The two candidates on the ballot seeking election to fill an unexpired term on the Falls Church City Council held their first public forum together last Thursday, a well-attended Q-and-A event held at the F.C. Community Center.
Laura Downs and John Murphy sparred in the well-coordinated and civil undertaking co-hosted by the Falls Church chapter of the League of Women Voters (LWV) and the Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPSI). The candidates were tasked with responding to questions which seemed to many to consistently harbor dissatisfaction with the current direction of the Little City.
Murphy, a former chair of the F.C. Board of Zoning Appeals, is a board member of the co-hosting VPIS group, while Downs served four years on the Falls Church City Public Schools’ elected board. Downs led the School Board during a critical
WHO TO VOTE FOR?
It won’t happen until next spring, but the esteemed D.C.based Urban Land Institute. will be bringing a cache of experts they call a “Technical Assistance Panel” back to the City of Falls Church for the third time in recent years, and it augurs more good things for the Little City.
Twice before ULI “Technical Assistance Panels” have set up shop in Falls Church to take deep dives into the potentials for the economic development of key commercially-zoned areas here, once for the far west end, and a second time for the far east end (which awaits progress on redevelopment plans from Fairfax County on its intentions at the Seven Corners intersection).
This time, the ULI has agreed to come over to apply their considerable expertise to the area of the City known as the “Gordons Road Triangle” that encompasses 2.5 acres of City-owned land now used as a property yard and including the building that the City’s winter emergency homeless shelter occupies, as well as, potentially at least, about four
acres that has been assembled by the Beyer family. It could represent the most lucrative potential of all because of its proximity to the West Falls Church Metro station and the current dense development that constitutes the Hoffman group’s 10-acre West End complex going up catty-corner to
News-Press Photo)
Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press
by Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press
NEWS BRIEFS
Fairfax Co. Commits Another $28 Million for Pedestrians
According to Fairfax County Board Chair Jeffrey McCay, insofar as October is Pedestrian Safety Month in Fairfax County, pedestrian safety “is always important and now is an opportunity for us to share pedestrian safety best practices, spread awareness, and update the community on what we’re doing as a County to help improve our pedestrian safety infrastructure.
“At its last Board of Supervisors meeting, the Fairfax board voted on an additional $28 million to go toward bike and pedestrian safety measures. That’s not the only money we’ve put into bike and pedestrian projects this year. The $28 million that was approved by the Board is part of the county’s carryover budget and is in addition to the baseline that’s already in the county budget. In 2022, the Board set a goal to invest $100 million in pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure by FY 2027. With this additional $28 million, we have now funded more than 80 percent of our original goal.”
McCay added, “We will continue to invest in our pedestrian safety infrastructure. But what we invest is only the half of it. Keeping our roads safe is a total community effort. If you’re driving, slow down. If you’re on your phone, put it down and pay attention. If you’re a pedestrian, know what the pedestrian laws are. Use crosswalks. If you’re out at night, make sure you’re wearing bright clothing, so people can see you.”
Kaine Debates GOP Rival in Norfolk
Virginia’s incumbent U.S. Senator Tim Kaine was slated to debate his GOPnominated rival Hung Cao in Norfolk last night (Wednesday).
Cao has been endorsed by Donald Trump and has the backing of Ted Cruz and Newt Gingrich and Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin constantly fundraises and campaigns for him.
Kaine said going into the debate, “My opponent and I are pretty different. He’s got an A rating from the NRA, I’ve got an F. I’ve got a 100 percent on the Planned Parenthood Action Fund Congressional Scorecard, he was previously endorsed by the National Right to Life Committee. He wants to release and compensate convicted insurrectionists. I think the January 6th attack on our Capitol was a horrific and
unAmerican stain on our history.
“But another difference is how we view Virginians. He supports a plan to forcibly relocate federal employees out of Northern Virginia, labeled all NATO employees “lazy,” and even compared women and doctors making hard reproductive decisions to Nazis. I respect Virginians, love traveling all over the Commonwealth to work with them, and believe in results, not insults.”
According to Falls Church Arts, annual painting of agreeable retailers in downtown Falls Church will commence this weekend and going through next weekend, October 5, 6, 13 and 14.
Individuals, families, besties, Scout Troops, and other groups of all ages are welcome to paint. Painters elementary school age or younger must be accompanied by at least one adult at all times while painting and cleaning up.
Before coming to paint, families are urged to sketch out what they plan to paint on the window. To help organizers find a great window for a prospective design, sketch submission along with registration should be emailed to FCArtsHalloween@gmail.com.
Paint colors provided are: black, white, red, orange, yellow, green, and blue. They can be mixed to make additional colors.
The event commences at 10 a.m. and goes to noon on each selected painting day. Paint and information will be available at the Festival table in Mr. Brown’s Pocket Park, 100 block of W Broad Street in Falls Church City. Volunteers will distribute paint and glue (painters must bring their own empty containers to carry paint) and assign participating storefront windows.
Participants are urged to bring paint brushes and sponges, plastic cups or small plastic containers to carry paint (containers with tops are recommended), a bucket of water and rags to clean paint brushes, newspapers (old issues of the Falls Church News-Press are allowed) or a drop cloth to protect the sidewalk, a stepladder to comfortably paint higher on the window, paper towels and some window cleaner for touch-up.
When done, participants are urged to clean up their painting area (window frames, sidewalks, etc.), and to take all trash with them.
Organizers are urging participants to email some photos to include in a website gallery, to submit to the News-Press and to post pictures on social media, tagging @FallsChurchArts. #LiveLocalFC and the name of the business whose window was painted.
Downs Cites Her School Board & Murphy His BZA Role
time when construction of the new Meridian High School had to be coordinated with approvals for the development of the adjacent 10-acre Hoffman Group-led West Falls project that not only paid for the $122 million new state of the art school but also permitted a 14 cent tax reduction for City real estate homeowners. The NewsPress has endorsed Downs.
A second and perhaps final opportunity at a face-to-face encounter of Downs and Murphy before the Nov. 5 final day of voting (when candidates for the U.S. presidency and other federal positions will also be on the ballot) comes on Tuesday, Oct. 15, at the monthly luncheon of the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce at the Italian Cafe. At that encounter, prominent Falls Church attorney Andrew Painter, chair of the Chamber’s Legislative Committee, is scheduled to moderate.
So far, as of this writing, Falls Church’s Voter Registrar David Bjerke has reported that
1,107, almost 10 percent of registered voters here had as of Tuesday this week already cast their ballots either by showing up at the Registrar’s office in City Hall or by mailing in their ballots.
Those in the know on some of the more contentious issues that activists will focus on at the polls were not off-put by similar sounding responses from the candidates, in particular on the issue of development, whether there has been too much, not enough or just about right.
Murphy said in response to one question that he is not in favor of “unbridled development,” but instead is for “socially sustainable” growth which is “some good, not all,” and that needs to answer the question, “Does it meet the needs of the citizens and lead to a cleaner environment.”
Downs said that she doesn’t anticipate major new development in the coming period, noting that the Covid epidemic delayed earlier projects such as Broad and Washington, Founders Row 1 and 2, so that
they seemed to come online much more rapidly recently.
“It’s time now to take a breath” before approving any new such projects, she suggested, though she noted the 14 cent tax reduction to city residents the earlier projects have afforded, and that the projects are still not the main driver of enrollment increases in the City schools.
The main driver, she noted, is the redevelopment of single family residences, the many cases around town of teardowns being replaced by much larger homes.
She also noted that meals taxes are way up in the City as the result of high quality new restaurants that have come in on the ground floor of new mixed use developments. The imminent opening of a new very large Whole Foods store downtown also signals that sales taxes should ramp up very significantly soon.
Problems associated with storm water and sewer issues, she noted, are also primarily associated with older single family homes, while hook-
up fees and VDOT grants are enabling the problems to be handled.
On the issue of accessory dwellings, as the Council here has begun cautiously to move in the direction of allowing more flexibility in their construction on existing single family home properties, Murphy said that there is not a “one size fits all” answer, while Downs said that a new policy “could add to the housing stock” though a lot of issues still need to be addressed, such as parking, setbacks and tree canopy requirements.
On the recent extensive debates over the Council’s adoption of new transitional zone (T-zone) changes to permit more residential options there, Murphy said that “we haven’t gotten what we were promised,” but that the issue is now “water under the bridge.” Downs said there were communication problems around that issue, that affordable housing was not promised, just more options and what looks like will be the first new townhouses built in 20 years here.
The issues of expanded tree canopies, walkability and bikeability issues are paramount, Downs said. Murphy said that “the city has done a good job” on alternatives, such as the application of geothermal sources for the high school and community center. He said that in addition to a bike master plan, there also needs to be a pedestrian plan, citing the issue of utility poles in sidewalks.
The fact that too many sidewalks in the city “are not accessible” presents a challenge, Downs said.
On affordable housing, Downs hailed progress that has increased the minimum of affordable units in new residential buildings to be increased from six to 12 percent, and that “sunset provisions” have been eliminated, meaning the units will remain affordable in perpetuity. Through this, 99 new units have been added to the City’s affordable housing inventory, and that more flexible and diverse options are still needed
D.C.-Based Urban Land Group Helped F.C. 2 Other Times
the Gordons Road Triangle at the intersection of W. Broad and Shreve Road/Haycock Road, where now a modest Lazy Mike’s eatery sits.
Marc Gazda, ULI Washington manager, wrote this in the ULI acceptance of the request by Falls Church’s Economic Development Authority this summer: “The parts of this application that spoke to us were, among others, this project’s continuity with past studies, the opportunity to propose a model of public-private coordination and partnership, the ability to examine the City’s property yard as the near-term challenge juxtaposed with the longer-term challenge of the Triangle, and the clear next steps of taking recommendations to revise (the City’s) small area plan and comprehensive plan.”
On its website, the ULI anticipates the study by positing the following, “What Transportation and urban design elements are necessary to integrate this area with the nearby W&OD Trail and make it a walkable, attractive area accessible to downtown
Falls Church? What strategies exist for combining the Property Yard site with adjacent private properties (such as the Beyer Properties) in a mutually beneficial joint development project that retains the Property Yard? What are the highest and best uses of these parcels over the next decade and longer term? What are the regional implications for investing in the Gordon Road Triangle? What is the potential for joint development of the City of Falls Church Property Yard with adjacent private properties, i.e.. Melissa Chow, Darnell Grisby, Tammy Shoham, Eric Soter, Benjamin Stoll. (Elements to include) City Staff Presentation, On-Site Meeting(s), Market Area Review, (and assessment of) Transportation Needs, Urban Design Opportunities, Land Plan Concept, Need/Desire to Retain City Public Works Functions, Multiple ownership posing consolidation challenges.”
