Reston Community Center has canceled this year’s Reston Multicultural Festival, which was originally scheduled to bring a celebration of diversity through song, dance and art to Lake Anne Plaza on September 26.
“It breaks our hearts to take this step. We know that this event is a cherished part of Reston’s calendar and has deep meaning for participants and festival-goers alike. We are hopeful that spring will bring greater safety and restoration of the public gatherings that mean so much to Reston,” said RCC Board Chair Bev Cosham.
In a statement released today (Tuesday), RCC Executive Director Leila Gordon said organizers realized that was no safe way to present the multicultural festival.
“The health and safety of our performers, vendors, staff, volunteers and community have to take precedence in these unprecedented times,” she said in a statement.
Gordon hopes the festival will return next year.
RCC plans to continue offering multicultural programming this summer and fall through smaller, socially distanced events. On Thursdays, RCC holds its Take a Break concert series at Lake Anne Plaza and Summerbration Fab Fridays at RestonStation. Other programming is also offering via RCC’s YouTube channel.
“Like our colleagues, we are trying to balance our desire to support artists, bring valued content to audiences and do so safely at all times,” said Arts and Events Director Paul Douglas Michnewicz. “It’s a constantly evolving environment, so we depend on flexibility and people staying alert to sudden changes in programming.”
Photo via RCC
Another major event in Reston has been canceled due to health concerns posed by COVID-19.
The Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce decided to cancel this year’s Taste of Reston, the largest outdoor food festival in Northern Virginia, due to the pandemic.
“Taking everything into account, this decision supports the community’s efforts to keep us safe and healthy during these unprecedented times,” according to a press release.
Taste of Reston is expected to return to Reston Town Center next summer on Father’s day weekend on June 18 and June 19.
This year’s festival was originally expected to take place in late September.
Late last month, the Greater Reston Arts Center announced that it is also canceling the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival this year due to similar concerns.
Photo by Don Renner
Organizers had hoped the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival would take place at a rescheduled date this year.
But today, the Greater Reston Arts Center announced that the festival will be canceled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic this year. Organizers hope that the next festival will take place on its typical weekend — the third weekend in May. This year’s festival was rescheduled to September 11-13.
“This was a hard decision, knowing how deeply this impacts our artists (who we know value this opportunity, especially now), our audience (who may have appreciated the sense of normalcy the festival could provide), and ourselves (as a small arts non-profit with the festival accounting for over a third of our annual net income),” said Jaynelle Hazard, GRACE’s Executive Director and Curator.
GRACE noted that implementing phase three requirements — including 10 feet of distancing, a 1,000-person cap, and one-way flow of pedestrian traffic — seemed “impossible challenging for an open-air street festival of our magnitude.”
“Volunteer numbers are likely to decline (and our volunteers are essential to a well-run festival in the best of times), and artists who remained committed to the event had dropped in recent weeks. We carefully surveyed all options and held on as long as we could; however, we have reached the point where we cannot, confidently, safely or practically proceed. The safety of everyone involved is our top priority,” wrote Erica Harrison, Associate Curator and Festival Director.
Gov. Ralph Northam is expected to make an announcement on the status of phase three in Virginia during a press conference tomorrow.
Photo by Charlotte Geary
Due to health concerns posed by COVID-19, the Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta will return sometime next year.
But Restonians can take part in a different cardboard-related challenge. The Reston Historic Trust and Museum is hosting an at-home cardboard challenge.
Residents can submit cardboard fabrications of their favorite Reston place, landmark or boat. Entries must be entirely made of cardboard and duct tape. Submissions are due by August 31.
Entrants can submit images or videos of their cardboard creation to [email protected] or via Twitter, Facebook or Instagram by tagging the museum.
Those interested can also register online to have their creation exhibited inside the Reston Museum in October and receive a trophy from NovaLabs.
Registration is not required to participate, but only registered participants will be eligible for the exhibit and award. Awardees will be notified in September 2020.
The first-place winner for the following categories will be selected for the exhibit:
- Building
- Art
- Nature
- Most Reston
- Boat for your favorite lake
Guidelines for the competition are below the jump.
Photo via Charlotte Geary Photography
With the COVID-19 pandemic restricting many recreational activities, Frying Pan farm Park is turning to a new kind of tour.
The park, which is located at 2739 West Ox Road, is offering a driving tour of the farm. Residents will get the chance to see animals “up close and personal,” according to the farm. An audio tour will also be offered.
