Ryan Dunn

Spring Concert at South Lakes

South Lakes Choral Department presents music skills.

Friends, families and local residents had the pleasure of hearing the South Lakes High School Choral Department perform on Tuesday, June 3 at the school’s Little Theatre.

Tour de Cure Held in Reston

Cyclists bike to raise funds for American Diabetes Association.

Thousands of persons went to Reston Town Center on Sunday, June 1, to participate in the American Diabetes Association's Tour de Cure Race.

South Lakes High School Holds Spring Concert

Reston band students display their music skills.

On May 29, the South Lakes High School symphonic band and wind ensemble performed at the school’s Little Theater.

Lasting May 29 to June 1, the annual Herndon Festival will be a part of the largest free event in Northern Virginia. This award-winning event takes place in historic downtown Herndon at 777 Lynn Street.

World Of Beer Opening In Reston

Staff prepared for June 2 grand opening.

On Monday June 2, the World of Beer restaurant at 1888 Explorer St. in Reston Town Center will have its grand opening. “I saw there was a need for a World of Beer in the area,” said owner Evan Metz. Metz also owns the World of Beer (WOB) located in Ballston, which opened the summer of 2012.

Reston Association Holds May Yard Sale

Participants enjoy good weather at yard sale event.

“I heard about this yard sale from a co-worker,” said Alfred Carter, a resident of Alexandria. Carter was one of 95 participants in the May biannual yard sale hosted by the Reston Association. The yard sale was held at the parking lot near the organization’s office at 12001 Sunrise Valley Drive the morning of Saturday, May 17. Shoppers and vendors mingled from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., enjoying the nice weather. “It is very nice and well organized,” said Carter, who brought an assortment of items to the yard sale.

Fine Arts Festival Brings Art to the Community

Signature local art event enriches community life.

“I think the opening night could not be better,” said Derryl Harris, a board member of Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE). Harris attended the Friday opening night event for the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival. The festival, an annual event produced by GRACE, is a competitive, juried, outdoor event showcasing some of the finest contemporary fine art and craft. Each year the Festival features over 200 skilled artisans who utilize both traditional and unconventional materials and techniques to create, hand-crafted, original works of art available for purchase. The diversity of fine art and fine craft at the Festival, now in its 23rd year, ensures there were many tastes. A highlight of the Festival is the opportunity to interact directly with the artists.

Reston Community Orchestra Holds Season Finale

Concert features two young pianists.

The afternoon of Sunday, May 18, at Reston Community Center CenterStage, the Reston Community Orchestra (RCO) preformed their final concert of the 2013-2014 with a performance featuring two young pianists. Pianists Mark Dang and Matthew Geier performed Haydn’s “Piano Concerto in D Major.” The program also included Grieg’s “Peer Gynt Suite #2” and selections from “Forest Gump.” Conducting the orchestra was Dingwall Fleary, a maestro who has directed Reston Community Orchestra for 16 years.

Langston Hughes Middle Celebrates Poetry

Poetry contest inspires creativity.

At the end of April, Langston Hughes Middle School held an after school award ceremony for the annual poetry contest. Approximately 80 poems by students were entered in this year’s annual poetry contest, and winners were announced. The contest, sponsored by Northwest Federal Credit Union (NWFCU) and the school’s PTA, offered students an arena to express ideas poetically. Representing NWFCU was Nicolette Watkins. “It has been a wonderful opportunity for the credit union to work with this school,” said Watkins.

Northern Virginia Family Service Holds 16th Annual Gala

Local donors and supporters recognized at event.

The evening of Friday May 9 at Hilton McLean Tysons Corner, the nonprofit Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS) held their 16th Annual Road to Independence Gala. The festive event gave community and business leaders an opportunity to celebrate the impact of NVFS on families and children in need. It also recognized donors and supporters dedicated to giving back to the community in which they live making NVFS services possible.