It was when the ULI sent one of its teams to Falls Church in 2016, it undertook to evaluate the potential at the West End site, and an important result of the two
days of evaluations at the Hilton Garden Inn that October was to focus on the portion of the wider area where, it turns out, the West End project is now actually going up fast.
Responding to the deliberative effort, the News-Press editorialized at the time, “Their vision for the site was highminded, based on the ancient Greek city state idea of the agora, the combining of the institutions of education and commerce. But a lot of the expertise they brought was centered on process, what it will actually take to get the property developed to its highest and best use, and the most useful idea there was delivered at the outset: involve neighbors to the site, too, the Beyer Automotive, Federal Realty, Virginia Tech and University of Virginia people.”
So it may be surmised that the coming study will be aimed at filling out the potential identified in the first one by encompassing the Beyer property and perhaps the Federal Realty property that continues to be the home of the large Giant super-
It Was a Pop Fly, Not A Line-Drive Double
Nicholas F. Benton
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
On the final weekend of the regular major league baseball season, always one of the most nostalgic times of the year, a confession, sort of, is in order.
Baseball was the most important thing in my life in my college years, especially since I broke out in my second year to become our junior college team’s most valuable player. My last two years of college were paid for by a full baseball scholarship and I had one pro offer which I declined because in those days you could not play college if you ever signed a pro contract.
In my last college year, I believe it was, I was also working as a stringer at our local newspaper and among other things, I called in the results of our college games for the paper. One game on the road, I hit a windblown pop fly that handed behind the second baseman that went for a double and wound up driving in our winning run.
But when I called in the result to the newspaper’s sports desk, a friend took the call who subsequently, unknownst to me, wrote the story as if I had hit a powerful drive for that winning hit. I am sure he thought he was doing me a big favor. But I was horrified, knowing that my teammates would know how incorrect it was and would be blaming me for it. Sadly, since I was painfully introverted and lacked sufficient verbal communication skills to set the record straight with my teammates, nothing was said.
I went many years never thinking about that incident until I read the book by my teammate that year, Ron Shelton (yes, the same Ron Shelton who penned the screenplay for the movie “Bull Durham” and other sports-related films). Ron’s book, entitled “The Church of Baseball,” is a good read, subtitled “The Making of Bull Dur-
ham.” Since playing together in college and a summer or two of semi-pro ball in Santa Barbara, California, where we both grew up, I’ve never been in touch with Ron, who’s had a terrific writing career after making it as high as the AAA minor leagues in baseball.
On Page 232 of his book, he recalled an incident from his very early years and wrote about a young man we both knew, Jerry Georges, a talented player and a very lovely person who wound up being killed in Vietnam, one of two friends I knew that suffered that fate. Shelton wrote about pitching to Georges as an 11-year-old. “I remember pitching to Jerry Georges with a 2-0 lead and a 3-2 count with the bases loaded in the last inning of the Midget League Championship in Laguna Park. Jerry hit a lazy fly ball to the left fielder who dropped it. Three runs scored and we lost....I remember the next day the paper said that Jerry Georges doubled in three runs to win the game. It was a goddamn error, not a double. Who wrote that?...I remember ten years later Jerry, by then a U.S. Marine, stepped on a land mine in Quang Tri Province, Vietnam, and didn’t come home.”
Well, I can’t help but wonder if Shelton, and the other of my teammates, felt the same anger toward me thinking I was responsible for the mischaracterization in the paper of my windblown hit. So permit me to let this stand as my confession, my apology if I must own it, and I guess I do, for that misreporting, even though I never suggested it or wrote it. Sorry Ron, but much moreso, sorry for our shared loss of Jerry.
On another baseball note, last week I watched the emotional tributes surrounding the last-ever game at the old Oakland Coliseum, which was built in 1967 when I was in graduate seminary there. Of the over 5,000 Oakland Athletics major league baseball games that have been played there over 57 years, there was only one “perfect game.” It was pitched by the late “Catfish” Hunter in May 1968, and my good buddy Dennis and I were among the 8,000 or so fans there that night to witness it first hand.
A Penny for Your Thoughts
News of Greater Falls Church
By Penny Gross
Health care professionals say that, for every day spent in a hospital, it takes three days to recover from the experience. So, recovery from a ten-day hospital stay would take about a month under normal circumstances. Emergency abdominal surgery for appendicitis with complications is not normal circumstances, and recovery is taking longer than I had hoped. Focusing on my recovery is why you have not read my column for the past many weeks. I wanted to write, and there was so much to write about, but every keystroke was an effort, and my focus had to be on my regaining my health, something I had given little attention to since I have been blessed with good genes and usually powered through the challenges of getting older.
Health care in this country is a hot topic in the presidential campaigns, along with the cost of living, housing, and the economy in general. In Fairfax County and Northern Virginia, we are fortunate to have stateof-the-art health care facilities available 24/7. A friend recently broke her hip when she stepped off the pavement while on a stroll with her husband. She was taken to Prince William’s Sentara Hospital emergency room for treatment, and rapidly transferred to Inova Mount Vernon Hospital in the middle of the night so that her orthopedic surgeon could perform a
complete hip replacement in the morning. She was up and walking later that day and discharged to complete her recovery with physical therapy at home. Good insurance coverage and good communication between health care providers resulted in a positive outcome, and I am sure that her spouse was an excellent patient advocate as vital decisions were made.
Every patient needs an advocate — a family member or trusted friend who can assist with asking questions and understanding the responses. When my late husband was in and out of the hospital, I often was frustrated when staff indicated that they had discussed treatment with my husband, outside of my presence. I had to make it very clear that patients, especially elderly ones, often do not understand what is being told to them. They’re sick, in the hospital, and dealing with non-familiar surroundings and non-familiar staff. Connecting with a charge nurse or hospitalist takes extra effort, but that connection can create greater understanding and better expectations and outcomes for the patient and their loved ones.
The Inova Health System is one of the largest employers in the region, with an incredibly diverse health care staff, from surgeons and nurses to the people who distribute food trays and transport patients for CT scans. I met nurses and
City of Falls Church CRIME REPORT
Week of September 23 — 29, 2024
Identity Theft, E Fairfax St, Sept 23, 12:39 PM, victim reported an unknown suspect used their identity to open a checking account.
Harassing Phone Calls, W Broad St, Sept 23, 6:17 PM, victim reported receiving harassing phone calls from a known suspect.
Threats, W Broad St, Sept 23, 7:02 PM, victim reported receiving harassing phone calls and emails containing threats from a known suspect. On Sept 24, a female, 53, of the
City of Falls Church, was arrested for Threatening Language over Public Airways, and Threaten Bodily Injury or Death by Letter.
Shoplifting, W Broad St, Sept 24, 9:42 AM, an unknown suspect stole merchandise without paying. The suspect is described as a black male between 45-50 years of age, approximately 5’7” in height, with a goatee, wearing a black and teal windbreaker jacket, red jogger pants, and white shoes.
technicians from India, Ghana, and Vietnam, some who just graduated, and others who have been nursing for two decades or more. The delightful young man who provided transport for a CT scan grew up here after coming from Central America as a toddler and applied for the hospital job because he “wanted to help people.” They are the faces and stories of many immigrants in our community, focused on the education and hard work that provide a path to career success, no matter your origin or circumstances.
George Mason University and Northern Virginia Community College are collaborating to expand the opportunities for training nurses and health care personnel, but challenges remain. Health care professionals who trained in another country may face lengthy bureaucratic red tape to be licensed in this country. I am reminded of the Columbian radiologist who could only find work as a day laborer; the Central American geriatric nurse who now works in a laundromat; the young Afghani woman, only months away from earning her ophthalmology degree, who fled war with her family, and now will have to start her education all over again, at least a five year course; the French nurse who applied for an American license but faces a brick wall over English language fluency. They have health care in their hearts, and skills to match, but they need extra assistance to continue their career path in the United States. Such investment, at the public or private level, could pay dividends for the entire community, now and in the future.
Wire Fraud, Forest Dr, Sept 24, 9:45 AM, victim reported a fraudulent check was used to withdraw funds from their account. Investigation is ongoing.
Reckless Driving, S West St, Sept 24, 2:43 PM, a white female, 60, of Fairfax County, was arrested for Reckless Driving.
Threats, W Broad St, Sept 24, 4:47 PM, victim reported receiving harassing phone calls containing threats from a known suspect. On Sept 24, a female, 53, of the City of Falls Church, was arrested for Threatening Language over Public Airways.
Larceny from Motor Vehicle, Pennsylvania Ave, between 8:00 PM on Sept 25 and 8:00 AM on Sept 26, an unknown suspect stole multiple pairs of sunglasses from the victim’s unlocked vehicle.
Continued on Page 18
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Vol. XXXIV, No. 34
October 3 - 9, 2024
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‘Sanewashing’ at The V-P Debate
Tuesday night’s vice presidential debate pitting Trump’s JD Vance against the Democratic V-P nominee Tim Walz was important for the revelations that were and were not identified by the major media. It came in the context of a growing appreciation for “sanewashing,” the new buzzword describing what too much of the major media do for Trump – that is, to take his wildly dissociative ramblings and lies and turn them into relatively coherent policy statements. The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Rob Tornoe, writing for the Editor and Publisher magazine, described it in detail in an article this week.
Among others, Tornoe cited Parker Malloy of the New Republic : “By continually reframing Trump’s incoherent and often dangerous rhetoric as conventional political discourse, major news outlets are failing in their duty to inform the public and are instead providing cover for increasingly erratic behavior from a former — and potentially future — president.”
The level of lying and dissembling that has been the main feature of the Trump-Vance presidential campaign has so infected many in the media that it is now being dismissed as “going without saying,” as the Financial Times’ Edward Luce put it yesterday. Namely, when Vance completely ducked Walz’ question about whether or not he (Vance) believed the outcome of the 2020 election, Vance’s blatant and egregious refusal to answer was treated as just another debate point by the media, rather than as a definitively disqualifying evasion from a person who could become president. When Jim Acosta of CNN did a more persistent job of pressing Trump stooge Corey Lewandowski on the same question Wednesday morning, the answers were no less completely evasive.
So, in addition to Vance’s mendacity on that question, it was Vance’s squealing protest that the CBS debate moderators “broke the rules” by introducing facts into the conversation that should have marked a huge inflection point in the debate. “How dare you expose me as a liar!” was the jist of what Vance’s objection amounted to. He clearly thought that the “rules” of the debate should have allowed him to lie with abandon if he wanted to, the way he did, in fact, on the issues of abortion, child care and, yes, immigration policy. The New York Times’ Michael Grynbaum irresponsibly chalked it up to “confusion.”
