Falls Church News-Press Oct 9

October 9 - 15, 2008

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The final phase begins Tuesday of a three-stage, yearlong trial to determine whether the property of the historic Falls Church downtown in the City of Falls Church is owned by members of its congregation who voted in December 2006 to defect from the Episcopal Church, or owned by the national denomination’s Virginia Diocese.

The News-Press has learned that the diocese will focus its case next week on documents, including a U.S. Supreme Court decision in 1824, deeding two acres of the historic property to the Christ Episcopal Church of Alexandria, which remains affiliated with the Episcopal denomination.

According to members of the Falls Church who voted not to leave the denomination, and who’ve continued to worship and operate church functions as a congregation of “Continuing

October 9 - 15, 2008

Episcopalians,” a good case documenting irregularities in the December 2006 congregational vote will not be presented in the trial next week.

“Lawyers for the diocese feel they have a very strong case on the matter of the 18th century deed to the land,” Robin Fetsch told the News-Press in an exclusive interview Tuesday, “So, they chose not to bring the voting irregularities issue into it.”

But, she said, flaws in the voting have been documented, and remain a great bone of contention for many who’d been aligned with the church for decades, but whose votes were not counted when the majority that were permitted to vote decided to leave the Episcopal Church.

For the majority that defected, and subsequently aligned with the newly-formed Council of Anglicans in North America (CANA) led by the right-wing Archibishop Peter Akinola of Nigeria, the Episcopal denomination’s elevation of an open-

ly-gay priest, the Rev. Eugene Robinson, to status as a bishop in 2003 was instrumental in their decision to leave.

But while they left the Episcopal denomination, they did not leave the church property, and have continued to occupy it while the protracted court proceedings have been played out in the courtroom of Fairfax Circuit Court Judge Randy Bellows.

Those who did not defect have been banned by the defectors from worshiping on the historic property, but continued to function as an Episcopal denomination, benefiting from worship, fellowship and classroom space offered them by the Falls Church Presbyterian Church, located across the street.

They formed a vestry, were provided a priest by the Virginia diocese and have grown their congregation since the split occurred.

Some among these “Continuing Episcopalians”

were long-standing members of the Falls Church, dating back before 1980, when the Rev. John Yates first came to the church.

Two such members, Fetsch and Dail Turner, meeting with the News-Press Tuesday, detailed their view of irregularities in the vote to defect and, before that, of how the church was molded by Yates over

years to engineer the defection, including by encouraging membership by non-Episcopalians from throughout the region who shared his increasingly rightwing views.

They said that, based on depositions of leading members of the “Continuing Episcopalians” by attorneys for the defectors, Continued on Page 23

October 9 - 15, 2008

Budget cuts threaten to leave hundreds of children and families at risk of homelessness, poor health care and deficient education, as the Fairfax County Budget Committee heard Monday the Department of Family Services plan to cut spending by 15 percent for the 2010 fiscal year.

With the county’s projected 2010 fiscal year revenues continuing to bleed, leaving at least $430 million less than for the 2009 budget, the supervisors mandated all Fairfax County departments and agencies to slash budget proposals by 15 percent. That translates to a $15.7 million cut in 2010 for the Department of Family Services (DFS), potentially eliminating vital county programs such as the General Relief Program and delivering serious blows to children’s services like Head Start and School Age Child Care (SACC).

The General Relief Program has delivered a monthly check to

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low-income adults with temporary disabilities and to children living with non-relatives. Head Start is a federal and countylevel program aimed at children up to the age of five that provides health and social services and educational programs, while SACC offers day care to children ages 5-12 before and after school.

DFS Director Nannette Bowler took an hour and a half Monday to underscore the effect of each budget reduction, organizing the cuts into three tiers of expendability, beginning with the easier cuts that the department could make.

Before delving into the spe-

cifics of a $15.7 million loss, Bowler referred to details of the crippling cuts: 1,300 disabled individuals and children at risk of homelessness, 870 children denied SACC care, 450 fewer families with access to health services and less capacity at the Women’s Shelter, a safe haven for abused women and their children, which is already smaller than services in neighboring counties like Arlington and Loudoun.

Likewise, Comprehensive Services to At-Risk Children, Youth and Families faces a $2.9 million cut that would put the county at odds with federal mandates that require county-

level funding of foster home care and special education for children, but provide no means of reaching those targets.

Those cuts were a few of the scores of dramatic figures listed in the 91-slide presentation, which covered concerns from youth programs to services to the elderly, who will also see severe reductions in social services providing food and transportation.

Additionally, the DFS would reduce its 1,600-person staff by nearly 200 positions, severely restricting the department’s ability to assess and maintain its services’ clientele.

In a letter to DFS staff before Monday’s presentation, Bowler told staff members “to keep in mind that these are options for the County Executive [Tony Griffin] to consider – he may or may not choose to use them. ... The Board could decide, after hearing from residents, to

increase the tax rate rather than impose a major reduction in critical county services.”

Individual programs drew different concerns from members of the budget committee.

Board Chair Gerry Connolly, who said earlier that the board would “have to look at whether we can afford services to very few people,” said that as a former SACC parent, the board should take caution in modifying the existing child care program. Connolly also noted Fairfax County’s “sorry history” in funding child care programs, which, according to the DFS review, have seen a steady decline in subsidies since 2006.

On several occasions during the presentation, Drainesville District Supervisor John Foust stressed the cost effectiveness of DFS programs. However, Foust told the News-Press that Continued on Page 23

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accuser. This is yet another reminder of the neoMcCarthyism now so much a part of the political debate.

This label is particularly offensive because our region is an ethnically diverse culture that works, filled with hard working, public spirited men and women who contribute mightily to the common good, not just for ourselves but for the world. This includes our citizens who have spent their lives in government service in this country and in virtually every corner of the globe serving in such capacities as the foreign service, in the military or intelligence agencies. This includes our people in the private sector that generate huge social and economic value every day in large, small, local and global businesses. And it includes our people who serve in non-profits that help improve the lives of millions of people worldwide and right here and that among other missions, protect our environment.

Finally, of course, it belittles the fact that it was the emergency forces and citizens of falls_church 5:45 Northern Virginia10/3/08 that respond-

October 9 - 15, 2008

ed to the Pentagon when attacked on September 11, 2001, as we have responded to our country’s needs now and in the past.

Northern Virginia deserves a sincere and complete apology, not the formulaic kiss off that we have received so far.

And the Virginia Republican Party, under whose tent these comments were made, is not a party with which I wish to be associated for this and many other reasons, unless and until it returns to the principles of its once revered former leaders, such as Abraham Lincoln and Dwight David Eisenhower.

Dave Snyder F.C. City Council

Editor, A letter in the previous week’s News-Press was an open thank-you for the support a family had received on the death of a family member.

My husband took his life in April. The shock, grief, and anger are indescribable.

Although I have had a very, very tough time dealing with the fallout, a bright spot in this tragedy PM 1 was Page the response of my neigh-

bors. My new next-door neighbors mobilized people in the neighborhood - some of whom I had only a nodding acquaintance and some of whom I had never met. For months wonderful meals appeared on my doorstep with flowers and other lovely touches. My lawn was mowed, a bird that I was given was adopted by a neighbor. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the kindness that was offered to my son and me. I had no idea I lived amongst such wonderful people. The words “thank you” are completely inadequate.

Kathleen Gerrity Falls Church

Editor, Last Thursday’s vice presidential debate event wasn’t really a debate; I felt as if each VP candidate could have been sitting in my living room and we were discussing general issues over coffee. Such conversation does allow one the opportunity to see what makes others “tick.”

As a gay man, I must admit how happy I am that Sarah Palin “tolerates” my homosexuality.

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I really needed that affirmation in order to experience a more integrated life. Not! Palin’s use of the word “tolerate” seems to indicate that deep down, she has a problem or issues with the GLBT community. Underneath this so-called “tolerance” is a lack of respect, and those of us who are gay (or lesbian or bisexual or transgendered) are sort of like second class citizens. Actually, we’re deviants and as much a threat to this country as al-Qaeda or whatever the transnational terrorist organization du jour may be.

Tolerance can be used to promote hate. Does “love the sinner but hate the sin” ring a bell? Think about the “Ex-Gay” Movement and you’ll know what I mean. It’s been said that Palin is a wolf in sheep’s clothing and I’m believing this to be true.

The problem is that she thinks homosexuality is a

choice as she said in an interview recently.

Oh dear Sarah. You’re pretty and I know you’re intelligent. But don’t you get it? My “choice” to be gay is the same thing as your “choice” to be heterosexual and wind up with a daughter who is pregnant out of wedlock. Oh...stupid me... this has to do with the so-called “Family Values” thing, doesn’t it? That’s right---love the sinner but hate the sin!

Sarah, you are pretty and I’m sure you are intelligent. But maybe Wasilla needs the glam you can give it (moose and elk aren’t really too sexy). And we need you up there patrolling the Bering Sea to make sure no Russians invade us!

Speaking of the “choice” I made--maybe you’re right. My choice will be not to vote for you!

Rich Kucinski Falls Church

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Over 100 supporters of democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama gathered at Bailey’s Elementary School in Falls Church for a voter registration rally last weekend, where their host, actor and comedian George Lopez, shed some humorous light on why he’s endorsing the Illinois senator.

“When I say I’m supporting Obama, people say, ‘But, he’s black’ and let me tell you, I’m darker than him,” said Lopez as a crowd equipped with raised “Latinos for Obama” signs responded in collective giggles.

“Race has nothing to do with it; the only colors that matter in this election are red, white and blue.”

Afterwards, Lopez told the News-Press that the time to act is right now for the Latino community, who he said represent 43 million of America’s population, but who have been largely absent from the polls in past elections. With buzz from political pundits that a swing vote from undecided voters will determine the 2008 presidential election, Lopez believes that is specifically where the Latino community falls.

October 9 - 15, 2008

He called the current economic situation the worst he’s seen during his lifetime, noting he wasn’t around during the Depression, and said that foreclosures and job loss are bound to force Hispanic citizens to let their voice be heard this Nov. 4.

“The role we played in past elections was to not show up, but the times have affected us too much with the loss of jobs and the immigration situation – these are people who really just want to work,” said Lopez.

Lopez, 47 years old, had an absent father growing up and credits much of his upbringing to his mother and grandparents.

Lopez registered to vote on the day he turned 18. Visiting the polls became standard bonding time with his grandmother, who accompanied him to vote during every election season thereafter.

Lopez said she would remind him about deadlines and set aside voter-related information he’d receive in a special mail pile.

“We had an interesting relationship and sometimes she’d be hard on me, but if there’s one thing she did, it was stressing the importance of voting,” said Lopez.

Raised in California, Lopez was the first member of his

family to graduate from high school and said his message to the youth of America is to make their own decisions. Noting many of his peers growing up were busy drinking and getting in trouble, Lopez said his goal to succeed in stand-up comedy influenced his choice to refrain from delinquent activity.

However, Lopez never imagined that he’d become the face he looked for on TV as a kid.

“To think when I was 10, I was trying to watch someone that looked like me and now, at 47, I’ve become for 10-yearolds what I wanted to watch when I was their age,” said Lopez.

His California roots came up again when Lopez said that his home state’s involvement in the recent bailout package passed by Congress is proof that now is the necessary time for

the Latino community to pull together.

“California was a golden state, and now Governor Schwarzenegger is asking for $7 billion to bail out California which breaks my heart,” said Lopez. “[Latinos] can’t wait any longer; we have to act now.

Finally, we are the solution.”

That’s when the on-looking crowd began to chant “Sí, se puede” for yes, we can.

October 9 - 15, 2008

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October 9 - 15, 2008

Every few years, the world seems to face a new testing time. After Sept. 11, leaders had to figure out how to respond to Islamic extremism. Now we face another test. Today, leaders around the world have to figure out how to stabilize economies amid volatile global capital flows. This test is rooted in a global shift in economic power. The rise of China, the vast wealth of the petro-powers and easy monetary policies created an ocean of excess savings that had no obvious place to go.

This money was entrusted to a few thousand traders who sloshed it around the world in search of the highest returns. These traders live in a high-tech version of Plato’s cave. They do not see reality directly. Instead they see the shadow of reality as it dances around in numbers on their computer screens. They form perceptions about other people’s perceptions of where the smart money is going next, so they’re three or four psychological levels removed from normal economic activity.

These traders are driven to take big risks because the glory goes to the biggest stars. And because they are human, they assuage their ensuing uncertainty with self-deceptions. They develop an excessive faith in “value at risk” computer models, which seem to calculate their exposure in soothingly rigorous terms.

They adopt accounting techniques that tell them they’re on firm footing. They go in for complicated financial instruments that promise “riskless risk” by dispersing risk into a million small pieces and casting them into the ether. The economists talk about “mispriced risk” and “illiquidity” in the system. But many economists are trained to downplay emotion, social psychology and moral norms, and so produce bloodless and incomplete descriptions of what’s going on.

The truth is, decision-making is an inherently emotional process, and the traders in charge of these trillions become bipolar as a result of their uncertainty.

When things are going well, they don’t think they’re just lucky and riding a wave. They’re infused with a sense that they have it all figured out. When these traders are in their manic phase, they flood countries and economic sectors with capital. Without meaning to, they dissolve the moral fabric and spoil their own profit zones.

Easy money severs actions from their consequenc-

es. National leaders find they can run up huge deficits with no negative effects. Congressmen lean on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to acquire more and more risk.

Highly regulated banks find they have money to lend far and wide, and everyone else finds credit is easy.

Families decide they can afford homes and lifestyles beyond their means.

It all feels great until it doesn’t. Then when things go bad, the social contagion sweeps the other way (the computer risk models never quite get this). One minute there’s an ocean of credit, the next minute there’s barely a drop. Once ebullient traders become paranoid, realizing how little they know about their trading partners. They refuse to acknowledge the true value of their portfolios. Everything stops.