Here’s more from the park on the tour:
Here is your chance to cruise the park like the farmer! Load the family up in the old pickup truck (or minivan!) and come to enjoy Frying Pan Farm Park like never before as you tour the park from the comfort of your car. Enjoy a custom audio tour on your smart phone while driving the park and learn about history, farming, and other parts of Frying Pan Farm that you may not have known about! Price $25 per car.
The cost of $25 per vehicle. Registration is open online for four sessions on Saturday, June 20.
Photo via Yvonne Johnson
Editor’s note: This event has been postponed to Sunday due to possible rain.
Local Restonians are planning a “demonstration of solidarity” in Reston tomorrow (Friday) following the killing of George Floyd. Protests have spread to more than 400 localities in the United States as demonstrators seek justice for Floyd and speak out against police brutality.
Floyd, a black man, was killed while he was in police custody on May 25. Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was arrested days after a video circulated of him holding his knee to Floyd’s neck for more than eight minutes before he died.
The demonstration is organized by Reston Strong, a volunteer-run advocacy group based in Reston.
Organizer Sarah Selvaraj-Dsouza — who spoke in her personal capacity and not as a Reston Association board member — said the event is organized in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
“This demonstration is an opportunity for the community to come together to stand up to racism and commit to advocating for racial justice. We are also hopeful that efforts like this one will encourage all Reston residents, especially the most privileged among us, to consider how they can use their resources to affect meaningful change,” she said.
Demonstrators plan to meet at Reston Parkway near the Dulles Toll Road overpass at 7 p.m. Masks are required during what organizers say will be a “socially-distanced and peaceful demonstration.” Although no speeches are planned, participants will hold candles, flashlights, or phone lights to illuminate their path.
Residents can also take part by posting a photo with the hashtag #restonstrongforgeorge or by turning off lights at 9:25 p.m. for a one-minute blackout.
Selvaraj-Dsouza said Friday’s demonstration marks the beginning of other community engagement efforts.
“All across our nation, people are coming out to show solidarity and support for the Black Community. Reston, VA is full of citizens who practice compassion, love, empathy for all. And now, we stand up together to say, #BlackLivesMatters. We are telling our friends, our neighbors, our loved ones – they matter, they are important, and they are precious to us.”
In an unrelated car rally by the Fairfax County NAACP yesterday (Thursday) , residents and local elected officials gathered to voice support for the black community and their struggle for justice.
“Justice will not be reached if a community does not stand together,” said Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay.
Hundreds gathered tonight at the NAACP Car Rally at the Gov’t Center including members of my family, staff, Board of Supervisors and Police Dept. Uplifting to see so many of our community come out to show support. A lot more work to be done. #HunterMill pic.twitter.com/JaBR9YPbr7
— Supervisor Walter Alcorn (@WalterAlcornFFX) June 4, 2020
Photo via Unsplash
Proud to be with the Fairfax County NAACP and County residents tonight to listen and learn about the centuries of struggles African Americans have faced and the anger and sadness you are feeling. Justice will not be reached if a community doesn’t stand together pic.twitter.com/A5pUUWrLIp
— Jeff McKay (@JeffreyCMcKay) June 4, 2020
This year’s Reston Youth Triathlon, an annual event organized by the CORE Foundation, will proceed for its 10th anniversary, but with a twist.
Due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, the nonprofit organization will host a virtual duathlon where races will complete a run-bike-run course. Parents will determine where their children will complete the race using distance requirements set up by the organization.
Racers will select the day and time they wish to complete the race between May 10 and May 17. All times will be reported to the Facebook event page.
All registered racers will receive a race shirt, medal, and a tenth-anniversary commemorative headband, which will be distributed at a date. Registration is open online. The virtual duathlon also includes two new categories: an age bracket for 16-to-19-year-olds and a family team relay that’s open for all ages.
A breakdown of course requirements is below:
The Be AMYazing Reston Youth Triathlon was founded by youth and is coordinated by Amy’s Amigos, a group of 12-year-olds who offered support for their friend, Amy Boyle, as she battled brain cancer. The group, which was founded in 2008, held the first Reston triathlon for children in May 2011 following Boyle’s passing.
To date, the event has raised $125,000 for Childhood Brain Tumor Foundation.