But the Times’ Matthew Seligman noted why Vance’s lying matters so much for this election, writing, “Vance has admitted that he would have asserted an extra-constitutional power to abet Trump’s plot to remain in power…Even more chilling, Mr. Vance’s pledge about what he would have done in Mr. Pence’s place on Jan. 6, 2021, is a promise about what Mr. Vance will do on Jan. 6, 2029, should he preside over the electoral count as vice president. He is telling us more than four years in advance that if he is a candidate to be president himself, he would be willing to defy the courts and Congress to seize power regardless of the lawful outcome of the 2028 election.”
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Letters to Editor
Parking at The Farmers Market
Editor,
Thank you Jean Schager for noticing the lack of parking around the Farmer’s Market.
One would think that Saturdays there would be extra
parking around the Farmers Market.
Falls Church City for some reason, does not like parking areas. If someone is interested, count the number of “no parking” signs in the City, we might have more than other cities our size!
Barb Molino
Health Wellness Fitness
Coming October 17th Guide
Paris 1874 , Now On Display at the National Gallery of Art
by Mark Dreisonstok
“On April 15, 1874,” the National Gallery of Art’s press release informs us, “an exhibition by the ‘Anonymous Society of Painters, Sculptors, and Engravers, etc.’ opened at the Parisian studio of the photographer Nadar on the Boulevard des Capucines. […] The first exhibition of these Société Anonyme artists included works by Claude Monet, Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, [and others], later known as Impressionists. This now-legendary event is often considered the birth of Modernist painting and remains a key moment in the history of Western art.” The exhibition catalogue states that now “to mark the 150th anniversary of the Société Anonyme exhibition, the Musee d’Orsay and the National Gallery of Art in Washington are revisiting this Impressionist moment” in this new, or rather reconstructed, exhibition.
Auguste Renoir’s oil paint-
ing “The Theatre Box” (1874) depicts a woman in a theatre box wearing opera gloves seated next to a well-dressed gentleman holding opera glasses. The woman appears distraught yet filled by the wonder of the theatrical piece. We find ourselves in a similar position of awe as we view this exhibition almost as theatre gazers, looking at a wonderful period of art straddling 1874 as well as the lives, costumes, and behavior of people long gone but who continue to “perform” before us on the “stage” of art.
Several of these works, indeed, involve the stage. Edgar Degas’ “The Ballet Rehearsal” (1874) displays a stage filled with ballerinas rehearsing for their stage performance. The ballet dancers are wearing colorless tutus, and a man sits in contrast on a chair dressed in all black critiquing their technique and warmups. Degas uses monochromatic colors for this scene, and the whole looks almost as if it is an underpainting which is the
artist’s “rehearsal” for preparing the artwork before adding color. We move from ballet dancers to the street performers outside in a fascinating 1874 work entitled “The Street Performers” by Gustave Doré. Doré is usually associated more with Romanticism, not Impressionism, but here we find him offering a somewhat disturbing, gritty glimpse into a more somber side of society. The painter himself, like those depicted in the painting, had a career as an acrobat and won acclaim in this field that seems so far removed from the gentle art of painting. Doré thus paints from a uniquely personal perspective the tragic scene of a couple surrounded by tarot cards pointing ominously towards their dead child. The father sits blankfaced in the upper middle right, with skin almost as pale and lifeless as his dead son. To his left sits the mother, holding her dead son, who is bloodied after a fatal fall. Perhaps most interesting of the occupants of the bench
is the owl, whose eyes are black and beady; its disinterested gaze suggests a possible vanity in the choices of the parents, or is it a desire of protectiveness forced nonetheless by circumstances to have their child perform in a dangerous profession?
In “Paris: 1874,” not just stage artists, theatre audience members, and street performers are on display, but also the art of painting itself takes center stage. Camille CabaillotLassalle’s “The Salon of 1874” is an oil painting depicting the intelligentsia gazing into the golden-framed artworks in a gallery but taking in the art in different ways. The two ladies look engaged in an active discussion pertaining to the salon’s exhibition, gesticulating with hands. The little girl in blue is holding a book as well and looking up to the tall woman standing, as if what the girl has read has not been informative enough and she is eager to acquire new knowledge and fresh interpretations.
There is a quiet art observer off to the left reading her notes after viewing the gallery, two women to the far right with their backs turned towards us who seem wrapped up in their own world, and a presumed artist who is in awe. He is looking back into scenes of the past, for the top half of the image contains a variety of painting scenes far more traditional than 1874 Impressionism and include a horse pulling a carriage through the darkly-lit forest and a traditional windmill.
We conclude this brief look at some of the 125 artworks in this fascinating exhibition with the female subject of Jules Breton’s “The Cliff” (1874), her face turned away from us as she gazes out at the sea, presumably to other worlds and possibilities. Such an experience of new discoveries awaits the visitor of “Paris 1874: The Impressionist Moment,” an exhibition which runs through January 19, 2025, at National Gallery of Art of Washington, D.C.
Hurricane Helene
This past week, we have witnessed the devastation across the Southeast caused by Hurricane Helene. The hurricane’s impact was felt in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, the Carolinas, and right here in Virginia. Many communities, particularly in Southwest Virginia, have been severely affected, leaving homes destroyed, families displaced, and infrastructure in ruins.
In response, our state and federal partners have been working tirelessly to provide relief and support to those impacted. Emergency declarations were signed by President Biden for Virginia and other affected states, enabling immediate deployment of resources. FEMA has shipped over 1.9 million meals, more than 1 million liters of water, 30 generators, and over 95,000 tarps to the hardest-hit areas. Additionally, at least 50,000 personnel are on the ground working to restore power and provide assistance.
As of today, more than 3,500 personnel from across the federal workforce are actively engaged in Hurricane Helene response efforts across the impacted states, and recovery
Report
operations will continue in the days and weeks ahead.
In Virginia, I encourage you to support relief efforts in SWVA by donating to the SWVA United Way Relief Fund at salimva. com/SWVA. For a complete list of resources and ways to help, visit salimva.com/help.
Early Voting Has Begun!
On a brighter note, early voting for the upcoming election has begun and is going strong across the Commonwealth! Voter turnout is high, and we’re seeing great enthusiasm as Virginians cast their ballots early.
If you’re in Falls Church, learn more about where and how to vote by visiting salimva.com/ fcc. If you’re in Fairfax County, you can find detailed information at salimva.com/fcvote.
And here’s a pro tip for all voters: Voting early not only ensures your voice is heard, but it also removes your name from campaign lists, meaning you’ll get fewer calls, texts, mailers, and knocks on your door!
As always, thank you for staying engaged and informed. Together, we will continue to build a safer and stronger Virginia.
COMMENT
2 F.C. Special Council Election Candidates Hold First Debate
Continued from Page 3
to, for example, carry out plans for a major expansion of affordable housing at the Virginia Village site on S. Maple.
Murphy said the issue is a “tough” one and more study of options for long term affordable housing is needed, such as perhaps the formation of a housing authority to buy and operate homes.
On the scale of future development, Downs said she feels it is time now to “take a breath and look around” before jumping into something new. “We need to assess the impact on traffic and see if we can slow it down and make it responsible to the neighborhoods.”
The rapid development in the City “has not been real coherent,” Murphy said. He suggested something other than the current “special exception” process may work better going forward.
The cost of the new mixed use projects to the City was discussed in terms of their school age populations and the average cost of educating a child in the City. Downs noted that the development trend recently has been toward smaller apartment units, notwithstanding the case of Pearson Square, which was originally built to condos but
converted into larger rental units that predictably have more school aged children.
There was concern expressed for the use by City residents of their homes for “Air B and B” rentals, and both candidates agreed the issue should be looked at.
On the issue of green space, Downs said that more should have been required in the Founders Row 1 complex, but that it is good there are three new “parklets” being developed around town on the model of the “Mr. Brown’s Park” in the 100 block of W. Broad.
“We do need to hold developers accountable” through the voluntary concessions that they offer, Downs said.
On improving pedestrian access, she agreed that a Pedestrian Master Plan would be a good idea, noting that progress is already underway with new sidewalk bump outs at intersections, the Hawk pedestrian-command signal lights and the new brick inlays on Great Falls St. marking the crossing with the W&OD bike and pedestrian path. Also, speed cameras are soon going up on W. Broad near the St. James School, she noted.
Murphy noted that the tolls on I-66 have increased auto traffic in
Coming October 24th
the City as cut through efforts are presenting safety challenges. He said “draconian measures” may be needed to curb dangerous driving in neighborhoods.
On their overall experiences working with the City, the two candidates were both positive. Murphy said he “enjoyed working with City staff” while on the BZA, and Downs said her four years on the School Board, especially through the Covid crisis, “has been a great preparation” for serving on the City Council. “I learned a lot,” she said, touted the Schools’ achievement of a “fully open and fully vaxed” system. Both candidates spoke favorably about diversity, equality and inclusion efforts in the City.
Asked their favorite eating spots around town, Murphy cited Brown’s Hardware (but not for food), Anthony’s and Harvey’s. Downs identified Godfrey’s, Ellie Bird and Thompson’s Italian, hailing how “vibrant and exciting” the City is becoming. She then added Clare and Don’s and Northside Social to her list. Murphy closed saying he will “listen to all” and brings “no agenda.” Downs said that she is a hard worker, and will “dig in and do the work a good community relies on,” with “the guts to make decisions.”
Senator Saddam Salim’s Richmond
Like us on Facebook League of Women Voters of Falls Church
The League of Women Voters of Falls Church publishes this Voters’ Guide The League has a long tradition of publishing the verbatim responses of candidates to questions important to voters. Please visit my.lwv.org/virginia/falls-church for more information, and go to VOTE411.org to enter your address and compare candidates’ responses to the League’s questions. The League does not suppor t or oppose any candidate or political party
For more speci c voter information, contact the City of Falls Church Voter Registration and Elections O ce at (703) 2485085 (T TY 711) or email: vote@fallschurchva.gov regarding voter identi cation requirements, early in-person or absentee voting by mail, and sample ballots Online, go to www fallschurchva.gov/vote.
ELEC TION DAY VOTING: Registered voters who live in the City of Falls Church are eligible to vote at the appropriate polling place for their residences
Polling Places: Ward 1 votes at Oak Street Elementary School 601 S Oak Street. Both Ward 2 and Ward 3 vote at the Falls Church Community Center, 223 Little Falls Street.
IDENTIFICATION REQUIRED TO V OTE: Vi rginia law requires all in-person (early and E lec tion Day) vo t ers either to provide an a cceptable form of ID or to sign an ID Confirmation Statement at the p olls Voters arr iving at the polls without an a cceptable fo rm of ID will be required to either sign an ID Confirmation Statement or vote a p rovisional ballot. If a voter votes a provisional ballot, they will have u n til noon on the Fr iday following the elec tion—November 8 this year—to deliver a copy o f
identification to their localit y’s elec toral board or sign an
ID Confirmation Statement for their provisional ballot to be counted.
