code or password as one form of verification,” she advised. She cautioned people not to share private or intimate information that could be recorded and later used for fraudulent purposes. She also recommended letting a call go to voicemail if the caller’s identity is uncertain. If someone is concerned about a suspicious call, she advised hanging up and independently calling the person back using a known phone number rather than relying on the number provided by the caller. The group asked how to stay ahead of AI’s advances, and Katrapati acknowledged that AI and deepfake technology are changing rapidly. As a junior at George Mason University, she hopes to work in the industry after completing her degree. Two options are top of mind: “I’d like to help make the AI models safer or even pursue the legislative side.”

Contributed by WWFF LOOK Cinemas at Reston Town Center is one of several locations that host the Washington West Film Festival. Photo contributed by WWFF The Washington West Film Festival will host the East Coast premiere of “JIMMY,” a biographical drama about actor Jimmy Stewart on Saturday, Oct. 10 at LOOK Cinemas in Reston Town Center. The festival runs Oct. 8-12. KJ Apa (“Riverdale”) stars as Stewart in the film, which follows the actor from his Academy Award-winning performance in “The Philadelphia Story” through his service as a combat pilot in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. Stewart flew 20 combat missions over Europe and rose to the rank of colonel before returning to Hollywood and taking the role of George Bailey in “It’s a Wonderful Life.” The film is directed by Aaron Burns and written by Justin Strawhand. Stewart’s daughter, Kelly Stewart Harcourt, is an executive producer. The festival also will present a Lifetime Achievement Award to Karolyn Grimes, who played Zuzu Bailey in “It’s a Wonderful Life,” in recognition of the film’s 80th anniversary. Grimes was 6 when she appeared in the 1946 film. Grimes is best known for the film’s closing line: “Teacher says, every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings.” Founded in 2011, the Washington West Film Festival is based in Reston and presents independent films at venues in the Washington, D.C., area. Its events also raise money for charitable causes.

By Scott Pafumi, Herndon Theatre Director HHS Theatre cast of "Our Town" rehearses. Photo contributed by HHS Theatre It has been my great pleasure to call Herndon my home for the last 15 years, and I continue to be enamored of the people, places, history and community that make this such a special place to work and live. In celebrating Thornton Wilder’s classic drama “Our Town” as the kickoff to our Season of Carpe Diem at Herndon High School, I want us all to take pride in the theater family and community that we have lovingly built together. “Our Town” has been celebrated on the American stage as a classic drama for the last 90 years. It is still required reading in many high school and college English curricula. This is my fourth time producing and directing the show during my 30-year career in educational theater in Fairfax County: at a middle school in 1999, at a high school in 2005, at Herndon Middle School in 2015 and now. Each time, it has been a special journey for me and the ensemble of players and technicians. Please note that the playwright intended this show to be high-concept and low-tech, meaning he did not want to clutter the stage with many props or set pieces. Wilder requests in the preface of the play that the emphasis should be on the story and the relationships, not on material objects. To that end, you will notice quite a bit of pantomiming of things like cooking, opening doors, delivering the newspaper and milk, throwing a baseball and even an imaginary horse named Bessie! The playwright asks us to suspend our disbelief and use our mind’s eye to see and hear the life of the town of Grover’s Corners, New Hampshire. In the three acts of this play, you will take a journey with the characters, led by the Stage Manager and Narrators, and particularly through the life lens of the Gibbs and Webb families. The stage will be raked with planked wood and mostly sparse in setting pieces, save for some tables, chairs and the quintessential wooden ladders. Each performer will research their character and family unit, finding chairs that best fit their person. Sound effects such as chickens, train whistles, school bells, the clanking of bottles and the crow of a rooster will be made by the cast at the appropriate moments. Costuming will be period-specific to early 1900s New England. Lighting will be soft and gentle, with almost a sepia tone to create the illusion of memory. Props will be limited to what is called for in the script, while pantomiming skills will be rehearsed and perfected. It is my hope that you find yourself in the story of this play through the myriad of characters presented. This is Herndon Theatre. This is “Our Town,” whether it is the fictional Grover’s Corners or the real-life Herndon. Thank you for trusting the process as we work together to create this magical play. And here’s hoping that you realize how beautiful life truly is, every, every minute.