At these moments, central bankers and Treasury officials leap in to try to make the traders feel better. Officials pretend they’re coming up with policy responses, but much of what they do is political theater. In reality, they’re trying to cajole, bluff and calm their audience of global money-sloshers.

This is more than a mortgage problem. We live in a world in which trillions of dollars can move instantly, but they are in the hands of human beings who are, by nature, limited in knowledge, and subject to self-deceptions and social contagions. By one count, financial crises are twice as prevalent now as they were 100 years ago.

In his astonishingly prescient book, “The World Is Curved: Hidden Dangers to the Global Economy,” David M. Smick argues that we have inherited an impressive global economic system. It, with the U.S. as the hub, has produced unprecedented levels of global prosperity. But it has now spun wildly out of control. It can’t be fixed with the shock and awe of a $700 billion rescue package, Smick says. The fundamental architecture needs to be reformed.

It will take, he suggests, a global leadership class that can answer essential questions: How much leverage should be allowed? Can we preserve the development model in which certain nations pile up giant reserves and park them in the U.S.? Until these and other issues are addressed, the global markets will lack confidence in asset values. Bankers will cower, afraid to lend. America’s role as the global hub will be threatened. Europeans will drift toward nationalization. Neomercantilists will fill the vacuum.

This is the test. This is the problem that will consume the next president. Meanwhile, the two candidates for that office are talking about Bill Ayers and Charles Keating.

WASHINGTON – Now they tell us!

In the last days of his presidency, Dwight D. Eisenhower cautioned that the “federal government’s collaboration with an alliance of military and industrial leaders, though necessary, was vulnerable to abuse of power.”

Eisenhower also warned that American citizens need “to be vigilant in monitoring the military-industrial complex.” “ O n l y an alert and knowledgeable citizenry can compel the proper meshing of the huge industrial and military machinery of defense with all peaceful methods and goals, so that security and liberty may prosper together.”

Considering the mercenary aspects of the U.S. war against Iraq, it’s clear that Eisenhower’s warning has been ignored. Many have profited from the war to the tune of billions of dollars.

Eisenhower would be appalled today at the gross corruption that has flourished in the aftermath of

the U.S. invasion.

Other presidents also had something to say in their parting shots.

President Lyndon B. Johnson said, “Every president lives, not only with what is, but with what has been and what could be.” In retrospect, Johnson left a lasting legacy with his “Great Society” program of social legislation but he could not overcome the failures of the Vietnam War. As he left the White House, Jimmy Carter said the “presidency is the most powerful office in the world and among the most severely constrained by law and custom.” He also said “thoughtful criticism and close scrutiny of all government officials by the press and the public are an important part of a democratic society.”

Ronald Reagan took his leave from the White House by patting his own back. “. . . a final word for the men and women of the Reagan revolution, the men and women across America, who for eight years did the work that brought America back. My friends, we did it.

We weren’t just marking time. We made a difference.”

Continued on Page 42

Reagan about how, if we aren’t vigilant, we’ll end up “telling our children and our children’s children” about the days when America was free. It was a revealing choice. You see, when Reagan said this he wasn’t warning about Soviet aggression. He was warning against legislation that would guarantee health care for older Americans – the program now known as Medicare.

Conservative Republicans still hate Medicare, and would kill it if they could – in fact, they tried to gut it during the Clinton years (that’s what the 1995 shutdown of the government was all about). But so far they haven’t been able to pull that off. So John McCain wants to destroy the health insurance of non-elderly Americans instead.

Most Americans under 65 currently get health insurance through their employers. That’s largely because the tax code favors such insurance: Your employer’s contribution to insurance premiums isn’t considered taxable income, as long as the employer’s health plan follows certain rules. In particular, the same plan has to be available to all employees, regardless of the size of their paycheck or the state of their health.

This system does a fairly effective job of protecting those it reaches, but it leaves many Americans out in the cold.

Workers whose employers don’t offer coverage are forced to seek individual health insurance, often in vain. For one thing, insurance companies offering “nongroup” coverage generally refuse to cover anyone with a pre-existing medical condition.

And individual insurance is very expensive, because insurers spend large sums weeding out “high-risk” applicants – that is, anyone who seems likely to actually need the insurance.

So what should be done? Barack Obama offers incremental reform: regulation of insurers to prevent discrimination against the less healthy, subsidies to help lower-income families buy insurance, and public insurance plans that compete with the private sector. His plan falls short of universal coverage, but it would sharply reduce the number of uninsured.

McCain, on the other hand, wants to blow up the current system, by eliminating the tax break for employer-provided insurance. And he doesn’t offer a workable alternative.

Without the tax break, many employers would drop their current health plans. Several recent nonpartisan studies estimate that under the McCain plan around 20 million Americans currently covered by their employers would lose their health insurance.

As compensation, the McCain plan would give people a tax credit – $2,500 for an individual, $5,000 for a family – that could be used to buy health insurance in the individual market.

At the same time, McCain would deregulate insurance, leaving insurance companies free to deny coverage to those with health problems – and his proposal for a “high-risk pool” for hard cases would provide little help. So what would happen?

The good news, such as it is, is that more people would buy individual insurance. Indeed, the total number of uninsured Americans might decline marginally under the McCain plan – although many more Americans would be without insurance than under the Obama plan. But the people gaining insurance would be those who need it least: relatively healthy Americans with high incomes. Why? Because insurance companies want to cover only healthy people, and even among the healthy only those able to pay a lot in addition to their tax credit would be able to afford coverage (remember, it’s a $5,000 credit, but the average family policy actually costs more than $12,000).

Meanwhile, the people losing insurance would be those who need it most: lower-income workers who wouldn’t be able to afford individual insurance even with the tax credit, and Americans with health problems whom insurance companies won’t cover.

And in the process of comforting the comfortable while afflicting the afflicted, the McCain plan would also lead to a huge, expensive increase in bureaucracy: insurers selling individual health plans spend 29 percent of the premiums they receive on administration, largely because they employ so many people to screen applicants. This compares with costs of 12 percent for group plans and just 3 percent for Medicare.

In short, the McCain plan makes no sense at all, unless you have faith that the magic of the marketplace can solve all problems.

October 9 - 15, 2008

Had Sen. Barack Obama really unloaded on Sen. John McCain in the second presidential debate, as he could have, the outcome of the election would be assured.

It has to be assumed that Obama was cautioned against telling the real truth about the economy, because doing so would send it tail-spinning only faster toward, potentially, another Great Depression.

Obama could have recited, chapter and verse, every major vote

by McCain to support deregulation and the economic policies that have created the current meltdown. Instead, he limited it to saying McCain voted for four out of five Bush budgets.

Obama could have unraveled, tagged and explained major components of the incredible bundle of special favors and exceptions that fueled the financial feeding frenzy that spun completely out of control in the last four years.

He could have told how five major investment banks in 2004 were permitted to remove the limits on their ability to leverage debt, flooding their portfolios with debt instruments for sale to their customers carrying nominal values up to 40 times the value of the original debt.

That is, they were allowed to sell bundled mortgages and other debts, often packaged in with similarly-leveraged debt instruments, to eager buyers that had an actual value one-fortieth of their nominal value.

The sub-prime mortgage crisis was only the spark that caused all the non-existent wealth tied up in these financial products to start going up into the smoke that they already were in the first place.

So, had Obama laid that scenario out clearly in the debate, and pinned McCain to it the way he could have, he would have demolished McCain, but in the meantime, would have added to the panic that is already starting to undo the global financial system.

With the unfathomable number of $2 trillion in the value of pension and retirement funds already lost in only 15 months, and with even the best-managed 401-K accounts losing on an average of 30% in value so far, citizens as well as all holders of U.S. financiergenerated debt could be on the verge of pandemonium.

For anyone who’s been paying attention, all the straight-talking pundits agree that the real problem is simply that no one still knows how bad the problem is.

The reason no one is willing to loan money to banks, for example, is that no one knows how much of the nominal holdings of any given bank is bad non-performing debt, and how much is not.

There simply is no way to know, except that every time you turn around, another case of multi-billion dollar insolvency pops up.

One day, Bank of America is being touted as one of the four strongest banks destined to wind up on top of the pile when all the dust clears. The next day, whoops! A huge chunk of their holdings are determined to be insolvent, and they’re in free fall. One day, AIG has been stabilized with a record $86 billion government bailout. The next, they need an emergency $38 billion more.

The honest pundits, those who don’t see it as their job to simply talk up the market to create a false sense of confidence, also acknowledge that we’re charting entirely new territory now, and that there are no proven rules to guide us.

How can there be, when no one knows how bad things really are, much less how bad are they going to get? No one honestly knows if we’re half way through this, a third, two-thirds or barely getting started.

One thing is for sure, based on what has happened so far, the process for an inevitable, long and deep recession, with skyrocketing unemployment and business failures, and plunging revenues for local and state governments and services, is guaranteed.

McCain and the otherwise unfortunate Gov. Sarah Palin can count their lucky stars that Obama is determined to be simply too presidential to really “tell it like it is.”

He’s too dedicated to his calling to shepherd the nation through this unprecedented crisis to really lower the boom on his opponent, because telling the real, unfiltered truth would destabilize the nation, and the global financial system, in non-constructive ways.

On the other hand, people deserve to know the truth in order to better prepare for what’s coming, including for going to the polls on Nov. 4. McCain is as personally responsible, ideologically and in his voting record, for what has brought us to this point as anyone else.  Nicholas Benton may be emailed at nfbenton@fcnp.com.

Page 11

WASHINGTON – Some of John McCain’s friends, from the good old days when he talked straight, feared that his Greek tragedy would be that he would be defeated by George Bush twice: once in 2000, because of W.’s no-conscience campaigning, and again in 2008, because of W.’s no-brains governing.

But if McCain loses, he will have contributed to his own downfall by failing to live up to his personal standard of honor.

John McCain has long been torn between wanting to succeed and serving a higher cause. Right now, the drive to succeed is trumping any loftier aspirations. He cynically picked a running mate with less care than theater directors give to picking a leading actor’s understudy. And he has been running a seamy campaign originally designed by the bad seed of conservative politics, Lee Atwater.

It was adapted in 2000 in Atwater’s home state of South Carolina by Atwater acolytes in W.’s camp to harpoon McCain with rumors that he had fathered out of wedlock a black baby (as opposed to adopting a Bangladeshi infant girl in wedlock).

Sulfurous Atwater-style rumor-mongering by Bush supporters – that McCain had come home from a Hanoi tiger cage with snakes in his head – aimed to stop him during that primary after he had zoomed in New Hampshire.

Atwater relished teaching rich white Republicans to feign a connection to the common man so they could get in office and economically undermine the common man. In the 1988 campaign, the Machiavellian ran to help the elder George Bush defeat Michael Dukakis with this unholy quintet of charges: The Democrat was a ‘60s-style liberal who would raise taxes and take away guns. He was weak and would not protect the country militarily. He was a member of the elite “Harvard Yard’s boutique.” He had a foreign-sounding name and was not on “the American side.” He was on the side of the Scary Black Man. Sound familiar?

Certainly, at some level, John McCain must be disgusted with himself for using the tactics perfected by the same crowd that used these tactics to derail him in 2000. He’s now curmudgeonly, even hostile, toward the press – the group he used to spend hours with every day and jokingly describe as his base.

He unleashed Sarah Palin to slime their opponent and suggested that the Democrat with the foreign-sounding name who came from the Harvard Yard boutique is not on the American side.

Campaigning last weekend, Palin cast their

Democratic rival as “someone who sees America, it seems, as being so imperfect that he’s palling around with terrorists who would target their own country.”

The woman is sounding more Cheney than Cheney. Palin said that Obama’s relationship with the former Weatherman Bill Ayers proved that he did not have the “truthfulness and judgment” to be president. Asked by William Kristol if the Rev. Jeremiah Wright should be an issue, she said, “I don’t know why that association isn’t discussed more.”

Atwater gleefully tried to paint Willie Horton as Dukakis’ running mate. With a black man running, it’s even easier for Atwater’s disciple running McCain’s campaign to warn that white Americans should not open the door to the dangerous Other, or “That One,” as McCain referred to Obama in Tuesday night’s debate. (A cross between “The One” and “That Woman.”)

On Monday, McCain made Obama, who has been campaigning for almost two years now, sound like an ominous intruder, questioning his character and motives, telling a New Mexico crowd that “even at this late hour in the campaign, there are essential things we don’t know about Sen. Obama . . . “All people want to know is: What has this man ever actually accomplished in government? What does he plan for America?

In short: Who is the real Barack Obama?”

The new McCain TV ad, “Dangerous,” calls Obama “dishonorable,” “dangerous” and “too risky for America.”

McCain aides have been blunt in their need to change the subject from the economy. But, as with Bush Senior’s re-election campaign, slithery character attacks don’t scare as well when Americans are already scared about keeping their jobs and retirement savings. Maybe that’s why McCain didn’t bring up Ayers or Wright during the debate, instead leaving it to Sarah Barracuda.

Palin finally took questions on Tuesday from her traveling press corps on her campaign plane.

Asked if she thought Obama was dishonest, McCain’s Mean Girl meandered: “I’m not saying he’s dishonest, but in terms of judgment, in terms of being able to answer a question forthrightly, it has two different parts to this. The judgment and the truthfulness and just being able to answer very candidly a simple question about when did you know him, how did you know him, is there still – has there been an association continued since ‘02 or ‘05, I know I’ve read a couple different stories. I think it’s relevant.” Of course she does.

Page 12

Who can blame John McCain and Sarah Palin for saying that Barack Obama is “palling around with terrorists?” The GOP ticket is bombing so badly that they must blow up the race to have a shot at winning. Palin, about as subtle as a moose in an igloo, telegraphed the pugnacious plan of smearing Obama by sneering that they will “take the gloves off.”