The following forms of identi cation may be used to vote (a full list of acceptable IDs is available at elec tions.virginia.gov/ VoterID):
• Voter con rmation documents
• Virginia driver ’s license or special identi cation card issued by the Depar tment of Motor Vehicles (current or expired)
• Student identi cation card issued by a public or private high school or institution of higher education located in Virginia (valid)
• Other US, Virginia state or local government-issued identication with photo (valid)
• US Militar y identi cation card (valid)
• Virginia Voter photo identi cation card issued by the Virginia Depar tment of Elections
• Tribal enrollment or other tribal ID from any of the 11 tribes recognized by Virginia (valid)
• Nursing home resident ID if issued by a government facility
• Current utility bill, bank statement, government check, or paycheck containing the name and address of the voter (within the past 12 months)
• Any other current government document containing the name and address of the voter
• Signed ID Con rmation Statement (available at polling place)
EARLY VOTING: In Virginia, all registered voters may vote
In addition to these local races, this year ’s ballot includes races for US President and Vice President, Candidates: Kamala D. Harris/Tim Walz (Dem), Donald J. Trump/JD Vance (Rep), Jill E. Stein/Rudolph T. Ware III (Green), Chase R. Oliver/Mike ter Maat (Lib), Claudia De la Cruz/ Karina Garcia (Ind), Cornel R. West/Melina Abdullah (Ind); US Senator from Virginia, Candidates: Timothy M. Kaine (Dem), Hung Cao (Rep); Member of US House of Representatives
early, either in-person or by mail from September 20 through November 2, 2024. No excuse is necessary.
ABSENTEE VOTING IN-PERSON (Early Voting) began September 20, 2024. You may vote in-person at the Voter Registration and Elections O ce, 300 Park Ave, Center Level, Suite 206, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm weekdays, and on Saturday, October 26 (9:00 am-5:00 pm), and Sunday, October 27 (12:00-3:00 pm). Early voting stays open late on Wednesday, October 30, until 7:00 pm. The last day to vote early in-person is on Saturday, November 2 (9:00 am-5:00 pm).
ABSENTEE VOTING BY MAIL requires the completion of a Virginia Absentee Ballot Application Form, available either online or by mail. Your request for an absentee ballot by mail must be received by the Voter Registration and Elections O ce by 5:00 pm Friday, October 25, 2024. You will be mailed the absentee ballot, which must be mailed back in time to reach the electoral board by noon on Monday, November 11. NOTE: Since July 1, 2023, witness signatures are not required to vote by mail; however, you must write in the last 4 digits of your Social Security Number and your year of bir th.
ACCESSIBLE VOTING: There are accessible voting options at each polling place and early voting location. Voters who are 65 or older or have a disability can vote from their vehicle at the polls on Election Day or at the Voter Registration and Elections O ce before Election Day.
ABOUT THIS GUIDE: Candidates in the local races detailed below are listed in the order they appear on the ballot as determined by the Virginia State Board of Elections and the City of Falls Church Electoral Board.
(8th District), Candidates: Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (Dem), Jerry W Torres (Rep), David Kennedy (Ind), Bentley F. Hensel (Ind). There is also a proposed Virginia constitutional amendment on the ballot: Should the Constitution of Virginia be amended so that the tax exemption that is currently available to the surviving spouses of soldiers killed in action is also available to the surviving spouses of soldiers who died in the line of duty?
FALLS CHURCH CITY COUNCIL
THE QUESTIONS:
1. What led you to run for this position, and, if elected, what are your top three PRIORITIES?
2. What initiatives would you support to ensure the City’s long-term FINANCIAL VIABILITY, given the growth Falls Church is experiencing?
3. Please elaborate on why you support, oppose, or have no
THE OFFICE, TERM, AND COMPENSATION: The City Council enac ts ordinances and resolutions, approves budgets, sets tax rates, and establishes polic y. The seven Council Members are elec ted at-large for four-year terms and are not a liated with any national political par ty Elec tions of City Council Members are typically held in November of odd-numbered years for three or four members Howeve r, there is a Special Elec tion this year on November 5, 2024, to ll a vacant seat for a remaining term through December 31, 2025. As of July 1, 2024, the annual compensation for Council Members is $11,000; the compensation for Mayor is $11,500.
The Fall 2024 Voters’ Guide was prepared, using monies from the LWV Education Fund, by:
League of Women Voters of Falls Church
P.O. Box 156
Falls Church, VA 22040
https://my.lwv.org/virginia/falls-church
position on this statement: With current and proposed construction of apartments, condos, and senior living units, Falls Church is doing our part to address REGIONAL HOUSING needs.
4. How would you BALANCE increased DENSITY with environmental and sustainable INFRASTRUCTURE needs (such as tree canopy, stormwater, pedestrian and biking safety, parking, schools, and public works and emergency services)?
5. As an elected official, what would you do to support and respond to CITIZEN INPUT?
CANDIDATES FOR FALLS CHURCH CITY COUNCIL (VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN ONE)
John B. Murphy (Ind)
BIOGRAPHY: US government economist, statistician, and representative to the United Nations on International Economic and Social Statistics. Falls Church Board of Zoning Appeals Chair Zoning Ordinance Advisory Committee Chair. More at murphy4fcc.com.
WEBSITE: Murphy4fcc.com
EMAIL: johnforfcc@gmail.com
TELEPHONE: (703) 532-8065
QUESTIONS: WHY RUNNING/PRIORITIES: My name is John Murphy and I live in Falls Church. My family and I are very lucky to live in a vibrant small community with incredible green space. If elected to City Council, my top three priorities are a pedestrian master plan with improved pedestrian access and safety continuing to grow Falls Church in a manner that is economically, environmentally and socially sustainable because good growth requires all three things, and continued excellence of our school system. Our schools are the crown jewels of Falls Church.
FINANCIAL VIABILITY: Various City estimates show the popu-
Laura T. Downs (Ind)
Biography: FCCPS School Board member 2020-2023 (Vice Chair in 2021, Chair in 2022 and 2023); FCC Elementary PTA President 2017-2018; President-Elect of MEH Middle School PTA; Board member of the Falls Church Education Foundation .votelauradowns.com lauratdowns4@gmail.com
Telephone: (703) 517-0257
QUESTIONS: WHY RUNNING/PRIORITIES: Due to the tight timeline to qualify for this election, I felt I owed it to the city to step up, as I have experience as a publicly elected offi cial. I can do this job on day one, especially since I know the school board budget and budget season for the city starts soon. I served as a School Board member from 2020-2023 (Vice Chair in 2021; Chair in 2022 and 2023). If elected, my top three priorities are: 1) Streets: improved bikeability, walkability, pedestrian safety, traffic calming and congestion, and increasing the tree canopy and number of pocket parks, 2) Services: adding staffing to understaffed city offices and streamlining processes to improve customer service for residents, 3) Stewardship: embracing and doubling down on what made us US News and World Report’s #1 Healthiest community in 2024: Walkability, Education,
lation growing between 21% and 35% by 2030. We need both a plan and active work to meet the infrastructure needs for that level of growth. While new mixed use developments are reported to provide over $4 million in net new revenue to the City that does not include the almost $40 million in sanitary sewer capacity costs that have recently been identifi ed. We have to be proactive across the board rather than responding when shortages or problems arise after approving new growth REGIONAL HOUSING: Support this statement. With about 2000 new units open or under construction over the past decade we are clearly lifting more than our weight on housing creation to address the regional shortage. The housing being created is for the most part very expensive. We’ve increased unit counts but have not met the needs of local business employees or teachers and other City employees who would love to live where they work if they could afford it. I believe that our community would prefer both economic opportunity and doing our fair share. Our tree canopy is below COG recommendations. When negotiating voluntary concessions for new projects, greater consideration of green space and canopy should be a priority. There is a balance that can be found to meet regional goals BALANCE DENSITY/INFRASTRUCTURE: Growing density while preserving the environment and green space is a challenge. Our community has to decide what we value and how to pay for it. Our storm water capacity is limited and development outside City boundaries is not within our control. We have to balance growth with investments in sanitary sewage capacity, storm water infrastructure, roads, schools, and all public services. All changes have to be consistent. We can’t make one decision that contradicts another. If the environment is a priority, we need to make it front and center during development negotiations CITIZEN INPUT: As an elected official, I will listen to issues from residents. I’ve already had residents reach out to me as a candidate with complaints about predatory towing, taxes being too high for seniors and those on fixed incomes, and even safety on our roadways. Sometimes you have to look in unexpected places for the cause. Can the issues of high taxes for seniors be addressed through better outreach about existing programs? Is road design or constant construction and lane blockage by delivery trucks causing aggressive and impatient drivers? Listen to the issue but take the time to see if there is a root cause. Listening is important but understanding what you hear and figuring out what can reasonably and fairly be done is more important.
Health, Local Economy, Food and Nutrition and Infrastructure
FINANCIAL VIABILITY: Our growth will ensure the City’s long-term financial health. Both voluntary financial concessions from developers and increased commercial tax revenue have improved our financial outlook. Having a more diverse tax base reduces the reliance on personal property taxes. In fact, the City Council has reduced the tax rate over the past few years while maintaining a Triple-A bond rating. That would not have been possible without commercial development. With exciting new restaurants, our meal tax revenues have exploded. Money is already coming in from the Broad and Washington development in the form of property tax. We receive 4-5 million dollars each year from mixed-use development, and that number will increase as newer buildings come online.
REGIONAL HOUSING: Support this statement. I feel we are doing our part with detached and attached single-family homes, apartments, condominiums, affordable housing units, apartments for seniors, and assisted living facilities, but we should not take our eyes off the ball. If we want the city to remain the dynamic community it is now, we must have a diverse range of housing options that attract young people, families, empty nesters, senior citizens, and those who work at our businesses in the city According to a June 2024 city report on housing, about half of the people who work in the city can’t afford to live here. At the same time, many are concerned about population growth. We must watch the impact of growth on
FALLS CHURCH CITY SCHOOL BOARD
THE OFFICE, TERM, AND COMPENSATION: The School Board’s primar y responsibilities are to set polic y for the school division, approve the annual budget, develop a strategic plan, and hire a superintendent to operate the school division in accordance with board polic y. The seven School Board Members ser ve four-year terms and are not a liated with any national political par ty Elections of School Board Members are typically held in November of odd-numbered years for three or four members However, there is a Special Election this year on November 5, 2024, to ll a vacant seat for a remaining term through December 31, 2025. The annual compensation for School Board Members is $3,600; for the Vice Chair, $4,800; and for the Chair, $6,000.
schools and traffic and how it impacts our infrastructure.