By Chuck Cascio, author and former South Lakes Teacher It is no accident that the South Lakes High School Theatre Arts Department has become the first school in the D.C. metropolitan area to win Critics and Awards Program (Cappies) honors for Best Musical, Best Critic Team and Best Play in a four-year period. The theatre program has established itself in recent years under the leadership of faculty member Michael Viola, who is proud to have students take on multiple shows again this year, including the award-winning musical "Come From Away," the true story of 7,000 airline passengers who found themselves stranded in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, because of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. How did such a unique show become part of the high school's production schedule? "After I saw a high school pilot production of ‘Come From Away’ in January 2026 at the Virginia Thespian Festival, I became hooked on the story and score," Viola explained. "When the rights became available a month later, I saw it as a sign. I felt confident that my students would excel both in their performances on stage and in their technical work behind the scenes." The fact that the storyline is an important piece of recent history was also a major consideration for Viola. He felt it was meaningful to contextualize the significance of 9/11 for his theatre students so they could appreciate the story's uniqueness. "I've spent the first month of school emphasizing the gravity of 9/11 to the show's cast and crew," Viola said. "It's amazing to see how these kids rise to the occasion." To help raise awareness of the impact of 9/11, Viola has brought in guest speakers, assigned research projects, shown documentaries and had his students read other works about the tragic events. "We are also looking into the real people that ‘Come From Away’ is based upon," he said. "All of this is in an effort to tell the story authentically." The show will be performed at South Lakes High School Nov. 18-21, and Viola is understandably excited not only because of the musical's deep emotional elements, but also from a performance standpoint. "For the students involved in ‘Come From Away,’ this is their first time working with documentary/verbatim-style theatre," he said. "They are portraying real people, saying dialogue that was actually spoken. There's a responsibility that comes with this, and I know the students will benefit by bringing those words to life and by being the first school in our immediate area to do so." Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 18-21, with a Saturday, Nov. 21, matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for students and $15 for adults and can be purchased online at www.slakestheatre.com/ or at the door. On opening night, first responders who attend the show will be admitted free of charge. "Whether or not some audience members are familiar with the "Come From Away" story," Viola said, "they will be emotionally impacted. The script is poignantly relevant, especially with this year being the 25th anniversary of 9/11, and the score is deeply moving. It's hard to hear anything like it in musical theatre. So many cultures, religions and identities are represented. ‘Come From Away’ is really a story for everyone."

By Phantom Foodie Contributions by Ms. Foodie Café Anne is one of the options for food at Lake Anne. Photo by TRL Did you know Lake Anne Plaza is on the National Register of Historic Places? If the crisp fall air has you craving an outdoor food adventure, consider these locally owned foodie options. Cafe Anne Cafe Anne serves French-Algerian-inspired baguette sandwiches and platters made with locally sourced meat, along with unique sides such as Okinawan sweet potato and coconut rice. Vegetarians will enjoy the marinated tofu and chickpea sandwiches. Catering is available. Cafe Montmarte If your palate leans toward French and Vietnamese fusion, head to this plaza bistro for shrimp summer rolls, pho, salmon or quiche. It has some of the best outdoor umbrella seating on the lake. With friendly service, it's a relaxed spot for brunch, lunch or dinner. Photo by TRL CHIBOO Bakery Have a sweet tooth or need a unique hostess gift? CHIBOO Bakery operates a 100% gluten-free kitchen and also takes custom orders for other allergens. Its macarons are made with almond flour, and seasonal flavors range from classic pistachio to brown sugar cinnamon, along with tea, fruit and floral options. Les macarons sont très bien! Elden St Tea Shop This loose-leaf tea shop is the go-to spot for a warm cup of tea, bridal showers or birthday parties. With dozens of hand-curated loose-leaf teas in stock, you can pick up a gift or a favorite blend to take home. Mark your calendar for Nov. 7 and 8 for the annual Northern Virginia Tea Festival at the lake. Kalypso’s Sports Tavern A cornerstone of Lake Anne, Kalypso’s offers an extensive menu and even more lakeside seating. Go for the atmosphere and lively entertainment while enjoying traditional tzatziki, gyros or fresh-baked pizzas. It’s a popular spot, so pack your patience, as service is consistently hit or miss. Lake Anne Coffee House & Wine Bar From delicious breakfast options to upscale seasonal dinners, Lake Anne Coffee House & Wine Bar is a favorite with local foodies. Both the patio and upstairs dining room have a fireplace, making it an intimate place to sip wine or catch live music. The happy hour specials are excellent, too. Lake Anne Brew House This award-winning taproom pours