But, even in their attacks, the McCain campaign is a mumble jumble of mixed messages. On one hand, they tried to portray Obama as a closeted Muslim by having Lee County Florida Sheriff, Mike Scott, call the Democratic candidate “Barack Hussein Obama.” However, Sarah Palin quickly reminded voters of Obama’s former pastor, Rev. Jeremiah Wright. This might leave voters who are just tuning into the race wondering why this supposed Muslim spent so much time in church.

The truth is, the McCain/Palin experiment is a dud. He’s looking too old and she’s looking too new.

McCain has gone from a man of stature to just plain stodgy, while Palin has been reduced from fresh to freshman. She needs more seasoning, while he’s stayed at least one season too many. He appears long in the tooth, while she can’t help baring her fangs.

Palin’s nasty one-liners aren’t resonating at a time when peoples’ bank accounts are flat lining. Cutthroat politics don’t work as well when people are cutting back on gas and groceries. In a time of grave economic harm, one needs more than folksy charm. Sure, Palin can wink, but people want to know if she can think.

With Barrack Obama and Joe Biden emerging as the adults in the race, they are beginning to pull away. The McCain campaign suspended its operations in Michigan, and a Washington Post/ ABC-News poll has Obama/Biden up seven points in Ohio.

A month is forever in a campaign and things can go sour quickly.

Still, unless, there is a game-changer, like a YouTube video of Obama having tea in a cave with Osama, it looks like the Democrats will take the White House. Leaders of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community, have to begin thinking about what this will mean. What should our community’s expectations be? Will this be a huge step forward or a series of disappointments?

What I fear is that the enormity of our nation’s problems makes it easier for Congress and an Obama administration to put GLBT equality on the backburner. They can even complicate our efforts by portraying us as self-serving at a time of economic crisis and war.

Now, I’m not suggesting that the new president should make gay issues his top priority at the Inauguration. Of course, this would actually backfire and cause a great deal of resentment from people who are worried about feeding their families. However, shouldn’t we expect Congress to pass a law prohibiting job discrimination in the first six months? Or, hate crime legislation to reach Obama’s desk within the first year? Will Don’t Ask/Don’t Tell be overturned by Congress or will Democrats postpone action, afraid of consequences in the midterm elections?

As far as I’m concerned, the Democrats need to take action sooner, rather than later. Since Newt Gingrich came to power in 1994, the Democrats have credibly been able to blame the Republicans for thwarting pro-gay legislation. If they finally have a Congressional majority and the presidency, however, they can no longer hide behind the big, bad ogres of the GOP. If the Democratic leaders make excuses for ignoring our concerns for an extended period of time, widespread disillusionment of GLBT Democrats may occur.

I also worry that some of our best and brightest leaders are too close to the Obama campaign. On one hand, this may serve us well, as they will have voice in the administration. But, as we know, it is always more difficult to criticize friends. Those who end up serving Obama must not end up like democratic versions of the Log Cabin Republicans, essentially serving as party apologists. They should put the well being of the community ahead of their careers.

If the insiders do not have the willingness or the leverage to move the Democrats, I predict the growth of outsider political groups who will turn to direct action to push Congress and the Administration. Sometimes, it takes grassroots organizations that do not have conflicts of interest (such as friendships with the establishment) to propel the movement forward.

Even as we fight on towards Election Day, we should take a deep breath and imagine the possibilities, while managing our expectations.

While Obama is not the Messiah and we should not count on miracles, we should expect at least a few campaign promises to come to fruition.

Wayne Besen is a columnist and author of the book, “Anything But Straight: Unmasking the Scandals and Lies Behind the Ex-Gay Myth.” 

October 9 - 15, 2008

Last week, thousands of phone calls, letters and emails came into my office and those of my colleagues--so many that House websites crashed more than once. The issue on the minds of almost every constituent: the economic rescue package.

I’m not happy with the legislation we voted on last Friday. And from a tabulation of the calls, Northern Virginians aren’t either. My judgment, however, is that the consequences of inaction would have far outweighed the bill’s cost.

By virtue of the policies of deregulation -- the idea that the government which governs least governs best -- our economy stands on the verge of collapse.

While no silver bullet, the best minds in the financial world believe that this short term solution may be able to avert an economic disaster not seen since the 1930’s. Make no mistake, this is no quick fix. It will take time for the U.S. Treasury to implement the rescue package and begin purchasing the toxic mortgage-backed securities that have contributed so heavily to the financial mess we’re in.

Further, the next steps to economic recovery require a new administration working closely with Congress to develop a new regulatory framework that provides proper government oversight without intervening detrimentally into the market.

While much of the debate early-on focused on Wall Street, the American people are now beginning to more

fully realize the negative economic impact our frozen credit markets are having on the economy. Students are being denied private loans to pay for their education. Small businesses are being refused the necessary short term credit to stock the shelves and meet payroll.

Qualified individuals are being rejected for home loans.

And everyone’s 401K retirement savings are deteriorating, witnessed dramatically as the Dow Jones Average dropped below 10,000 this week.

As of this writing, the Federal Reserve has taken some of the funding in the rescue package to create an entity that will purchase “commercial paper,” the short-term debt that funds the daily operations of not just banks and ordinary businesses to purchase inven-

tory and meet payroll, but also the City of Falls Church and Commonwealth of Virginia to ensure there is no disruption of critical services. The hope is that by providing a federal backstop for short term credit markets, much of the uncertainty causing banks to horde money will decrease and normal lending operations will resume. Congress is monitoring the Federal Reserve closely throughout this process. We may even come back into session after the November 4th elections to deal with further problems as they may arise.

The coming weeks and months promise to be very trying for our nation. The next President and next Congress will face a multitude of economic issues; in many ways charting uncharted waters because international markets are more intertwined today than during economic downturns of the past.

I appreciate the feedback provided by so many of you over the past week and know that you will continue to let me know of your news and concerns in the months ahead as we work to get our economy moving in the right direction.

October 9 - 15, 2008

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Round three of Fairfax County’s Lines of Business (LOBs) review took an entire day Monday, as the Board of Supervisors heard presentations from the Health Department, the Park Authority, and various Human Services agencies in preparation for the FY 2010 county budget process. All county agencies were directed by County Executive Anthony H. Griffin to provide an overview of what they do, why they do it, and what options they identified for 15 percent reductions. From mid-September through mid-December, agency heads will present to the Board their estimations of where they can cut, and the effect to services.

Many Health Department activities are mandated, either by Fairfax County Code or the Code of Virginia. The Department was established in April 1917 to combat communicable disease (an Influenza Epidemic was on the rise at the time), and its mission has expanded to include environmental health, emergency preparedness, and patient care services through the community health care network. Most of Monday’s discussion centered on the option that would eliminate clinic room aides from the school health programs, a savings of nearly $4.5 million per year, affecting 192 employees.

The clinic room aide is the primary source of care for sick or injured students, and administers routine and emergency medications to students, but is not part of the county’s budget transfer to schools. In response to a question, Dr. Gloria Addo-Ayensu, Health Department director, said that school staff would have to assume clinic duties, should this cut be taken. To maintain the clinic room aide program, but still find $4.5 million in savings, the Adult Day Health Care programs at six senior centers would have to be abolished.

About four hours of the day’s presentations centered around human services. All told, about 110 positions and $20 million were identified for cuts, including services for victims of domestic violence, school-aged child care (SACC), and Head Start

Elmo L. Stanley died on Saturday, September 13, 2008 at Greenspring Village in Springfield, from complications of lung cancer.

Mr. Stanley was a 25 year resident of the City of Falls church and an active parent in the public schools. He was vice president of the George Mason Jr-Sr High School PTA during the mid-1960’s.

Stanley was also vice president and General Superintendent of Stokely-Simpson Construction Company in Merrifield.

Elmo Stanley was born November 26, 1922 in Ferrum Va. He was a 7th generation Virginian and the 14th of 15 children born to William Lee and Cora (Young) Stanley.

Stanley graduated from Rocky Mount High School in 1942. Following graduation, he worked as a dresser drawer cutter for Bald Knob Furniture Company in Rocky Mount, making 40 cents per hour. However, war fever was gripping the

programs. Homeless shelter services and reducing the number of days lunch is served at senior centers from five days a week to four also were on the options list. The human services options were perhaps unkindest of all – so far – since they hit the most at-risk people in our community – small children, the aged, the homeless, and victims of crime.

Finally, John Dargle, new director of the Fairfax County Park Authority, told Board members that Fairfax County residents love their parks, and 79 percent of house-holds consider the natural and cultural resources of our parks as very important to their quality of life. Fairfax County parks encompass more than 24,000 acres of land, with 17 million annual visitors.

Nearly all park services are supported by the county’s General Fund; only golf courses, RECenters, and athletic fields are dependent on fees and partnerships.

Nonetheless, Director Dargle identified 33 positions and $4 million in potential reductions, including park maintenance for special events, staff support for the very popular free summer concerts throughout the county, Porta-Jons on athletic fields, landscape services and contract mowing. Some of these suggestions were met with great skepticism by Board members, even an occasional “over my dead body” comment was overheard.

As I mentioned in last week’s column, no decisions have been made about any of the reduction options offered by department heads. The LOBs review, which continues through December 15, provides a close look at all the services provided by county government as we face a very difficult budget cycle for FY 2010. As the recommenda-tions pile up, however, the enormity of the decision-making process will become more clear (and painful), and will need thoughtful insight from the community about what services are critical and valued.

Penny Gross is the Mason District Supervisor, in the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. She may be emailed at mason@fairfaxcounty.gov 

nation and he soon left southern Virginia. His destination was Baltimore, where the war effort had created jobs.

In Baltimore, he worked for Glenn L. Martin Company cutting landing gear parts for B-26 bombers. Today, the company is known as Lockheed-Martin.

Stanley joined the Navy in 1943. Dispatched from Baltimore, he served as an Electrician’s Mate aboard the U.S.S. Eisner, a Destroyer Escort. While Stanley was aboard, the Eisner crossed the Atlantic on convoy duty 12 times.

After moving to Northern Virginia after the war, he began working as a laborer for the Washington Gas Light Company.

On Veteran’s Day 1948, he married Mariana Trice, a Marine Corps veteran from Arlington.

They had two daughters, Harriett (1950) and Sarah Jean (1953).

In the early 1950’s, Stanley joined the Stokely-Simpson Construction Company, where

he worked for the rest of his career. He retired shortly after his 60th birthday in 1982.

Stanley’s first marriage ended in divorce in 1969. In 1970, he married Sophia (Abramowich) Cordani of Fairfax.

Stanley and his second wife moved to Whitestone, Va. during the 1980’s and then to Naples, Fl. In 2003, due to health problems, they returned to Virginia.

Stanley was a member of the Masonic Lodge for 60 years.

Survivors include his wife of 38 years, Sophie; two daughters, Harriett L. of West Newbury, Ma. and Sarah J. of Portland, Or. and a sister, Olive Stanley of Manassas, Also left are a step-daughter, Fran Rudd and her husband, Dale of Fairfax Station,; a step-grandson, Michael Rudd, of Centreville,, his wife Kathleen and children Andrew and Natalie.

He also leaves a niece, Julie Cochran, of Manassas and two nephews, Larry Patterson of Fieldale and Dale Sloan of McLean.

Mr. Stanley was cremated and his ashes distributed by his family. Arrangements were by Demaine Funeral Home in North Springfield.

Trip to the Holy Land At the end of September, I returned from a nine-day trip to Israel, sponsored by the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington.

I was honored to be one of the few people twice invited on such a trip, having first traveled there in 1997.

Also on the trip were state Senator Mary Margaret Whipple, Delegate Brian Moran and other Northern Virginia legislators.

This trip served to enhance my love for the people and land of Israel, and I found positive changes in the 11 years since my last visit.

As a Christian, it is also a very moving spiritual experience to visit the Holy Land and witness the co-existence between modern and Biblical times. We toured Tel Aviv and the Upper Galilee, traveled to Masada and the Dead Sea, and visited several of the smaller towns.

Of course, we ascended to Jerusalem to visit the many Biblical and historical sites and get a feel for every day life there. We heard from professors, trade officials, scholars, local elected officials, a Knesset (parliament) member, and a Palestinian representative.

Strong and Vibrant Compared to 11 years ago, the country is younger, more diverse, and more prosperous.

It has a stable economy and a strong currency.

Business growth has been strong and new buildings are going up everywhere you look, especially in Tel Aviv.

The people of Israel are quite entrepreneurial and high technology companies have sprung up everywhere, particularly along the Mediterranean coast.

I found a country on the move. There are more people and more traffic, and the Israeli government has seen fit to fund road improvements.

As an agriculture major in college, I am always interested in what is being grown in the areas I visit. In Israel, everything grows.

They developed drip irrigation technology, allowing them to direct the most precious commodity they have – water – straight to plant roots.

You find figs, olives, and dates, as you would expect, but also bananas, wine grapes, lemons, apples, and grain crops.

Visits to several Israeli companies and tours of their production facilities were also included in the trip.

It was a great educational, professional, and spiritual experience for me and I will share more of that in future columns.

Budget Woes While in Israel, we followed the banking upheavals that had begun here. It has only gotten worse since we got back.

The national economy is in bad shape and so is the Virginia economy. Tax revenues are down and budget cutting is in order. We already made cuts to last year’s budget and reduced the revenues expected for the next two fiscal years.

It now looks like we will have to find budget reductions of about $3 billion more.

That will be especially painful at the local level.

Fairfax County and other local governments are getting hit with a double whammy of revenue losses.

First, real estate assessments have dropped because of declines in home sale prices and the lack of taxes coming from foreclosed properties.

Local governments would ordinarily hope for help from the state. But, with the Commonwealth’s revenues falling, I do not see that happening.

That puts tremendous pressure on the funding for public education and social services at both the local and state levels.

Yet, as the best managed state in the nation, I expect that we can handle it. But, it will not be without a great deal of distress.

Governor Tim Kaine has already frozen state expenditures and he will present his final budget changes in December. We will be all ears!

And Last in the American League I read with sadness last week’s obituary about the passing of Eddie Brinkman, the great shortstop for the Washington Senators. For an expansion team that usually lost more games than it won, Brinkman was one of the few treats we Senators fans had.