Photo by Paul Thomas
Spring Flea Market Set for March 7 — The flea market takes place at Reston Community Center Hunters Woods at 9 a.m. to noon. The event is free and open to all. [Reston Community Center]
County Minority-owned Business Employ 80,000 — “According to the last Economic Census, African-Americans own nearly 9,000 companies in Fairfax County. In addition, the county is home to 25,000 Asian-owned businesses, 14,000 Hispanic-Latino businesses, 42,000 woman-owned companies and 12,000 veteran-owned firms in the county. Together these firms employ 80,000 people in the county and have total annual revenue of $14.4 billion.” [Fairfax County Economic Development Authority]
Nearby: Concerns Over Pet Shop Owner — “A Virginia man who is charged with animal cruelty told WTOP that he is innocent, and plans to move forward opening a pet shop in Fairfax County. But there is already a similarly named business in Northern Virginia, and a trademark question led to greater concerns.” [WTOP]
What You Need to Know for Super Tuesday — “There are 14 candidates on the ballot. While a number of Democratic Party presidential candidates have suspended their campaigns, these candidates will remain on the ballot unless they officially withdraw from the race with the state. The names of any candidates who withdraw will be posted at the polls. [Fairfax County Government]
Photo via vantagehill/Flickr
Reston Community Players is exploring new ways to get youth in the community to experience live theatre.
The nonprofit organization, which has been producing theatrical productions since 1966, launched a new initiative that allows area students to receive discounted tickets for its productions.
The program, Access to the Arts, allocates blocks of discounted tickets for select shows.
Jolene Vettese, RCP’s president, said many of the organization’s productions contain themes and messages that are relevant to today’s youth.
“We believe strongly that young people should have wider and more affordable access to performing arts events in their communities,” Vettese said.
Discounts are available for schools and community groups online. Individuals cannot purchase discounted tickets.
Photo via Reston Community Players
High Honors for Lakeport Cluster Association — “The Lakeport Cluster Association was named “Community Association of the Year” by the Washington Metropolitan Chapter of the Community Associations Institute. An article will be included in the March edition of the chapter’s magazine.” [Reston Association]
A Recap of the Audubon Photographer Award Winners Exhibition — “There’s still time to visit the traveling 2019 Audubon Photography Award Winners Exhibition presented in association with Nature’s Best Photography. Running through Feb. 26, the photos covering a range of species and geographic locations can be viewed for free at Walker Nature Center, 11450 Glade Drive in Reston.” [The Connection]
Virginia Program for Veterans Certifies 1,000th Employer — “Shortly after Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell started a program in 2012 to provide jobs to Virginia veterans, it aided roughly 5,000 veterans. Since then that number has jumped to nearly 60,000. Tuesday morning, current Virginia Governor Ralph Northam announced the 1,000th employer to earn certification in the Virginia Values Veterans program–the Reston-based technology solutions provider Carahsoft.” [WJLA]
Photo via vantagehill/Flickr
Reston Community Players will continue their 53rd season with “The Diary of Anne Frank,” which is based on the harrowing story of eight people hiding from Nazis in a concealed attic.
The show will run from Feb. 28 through March 14 at Reston Community Center’s CenterStage (2310 Colts Neck Road).
“The Diary of Anne Frank holds themes of family, fear, and love – all seen through the eyes of a young girl,” said Jolene Vettese, President of Reston Community Players. “They are themes that resonate particularly in today’s world and ones we believe are very important for today’s audiences.”
The performance is based on the book, “Anne Frank: the Diary of a Young Girl.” It tells the story of Anne, 13, and seven others Jews who hide in an attic as the Nazis deport the Jews of Holland to their death. The book captures the diary entries of the young girl.
Here’s more from RCP about the upcoming show:
Leading the cast of The Diary of Anne Frank are Sophia Manicone in the title role and Michael Kharfen as her father, Otto Frank. They are joined by Laura Russell (Edith Frank), Madison Chase (Margot), Michael Sherman (Mr. Van Daan), Lorraine Magee (Mrs. Van Daan), Logan Matthew Baker (Peter), Steven Palkovitz (Mr. Dussel), Earle Greene (Mr. Kraler), Jessi Shull (Miep), Francis Kosciesza (Dutch Nazi), Kevin Carrington (Dutch Collaborator) and Ian Brown (Gestapo).