Reston Langston Hughes Middle Celebrates Poetry

Poetry contest raises awareness about creativity

At the end of April, Langston Hughes Middle School held an after school award ceremony for the annual poetry contest. Approximately 80 poems by students were entered this year’s annual poetry contest, and winners were announced. The contest, sponsored by Northwest Federal Credit Union (NWFCU) and the school’s PTA, offered students an arena to express ideas poetically. Representing NWFCU was Nicolette Watkins. “It has been a wonderful opportunity for the credit union to work with this school,” said Watkins.

Pet Fiesta Held At Reston Town Center

Thousands attend pet focused May 3 event.

Visitors and participants of the annual Reston Pet Fiesta enjoyed sunny mild weather on Saturday, May 3. One of the signature events of Reston Town Center, this outdoor event was open to the public and brought together local businesses, animal rescue groups and pet owners for a day of activities and demonstrations. The event was also an opportunity to put in volunteer hours with animal adoption groups.

GRACE Opens Incubator Exhibit

Exhibit features works of artists Renee Stout and Odinga Tyehimba.

“I think there are few collaborative shows between two artists like this,” said Derryl Harris. “The depth and the materials, it is quite unique.” Harris, a resident of Herndon and board member of Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE), attended the April artists reception for the exhibit Incubator which features artwork of Renee Stout and Odinga Tyehimba. Self-taught artist Tyehimba combines interest in traditional art with his interpretation of the historic and contemporary experiences of Africans in the Americas. Renee Stout has received acclaim for her mixed-media works exploring issues including identity, race, gender, and healing.

Herndon-Reston FISH, Inc. Holds Fish Fling

Event honors volunteers who contribute to FISH’s efforts.

Herndon-Reston FISH, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families meet emergencies and short-term needs, held its 9th Annual Fish Fling Gala at the Crowne Plaza Dulles Airport Hotel on Saturday, April 26, from 6 to 11 p.m. The gala was FISH’s largest fundraising event to acquire the financial support for its Family Assistance Program. In 2013 FISH worked with over 1,300 area families.

Funraising Race at Lake Fairfax

Champions4Children 5K Race and Fun Run held In Reston.

“It was a fun race,” said Nick Abbott, “It brought me back to my high school days of cross country.” On the morning of Saturday, April 26 Abbott and other participants of the second annual Champions4Children 5K Race and Fun Run assembled at Lake Fairfax Park, in Reston. The event was a fundraiser for SafeSpot, a Children’s Advocacy Center, and nonprofit that will provide direct services to child victims of sexual and physical abuse in Fairfax County. The organization opened doors to their office in Fairfax on April 2. Approximately 315 persons registered for the race event, which also had corporate and individual sponsors. Some of the major sponsors included ASG Security, Capital One Bank, Colliers International, Willis of Maryland, ePlus Inc., Capital Source, and Todd and Michelle Kingsley. “We want a smiling face on every kid,” said Rebecca Cooper of WJLA/ABC. Cooper has been a long time supporter of the fight against child abuse, and was Grand Marshal for this year’s Champions4Children Race.

Reston Marathon Held Despite Weather

Hundreds participate in race held at Reston.

Despite a continued rain, the Reston Runners held their annual marathon on Sunday, March 30 at South Lakes High School. Reston Runners is a club of 900+ members who share an interest in running, walking, and fitness. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Reston Runners Community Fund, a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships to area high school students. “This is our second annual marathon and half marathon event,” said Neil Knolle, a long time member of the Reston Runners. The race began and ended at South Lakes High School track at 11400 South Lakes Drive in Reston. The marathon course follows two gently rolling and scenic half marathon loops around Reston utilizing the roads and Reston's paved path system. Approximately 500 people registered for the full marathon and 250 people registered for the half marathon. The marathon had length of about 26.2 miles and the half marathon a length of 13.1 miles.

Final Days of Voting in RA Election

Election results will be released on April 8.