It was reported that he had heart problems and was only 66 years old when he died.

He was a miserable hitter with a lifetime batting average of only .224, but he was as big as Frank Howard in the hearts of Senators fans.

Delegate Hull represents the 38th District in the Virginia House of Delegates.

He may be emailed at delrhull@state.house.va.us 

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October 9 - 15, 2008

USAID Director to Speak at Weekly Rotary Meeting

CALLING ALL CANINES! Dogtober Day, hosted by the Arlington County Park Rangers, will be held on Oct. 11.

Pooches can test their skills in various competitions, like “Fastest Pooch” and “Best Tail Wagger.” This lucky dog was trying out for the “Cutest Costume” competition at last year’s Dogtober Day. (Photo: Courtesy Arlington Government)

USAID (United States Agency of International Development) Director Mauricio Vera will speak to the Falls Church Rotary Club about his organization’s efforts to combat poverty, aid democratic movements and help with disaster relief efforts in nations around the world. The meeting will be held at Harvest Moon Restaurant (7260 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church) at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 9.

Taste Teas of India at the Great Falls Tea Garden Join Parisian-trained chef and tea connoisseur Laurie Bell from 10 – 11 a.m. Oct. 14 at Cathy’s Corner in the Great Falls Village Centre (766-C Walker Road, Great Falls) for an educational seminar on the black teas of India. While sampling tea, learn their history and how the growing process affects tea’s shape, aroma and color. There is a fee of $20 per person. For more information, visit www. greatfallsteagarden.com.

Hispanic Arts Festival Performs Play

A YOUNG GIRL DECORATED her pumpkin last weekend at the McLean Fall Festival, held at the McLean Community Center. Children also participated in scarecrow making and face painting and enjoyed pony rides and fall foods. Musical acts like Rocknoceros and Hot Peas ‘N Butter played on the main stage, while the Celtic Rhythm School of Dance, Mad Science and the Reptiles Alive show took the Interactive Stage. (Photo: William B. Folsom)

“Huggings,” a story about a meeting of two people united by love, told through dance, music and poetry, will be performed as part of the 11th Festival of Hispanic Theatre at the Gunston Art Center (2700 S. Lang St., Arlington). The festival promotes Hispanic theatre as well as honor Hispanic directors, technicians and actors. The production runs at

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Dogs and Their Owners Invited to Dogtober Day Join dogs and their owners at 1 p.m. Oct. 11 at Lacey Woods Park (1200 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington) for Dogtober Day, hosted by the Arlington County Park Rangers Unit.

The fun will include raffles and canine competitions such as “Best Tail Wagger,” “Cutest Costume,” “Terrific Pet Tricks” and “Fastest Pooch” in the small, medium and large dog categories. The cost is $6 per category or $25 for unlimited categories. A registration form is available at www. arlingtonva.us (deadline for pre-registration was Oct. 8) or on-site the day of the event.

For more information, call 703525-0168.

devoted to fostering musical proficiency at all age levels, will present its student rock band at a show from 4 – 6 p.m.

Oct. 11 at the Palladium Civic Green (1445 Laughlin Ave., McLean). Bach to Rock offers students instruction in songwriting, performance, track recording, musical computer software and band rehearsal.

‘King of Pizza’ Musical Celebrates Diversity Creative Cauldron and the Falls Church Arts will present “Martin: King of Pizza,” a whimsical musical about the origins of pizza and the positive consequences of celebrating diversity in our communities.

The show will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 11, and 10:30 a.m. Oct. 12 at the Center for Spiritual Enlightenment (222 N. Washington St., Falls Church).

Tickets cost $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors.

Food, Tunes And Cars At The Fairfax Fall Festival

Three Exhibitions Displayed in McLean

The 32nd Annual Fairfax Fall Festival will provide food and fun from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Oct. 11 in historic Old Town Fairfax (near the courthouse). Over 400 vendors will be present, along with a business expo, the Great Zucchini and the Rocknocerus for children’s entertainment, a Classic Car Show and the 3rd Annual Fairfax Superstar singing competition for participants ages 3-18.

Several exhibits are currently featured at the McLean Project for the Arts (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean) and will be open on select days until Oct. 25. The Emerson gallery showcases works by Jo Smail, and Pat Goslee’s exhibition titled “Memory/Full” is in the Atrium Gallery. In the Ramp Gallery Sangbok Lee’s “Contemplation on Nature” exhibition is highlighted. Visit www.mpaart.com.

Bach to Rock Shares Rock Passion with Public

Travel Film Series Presents ‘La Manche’

Bach to Rock, a music school

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October 9 - 15, 2008

as the McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean) shows “La Manche; The English Channel,” a film

by Monty and Marsha Brown about their explorations of the north coast of France, the Channel and the southern coast of England. This event is part of the Travel Film Series, put on at the community center through April 22. For more information, visit www.mpaart.com.

Alden Theatre Volunteer Service Needed Teens ages 16 or older, or anyone who would like to volunteer, can get involved at the Alden Theatre at the McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean). The Alden Theatre needs ushers for both its day and evening performances. Ushers receive free admission to the performances they work, and those who usher at a McLean Kids Series performance may request a complimentary youth admission to the show. For more information, visit www.mpaart.org.

Farm Day Comes to Cherry Hill Park Farm Day will be held from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Oct. 11 at Cherry Hill Park (312 Park Ave., Falls Church). The day’s events will include pumpkin painting, a petting zoo, horse-drawn hayrides and blacksmith demonstrations. Children can learn different farming skills, and tours of Cherry Hill Farmhouse and Barn will also be offered.

‘Pumpkin Tales’ Packs Silly, Slightly Scary Punch Enjoy “Pumpkin Tales,” a series of funny and slightly scary stories narrated by storyteller Maison Tailspinner, starting at 7 p.m. on Oct. 15. This evening of fright and delight will be held at Mary Stiles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Falls Church) and is for all ages and is open to the public.

Page 15

Bluegrass and Bug Spray Underneath the Moon The 2nd Annual Moon over the River Concert at the Riverbend Nature Center (8814 Jeffery Road, Great Falls, Va.), offers bluegrass music and views of nature’s splendor in the moonlight. The Ashley and Jim Cash Band will headline this year’s concert, from 5 – 7 p.m. on Oct. 11. Admission is $8 per person, and children ages 12 and under are free. Visit www.forb.org.

Kids Construct Civil War Forts in Arlington From 3 – 4 p.m. Oct. 15, the Arlington Historical Society will speak about Civil War forts, and allow kids, using dirt and “Lincoln Logs” to design and build their own replica forts. A $5 fee, payable the day of the event and registration (www. arlingtonhistoricalsociety.org) is required. This event will be held at Fort C.F. Smith Park (2411 N. 24th St., Arlington).

LOCAL CHILDREN learn about the Baha’i faith by making paper lanterns at a home in Falls Church that hosts religious classes. Adult Baha’i devotional classes are available on Tuesday evenings, and children’s classes are available on Sunday mornings. For more information, call Peter and Riva Adriance at 703-241-7015. (Photo: Courtesy Layli Miller-Muro)

Pre-schoolers Learn About ‘Ring-tailed Rascals’ Children ages 3-5 and their parents are invited for crafts, story time and a short hike to learn about raccoons and other nocturnal animals from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Oct. 15 at the Gulf Branch Nature Center (3608 N. Military Road, Arlington). The cost is $3 per child. To register, call 703-2284747, or visit www.registration. arlingtonva.us/vsiwebtrac.html.

Paint Downtown for a Howling Good Halloween Falls Church Arts presents “Paint the Storefronts” on Oct. 25 where students, parents and merchants can decorate the windows of downtown F.C. businesses. Artists must submit an application and a color sketch of ideas by Oct. 15 at Falls Church Art and Frame (111 Park Ave., Falls Church). Forms are available online at www.fallschurcharts.org.

OCTOBER’S FIRSTFRIDAY SAW Falls Church Arts (FCA) first juried art show, with the winners pictured above. The show’s sole juror was Lisa Semerad, a well-known art teacher for 25 years from the Torpedo Factory Art Center’s Art League School in Alexandria. The theme for the show followed FCA’s year-long da Vinci Passport series, in collaboration with Creative Cauldron. The show’s theme was “Connessione,” or “Things in Common.” (Photo: Courtesy Shaun Van Steyn)

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October 9 - 15, 2008

Stifel and Capra is hosting a Saturday Sidewalk Sale featuring gift and seasonal merchandise on Oct. 11 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Stifel and Capra is located at 210 Little Falls St., Suite 201, in Falls Church. Visit www.stifelandcapra.com to view the artwork, jewelry and other items from local artists and craftsmen available.

The Virginia Career Education Foundation (VCEF) is sponsoring the second annual Virginia Career Week Oct. 12 – 18, in appreciation of the business community’s efforts to help schools and promote career awareness. The week is purposefully planned to coincide with Columbus Day in keeping with its slogan: Discover Your Future. VCEF provides online and printed resources and programs for businesses, schools and parents. For more information, visit www.vcef.net.

Red, White and Bleu is hosting an educational wine and cheese tasting to benefit Falls Church’s sister City, Kokopolori on Tuesday, Oct. 14 from 6:30 – 8 p.m.

Donations of $25 or more will sponsor Maura Constance’s fundraising through the Marine Corp Marathon, scheduled for Oct. 26, to pay a full year of the doctor’s salary in Kokolopori. Space is limited to the first 40 who sign up. RSVP to info@kokoloporipartnership.org by Oct. 12. Red, Hot and Bleu is located at 127 S. Washington St. The Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce is hosting a breakfast debate on Election 2008: Energy & Environment on Wednesday, Oct. 15 from 7 – 9 a.m. at the Washington Dulles Airport Marriott (45020 Aviation Drive, Dulles). For the first time ever, Democratic Governor Tim Kaine, representing the Obama campaign, and former Republican Governor George Allen, representing the McCain campaign, will debate their parties’ platforms on national energy and environmental policy. Norah O’Donnell, former White House Correspondent and current chief Washington Correspondent for MSNBC, will moderate this debate. Tickets are $45 for members and $55 for nonmembers. For more information or to register, visit www.dullesregionalchamber.org or call 571-323-5304.

Acacia Federal Savings Bank is sponsoring two free shred events – one for the community and the other specifically for businesses. Individuals are invited to bring up to five standard size boxes of papers to be shredded free of charge on Oct. 18 from 8 a.m. – noon in the front parking lot of 7600 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church. Businesses are invited bring up to 10 standard size boxes of documents on Wednesday, Oct. 29 starting at 9 a.m. in the back parking lot of 7600 Leesburg Pike. For more information visit www.afsbonline.com.

Starting Oct. 21, Vantage Fitness in Falls Church will be offering a five-week “Boot Camp” for all fitness levels at 6:05 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The “Boot Camp” provides a total body workout incorporating cardiovascular conditioning, muscular strengthening, toning and core work. The cost is $200 with a $30 drop in fee. Contact Sergeant LauraLynn at lljansen@ihcoach.com for more information.

Falls Church-based Northshore Design received the 2008 Regional Chrysalis Award for Remodeling Excellence and the National Chrysalis Award for Residential Exterior. The custom build and design firm’s winning entry included a wraparound TimberTech composite porch with a three-season screened room on a new Arts & Crafts home. For pictures of the entry or for more information about Northshore Design, visit www.northsd.com.

Dr. Gordon Theisz of Family Medicine in Falls Church is now providing flu shots for 2008. The CDC has recommended that people get their flu shot as soon as they can this year. Established patients are invited to call and make an appointment. New patients are also welcome to establish with the practice by calling 703-533-7555 for an appointment.

Composition Systems Incorporated (CSI) has hired Brian Lee as its new Director of Business Services. Lee previously served as Director of Sponsorship at the Verizon Center and the Washington Wizards. CSI is a full service print shop specializing in large format, grand format, short-run color printing and trade show exhibits/displays with two locations in Falls Church (205 West Jefferson St. and 2916 Annandale Road). Clients include Smithsonian museums, government entities, advertising agencies, graphic design firms, restaurants, property management services, and professional sports facilities. For more information visit www.csi2.com.

Drs. Ralph G. Perrino and Fred Siegmund have published “Maneuvering the College Funding Maze” in the October issue of Family Magazine. With college costs increasing at nearly 9 percent per year, while scholarships and grants are a mere 3 percent of available funding for students, and sources of loans are drying up, “Maneuvering the College Funding Maze” addresses the many options still available to parents as they look for affordable ways to send their children to college. Visit www.washingtonfamily.com to review the article.  The Business News & Notes section is compiled by Sally Cole, Executive Director of Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. She may be emailed at sally@ fallschurchchamber.org.

October 9 - 15, 2008

Earlier this week The Washington Post’s media critic, Howard Kurtz, published an apology on behalf of the media for its weak coverage of the multi-year run-up to the current financial debacle. To quote the Post, “The shaky house of financial cards that has come tumbling down was erected largely in public view: overextended investment banks, risky practices by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, exotic mortgage instruments that became part of a shadow banking system. But while these were conveyed in incremental stories -- and a few whistle-blowing columns -- the business press never conveyed a real sense of alarm until institutions began to collapse.”

In reading through the story I was struck by how eerily similar are the now admitted journalistic lapses and the failure to connect the dots in the financial story to what we have been witnessing in the media’s coverage of peak oil. The heart of Kurtz’s apologia is the troubling question “Why didn’t they see this coming?”

Lets look at a few of his points about the financial crisis and their analogies to peak oil. First, “the media warned repeatedly that the surge in housing prices might turn out to be a bubble, but the emphasis was on the potential toll on homeowners.” Nobody connected the dots to warn that a collapse in housing prices would leave many major financial institutions holding so many worthless loans that they would be rendered insolvent; and that this in turn would result in what may turn out to be a meltdown of the world financial system.