BALANCE DENSITY/INFRASTRUCTURE: When negotiating with developers of mixed-use buildings, the city should (and has) require additional trees be planted, methods to address stormwater, sidewalks, crosswalks, traffic lights, and underground public parking. Voluntary concessions are often provided to address increases in school enrollment. By having density, things become more walkable, thereby reducing the number of cars on the street. In terms of the schools, the majority of our enrollment comes from single-family homes and not mixed-use buildings but we will need to keep our eyes on those numbers. “Growth paying for growth,” is a term Council members mention. Developers must pay for growth in schools and the stress on infrastructure, public works and emergency services.
CITIZEN INPUT: When I was Vice Chair of the School Board in 2021, the Chair and I instituted monthly office hours at local restaurants so that parents, guardians, students, and staff could talk with us in a casual, non-intimidating setting about their questions and feedback. I continued those monthly office hours while I was Chair in 2022 and 2023. I would like to continue a similar approach if elected to City Council. As far as responding to citizen input, I would not only respond to emails received but also respond to citizens who make public comments at the City Council meetings. I understand the importance of listening to all sides of an issue before making a decision, and I look forward to engaging with and serving my fellow community members.
THE QUESTIONS:
1. What led you to run for this position, and, if elected, what are your top three PRIORITIES?
2. Please elaborate on why you support, oppose, or have no position on this statement: Falls Church City public schools are ADEQUATELY RESOURCED to manage a potential increase in students, given the current and anticipated development in the City 3. How would you address CONFLICT between the values and policies of Falls Church City Public Schools and mandates of the Virginia Department of Education? 4. How would you ATTRACT and RETAIN quality educational staff, in light of staffing shortages in the region and across the country?
CANDIDATES FOR FALLS CHURCH CITY SCHOOL BOARD (VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN ONE)
Anne H. Sherwood (Ind)
Biography: I am the parent of three FCCPS students in 8th, 6th, and 2nd grades, and I have been active in the FCCPS community for many years. I am a former lawyer and the proud product of K-12 public schools. Please visit my website to learn more about me. schoolboard.annesherwood.org annesherwood4schoolboard@gmail.com
QUESTIONS: WHY RUNNING/PRIORITIES: I love our schools, and they are a key reason my family moved to FCC ten years ago. I have three children—an 8th and a 6th grader at MEHMS, and a 2nd grader at MDES—and I’ve been actively involved since they started kindergarten. My roles have included being a room parent, serving on the International Night Committee, and volunteering with the PTA. Recently, I’ve been deeply engaged as a former co-chair and current member of the Advanced Academics Advisory Committee and as part of the FCCPS Choral Boosters Board. This passion
for engagement and education led me to start a graduate program in Education Policy at George Mason University I’m eager to contribute further by serving on the FCCPS School Board. With Dr Noonan’s retirement and new policies on the horizon, I aim to ensure we continue to be student-centered, support teachers, and remain dedicated to IB and our Strategic Plan
ADEQUATELY RESOURCED: No position on this statement. I understand these concerns—our schools are central to life in the Little City I’m cautiously optimistic: FCCPS has fully staffed schools, good relations with the City Council, and future planning strategies. Currently schools are at 70% capacity and expected to accommodate growth through 2045. Maintaining our relationship with the City and ensuring accurate enrollment predictions will be key. We should preserve the revenue-sharing agreement between the City and FCCPS to support balanced benefits from development. And we should continue using demographic data to align resources with enrollment. Monitoring growth and learning more about staff needs to respond to growth is especially important to me.
CONFLICT: Falls Church City Public Schools is a small district with an engaged community allowing it to address local con-
cerns and have meaningful discussions on policies. FCCPS also collaborates with neighboring districts to share best practices and shape our policies. This approach, combined with the expertise of our educators and staff, helps FCCPS create effective policies aligned with IB values, and has made it a top district. FCCPS adapts to state-level changes while maintaining our core values, and when a past mandate conflicted with our policies, FCCPS successfully worked with neighboring districts to challenge it. I expect we would consider this approach again if needed
ATTRACT/RETAIN: FCCPS teachers and staff are vital to our district’s success, and we should continue attracting and supporting them. Last year, FCCPS conducted a salary comparison study, adjusted pay, and provided COLA increases. It also entered into a collective bargaining agreement to give educators a stronger voice on compensation and benefits, and it recently led the region with a new parental leave policy. Moving forward, we should enhance our community and our educators’ quality of life by hiring strong leadership, supporting professional development, and fostering better communication and feedback. This will help build a positive workplace culture to retain and attract quality staff.
LOCAL SPORTS
MHS Boys Volleyball Continues Turnaround, Golf Advances To Regionals
by Ryan McCafferty
The calendar has turned to October, meaning sports season at Meridian High School is now more than a month into full swing. All of the school’s programs have had time to settle into their seasons, and one of them, the brand new boys’ volleyball team, seems to have greatly benefitted from its opportunities to improve. After starting the season with seven straight losses, the boys have reeled off five wins in a row, with victories last week at Herndon on Monday and Woodson on Wednesday (both in five sets), and then a three-set sweep at home against Marshall last Thursday. The startup program appears to be ahead of schedule, a testament to the dedication of coach Shannon Hladky and his resilient unit, and will have a well-earned break this week as they don’t play again until October 9.
Elsewhere on the volleyball
court, the girls split a pair of matchups by beating Brentsville 3-1 at home last Tuesday and then losing 3-0 at Millbrook last Thursday, putting them at 7-9 on the year. This week they will join the boys on break, while additionally field hockey will finally get some rest. Anne Steenhoek’s girls have fought hard to back up their 2023 State Finals appearance and earned another pair of wins this past week by beating Kettle Run 3-0 last Tuesday and Justice 1-0 on Monday (both at home), but they also took their first loss of the season to Washington-Liberty last Thursday, leaving them with a record of 9-1-1.
Football took a rough loss as well, falling 28-14 to Brentsville on Friday after leading 14-7 early in the third quarter. Now at 1-3 on the year, they’ll have one more chance in this string of home games to earn a win in front of the Mustang crowd when they host James Wood on
Friday. Meanwhile, cross country competed in a quad meet against Skyline, Warren County, and Manassas Park at Warren County this past weekend (rescheduled from September 18), and both the boys and girls finished third of the four schools. Nathan Walker led the boys with a 16th-place individual finish while Wendy Abstone was 13th to pace the girls. The Mustangs will travel out of state to the Gettysburg Invitational this weekend in Pennsylvania. Perhaps the biggest news of the week involves Meridian’s golf squad, however, as they have already begun their postseason. The Mustangs finished second out of twelve schools competing in the District Tournament at Shenandoah Valley last Thursday, while Noah Peng led all golfers in the tournament by shooting a 65, six under par. They will advance to the Regional Championship, again at Shenandoah Valley, which
will be played next Monday. Finally, the competitive cheer squad got its season underway, hosting a handful of schools in a competition last week. A great time was had by all, and the group will see its next action on October 9th at Liberty-Bealeton.
In Memoriam: Leslie Anne Waite Crabbs
Leslie Anne Waite Crabbs passed away peacefully into the arms of God on September 12, 2024, after a fierce battle with cancer.
A joyful and generous spirit, connector and collector of people, Leslie made the world a better place with a brave heart, grace, and blazing energy for family, friends, and service to others.
Born in Washington D.C. on May 31, 1967, and raised in Falls Church City, Virginia, Leslie was the beloved daughter of former Falls Church City clerk Elizabeth Anne Shawen and the late Charles A. “Chuck” Waite. She is survived by her devoted husband, Thomas Crabbs; son, Andrew (Sarah); daughter, Reilly; and adored grandson,
Benjamin, to whom she was known as “Nabby.” Stephanie Garnett (Scott); her stepmother, Carol Waite (Jerry); stepfather, Neil Shawen; in-laws, Edward and Mary Crabbs, Anne Bear (David), Kathleen Crabbs (Craig), and John Crabbs; and many nieces and nephews who were touched by her warmth.
A George Mason High School alumnus, she went on to graduate from the University of Virginia in 1983. Her upbringing and education fired a boundless curiosity, and a deep passion for fellowship and service. At UVA she earned economics and sociology degrees and joined Delta Gamma Sorority embracing sisterhood and the motto “Do Good,” which she shared with abandon her life through.
In 1987, she met the love of her life, Tom. A whirlwind romance led to marriage 20 months later, and they set off to Hawaii for the first chapter of a wondrous 35-year marriage. Leslie was an accomplished and rising economist and consultant in 1993 when they took orders to Italy. The spontaneous, less complicated La Dolce Vita captured her heart. Returning stateside, expectant with Andrew, she chose to place family, faith, and community first. Reilly
arrived 22 months later. Forgoing paychecks, the next 20 years brought riches beyond compare. Leslie showered her children and Tom with adventuresome love that combined mystery, magic, and Crabbs faith. She was thrilled to greet grandson Ben and imprint him with Nabby spirit. After seeing Andrew and Reilly through a military childhood, she gratefully resumed work as a corporate event planner helping connect people the world over.
A military spouse, Leslie led her local communities with gusto. Her watchwords were “all in” and her mantra was “here I am, Lord.” With duty stations from coast to coast and overseas, she built foundations for lasting change that continue to grow today. Notable among many was the creation of a food bank in San Francisco that has served thousands for 25 years. In Key West, she rallied the local community and founded Sigsbee Charter School (K-5). As President, she helped lay the foundation for an innovative culture and curriculum to meet the unique needs of over 200 military children. Sigsbee has since grown to K-8 with over 500 military and local community children enrolled. It is a perennial Florida “A”
rated school and School of Excellence. Along their journey, Tom dubbed her “Leslie Appleseed,” crediting her good works as the reason they were called to 30 years of transient Coast Guard service.
Landing in Richmond, Virginia following the Coast Guard, Leslie joined Coming Together Virginia, an organization dedicated to bridging racial divides to enable thriving, equitable, and just communities. The opportunity brought enlightenment, passion, and friendships that she championed and cherished. She is a member of the 2022 Leadership Metro Richmond – Leadership Quest cohort and was co-recipient of the 2023 Leader Who Serves award. Her advice: “Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Listen with your heart and be bold… bring others along with you.”
Leslie’s love language was quality time. She invested in others, made them feel valued, shared joy completely, and was a lot of fun. She loved fall, tailgating, and college football – in that order; kept score at baseball games and snuck sauerkraut into the park; she was the March Maddest. She laughed hard and danced with abandon; loved conversation with cof -
fee and nearly completed the full Richmond coffee shop crawl; sang the “12 Days of Christmas” (complete with hand gestures) and “American Pie” by heart; never missed a line dance and kept all her bridesmaid dresses. She costumed for every Halloween and was always tiara-ready. She kept the beer cooler full. Her wine country excursions are legendary. Book club and Bible study fortified her. She was a great travel companion. Being in nature was her preferred place, views from a well-pitched tent were among her favorites. She stopped to smell the flowers and was a friend of the bees.