small-batch, Reston-inspired craft beers, including favorites such as Lake Anne Lager. The venue hosts trivia night and Theology on Tap, and the outdoor seating area is ideal for spectating at one of the plaza's many community events. A future expansion is in the works. Kinship Wine & Wares In the mood to choose a new favorite bottle of wine? Stop by for an educational tasting with owner and sommelier Jen. Shop the vintage homewares while you sip and support this new small business. La Migueleña 2 Market & Carniceria Latina Don’t overlook this hidden Latin gem tucked along the perimeter of the plaza lot. I go for the pupusas and fresh cuts from the butcher counter for my own carne asada creations. It's part market, part casual eatery, with breakfast burritos and tamales also offered. Photo by TRL Nordic Knot This Reston bakery makes soft pretzels, pretzel dogs and pretzel croissants, baking its doughy deliciousness out of a commercial kitchen. As the weather turns cold and the holidays approach, reserve a holiday charcuterie order early before they sell out. If you’ve been to the annual Cardboard Boat Regatta, consider a return to Lake Anne for the wickedly fun SUP Witches Halloween Coven Paddle on Nov. 1, or visit your friends at the Reston Letter at the Farmers Market before it closes on Nov. 21. Disclaimer: 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 Gene Powell, staff writer Credit: Gerville via iStock There’s no debate that the Reston of 2026 is not, and cannot return to, what it was when founded in the 1960s. But the path to what Reston will be is complicated by differing plans, high-stakes investment, contentious disputes, vocal community groups, and even angry, anonymous online threats. Will the trend-setting planned community born in the 1960s retain its high-quality mix of business, commercial, residential, and recreational opportunities? Or will it build itself through slow transformation, some say “slide,” into just another metropolitan suburb? Most recently, a quickening pace of new and repurposed development has focused on new apartments and townhomes, with multiple projects centered on the transportation corridor containing Metro’s Silver Line and the Dulles Toll Road that bisects the town. There are some 11,000 new “residential units” in the study or planning phase or under construction. “Reston North,” “Reston East,” “Reston Crossing,” “Halley Rise” and “West of Wiehle” are large studies, projects or proposals that involve commercial, professional, and public spaces; and residential uses. There are at number of smaller developments on the table, most with townhouse communities replacing existing commercial buildings. And then there is the highly contested proposal to replace at least one of Reston’s two original golf courses with townhomes, perhaps sharing the space with a park or a revised and improved golf course. County officials, developers, and opponents of various kinds of redevelopment all identify the long-standing controversy over the future of Reston National Golf Course as “the” example of issues involved in Reston’s future. The golf course’s owners over the past 14 years have suggested alternative uses for the 164-acre tract south of the Dulles Toll Road: building out entirely in favor of multi-design townhomes, dividing the property between housing and some version of a public “linear park. A plan moving forward now involves upgrading the existing course while using a 14-acre tract on one side of the course for housing. Community groups and others argue on multiple fronts. One is reserving Reston founder Robert E. Simon’s original vision of two golf courses as a mainstay of the town’s commitment to “open space” and recreation. Another is defending a long-term Comprehensive Plan–updated as recently as 2025–that was intended to balance Simon’s vision with the inevitable evolution of his dream city. Developers argue the present 18-hole public course and its amenities are not economically viable and want to make changes including a driving range upgrade and a second, mid-course restaurant. One of the recent voices on the course’s future is Michele Hudnall, a longtime Reston resident, president of the Whitney Park East Cluster Association, one of the town’s organized neighborhoods, and a Realtor. Earlier this year, she presented town and county authorities with a study she did of about 800 residences adjacent or close to the course. She reported that turning the course over to residential use would drop adjacent home values by 15% and nearby home values by 10%. Hudnall, who said she has received anonymous online threats since speaking out, said she is not opposed to any or all development but insists county officials require all projects to be rigorously reviewed through the lens of the Comprehensive Plan. “We need to honor the past but not be shackled by it,” an approach she calls “governed growth” when considering future land use across Reston. “What I am seeing is a pattern: ‘We have all these empty office spaces. But those are failed businesses, not failed buildings.” Connie Hartke, president of the grassroots Rescue Reston group, a Realtor and a board member of the Reston Citizens Association, is a frequent speaker against “any housing” on Reston National’s property. She noted that the Hunter Mill District, the area of Fairfax County that includes Reston and a part of Tysons Corner, “has more development, in construction, planned and in development” than any other district in the county. Hartke and Rescue Reston are focused on opposing