There is no lack of coverage of the oil in the financial and popular press. Much of this, however, is in terms of high gas prices and their damage to family finances and effect on inflation. The rapid growth in oil prices in recent years is usually attributed to increases in Asian demand for oil which has resulted in tight world markets. Here too the dots are rarely connected, and certainly not on the front page where the impending crisis might start to sink in readers’ consciousness.

Few in the mainstream media have warned prominently that worldwide oil supply has been

Page 17

basically flat for the last four years, has little prospect for increasing significantly, and that the available evidence says world production will soon begin to decline creating untold havoc on the world’s economy.

Another issue in warning of a coming financial crisis is simply being believed. As a senior editor of Fortune told the Post reporter “if we had written stories in late 2000 saying this whole thing [the housing/financial bubble] is going

to collapse, people would have said, ‘Ha ha, maybe’ and gone about their business.” The executive editor of Post, who until last spring was the top editor at the Wall Street Journal, told his writer that “These are really difficult issues to convey to a popular audience... We also have to remember you’re pushing against a powerful force, which is greed.”

With peak oil this issue is similar: the implications of the concept are so horrendous that few want to hear about or ponder its implications. The admission that journalism has an obligation to push important issues (like the end of the oil age) into public consciousness is good, but the mention of greed is interesting. With the housing/financial bubble everyone was benefiting -financiers, homeowners, governments, and countless middlemen. Everybody was making money. So too is the case with cheap, freely available oil.

We are all benefiting in untold ways and we most certainly do not want to be told that it is all about to end.

Finally we come to the problem of journalists trying to take on the wealth, power, and expertise of the status quo.

Where billions of dollars are at stake those with a vested interest, be it Wall Street investment banks or ExxonMobil, are going to react vigorously when their righteousness is challenged.

According to the Post story, journalists concerned that the housing bubble and securitization of mortgages was a disaster waiting to happen were told that they simply did not have

the expertise to understand the problem. Stories critical of what was taking place resulted in complaints to editors and newspaper owners.

With peak oil the story is similar. First you have extremely rich and powerful organizations such as ExxonMobil, most international oil companies, the governments and national oil companies of most oil producing states, which for one reason or another deem it to be in their best interests if the complete story of peak oil and its implications does not come to the attention of the general populace for as long as absolutely possible. You can add most national governments who simply don’t want to call for the sacrifices required to mitigate the consequences of peak oil.

You can add to this list the official U.S. and International Agencies, the EIA and the IEA that are charged with tracking world oil production and forecasting just when it will go into decline.

Until now, their official position has been that the peak of world oil production is not imminent, but these official positions seem to be changing. When you get right down to it there is not a living soul on the planet that really wants to hear about peak oil and its implications. The peak oil story certainly will not sell newspapers until the affordability and availability of oil gets so bad that some sort of action must be taken.

Is there a lesson from the current financial crisis that might be applied to the impending peak oil crisis? For now the peak oil story is lost in the collapse of the equity markets, the commodity markets, and who knows what else. When people and their elected representatives are worried about what will happen to jobs, retirement accounts, and food supplies over the next six months, it will become increasing difficult to get them to heed warnings of higher gasoline prices and even shortages years from now.

Perhaps the one point we should all take away from this is the admonition by the Washington Post’s executive editor, Marcus Brauchli, that “you do have an obligation as a journalist to push important issues into the public consciousness.”

Page 18

October 9 - 15, 2008

F.E.S. Offers SOL-Related Intersession Activities Franconia Elementary School is starting its seventh year on the modified elementary school calendar. At the end of each quarter, students have the opportunity to take reinforcement and enrichment classes associated with the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) tests.

Cooking heart-healthy foods, exploring the insect world, getting a head start on second quarter math expectations and reading great books linked to games and crafts are some of the activities students can choose during the first intersession, which runs Oct. 6 – 17. For more information, contact Principal Merrell Dade at 703-822-2200 or merrell.dade@fcps. edu, or event liaison Tracy Morgan-Hale at tracy.morgan@fcps.edu.

Language Credit Offered to Multilingual Students

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Students that speak a language other than English may be eligible to receive up to two credits through the 2008-2009 Foreign Language Credit Program Exam at McLean High School. Registration for the exam is now open. There are 16 languages included in the program: Amharic, Arabic, Bengali/ Bangla, Chinese/Mandarin, Farsi/Persian, French, Hindi, Korean, Punjabi, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog/Pilipino, Twi, Urdu, and Vietnamese. The deadline for registration will close at 3 p.m. on Oct., 20. Late registrations not accepted.

Aircraft Carrier Crew to Visit Chesterbrook Students at Chesterbrook Elementary School will meet with crew members from the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson on Friday, Oct. 10, at 8 a.m. Chesterbrook has a partnership with Vinson Hall Retirement Community (6251 Old Dominion Dr., McLean), home to military veterans and their spouses, which is currently involved in an oral history program with the crew of the USS Carl Vinson. The crew members are multimedia specialists and will be interviewed by students on the school’s television station on multimedia techniques. The students also plan to establish a pen pal program with the crew members. For more information, contact Principal Bob Fuqua at 703-714-8200.

Alexandria High School to Celebrate 70th Anniversary

nationwide to receive the Dispelling the Myth Award from the Education Trust. Graham Road received the award for moving all its students toward high achievement in reading and math. The award is given to schools that succeed in achieving high academic performance or in making the most improvement for lowincome and minority students.

Graham Road’s students scored in the top 10 percent of all state schools, while almost 80 percent of its students are eligible for free or reduced-price meals. More than 80 percent come from homes in which English is not the first language, and 96 percent of the student body represent minorities.

Principal Molly Bensinger-Lacy and her staff have been invited to share the strategies they used to improve achievement at the Education Trust’s National Conference in Crystal City in November.

For more information, contact Molly Bensinger-Lacy at 571-226-2700 or molly.bensingerlacy@fcps.edu.

McLean Yearbook Space Available to Parents Parents of McLean High School seniors are invited to purchase Senior Yearbook Ads. Space is being offered to place photos and information on sons or daughters. All-color ads are available. The deadline for submission is Oct. 15. Send all pictures, messages and checks, payable to McLean High School Publications, to Meghan Percival at McLean High School (1633 Davidson Rd., McLean).

For more information, call the Yearbook Office at 703-714-5801, or email Percival at meghan.percival@fcps.edu.

Marshall Freshmen Retreat Hopes to Unite George C. Marshall High School will hold its Freshman Retreat on Friday, Oct. 10. This is an out-of-school event where the freshmen get to mingle with other freshmen, listen to music, dance and enjoy refreshments. The event is sponsored and run by the Parent Teacher Student Association. Freshmen will meet with squads, a group of 12-14 freshmen, two student mentors and a teacher squad leader in the morning. They shall then meet in the larger groups, or platoons, and attend the presentation“Making High School Count” in the auditorium. This presentation details how to make the best use of high school, its opportunities, recognizing their potential and also how to deal with time management issues. At about 9:35 a.m., all squads, parent volunteers and chaperones will board the bus and go to Lake Fairfax Park (1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston) for the day.

Mount Vernon High School, of Alexandria, is planning a celebration of the school’s 70th anniversary. Alumni who would like to help with the event are invited to attend the first organizational meeting on McLean Homecoming Volunteers Saturday, Oct. 11, at 10 a.m. at the school. Needed Interested alumni should contact the Mount McLean High School is recruiting Vernon Principal, Nardos King, at 703parent volunteers for Homecoming from 619-3100 or nardos.king@fcps.edu. approximately 8:15 – 11:45 p.m. Parents interested in helping chaperone or run the Graham Road Receives Dispelling coat-check at the homecoming dance on the Myth Award Oct. 18 can contact Lori Wagoner at lori.

Graham Road Elementary School wagoner@fcps.edu or Erin Truesdell at has been named one of six schools erin.truesdell@fcps.edu.

October 9 - 15, 2008

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At the beginning of last season, Washington Capitals owner Ted Leonsis declared that the team’s three-year rebuilding process was over and that the team’s quest for the playoffs had begun. The Caps responded to the heightened expectations by dropping 14 of their first 20 games and costing then-Head Coach Glen Hanlon his job.

This season, after Jack Adams award-winner Bruce Boudreau replaced Hanlon behind the bench and rode Alex Ovechkin’s MVP season to the Southeast Division title, the expectations have been raised again. This year, Washington will be the favorites to earn the division

October 9 - 15, 2008

crown, with some pundits even calling for the Caps to win it all. How will the team respond this time?

It’s not exactly a Stanley Cup hangover, but the Caps are coming off quite a high from last season. After making the playoffs for the first time since 2003, the team will have to hit the ground running to keep up with the momentum that began building before last season’s end. With the return of all of its young core, Washington has all the tools it needs to keep pace. Now, factor in a pair of savvy and successful veterans returning from injury and the Capitals promise to be even deeper than last season.

While Washington made its improbable run to the Southeast title, team captain Chris Clark

and center Michael Nylander could do little but watch, sidelined by a severe groin pull and torn rotator cuff respectively.

Again healthy, the duo is just a year removed from totaling a combined 137 points.

“It’s been 10 months since I played the game, and whatever you do on your own it’s hard to mirror the training camp intensity,” said Nylander, who led the team with 26 assists before suffering his season-ending injury.

“I’m just happy to have started now and I’m working hard to get to the level where I want to be.”

Clark, who scored 30 goals in 2006-07, said he has had no setbacks from his injury in camp and is eager to put his rehab behind him and focus on the work ahead.

“We have a lot of expectations especially because of how well we ended,” Clark said. “Last season, there was a thought of us doing well. This year it’s we should do well. On paper we have a great team, we just have to go out and prove it.”

There certainly doesn’t appear to be a drop off in chemistry, or production, since the two returned to the team. That holds particularly true when playing together. Three times this preseason Nylander and Clark skated on the same line, combining for four goals in those games.

“Right now you just juggle and see who comes out,” Boudreau said following a practice last week. “We’re experimenting with every line to see who feels right together, who looks good together.”

That may be true, but the pair appeared on a line with underachieving prospect Tomas Fleischmann in both of the Caps’ final two exhibition games.

If that line holds up, the Caps could very well enter the season with one of the deepest offensive rosters in the NHL. The Fleischmann-NylanderClark line would be sandwiched by two lines featuring league MVPs (Ovechkin and 1994 winner Sergei Fedorov), and each of the Caps’ top three lines would sport a former 30-goal scorer – Clark, Ovechkin and Alexander Semin (38 goals in 2006-07).

And that doesn’t even consider the offensive prowess of upstart first-line center Nicklas Backstrom (55 assists as a rookie in 2007-08), breakout 20-goal scorer Brooks Laich or defenseman Mike Green, whose 18 goals led all NHL D-men last season.

Simply put, that’s enough offensive firepower to make the folks in the Pentagon blush.

Given that scoring surplus – eighth best in the league last year without Clark, Nylander or Fedorov for a full year – the search for the Caps’ weakness has focused squarely on the team’s own end. Of course, that only spotlights another past MVP – recently-acquired netminder Jose Theodore.

The run to last year’s playoff berth was largely credited to the trade-deadline acquisition, and ensuing all-star play, of goalie Cristobal Huet (11-2 with a 1.63 goals against average after coming to Washington). However,

the Caps lost Huet to free agency when they were outbid by the Chicago Blackhawks and the team turned to Theodore, whose past greatness has been clouded by his subsequent string of inconsistent seasons.

After winning the Hart Trophy for the NHL’s MVP in 2002, Theodore’s play slipped before he regained his form last season with the Colorado Avalanche (2.44 goals against average). The Caps will need him to repeat that kind of performance to make up for the occasional lapses of an improving, but still young and mistakeprone defensive corps.

In more than a quarter of the Caps’ games under Boudreau the team has allowed four or more goals. It’s a striking figure given that Washington allowed the ninth-fewest shots against goal last season, meaning when the Caps did give them up, they were usually good scoring opportunities.

Another year of experience for Green and his young counterparts, along with the continued steady, veteran play of Tom Poti should decrease those chances though. And if Theodore’s athleticism and agility in the crease can erase a few of those errors, there is little reason to think that the Caps won’t be able to return to the playoffs.

Heightened expectations?

Absolutely. But with an arsenal of forwards that could turn the goal light into a strobe light and a steadily improving defensive presence, these Caps can measure up.

October 9 - 15, 2008

Page 21

MARSHALL QUARTERBACK NUMBER 7 Harold Sweet makes a run during Friday night’s victorious Homecoming game against McLean High School. (Photo: Courtesy Karen Newcomb)

The Falls Church Jaguars took on the Generals of Washington-Lee High School in a National District game. The Generals started strong. In their first possession, Keith Johnson and Charlie Fuller shared carries leading to the first touchdown of the game. The Jaguars tied it at 7-7 with a touchdown of their own. By the fourth quarter, the Generals took a commanding 17-point lead.

Johnson lead the Generals with 135-yard rushing, but close behind was Fuller with 120 rushing yards. The Jaguars closed the margin with another touchdown, but fell short in their comeback. For the Jaguars, they have yet to win this season and are 0-6 thus far. The Jaguars play next at Mt. Vernon in another National District game.

Marshall High — 38 McLean High — 16 Marshall celebrated homecoming with a pigskin win of 38-16 this past Friday. The game started with McLean scoring the first nine points on a 96-yard kickoff return by Wiley Beiro (the point-after failed) and a field goal. However, the Marshall Statesmen stormed back on a 37-yard run and field goal of its own to take a 10-9 lead.

McLean retook the lead on another touchdown

by Beiro, but with a 28-yard pass from Marshall quarterback Harold Sweet to Daniel McClain, the point after turned out to be the game winner.

Another touchdown pass and two running touchdowns by the Statesmen in the second half made for the final margin.

Marshall Coach J.T. Biddison said, “We had outstanding play from linemen Andrew Embree, Center Collin Newcomb, Guard Richie MacDowell and defensive lineman James Peoples.”

The Statesmen were aided by the return of quarterback Sweet who had been out with a broken hand. Sweet threw for two touchdowns, ran for two more.