Leslie taught us to live, laugh, and love out loud. We will pay that forward.
A celebratory memorial service, followed directly by fellowship, will be held at the Hippodrome in Richmond, VA on Friday, October 25, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at 528 N. 2nd St., Richmond, VA 23219. For details and updates visit tinyurl.com/FCNP1024lw. Please wear bright colors in celebration of a life well lived. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Coming Together Virginia: comingtogethervirginia.org/donate.
THE MUSTANGS TRAVELED to Warren County for a Quad Meet against Skyline, Warren and Manassas Park. Overall, Meridian finished 3rd scoring 108pts in the Girl’s Race. (FCCPS Photos)
News-Press
Community News & Notes
‘Freedom Summer, 60 Years Later’ at Dulin on Sunday
Dulin United Methodist Church, located in the city of Falls Church, is hosting “The Pivotal Role of a Mississippi United Methodist Church in the National Struggle for Civil Rights” on Sunday, October 6, at 4:00 p.m. in the church’s sanctuary (513 E. Broad St., Falls Church). Church member Miss Jewel McDonald and the Reverend Eddie Hinton, pastor of Mt. Zion United Methodist Church located in Philadelphia, Mississippi will share a recorded message of hope and love. This event is free and open to the public, and offered inperson and livestream.
For more information, visit Dulinchurch.org.
‘The Beauty of Diversity’ Opens at FCA on Saturday
Fifty-three artists explore the beauty and strength of diversity, whether of race, gender, sexual orientation, age, experiences, or abilities, at “The Beauty of Diversity,” an all-media exhibit at Falls Church Arts. The show will open on Saturday, October 5, from 7:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m. with a “meet the artists” reception.
The Juror’s Choice Award will be announced during the event. The reception is free and is open to the public.
Sixty-seven works on display feature a wide range of media, including painting, photography, mixed media, textiles, origami, pastel, and bronze.
Anthony Nsofor, juror for the show, shares his insights about the selected works. “In selecting the works for this show, I viewed the Beauty in Diversity exhibition as a uniting umbrella for gathering experiences, and other ways of being, of identity, of being seen. In this cycle America decides who will become president, this show takes a bold stand for the richness and merits of an inclusive society. Art now, and succinctly, comes to the rescue by telling truths with mimes, humor, and
exuberant color.”
The juror highlighted six works, including “The Armadillo’s Song” by Christine Cardellino, “Searching for Freedom Part 3,” by Isabella Merlos, “Entwined” by Tinu Prakash, “Mosaic of the Clitoris” by Aurore Regal, “Portal 1” by Bob Tieman, and “Rebirth” by Ashley Whitley.
“The Beauty of Diversity” will be on view, with free admission, through November 17. Artworks may be viewed or purchased in the FCA gallery (700-B W. Broad St., Falls Church) or online at fallschurcharts.org.
Rally for Completion of Ffx. Youth Crisis Center Draws 450
At least 450 people turned out at Fairfax High School on Sunday to support calls by VOICE (Virginians Organized for Interfaith Community Engagement) for funding to complete a regional youth mental health crisis stabilization center and to expand opioid education and Narcan availability in Fairfax County schools.
The event, held in partnership with the Inova Health System, included more than 20 tables staffed by organizations providing addiction recovery, mental health, and drug education services.
“Our children need us to stand up for them now,” said Rev. Rebecca Messman, pastor at Burke Presbyterian Church. “While we welcome the steps already taken to help them deal with mental health and drug use challenges, our communities nonetheless find themselves in a crisis that demands more of us as elected and community leaders.”
According to the Fairfax County Health Department, hospital emergency department visits for opioid overdoses increased 115 percent between 2022 and 2023, among youth under age 18 in the Fairfax Health District (which covers Fairfax County, the City of Fairfax, and the City of Falls Church).
THE BISHOP OF THE DIOCESE of Virginia, the Rev. E. Mark Stevenson, was present at the Falls Church Episcopal Church’s service last weekend to preside over the confirmation of new young members. In this photo are (l. to r.) the Rev. Matthew Machowski, associate rector of The Falls Church, Nonhlanhla Shezi, seminarian from Virginia Theological Seminary, the Rev. E. Mark Stevenson, Bishop of the Diocese of Virginia, the Rev. Burl Salmon, rector of The Falls Church, and the Rev. Will Dickinson, bishop’s chaplain. (Courtesy Photo)
CELEBRATING THE BIRTHDAY of F.C. planning commissioner and former council member Phil Duncan (seated, center) at lunch at The Falls on Monday were (left to right) News-Press’ Nick Gatz, F.C. council member Marybeth Connelly, Economic Development Authority chair Bob Young, Citizens for a Better City chair Hal Lippman, Nancy and Ken Feltman, and in front of them the News-Press’ Brian Reach. (News-Press Photo)
Of the fatal overdoses across all age groups in 2023, 95 percent involved fentanyl.
From 2016 to August 2024, 132 youth under age 18 in the Fairfax Health District suffered opioid overdoses, and at least 16 died from those overdoses, the Health Department reported. The vast majority involved fentanyl and fentanyl-related substances.
While the 2022-2023 Fairfax County Youth Survey showed 8th, 10th and 12th grade students reporting depressive symptoms at a lower rate than in 2021, nonetheless almost 30 percent reported feeling so sad or hopeless that they stopped engaging in regular activity for two weeks or more. Eleven percent reported seriously considering suicide within the previous year.
With these findings in mind, VOICE partnered with the Inova Health Foundation for its sixth annual Act on Addiction Summit, held in September.
“In listening sessions with hundreds of community members, our VOICE leaders heard the pain of students, parents, educators, and others who have had to deal with opioid drug overdoses and deaths, as well as continuing strong concerns about youth mental health,” said Shellie McKinney, Executive Director of Mothers of Muslims Network.
Learn more about VOICE at voice-va.org.
Hundreds of Seniors Compete in N.Va Senior Olympics
Gold, silver and bronze medals were awarded to hundreds of seniors competing in fiveand ten-year age groups in the 2024 Northern Virginia Senior Olympics last month.
“We had a very successful
Senior Olympics, with participants from all of our eight sponsoring jurisdictions,” said NVSO Chair Riley Geary. “We began with track events on Saturday, Sept. 14 and ended with cycling on Sunday, Sept. 29.
“There were over 70 events in between held at 28 different venues each with an experienced event director and most with volunteers.
“Our volunteers are the backbone of the events. We could never successfully execute this big of an event without them.”
NVSO spokesperson Judy Massabny revealed that this was Geary’s final year as chair, and that he and his wife are planning on retiring to Hawaii. Massabny said a wrap-up report will be released as soon as the results from all of the events are completed.
The NVSO sponsoring agencies are the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax and Falls Church and the counties of Arlington, Fairfax, Fauquier, Loudoun and Prince William.
Farm Day This Weekend, City Seeks Volunteers
The Recreation and Parks annual Farm Day returns this Saturday, October 5, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Cherry Hill Park (312 Park Ave., Falls Church).
Attendees of the event will enjoy a day of farm-filled fun and activities for the whole family, including a petting farm with animals, pony rides, pumpkin painting, birdhouse painting, blacksmith demonstrations, and more.
Live music will entertain throughout the day, with tours being given of the Cherry Hill Farmhouse and barn.
Farm Day was originally
LOCAL
scheduled for the second weekend in October, coinciding with Indigenous Peoples Day weekend, but was moved to October 5 earlier this year.
Volunteers are needed to help facilitate activities and provide a positive experience for all attendees. Volunteer for a full day or half day — register for a timeslot at tinyurl. com/FCNP1024fd. Contact Holly Irwin with questions at hirwin@fallschurchva.gov.
Virginia
Dream
FC accepted into U.S. Open Cup
Virginia Dream FC has been accepted into the Qualifying Rounds of the U.S. Open Cup. Play begins the weekend of October 5 but The Dream has a bye for the first two rounds. The team will begin play in the third round on November 17. With a victory in that match Virginia Dream FC will advance to the fourth and final qualifying round on December 8.
The U.S. Open Cup is the oldest, most prestigious soccer competition in the U.S. In this tournament, amateur teams have the opportunity to advance and compete against teams in professional leagues, such as the MLS and USL.
With only three matches to go in the UPSL season, Virginia Dream still sits atop of the standings, despite a 1-0 loss this past weekend in a tough, spirited game against an organized and skilled DC Hyper squad. Despite several great opportunities to score, the team was unable to convert. This Sunday, October 6, at 5:00 p.m., The Dream faces Arlington SA in an away game. The team’s next home match is Saturday, October 12, at 8:00 p.m. at Meridian (121 Mustang Alley).
In other Dream news, the
TORI MCKINNEY, CEO and realtor with the Falls Church-based RockStar Realty Group, and Rob Denza, director of sales and realtor with RockStar Realty Group, brightened the days of FCCPS teachers and staff last month — with a bloom — during their annual Back to School Flower Delivery, their way of wishing school faculty an amazing 2024-2025 school year. (Photo: Courtesy, RockStar Realty Group)
team’s coveted 2023 Jersey was seen out in the wild on instagram.com/soccercooligans, a national soccer and comedy podcast. Tickets for home
games cost $10 at the door, and children under 12 and all FCCPS students get in for free. For more information, visit instagram.com/VirginiaDreamFC.
3 - 9, 2024
THIS WEEK AROUND F.C.
THURSDAY OCTOBER 3
Ribbon Cutting:
Raising Cane's
Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening of Raising Cane’s, followed by a day of festivities and prizes. Raising Cane's (6363 Seven Corners Ctr., Falls Church), 8:00 a.m.
FRIDAY OCTOBER 4
Friday Morning Music Club
The Friday Morning Music Club performs a free chamber concert. Saint George's Episcopal Church (915 N. Oakland St., Arlington, VA), 12:00 p.m.
Sondheim Tribute Revue
A scintillating musical revue celebrating the work of Stephen Sondheim. Tickets at creativecauldron. org. Creative Cauldron (410 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church), 7:30 p.m.
SATURDAY OCTOBER 5
Arlington Civitans
Open Air Flea Market
Shop from over 150 vendors spread out over five levels of a parking garage. Details at arlington-fleamarket.com. I-66 Parking Garage (4001 15th Street North, Arlington, VA), 7:00 a.m. — 1:00 p.m.
Falls Church Farmers Market
Shop the award-winning market every Saturday, year-round! City Hall Parking Lot (300 Park Ave., Falls Church), 8:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m.
Recycling Extravaganza
Drop off hard to recycle items. Open to city community members only with proof of residency. F.C. Recycling Center (217 Gordon Rd., Falls Church), 8:30 a.m. — 1:00 p.m.