Eight candidates filed to run for open seats on the Reston Association Board of Directors this year. The Board of Directors determines the Reston Association’s goals and policies. The candidate for the Apartment Owners Representative position is Ellen A. Graves.

GRACE Opens Emerging Visions Exhibit

Art of local high school students on display.

At the Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE), a new exhibit has opened displaying the art of 62 students from three area high schools, Herndon, Oakton, and South Lakes. The exhibit, “Emerging Visions: Complexities” is the second exhibit GRACE is showing to celebrate Youth Art Month. The gallery is immersed with artwork including drawings, paintings, mixed media works and photography. “I am hoping to go to Rochester Institute of Technology,” said Ellie Hughes, a senior at Oakton High School who has a sculpture piece on display in the exhibit. Hughes also participated in the 2013 art exhibit held at GRACE for high school students. “I am mostly interested in photography,” said Hughes. “That’s her love,” said her father, Jim Hughes who was impressed with the quality of the art exhibit.

Reston Chorale Celebrates Founder Bob Simon

Reston and Bob Simon are celebrated at March 23 concert.

“It is wonderful to be here,” said composer Donald McCullough. “It was a really exciting experience because what Bob has created here is really quite astounding.” McCullough was at the South Lakes High School stage in Reston. He had been commissioned by the Reston Chorale to create a work that musically expresses what makes Reston a special place. On Sunday, March 23, the audience heard the premiere performance of McCullough’s “The Essential Life.”

Nowruz Celebrated At Reston Town Center

Third annual Persian New Years festival brings thousands.

"This event is basically the Iranian New Year’s festival," said Ashkbous Talebi, who was assisting with a display representing the Ghashghaic tribe, from southern Iran. Both Talebi and his wife have attended the celebration of Nowruz at Reston Town Center since it was first hosted in March of 2012. The event was a day-long celebration, with the Pavilion serving as the presentation hub throughout the event.

First NOVA Makers Faire Held At Reston

Inaugural event brings visitors to explore hands on science and tech.

"This last week has been really intense, but we would say it was a success," said Brian Jacoby, a resident of Reston and founding member of NOVA Labs. Jacoby had just finished operations for the inaugural NOVA Makers Faire hosted at two locations, South Lakes Highs School and Langston Hughes Middle School in Reston. The event sold over 3,000 tickets, and more than 300 volunteers helped guide visitors to various displays related to technology and engineering.

A Tribute to Bob Simon

Reston Community Orchestra Concert celebrates 100th birthday of Reston’s founder.

On Sunday, March 16, approximately 200 people went to Reston Community Center at Hunters Woods to an afternoon performance by the Reston Community Orchestra. The event was an early celebration of the 100th birthday of Reston founder Robert "Bob" Simon. Also attending the event were Delegate Ken Plum (D-36), state senator Janet Howell (D-32), and Supervisor Catherine Hudgins (D-Hunter Mill).

Tour Of Silver Line Reston Station

Despite delay work at Reston station continues.

In February, Metro authorities with the Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority (MWAA) released a statement that key criteria had not been met by Dulles Transit Partners (DTP), who submitted their notice of "substantial completion" to MWAA on Feb. 7.

Fathers Take Daughters to Dance

Fathers and daughters enjoy special night at Herndon Community Center.

The evening of Saturday, Feb. 1, Herndon Community Center was host to the 6th annual Father Daughter Dance at the gymnasium room. Operating the DJ table was Aaron Hahn, owner of Basement Media Productions. The focus of the event was dance to popular music. Songs ranging from “Cotton Eyed Joe” to “Gangnam Style” were broadcast during the night. Appetizers and drinks were also served.

Trout Season To Begin At Reston Lake Fairfax

Passes for fishing available for purchase.