“Jamie Cleer had an outstanding game at

defensive back and wide receiver who caught two passes for 36 yards and one touchdown as well has handling punt return duties,” said Coach Biddison.

McLean lost the services of Beiro during the game when he injured an ankle. Marshall upped their record to 3-3 and 1-2 in the Liberty League.

McLean dropped to 0-3 in the Liberty League and 0-6 overall. McLean’s next game is at home against South Lakes, while Marshall takes on Thomas Jefferson at home.

George Mason High — 14 Goochland High — 31 This past Friday, the George Mason Mustangs lost 31-14 against the Goochland High School Bulldogs. With the loss, the Mustangs dropped to 1-4 on the season; however, they have yet to start league play in the Bull Run District. The points for the Mustangs came from touchdowns by brothers Charlie Mann and John Mann. The game stayed close in the first half, but the Bulldogs pulled away in the second half. The Mustangs next game is homecoming this Friday at 7:30 p.m. against Manassas Park High School.

J.E.B. Stuart High — 0 Mt. Vernon High — 49 It was an upsetting night for the J.E.B. Stuart Raiders, losing their Homecoming game to Mount Vernon High School, 49-0. Brian Green led Mt. Vernon with rushing yards, followed by Stuart’s Chris Goslin. Mt. Vernon started off the game extremely strong. At the end of the first quarter the score was 22-0. Mt. Vernon added onto their margin with two touchdowns in the second quarter, and another in the third and fourth quarters. The Stuart Raiders fell to 0-2 in the district and 1-5 for the season. The Raiders next game will be on the road against Edison High School this Friday at 7:30 p.m.

— By Reid Mene

I’ll admit it. I never thought the Redskins would be 4-1 to start the season. If you asked me to place this on a scale of unlikelihoods, a month and a half ago, I would have slotted it somewhere between the sun setting in the East and waking up to find I possessed a super power.

But now, somehow, the Skins are 4-1 and God knows I am still super powerless. I sure as heck don’t have ESP; otherwise I would have been able to look past Washington’s abysmal preseason, its aging offensive line, injury-plagued defense and all of the troubles that come with installing a new offense to see that this Skins team was capable of this kind of start.

Like most, I instead saw this team plunging like the Dow Industrial Average to start this season. There were few reasons for optimism and it sure didn’t feel like a first-year head coach had the savvy to bail the Skins out. So far, I couldn’t have been more wrong.

The biggest key to the team’s success this far has been clock control. Currently the Redskins rank fourth in the NFL in time of possession. Of the top seven teams in that category, four of them lead their division (Giants, Bears, Cardinals, Panthers).

The remaining three are all in second.

Fueling that stat are the three earlier mentioned areas that I saw as problematic entering the season — their offensive line, a banged up defense and yet another new playbook to stunt Jason Campbell’s growth.

Instead, Campbell has flourished to the tune of a completion percentage of 63.4. The line has mauled its opposition, allowing running back Clinton Portis to run for 514 yards so far, the second best total in the NFL. That combination has kept Washington’s defense on the sidelines for most of the game.

So while its defensive statistics aren’t particularly gawdy — the Skins D ranks near the middle of the league in yards and points allowed, 13th in both categories — in the time they are on the field, they’ve been effective.

Perhaps the most encouraging note of all for the Redskins is who they’ve beaten thus far and who they have coming up on the horizon. Washington has already dispatched the Cowboys and Eagles. Both teams were trendy picks to

win the Super Bowl at the season’s start. And both of those wins came on the road. Next up are home games against the JV-caliber Rams, the underachieving Browns and the ... well, I guess just saying “the Lions” covers all manners of ineptitude. Win those three and the worst Washington will be is 7-2 heading into its bye week. On the other side, even if the Skins drop their three remaining games against division foes, they could still finish at 115. That’s not out of the question, given that their road games come against a hard-luck Seattle team, the offensively-marginal Ravens, the currently sub-.500 49ers and, well, again, I guess “the Bengals” just about covers everything.

In a region rife with unrealistic expectations for the Redskins, I’ve always been a bit of a skeptic. That was particularly true this season when I believed there would be a learning curve to adjust to new Head Coach Jim Zorn’s West Coast offense. Couple that with a particularly tough start to their schedule and I thought the Skins would be buried before they got through their first five games.

Guess that ESP was gummed up.

Zorn deserves a lot of the credit, especially since he received a lot of the flack following two complete debacles to end the exhibition season.

He seems to be pressing all of the right buttons and has the locker room in lock step, something with which Joe Gibbs and his army of assistant coaches struggled mightily.

As my esteemed colleague, Jody Fellows, pointed out Monday, Zorn and his staff seem to be very good at learning and making adjustments as games progress. The evidence of that?

Through Sunday’s game, the Redskins are allowing an average of only one touchdown in the second half.

Washington isn’t dominating its opponents, but it doesn’t have to. The Skins just need to keep doing what they’re doing. Get the ball.

Hold the ball (no picks and plus-six turnover ratio). Chew the clock and put points on the board.

If they continue to do those things, then this team will continue to defy expectations

Page 22

The George Mason High School Varsity Football team suffered its fourth straight loss on Friday night in a one-sided game against single-A powerhouse Goochland High School.

The Goochland Bulldogs’ offense put up 24 points in the first half, and then cruised to a 31-14 victory.

The Bulldog running game was explosive in the first half, busting off four runs of over 20 yards in the first 24 minutes alone. Tailback M.J. Cox opened the scoring with an explosive 49-yard touchdown run down the Goochland sideline on the third play from scrimmage.

The Mason Mustangs were unable to answer despite executing fairly smoothly on offense.

Junior quarterback George Kalantzis made his first varsity start, and led the Mustangs deep into Goochland territory on their first drive before a fumble quickly ended the push. Senior running back John Mann carried three times for 26 yards on the drive before having the ball knocked loose by a Bulldog linebacker.

The turnover proved costly for Mason, as Goochland

October 9 - 15, 2008

quickly turned it into points.

Directly following the fumble, junior running back Desmond Athey broke into the Mustang secondary for a 61-yard run up the middle before being taken from behind by a group of red jerseys. Athey suffered a serious leg injury on the play, and action was delayed for several minutes. Goochland was unfazed by the injury, and Willie Ezell promptly scored on a 10-yard run following the delay.

Down 14-0, Mason answered back with a seven-minute drive resulting in a two-yard John Mann touchdown run. Kalantzis was flawless on the drive, making a couple of intelligent passes to tight ends and running backs for short gains. “George did an excellent job,” said junior running back/safety Ben Taylor who was teammates with Kalantzis on the Junior Varsity squad in 2007. “He showed a lot of poise for a quarterback making his first start at any level. He has worked really hard this year, and deserves this opportunity.”

On their first drive of the second quarter, Goochland responded with yet another touchdown drive, extending the lead to 21-7. This 80-yard drive was highlighted by a 57-yard pass

from quarterback Tyler Carter to Cody Davis, and capped off by a 12-yard Carter scramble.

In an attempt to turn the game around, Mason Head Coach Tom Horn elected to try to convert a 4th and three just inside Bulldog territory with five minutes to go in the half. However, a Goochland defensive tackle jumped the snap count, and blew up the play in the backfield.

Goochland took over, and

ended up tacking on a 33-yard field goal right before halftime.

They went into the break with a 24-7 lead, a deficit that would remain till the end of the game.

The second half was much more of a defensive struggle as each team was only able to add a touchdown more apiece.

“We moved the ball well, but early mistakes kept us out of the game,” noted Mustangs Captain Andrew Lieber.

Mason will start with a clean slate this Friday night when they take on Manassas Park to begin the Bull Run District season.

“It’s going to be a very good game,” said Lieber in anticipation of Friday’s home game.

“We need to work very hard in practice to prepare for our first district game. It’s also homecoming so that makes it even more important.” The game starts at 7:30 p.m.

October 9 - 15, 2008

Page 23

they anticipate the defectors will try to convince Judge Bellows that the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Continuing Episcopaliansâ&#x20AC;? do not constitute a truly functioning church. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But we have done everything in keeping with a true church within the Episcopal denomination,â&#x20AC;? one told the NewsPress. Among their members is the mayor of the City of Falls Church, Robin Gardner.

They have assumed the name, Falls Church Episcopal Church, while the defectors adopted the name, Falls Church Anglican Church.

Fetsch and Turner took strong exception to a comment by the Rev. Yates in a letter to his defector membership that the voting in December 2006 â&#x20AC;&#x153;fully satisfied the voting requirements of Virginia Statute 57-9(A), that the votes were fairly taken.â&#x20AC;?

They noted the Virginia code requires such a vote of division to achieve, in its own language,

â&#x20AC;&#x153;a majority of the whole numberâ&#x20AC;? to determine how the congregation will align.

This was acknowledged prior to the vote by Yates, they claim, in a letter to his congregation dated Dec. 7, 2006, when he wrote, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I cannot overstate the importance of your participating in this vote. Virginia law requires a strong voter turnout in such church decisions. Not voting is equivalent to voting to remain in the denomination.â&#x20AC;?

In accordance with the statute, they note, the number that voted to defect was officially reported as 1,221. But in December 2005, the churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual report listed its membership as 2,836 and in May 2006, its mandated annual Parochial Report to the Diocese listed membership at 2,484.

Therefore, by either membership count, the number who voted to defect was less than a â&#x20AC;&#x153;majority of the whole number.â&#x20AC;?

They added that many longstanding members of the church were not allowed to officially vote, but told to complete socalled â&#x20AC;&#x153;provisional ballots,â&#x20AC;? more than 200 of which were cast, but none of which were counted in the reported vote

the board must look at programs like SACC under a â&#x20AC;&#x153;special light.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;SACC is a good example where we get tremendous value out of an investment as a county. For every $1 spent, we get $3 from revenue,â&#x20AC;? said Foust, adding â&#x20AC;&#x153;Demand is going to increase for the program as the economy worsens.â&#x20AC;?

Despite the importance of some DFS services, Foust said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be anyone spared in this budget process.â&#x20AC;? In an effort to shore up funds for vital programs in Human and Family Services, Foust said the board should look into how non-profit organizations could offset in-house budget cuts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d much prefer to reduce cost in providing that service than cutting it.â&#x20AC;?

In light of DFS proposals, it was hard to tell the difference between programming â&#x20AC;&#x153;tiers and the tears that program cuts could cause,â&#x20AC;? Mason District Supervisor Penelope Gross told the News-Press.

Gross, who like Foust sat through hours of the proposed â&#x20AC;&#x153;lines of businessâ&#x20AC;? (LOB) cut plans, said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve come to expect nice programs in Fairfax County, but everyone will have to understand that there have to be cuts. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to need to spread the pain across the board, so that we feel that pain together.â&#x20AC;?

Concerned by a potential â&#x20AC;&#x153;slippery slope,â&#x20AC;? in which fami-

lies could face increasing unemployment and homelessness if the county slashed funding and access to programs like SACC, Gross added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;So many of these programs residents have come to expect as basic to life. Reducing SACC is to reduce service to 870 children, which means parents wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be able to work, spend time with their kids and keep their houses.â&#x20AC;?

Gross mentioned the proposed $3.4 million cut to the Child Care Assistance and Referral (CCAR) program, which risks upwards of 500 children and, as Gross points out, puts lower-income families on the verge of homelessness in the face of rising financial and time pressures on parents.

Gross said the county was â&#x20AC;&#x153;the last resort for many families who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get services from the state and federal level. How we handle the poorest of the poor is a part of our social compact.â&#x20AC;?

She clarified, however, that the proposed cuts are still options, and there was plenty of time for community input and evaluating the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financial position while the board continues to meet with department heads and county executives. Both Foust and Gross also warned of potential shortfalls the county might face as the boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attention shifts from costs to revenue later this year.

The LOB presentations are expected to resume Nov. 14 and continue through December, when county executives will prepare a budget proposal for the board. A board vote on the 2010 budget is planned for some time in February 2009.

count.

Turner said that neither he nor his wife, members for more than 15 years, were allowed to vote, and Fetsch added that her son, who was both baptized and married in the church, was not allowed to vote, either.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because, it was explained to them, â&#x20AC;&#x153;membershipâ&#x20AC;? was defined as, for purposes of the vote, not only being baptized, but having received communion three times in the past year in that specific church.

So many church members either did not vote, or their votes were not counted, that instead of Yatesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; claim in the churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

2006 annual report that â&#x20AC;&#x153;90 percent of our church family strongly supported this decision,â&#x20AC;? the actuality was that â&#x20AC;&#x153;30 percent of the church family did so,â&#x20AC;? Turner said.

Fetsch joined the church in 1980 with her husband, Bill, who was on the vestry there, but resigned when the vote to defect was declared as passed.

He is now the senior warden of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Continuing Episcopalianâ&#x20AC;? church.

She said she noticed Yates â&#x20AC;&#x153;discernibly changeâ&#x20AC;? his message, bringing more conservative political themes into his sermons in the mid-1990s. They took

a distinctively anti-President Clinton tone and became more politically pronounced as the Bush administration came into power in 2001. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Things became more morally â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;black and whiteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in his sermons,â&#x20AC;? Fetsch said, long before the issue of the gay bishop erupted in November 2003. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yates began in his sermons to constantly criticize and denounce the Episcopal denomination,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Episcopal â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; became a negative in his view, and he was relentless saying so.â&#x20AC;? Over time, she said, many in the congregation went along with his view.

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October 9 - 15, 2008

nist country.”

“Such a label is deeply offensive for all of us,” Snyder said in his letter. “This is yet another reminder of the neoMcCarthyism now so much a part of the political debate.”

He concluded, “The Virginia Republican Party, under whose tent these comments were made,

is not a party with which I wish to be associated for this and many other reasons, unless and until it returns to the principles of its once revered former leaders, such Abraham Lincoln and Dwight David Eisenhower.”