Falls Church Farm Day
Annual Farm Day event, with fami-
ly-friendly activities, food, vendors, and live entertainment. Cherry Hill Park (312 Park Ave., Falls Church), 10:00 a.m. — 3:00 p.m.
Providence Day & Back to School Celebration
With food trucks, activities, and more. Free and open to the public. George C. Marshall High School (7731 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church), 11:00 a.m. — 3:00 p.m.
FCA Exhibit Opening: The Beauty of Diversity
"The Beauty of Diversity," a new exhibit at FCA through November 17, opens with a free reception. Falls Church Arts (700-B W. Broad St., Falls Church), 7:00 p.m.
Ballet
Hispanico
Ballet Hispánico performs. Tickets at cfa.calendar.gmu.edu. GMU Center for the Arts (4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, VA), 8:00 p.m.
SUNDAY OCTOBER 6
Blessing of the Animals
Join CCUMC on their side lawn to celebrate the Feast of St. Francis, with a blessing of all our lovable pets. Free and open to the public. Christ Crossman UMC (384 N. Washington St., Falls Church), 11:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m.
Board Game Sunday for Adults
Play modern board games with other adults 18+. Free to attend. Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Upper Floor Conf. Rm., Falls Church), 1:00 p.m. — 4:00 p.m.
Amadeus Strings: Harmony of the World Season opener for Amadeus Strings. Tickets at amadeusconcerts.com. St. Luke Catholic Church (7001 Georgetown Pike, McLean, VA), 4:00 p.m.
Freedom Summer: 60 Years Later
Jewel McDonald and Rev. Eddie Hinton of Mt. Zion UMC share
a recorded message of hope and love. Free and open to the public, in-person and online at dulinchurch.org. Dulin UMC (513 E. Broad St., Falls Church), 4:00 p.m.
MONDAY OCTOBER 7
City Council Work Session
Council Members discuss upcoming legislation and policy issues; the public is not generally invited to speak. Live or on-demand at fallschurchva.gov/councilmeetings or on FCCTV (Cox 11, RCN 2, Verizon 35). City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 7:30 p.m. — 11:00 p.m.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 8
FCCPS School Board Meeting
Regular meeting of the Falls Church City Public Schools (FCCPS) school board. The public is invited to attend. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Council Chambers/Court Room, Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 11:00 p.m.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 9
Waking the Witch
Hear from the composer and director of new immersive opera, being presented by Little City Concerts this fall. Free registration at mrspl.org. Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Upper Floor Conf. Rm., Falls Church), 6:30 p.m. — 8:00 p.m.
THURSDAY OCTOBER 10
Chamber Networking Breakfast
Get to know fellow business leaders in an informal setting hosted by the F.C. Chamber of Commerce. No registration or fee required, except the cost of your own breakfast. The Original Pancake House (7395 Lee Hwy., Falls Church), 8:00 a.m. — 9:00 a.m.
BALLET HISPANICO performs at the GMU Center for the Arts on Saturday, celebrating the ever-growing and multifaceted Hispanic diasporas through vibrant dance in a special Hispanic Heritage Month performance . Join a special pre-performance discussion in Monson Grand Tier 45 minutes prior to curtain. (Photo: Erin Baiano)
PUZZLE NO.
PUZZLE NO. 1004
PUZZLE NO. 1005
PUZZLE NO. 1006
ANSWER
T h e LGB T Q + R e ach
by
Trans Immigrant Awarded $930M in McDonalds Discrimination Suit
On August 15, a jury in a D.C. Superior Court ruled that the Burke, VA-based company — owner of a McDonald’s restaurant franchise in D.C. — must pay $700,000 in punitive damages and $230,000 for emotional distress, pain, and suffering to Diana Portillo, an undocumented Transgender woman who worked for the restaurant from 2011 until 2016.
The jury’s verdict is the first ever for an employment discrimination case for a Transgender individual under the D.C. Human Rights Act.
Portillo was employed at the Georgia Ave. McDonald’s — owned and managed by International Golden Foods, LLC of Burke, Va (IGF) — and claimed that, beginning after her transition two years after being hired, she faced incessant harassment and misgendering by coworkers, culminating in being publicly chastised by a supervisor for using the women’s restroom in 2016. Eight days later, after raising complaints to corporate management and human resources, Portillo was fired. She filed an official charge with the D.C. Office of Human Rights, and ultimately filed a discrimination lawsuit in 2021.
IGF claimed that Portillo was fired because they discovered she was not authorized to work in the U.S. The jury found that this was an excuse to fire her, and that she was actually fired in retaliation for her complaint.
According to reporting from PublicLawLibrary and the Washington Blade , in the time since her firing, Portillo has been granted asylum in the U.S. based on discrimination she faced in El Savador, and now works for D.C.based health organization La Clinica del Pueblo, as a full-time counselor for their LGBTQ+ focused “Empoderate Centers.”
Gilead Study Finds Injectable PrEP More Effective Than Pills
In September Gilead Sciences announced the results of an analysis of a Phase 3 clinical trial investigating the use of lenacapavir, the company’s twice-yearly injectable HIV prevention medication, compared to use of oncedaily pills of the company’s HIV prevention medication Truvada (tenofovir/ emtricitabine), as PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis).
The trial found that, among 2,180 participants taking lenacapavir, only two contracted HIV — a 99.9 percent efficacy rate. This was 89 percent more effective than tenofovir/emtricitabine in daily pill form, though only 9 of 1,087 par-
ticipants taking tenofovir/emtricitabine contracted HIV — still a 99.1 percent effective rate.
In an earlier Gilead trial, 5,000 women and adolescent girls in Africa were given either twice-per-year injections of lenacapavir, once-daily emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (F/TAF), or once-daily emtricitabine-tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (F/TDF).
Of the 2,134 participants who received the lenacapavir injections, there were zero infections, compared to 30 of 2,136 participants taking F/TAF and 16 of 1,068 taking F/TDF. Zero.
In December 2021 the FDA approved the first injectable PrEP medication — Apretude (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension), a drug developed by ViiV healthcare. The approval came just 11 months after approving the same drug, when administered in combination with rilpivirine, to treat HIV infections — under the brand name Cabenuva.
Cabotegravir, like lenacapavir, was found to be more effective (and less prone to user error) than daily pill-based Truvada — 70 to 90 percent more — in clinical trials. Cabotegravir injections need to be taken every other month.
The cost for each cabotegravir injection is $3,700 — an annual cost of $22,200. The current list price for lenacapavir, under the brand name Sunlenca, is $40,000 per year. Generic tenofovir/ emtricitabine, on the other hand, is now available for just $60 per month — and Gilead assistance programs provide both of their PrEP medications (Truvada and Descovy) free-of-charge for individuals with incomes under roughly $63,000.
For more information, please visit gileadadvancingaccess.com.
The Bottom Line: HIV Eradication Is Within Sight, If We Want
Injectable PrEP could eliminate HIV worldwide, but not at a higher cost than most annual salaries in the nations that desperately need them. A South African study presented at the 24th International AIDS Conference in 2022 estimated that, in order to be effective in fighting the country’s HIV epidemic, the cost per injection cannot exceed $9 to $15.
I appreciate that a lot of money was spent researching these developments, but the costs for these medications — and the hoops one must jump through to receive them, even then — are far too high.
According to a Clinton Health Access Initiative, cabotegravir could be manufactured for between $2.50 and $3.50 per year with sufficient demand.
It would be great if we weren’t still talking about this in another decade. Let’s find a way to eradicate HIV once and for all. The cost may seem extroardinarily high, but the cost of doing nothing will always be far higher.
Falls Church Business News & Notes
Family Fun Night: Fun for the Community Tonight
The Falls Church Chamber rescheduled its Family Fun Night at Jefferson District Park for tonight due to rain, 5:30 p.m. — 7:00 p.m. This is a community event for families, friends and colleagues to come together for a night out with mini golf, children’s activities, and dinner. Tickets may be purchased at the park. Visit the chamber website for more information: business.fallschurchchamber.org/events/details/ family-fun-night-2024-76075.
Trademark 101: Basics for Entrepreneurs & Small Businesses
The Women’s Business Center of Northern Virginia hosts a session for entrepreneurs and small business owners on Trademarks next Wednesday, October 9, 10:30 a.m. — 11:30 a.m. Learn more about trademark protection, the process and what aspects are trademarkable in this free workshop. Tammy Hui of the Geller Law Group is the speaker. The webinar link will be share upon registration at wbcnova. centerdynamics.com/workshop.aspx?ekey=10440129
Inova Breaks Ground
Falls Church-based Inova Health System will officially start construction at the end of the month on two hospitals, one in the Franconia-Springfield area and the other on Alexandria’s former Landmark Mall campus. These are part of Inova’s $2.5 billion expansion. Groundbreaking ceremonies took place on September 30, with a target date of opening in late 2028.
2024 The Little City Scramble
The Falls Church Education Foundation and Mustang Athletic Boosters Association are hosting The Little City Scramble on October 9, from 1:00 p.m. — 8:00 p.m. at Westfields Golf Course to raise funds for students and student athletes. For those who are not-as-serious golfers, there is a Sip & Swing clinic that includes a group lesson with a pro at the driving range and putting green, along with happy hour and dinner. If golfing isn’t your thing, and you want to support the cause, join the dinner at the club. fcedf.networkforgood.com/events/67005-2024-the-little-city-scramble?utm_ campaign=dms_email_blast_3430161
The Nonprofit Professionals of the Year Awards
NonProfit PRO is accepting nominations for its annual awards. Nominees may be an inspiring colleague, volunteer, friend, relative or community member in the following categories: Nonprofit Professional of the Year, Fundraiser of the Year, Unsung Heroes, Rising Stars, and Lifetime Achievement. Nominations must be submitted by October 2 at nonprofitpro.com/nonprofit-professionals-year-awards.
Vienna Oktoberfest
Presented by the Vienna Business Association and the Town of Vienna are holding Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 5, 11:00 a.m. — 7:00 p.m. on historic Church Street. This is the 15th year and all ages are welcome with free admission. Proceeds from Oktoberfest benefit the VBA Foundation, which supports charitable organizations in the Greater Vienna area.
Sondheim Tribute Revue Opens
Creative Cauldron is opening the 2024/25 season with a Sondheim Tribute Revue on October 5 at 7:30. An eight-member ensemble cast will feature over 20 titles from the Sondheim songbook including “Anyone Can Whistle,” “Assassins,” “Company,” “Follies,” “The Frogs,” “A Funny Thing Happened...,” “Into the Woods,” “A Little Night Music,” “Sunday in the Park with George,” “Sweeney Todd,” and the recent Tony Award winner, “Merrily We Roll Along.” The show will run through October 27.