development of both Reston National, south of the Dulles Toll Road, and the private Hidden Creek Country Club course north of the road. She said the pair are a focus of the town’s Comprehensive Plan for development. “If the toll road is the ‘spine’ of Reston, the golf courses are the ‘lungs’ of Reston. Why give up that open space when there are plenty of other places” to build, she asked. Hartke is not opposed to dense, even high-rise projects such as the 23.8-acre Reston Crossing along Edmund Halley Drive, south of the Town Center Metro station, which could include 40-story buildings and up to 1,400 new residential units. She said the area known as the Reston Transit Station zone is where such dense housing should be located. She calls Rescue Reston’s development view “right kind, right place.” Looking to the future, Hartke is concerned that Reston’s traditional mix of government, commercial and residential space will be skewed heavily toward residential, costing the town open space and “places where small business…and educational opportunities like trade schools” can find a home. “I live in Reston, not on the golf course, and I like being able to drive five minutes to a grocery, six minutes to downtown.” She also fears recreational businesses and areas in Reston will be threatened someday by the same economic pressures driving the proposal to redevelop Reston National. “If we didn’t have these recreational opportunities (nearby), working parents and grandparents might not have the time” to get their children to “far away” facilities, she said. Next: Big changes in big spaces coming to Reston

By Roxanne Watts Pumpkins brighten doorsteps all over town now, including at Julie and Ned's new Reston home. As the new owners revel in the beauty of their home and the season, they think back to the circumstances that brought them there. Their story illustrates recent changes in the Reston market, both in buyer behavior and seller expectations. Julie and Ned were not the first to fall for their lovely renovated home in South Reston. It went under contract within five days to an overseas buyer who had a change of heart and withdrew. Realtors throughout Reston are noting more buyers voiding contracts, and many are routinely seeking backup contracts. Soon after the home went back on the market, Julie and Ned toured it and loved it but did not act. They had a list of other homes to consider and wanted to investigate Reston Association's benefits and limitations. Two other couples were equally interested but were tracking other homes, comparing features and pricing, and taking their time. On day 32, all three submitted contracts, all at full price and all with home inspection contingencies. Julie and Ned's cash offer was selected for a quick two-week settlement date and no financing contingency, removing risk for the seller. Thirty-two days, then three offers: That seeming contradiction says a great deal about our market. Buyers are taking weeks to compare numerous properties before deciding. With rates increasing to the mid-7s, they are reassessing what they can comfortably afford, and watching the economy closely. Locally, average days on the market have increased from 26 to 42 days, and to 55 days nationally. Yet when condition, location, pricing and presentation come together, serious buyers will compete. Well-priced homes in excellent condition can still attract multiple offers. Not every segment of Reston is behaving the same. As of Sept. 20, detached home values were still appreciating, townhome prices had plateaued and condominium values had dropped 5%. Condominiums are facing substantially more competition from a 50% increase in inventory, and their fees can be a deterrent. The typical fee is $620 per month, but they vary enormously, from $379 to $2,500 depending on community, unit size and inclusions. Some large Midtown units, about 3,000 square feet, exceed $2,500 per month. Owners in some complexes also pay the Reston Association assessment of $890 annually. Comparatively, single-family homes are $74 per month and townhomes around $145 per month. The pricing data is from 1,027 Reston closings listed in Bright MLS for the 12 months preceding Sept. 20. Mortgage rates, hovering around 7.5%, are having a huge impact. To compensate, lenders are bringing back old programs, such as the 2-1 buydown, where the rate can be reduced for a couple of years for a fee. Some sellers are offering to cover that fee or provide a credit for buyers to use at their discretion. Condition matters more than ever. If you are a seller planning to list early next year, choose an agent now and walk through the property to identify which improvements are worth making and which are not. Line up painters and other contractors before their schedules fill. Have photos taken while there is attractive greenspace or fall color. Begin discussing pricing now, and know the first weeks on the market bring the greatest attention. With all these changes, Reston maintains its enormous appeal. The lakes and greenspace, amenities, restaurants, shopping and entertainment create a uniquely desirable place to live and attract the most successful businesses. The beautiful neighborhoods and their residents all contribute to a strong sense of community and an extraordinary place to call home. Speaking of community, don't miss our Annual Pumpkin Giveaway on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 9 a.m. to noon at Oakbrook Church, 1700 Reston Parkway. Coffee, donuts and plenty of goodwill will be on hand.