Asked by the News-Press to confirm that the letter constituted an announcement of a formal disassociation, Snyder said, “Absolutely.” The McCain

comment “was more than the last straw,” he added, noting his long-standing differences with his party on gun and equal rights issues.

The Virginia GOP has become an “outrage,” he said.

“In its present form, it has nothing to do with the party of my grandparents or parents.”

Davis, in his interview with Baker, a Washington correspon-

N O W T H AT ’ S W H AT W E C A L L

A SPECIAL.

dent for the New York Times, called President Bush “a disappointment,” adding, “How else can you say it?”

“I’m disappointed just in terms of his stewardship. I wrote the Katrina report. Just the fact that he wasn’t down there the next day, and he flew over it in Air Force One to get a view of it – that, to me, is not leadership.”

At 59, Davis walked away from a re-election bid this year, leaving the race to fill his 11th District seat to a political novice, Keith Fimian, who will most likely be defeated by Democrat Gerry Connolly, currently chair of the Fairfax Board of Supervisors.

This is despite the fact that Davis had not had a serious challenge for his seat since 1994, even once running unopposed. But, as he noted in this interview with Baker, there were signs that his lock on his seat was beginning to erode in 2006, when he won over Democrat Andy Hurst with only 55 percent of the vote. It was primarily the unpopularity of President Bush that drove down his vote total, he said.

Davis, while he awaits the end of his term on Jan. 1, is currently teaching a politi-

cal history course at George Mason University. He is one of 26 Republican incumbents in Congress who decided not to seek re-election this year, and his decision to back away marked the final stage of his decline from national prominence as a rising star in the GOP. That rise peaked when he served as chair of the National Republican Congressional Committee from 1998 to 2002.

He told Baker that while, as the committee’s leader, he held Republican congressional majorities in 2000 and 2002, he clashed over strategy with Karl Rove, Bush’s key operative, saying Rove “looks through the cultural prism of divide and conquer,” a charge denied by Rove.

While Snyder’s affiliation with the GOP is well known in Falls Church, he’s run in only one partisan election, unsuccessfully for state delegate against Democratic incumbent Del. Jim Scott in 2002.

Otherwise, despite the twoto-one margin of registered Democrats over Republicans in the City of Falls Church, he’s been elected to four terms on the City Council in non-partisan elections.

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Week of September 30 - October 6 Drunkenness, 100 blk. N West St., October 1, 5:37 p.m., police arrested a male, 46, of Reston, VA for DIP. Drug/Narcotic Violation, 100 blk. E Jefferson St., October 2, 3:51 p.m., police arrested a female, 22, of Manassas, VA and a male, 21, of Manassas, VA for Possession of Marijuana.

Robbery, 100 blk. Haycock Rd., October 2, 9:11 p.m., unknown person(s) robbed victim of with what appeared to be a semi-automatic pistol. The suspect(s) took the victim’s cell phone and wallet which contained $150.00 cash, VA OL, (2) credit cards.

The victim was not injured. The suspect is described as a B/M, approximately 5`9”-5`11”, approximately 2628 years old, between 180-190 lbs, with short cropped hair and wearing all black.

Urinating in Public, 100 blk. Park Washington Ct., October 4, 12:27 a.m., police arrested a female, 25, of Rockville, MD and a male, 25, of

Rockville, MD for Urinating in Public.

Drunkenness, 100 blk. S Washington St., October 4, 2:02 a.m., police arrested a male, 41, of NO FIXED ADDRESS, for DIP. Destruction of Property, George Mason Square, 101 W Broad St., unknown person(s) pulled down the light fixture from the ceiling of the lower level parking garage.

Destruction of Property, The Byron, 513 W Broad St., October 4, 10:53 a.m., unknown person(s) broke (3) light fixtures located on the exterior wall of the parking garage.

Drunkenness, 200 blk. N Washington St., October 5, 12:32 a.m., police arrested a male, 32, of Warrenton, VA for DIP. Destruction of Property, 100 blk. Chanel Ter., between October 2 and October 5, unknown person(s) scratched the rear passenger door of a vehicle.

Drunkenness, 6700 blk. Wilson Blvd., October 6, 3:00 a.m., police arrested a male, 36, of Herndon, VA for DIP.

Page 28

The annual YouthAIDS Gala at the Ritz Carlton Tysons Corner once again gathered local well-heeled society and issueconscious celebrities, headed

by Ashley Judd, last Friday to raise money to fight HIV/AIDS. Although there was no life-size balloon elephant at the entrance upon arrival like last year, guests were met by decked out teen greeters, with spiked pink hair, punk accessories, strapped with Gibson guitars and setting the mood for the night’s “Power of Music” theme.

The dress code as stated on the invitation of this year’s fourth annual gala was “rock star chic” and the crowd, for the most part, made an effort to comply. Most men forewent the normal tuxedos, at least replacing the dress shirt and bow tie with a t-shirt under their suits.

As for the ladies, ornate ball gowns were left in the closet and most opted for a sexy and even hip look.

Overall, the funky dress code added to a more relaxed atmosphere, less formal than last year’s “Bollywood” themed attire, although nothing too over-the-top draped the dapper guests.

Before dinner, attendees mingled in the anteroom, perusing the plentiful silent auction offerings. Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Kiehls and of course, the evening’s host, the Ritz Carlton all donated items, along with two rooms full of others. There was also a live auction during the ceremony, which again proved more sedate than last year’s bidding wars.

Everyone seemed a little tighter on the purse strings, as some items went by without bid.

October 9 - 15, 2008

As guests entered the dining area, they were offered temporary tattoos, dragons for the dangerous, butterflies for ladies. Many happily accepted and allowed the ink pushers to wet, tag and peel for them, giving those that partook the feeling that maybe for one night they were hardcore rock stars. It added an element of frivolous fun to the proceedings.

Planners hoped that if guests felt wild enough to get a tattoo, they would also feel liberated enough to add another thousand to their donation.

Sharon Osborne acted as mistress of ceremonies. Osborne’s personality and fiery demeanor are impossible to ignore. She proved a peppy presenter and ran a smooth show.

As the YouthAIDS Global Ambassador, Ashley Judd made a long and moving speech. Judd recalled her visits to impoverished AIDS-riddled countries and brought the group to a somber, reflective silence. She shared her story of adjusting to life back in the states after such trips were difficult for her personally. When she returned home from a recent mission, she suffered a type of posttraumatic stress, which she was continuing to work through.

The ceremony continued, honoring individuals who contributed in the fight against HIV/ AIDS. Judy McGrath, Chairman and CEO of MTV Networks received an award for facilitating music’s role in broadening social barriers. Keeping with the night’s theme, in protecting young people from the disease, music, they said, is a leader in raising consciousness among an often difficult to reach age group. The music industry’s influence over the youthful generation, organizers argued, is great and therefore their devo-

tion to social change is essential and much appreciated in meeting the goal to halt the spread of HIV/AIDS in the world.

Honorees also included Annie Lennox, a Grammy award-winner and activist, who could not attend the event due to illness, but sent a message via video, asking that guests help in the fight against the virus.

Lennox is best known as the lead singer of the popular 80s duo the Eurythmics. In 2005, Lennox performed at Live 8 in London, free concerts used to raise awareness of issues facing Africa. Addressing the British House of Commons in 2006, Lennox called for the education of children in the United Kingdom. She stressed the importance for British children to learn about Africa, enabling those young people to understand the lives of youth in a third world country who are suffering poverty and disease in Africa, as compared to their own.

An award was presented to Bob Geldof, KBE, who previously received an honorary knighthood as Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) from Queen Elizabeth II. Geldof is an Irish singer, famous primarily as a member of the Boomtown Rats. He also starred as Pink in Pink Floyd’s classic 1982 film “The Wall.”

In 1984, Geldof organized the star studded performance of a holiday song for charity. He co-wrote “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” raising funds for starving children in Ethiopia.

The song went on to become one of the best-selling singles of all time. Geldof continued his work for charity, organizing the amazing Live Aid concerts, which raised over $150 million

for famine relief.

As the originator of the Live 8 project in 2005, Geldof continued to use the influence and popularity of music to help others. To further raise awareness of the issues facing Africa, he is a prominent member of the Africa Progress Panel, which focuses attention on Africa and brings its needs to light, ensuring help from world leaders.

In 2006 and 2008, Geldof was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.

From the political realm, U.S. Ambassador William J. Garvelink attended. He is a long-time Falls Church resident, who was sworn in as the U.S. Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in October 2007. Garvelink was interviewed by the News-Press just previous to taking office last year. The DRC is plagued by the HIV/AIDS epidemic, which is one of the issues Garvelink faces in his position.

He showed his understanding of the problem and concern by attending the fundraiser with his wife, Linda.

Prominent local attendees included gala chair Sheila Johnson and Washington Capitals owner Ted Leonsis.

On hand were various celebrities such as famous Italian jewelry designer Roberto Coin, model and tennis player Anna Kournikova, Miss Universe 2008 Dayana Mendoza from Venezuela, host of MSNBC’s “Hard Ball,” Chris Matthews and from “Project Runway,” reality TV personality, Suede.

As a special musical performance, John Mellencamp appeared to play a too short acoustic set, but one that did include the old favorite “Jack and Diane.” It seemed that when the crowd started to get moving

to the beat, Mellencamp hit the road.

Dinner consisted of spicy tuna, a trio of petite entrees, filet mignon, crab cake and vegetable terrine and a fluffy dessert adorned with a white chocolate “Power of Music” square, with logo.

Georgetown cupcakes provided a rainbow of mini-cakes in flavors like chocolate raspberry and coconut. Some of the cakes were topped with bright purple icing, while others were decorated with the AIDS awareness red ribbon. To cap the evening on something other than a sweet note, a snifter of Courvoisier Exclusif cognac also appeared on the table.

The after party, just downstairs, was headed up by DJ Lady Miss Kier of Deee-Lite, a club/dance group best known for their 90s hit “Groove is in the Heart.” Again, the room was more sedate than last year.

There was a lot of open floor to dance and the crowd was sparse.

Even the gift bag contents, usually chuck full of exciting goodies, were a little light.

Attendees agreed that the contents were bland as compared with previous year’s offerings, the highlight being a couple Kiehls products and sunflower seeds. Plus, some bags contained items that others did not.

And truthfully, much of the grandeur of yore was lacking from this year’s festivities. It was as if everything was taken down a notch. If the gala was a bit duller, perhaps it was in reflection of the current economic situation.

Nonetheless, the event was a success, raising $1.2 million to benefit the fight against YouthAIDS, and that is a gift above all critique.

October 9 - 15, 2008

Page 29

Page 30

October 9 - 15, 2008

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The film wants to be persuasive in its expertise about modern spy craft, terrorism, the CIA and Middle East politics. But its hero is a lone ranger who operates in three countries, singlehandedly creates a fictitious terrorist organization, and survives explosions, gunfights and brutal torture. Oh, and he falls in love with a local beauty. And of course he speaks Arabic well enough to pass for a local.

This is Roger Ferris (Leonardo DiCaprio), who seems to operate as a self-directed freelance

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surrogate for Bin Laden). Why will Al Saleem risk everything to come out of hiding? Jealousy, I think. Guarding his turf.

I can imagine a similar story as told by John Le Carre, even right down to the local beauty.

Some of the characters seem worthy of Le Carre, especially Hoffman (Russell Crowe), Ferris’ CIA handler, and Hani Salaam (Mark Strong), the brilliant and urbane head of Jordanian security. But Le Carre would never be guilty of such preposterous thriller-style action. Here we have a spy who doesn’t come in from the cold, crossed with Jason Bourne.

The most intriguing aspect of Ferris’ activities is his growing disillusionment with them. He feels one local comrade has been abandoned to death, and after he sets up an innocent architect to unwittingly play the head of the fictitious terrorist agency, he single-handedly tries to save his life from an inevitable attack.

That Ferris survives this man’s fate is highly unlikely. And it leads to a situation where his own life is saved by the lastsecond arrival of the cavalry.

The movie depends on two electronic wonderments. One is the ability of Ferris to maintain instant, effortless cell phone contact with Hoffman, back in Washington. Wearing one of those ear-mounted devices, he seems to keep up a running conversation with his boss, even during perilous situations (his boss is often distracted by taking care of his kids).

The other wonderment is aerial surveillance so precise it can see a particular man walking down a street. The surveillance POV is so stable it’s hard to believe it originates from a fast-moving high-altitude spy plane. In discussing Ridley Scott’s superior “Black Hawk Down” (2002), I questioned the infrared technology that allowed distant commanders to monitor troop movements on the ground.

Many readers informed me that was based on fact. Perhaps the astonishing images in “Body of Lies” is accurate; if so, it’s only another step to locating

Page 32

Mini Reviews Continued from Page 31 historical epics from Hollywood. If it has a flaw, and it does, it is expressed succinctly by the wife of its hero: “All Mongols do is kill and steal.” At the end of two hours, its hero, not yet known as Genghis Khan, has two more movies to go. Awesome, if you go for nonstop carnage. Rating: Three and a half stars.

October 9 - 15, 2008

lous British pop singer, Peter (Jason Segel, also the screenwriter) goes to Hawaii to recover -- only to find them staying at the same resort. Ranks with the aforementioned Apatow-produced films for laughs and smarts.

With Kirsten Bell, Mila Kunis, Russell Brand, Jonah Hill, Jack McBrayer, Bill Hader. Rating: Three and a half stars. (Jim Emerson) (c) 2008 The Ebert Co.

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OU DON’T MESS WITH THE ZOHAN (Comedy, PG-13, 113 m., 2008). Adam Sandler’s new comedy is shameless in its eagerness to extract laughs from every possible breach of taste or decorum, and why am I even mentioning taste and decorum in this context? He plays a Mossad counterterrorist who sneaks out of Israel to become a New York hairdresser. His superhuman abilities make him a super-warrior and lover, in a movie that’s a comic hymn to vulgarity. Co-starring John Turturro, Lainie Kazan, Nick Swardson, Emmanuelle Chriqui. Rating: Three stars.