Fishermen who enjoy catching trout are invited to participate in the 2014 trout season Feb. 14 through May 4. Due to inclement weather, the county delayed the event for a week. "The county was trying to not encourage water activities when the lake was frozen over," said Lake Fairfax park employee Dustin Meyers. One thousand pounds of rainbow trout and 200 pounds of golden trout will soon be in the waters of Lake Fairfax Park in Reston. This 20-acre lake will be restocked five times during the spring season by Cast-a-line of Goshen, Va.

‘Divine Love’ on Display in Reston

Elizabeth Linares’ Photography display opens at Reston Center.

"My work has evolved over the years, but I like to portray light," said Elizabeth Linares. Linares hosted a reception at the Reston Center 2 Solo Exhibit location on Thursday, Feb. 6. Her photography exhibit, "Divine Love" will be on display at the Reston Center 2 until Feb. 27. "This exhibit shows the breadth and depth of Elizabeth’s work," said League of Reston Artists President Jim Schlett.

Ted’s Bulletin To Open at Reston Town Center

Family-owned restaurant opens Jan. 30.

On Jan. 30, the restaurant Ted’s Bulletin at 11948 Market Street will open at 7 a.m. to the public. “Ted’s is going to be a favorite in Reston Town Center,” said waitress Rachel Dillon. “We can modify any food order, and we are very customer friendly. It is a family-based business,” said Dillon. The restaurant is at the location of the former Uno Chicago Grill, and it is the first in Virginia. Owners Mark and Ty Neal, also behind DC's Matchbox restaurants, named the restaurant after their father, a West Virginian who was the unofficial "cook of the neighborhood." The restaurant chain, known for their comfort food and homemade pop tarts, will open another site in Merrifield.

Broadway Night Comes to South Lakes High School

South Lakes students prepare for musical show.

This past weekend students in the South Lakes High School were rehearsing and preparing for the ninth annual Broadway Night show at 7 p.m. Jan. 24-25 (weather depending) at the school’s Little Theatre. Cast and crew were at the school making sure everything was ready for opening night. “This is my first year doing costume design, but my third year doing production for the play,” said South Lakes senior Allison Scheler.

Reston Chorale Brings Music to Reston Town Center

Despite winter weather Reston Chorale singers keep spirits bright.

On Saturday, Reston resident Ellen Torzilli joined 24 friends and fellow members of the Reston Chorale to sing at Promenade in Reston Town Center. There were afternoon shows outdoors on both Saturday and Sunday between the Mon Ami Gabi restaurant and Pitango Gelato.

Jingle on Lake Anne Plaza Draws Crowds

Local art showcased at Reston Community Center.

There was a heavy turnout at Reston’s Lake Anne Plaza on Saturday. Two events were being held in conjunction with each other, one the reception at Lake Anne Reston Community Center for the Gifts from the HeART Exhibit.

Reston Exhibit Shows Wildlife of Africa

Photo exhibit on display until Nov. 30.

On Nov. 14, there was an evening reception at the Reston Center for photographer Patricia Deege’s exhibit "Africa The Living Wild."

Potters Return to Colvin Run Mill

Local potters returned to Colvin Run Mill the first weekend of November for their holiday sale. Many of the potters are juried members of the Torpedo Factory Art Center's Scope Gallery located in Alexandria.

Jimmy’s Tavern in Herndon to Expand

On June 14, Jimmy’s Tavern in downtown Herndon had the lease renewed for 10 more years during the intermission at the Herndon Friday Night Live event.

Art in The Windows at ArtSpace Herndon

Artwork transforms the ArtSpace Herndon building.

The Herndon Foundation for the Cultural Arts announced a first time event featuring public fine art panels, each 90”W x 50”H, installed in four empty window frames on the exterior of the ArtSpace Herndon building at 750 Center Street.

‘Mind Heart Vision’ Exhibit Opens at ArtSpace Herndon

At ArtSpace Herndon on Friday, April 12, there was an artists’ reception for the current exhibit “Mind, Heart, Vision.”

Stories by Ryan