By Hayley Sherwood, Columnist I hear versions of the same comments from parents all the time: “My daughter thinks everything should go her way.” “My son can’t handle being told no.” “She thinks she deserves a better grade.” “He expects us to fix everything for him.” “She doesn’t appreciate anything we do for her.” Sometimes the child is 6. Sometimes 16. And sometimes the “child” is 26 and still living at home while Mom and Dad are doing his laundry, making his appointments, paying his bills and wondering quietly: How did this happen? Most parents I know are working hard to raise well-adjusted children. But I do think we have developed a habit of making life a little too comfortable and child-centered. Then we are surprised when our children expect the world to work the same way. Psychological entitlement is the belief that we deserve special treatment, privileges or positive outcomes, even when we haven’t necessarily earned them. Entitlement can look surprisingly ordinary. It is expecting a parent to bring the forgotten homework. It is demanding a new phone because “everyone else has one.” It is becoming furious when a teacher gives a disappointing grade. It is expecting an exception to the rule or assuming that a parent will solve every problem. Sometimes it is simply being unable to hear the two most developmentally important words in the English language: “Not now.” Every child will be selfish, demanding and unreasonable at times. The problem is when the behavior becomes a pattern and the adults around the child continually accommodate it. Research on child development shows that children learn not only from what parents tell them but also from what parents model. One longitudinal study found that parental overvaluation—communicating to children that they are more special or deserving than other people—is associated with increases in children’s narcissistic traits over time. Parental warmth, meanwhile, was associated with healthy self-esteem. That distinction is worth remembering. Warmth says, “You are loved.” Overvaluation says, “You are better than everyone else.” Children are watching when parents complain because the restaurant got our order wrong, insist that someone “fix this” immediately, become outraged when we have to wait or routinely demand special treatment. If we often bend the rules because our child is tired, busy, stressed or “just having a hard day,” we may be teaching them that rules are only for other people. This is where things get tricky. Parents want their children to be happy. We want them to have opportunities and things we did not have. We want to protect them from unnecessary suffering. But there is a difference between giving a child a good life and giving a child a life in which nothing is ever difficult. So what can parents actually do? Say no. “No” is a complete sentence. Children do not always need a 15-minute explanation of why they cannot have the newest phone, another pair of expensive sneakers or a third sleepover this week. Stop rescuing. Your child forgot the homework? Had a disagreement with a friend? Before you jump in, ask yourself: “Is this my problem, or my child’s opportunity to learn?” Sometimes the most helpful thing we can do is step back. Give your child responsibilities. Chores are not punishment. Being part of a family means contributing to the family. Let your child be unhappy. Children can learn to tolerate frustration, solve problems, recover from disappointment and function when life doesn’t cooperate. Let your child earn things. There is something valuable about wanting something, working for it and eventually getting it. Teach your child to save money, wait for a birthday or work toward a privilege. Let your child experience the satisfaction of saying, “I did that.” Teach gratitude by practicing it yourself. Thank the server. Thank the teacher. Thank your spouse. Tell your children when someone has helped you. Children learn gratitude not just by being told to be grateful but by living around grateful people. Teach responsibility instead of blame. When something goes wrong, encourage your child to ask: “What was my part?” “What could I have done differently?” and “What can I learn?” Those questions can be more useful than “Whose fault is it?” Model the behavior you want to see. If you want a humble child, practice humility. If you want a grateful child, practice gratitude. If you want a child who can handle criticism, let your child see you accept criticism without becoming defensive. We do not need to deprive our children to teach them gratitude or be harsh to teach responsibility. Children need love. They also need limits. Perhaps the best question for parents is not, “Am I giving my child enough?” but, “Am I teaching my child how to be a good person?” Happy autumn, everyone! Psych’d to see you next month! -Dr. S. Do you have a question for me? Are there topics you are hoping I will write about? Please submit your suggestions to info@therestonletter.com. Dr. Hayley B. Sherwood is a longtime clinical psychologist in Reston and Herndon. To learn more, visit www.oakhillpsychological.com/. Please visit the About Us section of our website to learn more about her team of therapists.