Anne Frank is directed by notable regional director Gloria DuGan. The production team includes Diane P. Mullins (Producer), Jessica Carrington (Stage Manager), Kevin Carrington (Assistant Stage Manager), Maggie Modig (Set Designer, Lead Set Painter), Tom Geutig (Master Carpenter, Sandy Dotson (Set Decoration), Franklin Coleman (Lighting Designer), Sara Birkhead (Lead Electrician) and Stan Harris (Sound Designer).
The curtain time is 8 p.m. for all shows except a 2 p.m. matinee on March 8. Tickets can be purchased online and by calling the box office at 703-476-4500, extension 3.
RCP is a nonprofit organization that has been producing theatrical productions since 1966.
Local photographer Charlotte Geary will discuss why Reston is “uniquely captivating” at an event hosted by the Reston Historic Trust and Museum and Reston Community Center next week.
Geary, who moved to Reston nine years ago, will present a slideshow and discussion of Reston’s photographs on Wednesday, Feb. 12 at Reston Community Center Lake Anne (1609 Washington Plaza-N).
Here’s more about the event from the organizers:
Ever since moving to Reston nine years ago, Charlotte has felt impelled to photograph the lifestyle and scenery of this community. What makes Reston particularly appealing to a photographer? Charlotte will discuss the influence of Reston’s unique aesthetics, opportunities, and people.
In addition to her own contemporary images, Charlotte will present historic photos from the Reston Museum’s collection, to demonstrate consistent themes in photos of Reston over the years. She will also offer tips for taking great photos of places and people, with suggestions for photographers of any skill level.
Geary and her family live at Lake Anne Plaza. As a commercial photographer, she specializes in lifestyle marketing, portraits and events and often photographs events in Reston.
The event is free and open to all.
Photo by Charlotte Geary
Hunter Mill District Supervisor Walter Alcorn will kick off his first town hall next week in Reston.
Alcorn, who pledged to host several community engagement meetings in this term, plans to discuss his priorities for the district at the Feb. 3 meeting. It is set to take place from 7-9 p.m. at Reston Community Center Lake Anne’s Jo Ann Rose Galley (1609-A Washington Plaza-N).
His presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer session with attendees. Residents are encouraged to RSVP by emailing [email protected] with the subject “Feb. 3 town hall.”
The next town hall is planned for Feb. 24. A time and location has not been announced yet.
In his first board matter earlier this month, Alcorn moved to kickstart a 12-to-18 month period to review Reston’s Comprehensive Plan.
Staff photo by Ashley Hopko
Reston Community Center is contemplating its future as the center celebrates its 40th anniversary.
A special community event, “RCC’s Past and Future,” is set for Monday, Feb. 10 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at RCC Hunters Woods (2310 Colts Neck Road).
RCC is set to present the results of its community survey, as well as lead a discussion on its planning pillars of facilities, community, building, programs and communications.
Here’s more from RCC on the event:
RCC convenes the Community Relations and Program/Policy committees jointly each February to hear from its stakeholders and partners. This year will be a special gathering not just for the anniversary celebration, but so RCC’s Board of Governors and staff members can gather feedback as the agency looks toward 2021, when the next five-year strategic plan will be written and adopted.
“We conclude our present five-year strategic plan in 2021,” said Beverly Cosham, RCC Board of Governors Chair. “Our approach typically overlaps the final year of one strategic plan with the engagement process to find out what is on our community’s minds that will shape the next one. This year, we look back to acknowledge the tremendous impact of Reston creating its community center in the image of the community and what that meant for the past 40 years.”
RCC will be seeking input on the key topic areas of community interest. “We know that people want to discuss a possible performing arts venue; development of an online community calendar; partner challenges and other specific issues,” said Leila Gordon, RCC Executive Director. “This event is an opportunity to share views on those topics.”
Childcare for children ages 6 to 12 will be offered at the event. Translation support for Chinese, Arabic, Spanish and Russian will also be available.
Registration is requested before the event online.
The Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce relocated to new offices earlier this month.
Chamber officials celebrated the move from Suite 150 to Suite 230 at 1886 Metro Center Drive at a ribbon-cutting event on Friday, Jan. 10. The organization is responsible for managing business growth and development in the Dulles Corridor.
Late last year, the chamber named Charles Kapur, a banking professional, as president and Chief Executive Officer.
Thank you to everyone who attended our Ribbon Cutting today! Very excited to be in the new offices. Big accomplishment for a great team! Open House until 1pm today – stop by and say hello. pic.twitter.com/Fz9GNrByCH
— RestonChamber (@RestonChamber) January 10, 2020