Business News & Notes is compiled by Elise Neil Bengtson, Executive Director of the Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. She may be emailed at elise@fallschurchchamber.org.
Brian Reach Falls Church News-Press
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLANNING COMMISSION CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA
The following was given first reading at the May 28, 2024 City Council meeting. A public hearing and possible recommendation for City Council action is scheduled for Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard.
(TO24-11) ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING CODE OF THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH CHAPTER 48 “ZONING,” ARTICLE V “SUPPLEMENTARY REGULATIONS,”
DIVISION 2 “OFF-STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS” TO EXCLUDE THE FIRST 1,000 SQUARE-FEET FOR NEW COMMERCIAL USE OFF-STREET PARKING REQUIREMENT CALCULATIONS
The proposed amendments to the Zoning Code would have the effect of excluding up to 1,000 square feet of commercial floor area from the City’s minimum parking requirement calculations.
The purpose of the proposed commercial parking relief is to expand the number of commercial uses that are eligible to occupy existing commercial buildings, so that existing commercial buildings may be more easily re-purposed over time.
All public hearings will be held in the Council Chambers, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia. All persons desiring to present their views on the items will be heard. Comments may also be sent to jtrainor@fallschurchva. gov. Remote participation information at www. fallschurchva.gov/pc. For copies of legislation and other information, contact Jack Trainor jtrainor@fallschurchva.gov. The City of Falls Church is committed to the letter and spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, call 571-421-7943 or e-mail jtrainor@ fallschurchva.gov.
PUBLIC NOTICE
The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) of the City of Falls Church, Virginia will hold a public hearing on October 10, 2024 at 7:30 PM in the Council Chambers, located at 300 Park Avenue, for consideration of the following items:
-Variance application
V1646-24 by Melissa Stevens, applicant and owner, for a variance to Section 48-263(5) to allow lot coverage of 27.6% instead of the 25% maximum allowed for a screened porch at 311C Grove Avenue, RPC# 51-216-082 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned R-1B, Medium Density Residential District.
-Variance application
V1653-24 by Kimberly Sanchez, applicant, on behalf of Betty and Stephan Finley, owners, for a variance to Section 48-238(3)(a) to allow a rear yard setback of 28.4 feet instead of the 40 feet minimum to construct a screened in porch at premises known as 617 Laura Drive, RPC #52-604-011 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned R-1A, Low Density Residential.
-Variance application V1654-24 by WF Apartments CL1 Lessee LLC, applicant and owner, for the following variances:
i. Section 48-1265(7) to allow 6 temporary banner signs totaling 1,351.7 square feet to exceed the area and quantity above the maximum permitted in the zoning district (one 20 square feet temporary sign); ii. Section 48-1265(7) to allow the abovementioned signs to remain for one year instead of the maximum time of 60 days; at the premises at 175 Haycock Road, RPC #51-221-018 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned B-2, Central Business and Mixed-Use.
-Variance application V1655-24 by Harjote Randhawa, applicant and owner, for a variance to Section 48-263(3)(a) to allow a front yard setback of 15.8 feet instead of the 25 feet minimum to construct a second-story addition at premises known as 1200 Lincoln Ave, RPC #52-214-026 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned R-1B, Medium Density Residential.
Public comment and questions may be submitted to zoning@fallschurchva.gov until 4:30 pm on October 10, 2024. Agenda and application materials will be available the week prior to the scheduled hearing at: http://www. fallschurchva.gov/BZA
Information on the above application is also available for review upon request to staff at zoning@fallschurchva.gov.
Volunteers who live in the City of Falls Church are needed to serve on the boards and commissions listed below. Contact the City Clerk’s Office (703-248-5014, cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov, or www.fallschurchva.gov/BC) for an application form or more information.
Positions advertised for more than one month may be filled during each subsequent month.
Architectural Advisory Board
Aurora House Citizens’ Advisory Committee Board of Equalization
City Employee Review Board
Economic Development Authority
Housing Commission
Planning Commission (October 31 deadline)
Public Utilities Commission
Retirement Board
Urban Forestry Commission Board of Zoning Appeals (October 31 deadline)
Regional Boards/Commissions
Community Criminal Justice Board
Continuum of Care Board
Coordinating Council for the Aging and Adults with Disabilities
Fairfax Area Commission on Aging
Fairfax Area Disability Services Board
Virginia Career Works Northern Region
NOTICE OF RIVIAN AUTOMOTIVE, LLC HEARING ON OPERATION OF DEALERSHIP BY MANUFACTURER
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), under the Code of Virginia 46.2-1572(4) and 46.2-1573, is conducting a formal evidentiary hearing at the request of Rivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian), a Commonwealth-licensed manufacturer of electric vehicles. Rivian seeks an eligibility determination to be both a manufacturer and a dealer of motor vehicles in Arlington County, Virginia, or in the city of Falls Church, Virginia. According to Va. Code 46.2-1572(4), Rivian must establish that there is no dealer independent of the manufacturer available in the above-mentioned community or trade area to own and operate the franchise in a manner consistent with the public interest. The formal evidentiary hearing will take place on October 17, 2024, at 9 a.m. EDT at DMV Headquarters located at 2300 W. Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia 23269. Any party interested in this matter is invited to attend the hearing and provide relevant information. Please send an email to DMV at diane.adams-strickland@dmv.virginia.gov requesting the information to attend. If you have documentation you would like the hearing o cer and Rivian to review, please submit it to DMV at diane.adams-strickland@dmv.virginia.gov by 5 p.m. EDT on October 10, 2024.
CAREGIVERS
ELDER CARE/COMPANIONS - job is for 5 Days a Week – 5 Hours per Day – Salary is $30 per Hour.clean record, good recommendations, mobile, with many skills For more details about the position, email (jamiecarsonbroker@ gmail.com)
AUCTIONS
Devore Estate Auction: 271+/- Acres offered in 19 tracts located in Christiansburg and Montgomery County, VA. Prime Location, Houses, Home Sites, Development and Recreational Tracts. Auction October 31 at 2:00 PM held at the Inn at Virginia Tech (Skelton Conference Center). Online bidding available. 5% Buyer’s Premium. For details visit woltz.com or call Woltz & Associates, Inc. Real Estate Brokers & Auctioneers Roanoke, VA 800-551-3588. (VA #321)
ATTN. AUCTIONEERS: Advertise your upcoming auctions statewide and in other states. Affordable Print and Digital Solutions reaching your target audiences. Call this paper or Landon Clark at Virginia Press Services 804-521-7576, landonc@vpa.net
FARMS/FISH
Live Fish for stocking ponds. Many varieties available. Delivery to your pond or pickup available. Call Zetts Fish Farm & Hatchery for information 304-995-9202, Cell 304-820-6986.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Vinyl Replacement Windows Installed! Starting at $350 Call 804-739-8207 for More Details! Ronnie Jenkins II Windows, Siding, Roofing and Gutters! FREE Estimates! Call 804-739-8207 for More Details! American Made Products!
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The bathroom of your dreams in as little as 1 day. Limited Time Offer - $1000 off or No Payments and No Interest for 18 months for customers who qualify. BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Call Today! 1-844-945-1631
SERVICES
Need a Small Business website? We’re your experienced small team of local web designers! Contact us for a quote today- visit Webizyte.com or call 202-656-7416.
DIVORCE-Uncontested, $475+$86 court cost. WILLS-$295.00. No court appearance. Estimated completion time twenty-one days. Hilton Oliver, Attorney (Facebook). 757-4900126. Se Habla Espanol. BBB Member. https:// hiltonoliverattorneyva.com.
DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-888-550-3083 www.dental50plus. com/virginia #6258
Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and longlasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 888-608-4974 Switch and save
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap. All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-8530. Toll free call (888) 551-3247. For the hearing impaired call (804) 367-9753.
1. Seize 5. Zipped
Just
Critter Corner
C ritter C orner
MEET SNOWBALL, a three-year-old Lab who likes chasing squirrels, and sleeping on the couch — when no one is looking. (photo: Caroline Sucher)
Just because you’re not famous doesn’t mean your pet can’t be! Please send in your Critter Corner submissions to crittercorner@fcnp.com.
City of Falls Church CRIME REPORT
Continued from Page 5
Shoplifting, W Broad St, Sept 27, 8:37 PM, an unknown suspect stole merchandise without paying. The suspect is described as a white male with brown hair and a mustache, wearing a gray T-shirt and gray sweats.
Simple Assault, S Washington St, Sept 27, 10:16 PM, victim reported they were assaulted by a known suspect.
Reckless Driving, S West St, Sept 28, 1:45 PM, a male, 97, of Fairfax, was arrested for Reckless Driving.
Reckless Driving, N Cherry St, Sept 28, 11:27 PM, a male, 19, of Herndon, was arrested for Reckless Driving.
Reckless Driving, E Broad St, Sept 29, 12:25 AM, a female, 25, of McLean, was arrested for Reckless Driving.
Driving Under the Influence, N West
St/W Broad St, Sept 29, 4:00 AM, a male, 34, of Arlington, was arrested for Driving Under the Influence and No Valid Operator’s License.
Reckless Driving/Driving on Revoked License, E Broad St/Church Pl, Sept 29, 1:17 PM, a male, 36, of Hurt, was arrested for Reckless Driving.
Simple Assault, Hillwood Ave, Sept 29, 2:44 PM, victim reported they were assaulted by an unknown suspect during a business transaction. The unknown suspect is described as black male with curly black hair, approximately 19 years of age, 5’4” in height, wearing a black T-shirt, green pants, a white hoodie over his shoulders, gray Nike shoes, and a gold watch on his left wrist. The suspect was accompanied by a second subject, described as a black male, approximately 19 years of age, 5’6” in height, wearing a Rasta cap on his head, a gray T-shirt, black pants, white socks, and gray Crocs.
Fly alone
A short time
Hauls
Walked
Confine
PUZZLE NO. 263
PUZZLE NO. 265
PUZZLE NO. 264
PUZZLE NO. 266
School News & Notes
ACTION LEARNERS enjoy a weekly trip to Mary Riley Styles Public Library. (Photo: Acton Academy Falls Church)
THE FCCPS AMERICAN Sign Language program expanded to Jessie Thackrey Preschool this year. (Photo: Chrissy
MERIDIAN HOSTED its first-ever Cheer Competition last week, welcoming 11 teams. (Photo: Gayle Fishel)
LOCAL ARTIST Marc Robarge (right) created a new fish mural, installed at Oak Street Elementary last week, using a F.C. Education Foundation grant. (Photo: Marybeth Connelly)
LAST SUNDAY, the Henderson and Meridian choruses dazzled an excited audience with performances of beloved Disney songs. (Photo: FCCPS)