By Sophia Shelley, South Lakes High School student writer Emma Harris is a student teacher in the SLHS Theatre department. Photo contributed by Emma Harris What makes a good teacher? Is it someone who has a genuine passion for the subject they teach or a driving desire to connect with their students? How about a hard worker who strives to make their classroom a place where students have everything they need to succeed? For George Mason University senior Emma Harris, the answer might be all three. A 2022 Herndon High School graduate, Harris recently returned to Fairfax County Public Schools to finish her degree in theater education. This year, she traveled across Baron Cameron Avenue to South Lakes High School, where she will spend the school year as a student teacher under theater program director Mike Viola. Harris always knew she wanted to be a teacher. Coming from a family of teachers and drawing on her experience as an older sister, entering education was a natural choice. The subject she would teach, however, remained a mystery. Theater came later. When Harris was 9, her mother signed her up for a summer program at NextStop Theatre, a nonprofit professional theater company in Herndon. Harris was somewhat apprehensive about whether she would like it but came away completely changed. “The switch was flipped so instantly for me,” she recalled. “I was like, oh, this is where I’m meant to be.” At South Lakes, Harris hopes to recreate the positive and encouraging environment in which she was first introduced to theater. “It is so important, as an educator, to go out and first create an equitable, safe and community-based environment in which students can feel supported and encouraged by each other,” Harris said. She knows exactly who she wants to be in her future classroom: a role model, a relatable figure and someone students can turn to for help. Despite the wide range of programs in Fairfax — “The DMV area actually has one of the highest per capita number of theater companies!” — Harris acknowledges that not everyone has the same access, and that’s something she wants to change. “What really breaks my heart is people being like, ‘I want to be in the show, but I can’t afford the cast fee.’ ‘I want to be in the show, but my mom can’t drive me to rehearsals.’ I don’t want any of that in my future classroom. I just want it to be, ‘I want to do this. Here’s what I need.’ And I want to say, cool, here’s how we’re gonna show up for you.” Harris will get her first opportunity to create that positive environment in December, when she directs South Lakes’ production of “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Performances are scheduled for Dec. 11 and 12. She also will serve as assistant director for the school’s fall musical, “Come From Away,” with performances scheduled for Nov. 18-21. “A Charlie Brown Christmas” is a show that is close to home for Harris. It was the second show she performed in and her family’s annual holiday movie, so she knows the story well and is excited to direct the play. Although she has been at the school only a short time, Harris’ infectious optimism and passion for theater are already evident throughout the program. “She’s very enthusiastic about theater, very enthusiastic about education, and a great asset to the program,” said Mike Viola, who met Harris over the summer at a staff event. “I think she’s going to make a great teacher.”

By Kaydence Smith, Staff Writer T.A. Ledinh wrote a "comedy mystery" set in Reston For T.A. Ledinh, Reston was not love at first sight. After growing up in Vietnam and Paris, the author moved to the United States and lived in several cities, including Reston, where he spent 10 years. When he first arrived, he didn’t immediately see the appeal. Over time, however, his view changed, and he developed an affection for the planned community. That experience inspired his novel, “May He Reston Peace.” Published in December 2025, the novel was written on and off over the past 20 years. It follows Tommy Chase, a suburban developer determined to avoid becoming an adult for as long as possible. When Tommy moves to Reston, his life takes an unexpected turn after he discovers a dead body and a mysterious flash drive, drawing him into a crime he can’t escape. Reston serves as more than a backdrop. Its carefully planned neighborhoods, walking paths and distinctive character provide a contrast to the crime unfolding around Tommy. Ledinh suggests that beneath the community’s orderly, peaceful exterior, more may be happening than residents realize. Ledinh’s own evolution from being unimpressed with Reston to developing an affection for the community gives the novel a perspective that goes beyond simply using the town as a setting. Readers will recognize references to local roads, including Sunrise Valley Drive and South Lakes Drive, as well as landmarks such as Reston Town Center and Reston National Golf Course. “May He Reston Peace” is a fast-moving mystery with a distinctly local setting. For readers familiar with Reston, part of the appeal is seeing recognizable streets and surroundings transformed into the stage for a murder mystery. For those unfamiliar with the community, the novel offers a suspenseful introduction to a planned community that, at least in Ledinh’s fictional world, may not be as peaceful as it appears. Ledinh plans to make the novel the first in a series centered on Reston and the mysteries it could conceal. For local readers, the series promises another way to view familiar surroundings—and wonder what secrets might be hiding beneath the community’s peaceful exterior.

By Noelle Sharbaugh, High-Heeled Hostess Ambiance is everything at a Halloween party. Photo by HHH A murder mystery party transforms an ordinary Halloween into something more memorable. Costumes, accusations, dramatic reveals and unexpected twists pull guests into the experience. For one evening, your home becomes part theater, part game and part dinner party. With the right atmosphere and a few intentional details, guests quickly fall into character and the evening takes on a life of its own. Start With a Theme The secret to a cohesive murder mystery party is choosing a strong theme that influences everything from the cocktails and menu to the décor and guest attire. Theme Ideas: Haunted Manor Roaring 1920s Speakeasy Hollywood Glamour Gothic Victorian Dinner Masquerade Ball Many murder mystery kits already include character assignments, clues and timelines, and can be ordered online. Your role becomes creating the atmosphere that brings the story to life. Photo by HHH Send Invitations in Advance The party begins the moment the invitations arrive. Build anticipation by sending themed invitations with costume suggestions and character details. Guests who embrace their roles often become the highlight of the evening. Invitation Tips: Include the party theme Suggest attire or costumes Add guest character assignments Use dramatic wording or clues Encourage guests to get into character Think of the invitation as the opening scene. Set the tone early and guests will arrive ready to play along. Create a Dramatic Atmosphere The atmosphere is everything at a murder mystery party. The mood should begin the moment guests walk through the door. Easy Ways to Elevate the Space: Use candlelight throughout the room Dim overhead lighting Add Halloween-themed colors to your table Incorporate vintage books, lanterns, clocks, goblets or other moody elements Use cloth napkins and layered place settings Add printed menus or character cards at each seat Consider a Halloween-themed playlist to set the mood The details don’t need to feel elaborate, only intentional. They can create more impact than over-the-top decorations. Pinterest offers plenty of murder mystery visuals and styling ideas. Keep the Menu Simple A murder mystery party works best when the host can stay engaged with guests rather than disappearing into the kitchen. Choose food that can be prepared ahead of time so the evening flows naturally. Crowd-Friendly Ideas: Charcuterie boards Bite-sized appetizers Seasonal pasta dishes or soups Dark chocolate desserts Mini desserts and sweets Signature Cocktail Ideas: Black Widow Smash Blood Orange Margarita Smoky Old Fashioned Champagne with dark berries Always include both alcoholic and nonalcoholic options and a self-serve drink station. Don’t Forget the Music Music shapes the energy of the evening and keeps guests immersed. Photo by HHH Playlist Inspiration: Vintage jazz for a speakeasy theme Moody instrumental music Elegant piano or string arrangements Cinematic Halloween scores Keep the playlist subtle and in the background. Focus on the Guest Experience The most memorable murder mystery parties happen when guests stop feeling self-conscious and fully lean into the experience. Accusations become dramatic, alliances form across the table and everyone begins eyeing one another suspiciously. Final Hosting Tips: Set the table ahead of time Give each character a place card or special seat at the table Light candles before guests arrive Have plenty of ice and drinks prepared Print clues and instructions in advance Remember, tonight you’re not just the host; you’re a character. Play your part and have fun. Most importantly, have fun with it. The laughter, dramatic reveals and unexpected moments are what guests will remember. So, Reston … whodunit? 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 Chuck Cascio, author and former South Lakes teacher Matt Slavsky For nearly 30 years, Matt Slavsky has worked as a private therapist with Family Perspectives, LLC, in Phoenix, Ariz., and as a crisis therapist for hospitals in and around the Phoenix Valley. He works with couples seeking therapy as well as individuals of all ages who are experiencing depression and anxiety. In addition to his ongoing work, Matt says he seeks to expand the number of “psychological evaluations for nonresident immigrants to the U.S. who have a spouse and/or children who would suffer extreme hardship if they were deported to their country of origin. In many cases, they have been working and supporting their family, but they are at risk for deportation, leaving their family without financial or emotional means to support themselves.” Matt’s passion for his work has deep personal roots. “I was diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome at age 13,” he says, “and I have never completely overcome it, though the symptoms reduced at around age 19. Now they are nominal, but they are still there.” During his ongoing struggles with Tourette’s, he says, “I have become familiar with a plethora of comorbid disorders and mental health struggles other people experience.” When he was a student at South Lakes High School in the late 1980s, Matt remembers “hearing about a couple of people who had committed suicide, who had substance abuse issues, and others with behavioral health and other mental health issues.” Matt experienced a period of depression of his own in 11th grade, which resulted in him dropping out of school. He had not been attending school consistently, he says, and “at one point I dropped out but decided to return once I started to improve. However, I had to repeat my junior year. I wound up graduating in 1990 instead of 1989, the year I was supposed to graduate.” As Matt dealt with his own experiences, he became acutely aware of what he was seeing others experience and what the field of mental health needed to address more deeply and quickly. “At a young age I recall feeling like mental health issues among adolescents were minimized, and support was unavailable unless your own family addressed it, or you had behavioral issues that were disruptive,” he says. “If a student kept to themselves, regardless of what they may have been experiencing internally, unless they sought help, they were pretty much left to fend for themselves.” Matt’s personal awareness and observations stimulated an intense desire to learn more about how people cope with mental illness so they can move on with their lives in a positive way, as he did. A psychology class at SLHS was particularly impactful: “I found it fascinating and it intrigued me to pursue a career of helping others, particularly those who did not have a voice.” At George Mason University, he majored in psychology, earned his master’s in social work at Arizona State University and then became a licensed clinical social worker. In his professional role, Matt works with patients to help them deal with their issues in ways that do not rely on “psychotropic medication, which I think should not be used until other methods are explored, including sunlight, direct contact with peers (not only online!), physical movement or exercise, nutrition, and proper sleep.” He is pleased that “mental health treatment has much less of a stigma these days, and I have the perception that it is encouraged instead of individuals being made to feel that they are considered ‘less than’ for seeking it. Of course, the stigma still exists but at a much lower level. Also, with more celebrities being willing to state their mental health issues, it is becoming much more accepted.” Matt, his parents and sister lived in a couple of different Reston clusters before settling in Stratton Woods in 1984. He attended Terraset Elementary School, where “I was excited and fascinated by an underground school powered in some part by solar panels!” He then went to Langston Hughes Intermediate School, where he engaged in underground activity of his own: “I had a pretty good scam going, buying bags of Blow Pops and gum at Kmart and then selling them at school for a quarter apiece. Shhhh, don’t let the authorities know!” Matt cites his parents, Steve and Paula Slavsky, friends and members of Reston’s Jewish community “as being direct and indirect influences in support of my progress and achievements. Without these people I know that I would not be the man I am today. I am extremely grateful for the support I had, and especially my parents for helping me navigate the rough times and being hopeful for a better day.” Though Matt and his wife, Tatiana, live in Arizona, he maintains his love for Reston, saying, “I will always call Reston home.”