T

HE HAPPENING (Drama, R, 91 m., 2008). One day in Philadelphia people start killing themselves. The survivors flee the city, although the cause of this “event” may also be ahead of them. Mark Wahlberg and Zooey Deschanel find themselves trekking with the child of a friend through Pennsylvania farmlands, while the thought develops that the planet’s vegetation may be taking its revenge on man. Thoughtful, oddly compelling; too uneventful for some, I suppose, but it wove a spell for me. Written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan (“The Sixth Sense”).

Rating: Three stars.

R

OMAN POLANSKI: WANTED AND DESIRED (Documentary, not rated, 100 m., 2008). Marina Zenovich’s surprising documentary builds, brick by brick with eyewitness testimony, a story of crimes against the justice system carried out by the judge of Polanski’s infamous child molestation case, Laurence J. Rittenband.

So corrupt was this man that the documentary finds agreement among the defense attorney, the assistant D.A. who prosecuted the case and the child involved, now a well-spoken adult. All agree Polanski may have done the right thing by fleeing the country before being sentenced, Rating: Three and a half stars.

SCREEN GEMS PRESENTS A VERTIGO ENTERTAINMENT/ANDALE PICTURES AND FILMAX ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTION “QUARANTINE” JENNIFER CARPENTER JAY HERNANDEZ COLUMBUS SHORT GREG GERMANN STEVE HARRIS DANIA RAMIREZ EXECUTIVE WITH RADE SHERBEDGIA AND JOHNATHON SCHAECH PRODUCERS GLENN S. GAINOR DREW DOWDLE JULIO FERNÁNDEZ CARLOS FERNÁNDEZ PRODUCED BASED ON THE MOTION

BY DOUG DAVISON ROY LEE SERGIO AGÜERO PICTURE “REC” WRITTEN BY JAUME BALAGUERÓ & LUIS A. BERDEJO & PACO PLAZA SCREENPLAY

BY JOHN ERICK DOWDLE & DREW DOWDLE DIRECTED

BY JOHN ERICK DOWDLE

STARTS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10

CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS FOR THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES SORRY, NO PASSES ACCEPTED FOR THIS ENGAGEMENT

“HILARIOUS AND“ ”TOTALLY FUN!” Bryan Erdy, INSIGHT CABLE

“MARVELOUS AND MAGICAL” Lisa Schwarzbaum, ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY

I

RON MAN (Action, PG-13, 126 m., 2008). Robert Downey Jr. is absolutely terrific as Tony Stark/Iron Man, delivering a performance that is both comedic and poignant. This is an outstanding superhero action adventure that is well-directed and features strong supporting performances -- especially from Gwyneth Paltrow and Jeff Bridges. Rating: Four stars.

(Bill Zwecker)

F

ORGETTING SARAH MARSHALL (Comedy, R, 110 m., 2008). The latest issue from writer-producer-director Judd Apatow’s anti-stud farm, a sibling of “The 40-Year-Old Virgin,” “Knocked Up” and “Superbad.” Part of the fun is the way these films mix and match names and faces to produce the randy-but-tender recombinant comedy that has become synonymous with the Apatow brand. After his TVstar girlfriend leaves him for a ridicu-

©DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.

For Theatres and Showtimes: CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS OR TEXT BEVERLY WITH YOUR ZIP CODE TO 43KIX (43549) OR VISIT DISNEY.COM/CHIHUAHUA SORRY, NO PASSES

VISIT

NOW PLAYING

CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS FOR THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES SORRY, NO PASSES ACCEPTED FOR THIS ENGAGEMENT

Page 34

October 9 - 15, 2008

Restaurant Spotlight

of the

Week

Metro Silver Diner

Anthony’s Restaurant 309 W. Broad St., Falls Church • 703-532-0100 • Type of Food: Greek, American & Italian Cuisine • Features: Breakfast (Sat. & Sun. Only) • Hours: Mon. - Thur. -10 a.m. - 11 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m. -12 a.m., Sat. 8 a.m. - 12 a.m., Sun. 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Argia’s Restaurant 124 N. Washington St., Falls Church • 703-5341033 • www.argias.com • Type of Food: Italian • Washingtonian’s 100 Very Best Restaurants, Zagat Rated, Full Bar, No Reservations • Hours: Lunch: Mon. - Sat. 11:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Dinner: Mon. - Thur. 5 - 9:30 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 5 - 10:30 p.m., Sun. 5 - 9 p.m.

Bear Rock Cafe 2200 Westmoreland St. (Westlee Condominium Building), Arlington • 703-532-0031; Catering: 703-532-0118 • Type of Food: American • Features: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Kids' Menu, Alcoholic Beverages; Catering, Free Indoor Parking • Hours: Mon. - Sat. 7 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Bubba’s BBQ & Catering 7810-F Lee Hwy, Falls Church • 703-560-8570 • Type of Food: American/Family, Salads w/ Meat & Ribs • Features: Best BBQ East of Mississippi • Hours: Mon. - Sat. 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Dogfish Head Alehouse 6363 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church • www.dogfishalehouse.com • 703-534-3342 • Woodgrilled food, speciality ales • Hours: Mon. - Wed. 11:30 a.m. - 11 p.m., Thu. - Sat. 11:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., Sun. 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Harvest Moon Restaurant and Lounge 7260 Arlington Blvd. (Graham Center across from Loehmann’s Plaza), Falls Church • 703573-6000 • www.theharvestmoonrestaurant. com • Type of Food: Chinese • Features: Lunch / dinner buffets, banquet facilities up to 700 people • Hours: 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily.

Hoang’s Grill and Sushi Bar 502 W. Broad St., Falls Church • 703-536-7777 • Type of Food: Pan-Asian • Features: Single and Mingle Thursday Nights. • Hours: Mon. - Thur. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., Fri. - Sat. 11 a.m.

- 10:30 p.m., Sun. 11:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Hunan Lion 2070 Chain Bridge Road, next to J. Koons Buick Pontiac, Tysons Corner, Vienna, Va. • 703-734-9828 • www.hunanlion.com • Zagat Rated Best Peking Duck in Town, Top 100 Asian Fusion Restaurants in USA • Type of Food: Chinese • Featuring: Banquet Facilities, Catering, Carry-out • Hours: Lunch, Mon. - Sat. 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Ireland’s Four Provinces 105W.BroadSt.,FallsChurch•www.4psfallschurch. com • 703-534-8999 • Type of Food: Irish • Features: Full Bar, Live Entertainment, Sunday Brunch • Hours: 11 a.m. - 2 a.m. daily.

Ledo Pizza Restaurant & Pub 7510 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church • 703847-5336 • Type of Food: Pizza & Pasta, American/Family • Features: Full Bar, Wine Menu, 5 TV’s-Sports • Hours: Mon. - Thur. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Fri. - Sat. 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.; Sun. 12 - 10 p.m.

Narita Sushi & Rice Bowl 8417 Old Courthouse Road (accross from Residence Inn), Vienna • 703-893-2008 • Type of Food: Sushi • Features: Lunch & Dinner Box specials • Hours: Mon.–Thur. 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., 4 - 10 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., 4 - 10:30 p.m., Sat. noon - 10:30 p.m., Sun. noon - 9:30 p.m.

The Original Pancake House 370 West Broad Street, Falls Church • 703891-0148 • www.originalpancakehouse.com • Type of Food: American/Family • Features: Breakfast, Weekday Specials - Breakfast & Lunch • Hours: 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. daily.

Panjshir 924 W. Broad St., Falls Church • 703-5364566 • Features: Authentic Afghan Cuisine • Hours: Lunch 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Dinner, 5 - 10 p.m.

Pie-tanza 1216 W. Broad St., Falls Church • www.pietanza.com • 703-237-0977 • Dine-in, Carryout and Catering • Gourmet Wood-fired Pizza and Italian Fare • Hours: Mon. - Sat. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Pilin 116 W. Broad St., Falls Church • www.pilinthairestaurant.com • 703-241-5850 • Features: Authentic Thai Cuisine • Hours: Mon. - Thurs., 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., 5 - 10 p.m., Fri. - Sat., 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., 5 - 11 p.m., Sun. 5 - 9 p.m.

Sign of the Whale 7279 Arlington Blvd. (Loehmann’s Plaza), Falls Church • 703-573-1616 • Type of Food: American • Features: Seafood Night and Steak Night • Hours: 11:30 a.m. - 2 a.m., 7 days a week.

Sweet Rice Thai Restaurant 1113 W. Broad St. (next to Don Beyer Volvo), Falls Church • 703-241-8582 • Type of Food: Thai Cuisine • Features: Free delivery ($15 min., limited area) • Hours: Mon. - Thu. 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Dinner: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.; Fri. 11:30 am - 11 p.m.; Sat. Noon - 11 p.m.; Sun. Noon - 10 p.m.

By Caroline Neher Metro, a part of the Silver Diner franchise, is cute, quaint, quick and cool: a new age restaurant with old school décor. As you walk into this small, ground-level venue in downtown Fairfax, you see four large screens displaying the Metro menu, which features all-American favorites (burgers, macaroni and cheese, meatloaf and various chicken dishes) with healthy twists and in smaller portions. Items range from Herb Crusted Salmon and Flatbread Chicken Pot Pie to a Low Fat Veggie Omelet and Wild Maine Blueberry Pancakes from the All-Day Breakfast menu.

As well as having hot and iced coffee, shakes, organic juices, sodas, beer and wine, Metro also has café sandwiches, like the Two Pesto Chicken sandwich, both vegetarian and regular chili, soups, salads and beef, veggie and crab cake mini burgers on buns or greens. I chose the mini crab cake burgers and a shake from a menu display screen and walked to the counter at the back of the restaurant to place my order.

Metro cashiers and waiters work behind a large 50s style countertop at the rear of the restaurant. You place your order and pay for your food first, and the cashier hands you a punch card with a large number at the top to place in an electronic slot at your table. After ordering, you choose a table, sit down and punch your card into the slot to let the wait staff know where to bring your food. Metro makes a promise to bring your meal in five minutes or less, and they keep their word.

The mini crab cake burgers were made of delicious, huge chunks of tender crab cake mixed with sweet corn, sprinkled with Old Bay seasoning and paired with tomato slices and lettuce in between lightly toasted, buttery buns. The burgers were also served with a small bowl of crunchy, salty kettle chips doused in Old Bay seasoning. Three of these warm sandwiches and the chips ($10) were almost enough to satisfy my appetite, but as a firm believer in always getting dessert, I left room for the Black and White shake ($4).

Metro shakes come in large plastic glasses and are topped with a dollop of sweet, fluffy whipped cream and for some shakes, a large cherry. The Black and White shake, made with hand-dipped chocolate and vanilla ice cream, was creamy but not too thick. It wasn’t overly sweet and had just the right amount of chocolate sauce layered throughout the ice cream.

The portions for all dishes at Metro are smaller than the average restaurant meal, which is a positive turn from the out-of-control helpings most restaurants now serve. The balance between traditional preparation and modern twists in Metro’s cuisine, of classic comfort food being cooked in healthier ways, is reflected in the restaurant’s vintage décor in a futuristic, easily operated set-up.

There are several new-age features at Metro: you pay before you eat, you are able to choose your own table and you do not tip the service. It surprised me that tipping was not necessary, but servers are present only to bring out orders and not to wait on guests, and they do not receive tips unless you so choose. The inside looks like a diner, with plush booths and small tables, soft golden lights hanging from the ceiling and neon signs throughout the restaurant.

However, Metro also has huge prints of art-deco style cityscapes, landmarks and people interspersed in the dining area. Everything is clean and the seating area is open and comfortable. To put the cherry on the shake, Metro’s prices are affordable. It's a winning combination of quality food, cheap prices, colorful décor and quirky design.

Page 36

Attention consumers in Florida and Michigan. You have been selected from among all 50 of these United States to get Alexandar Vodka from Macedonia.

For the moment, the rest of the country will just have to be content with the 2,756 other new vodkas introduced every week. Or so it seems.

Liquor Group Wholesale, (LIQR), a publicly-traded specialty alcohol beverage distributor headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., has signed an agreement with Kazbo Imports to represent the new import, which its PR people describe as “a five-star quality product, without the premium price. From the first class grains, to the soft, clean mountain water, to the 4 column distillation, 7 times filtered, and even the stunning imported Italian cobalt blue bottle, Alexandar Vodka is a dedication to craftsmanship, resulting in vodka of unparalleled taste and smoothness.”

Whew! That’s just great. As in, Alexandar. The Great. Of Macedonia. Nudge, nudge.

Florida and Michigan, by the way, were selected as the initial U.S. markets for Alexandar because of their sizeable Macedonian and Greek populations. (Suggested retail price: $42.)

Liquor Group Wholesale is no newcomer to importing vodkas specialty drinks to the U.S. Among its vodka products is a vodka called Firestarter, made in the former Soviet republic of Moldova.

It’s another premium product, with a touch of honey added to smooth the finish. The bottle itself looks like a fire extinguisher, complete with a locking pin, trigger and a nozzle through which the vodka is poured. It’s the latest rage on the California club scene, where fads are fast and furious.

(Suggested retail price: $24.99.)

Or, how about Jazz Vodka? The Polish grain vodka is packaged in a trumpet-shaped bottle and marketed for the jazz lover as well as the vodka aficionado. (Suggested retail price: $22.99.)

Or, Pshenychna Vodka? It’s a Russian grain vodka packaged in a rifle-shaped bottle and rated “Exceptional” by the Beverage Tasting Institute. (Suggested retail price: $22.98.)

Or, Debowa Polska Vodka? It’s a rye-based product infused with a touch of “natural extracts” (?) and oak chips.

(Suggested retaikl price: $28.99.)

The list goes on, not only from this importer, but from literally dozens of others.

It is rare that one store can stock all the brands you can read or hear about, given their proliferation and the death struggle over shelf space in most stores. Luckily, online sales venues are numerous and government regulations are not as cumbersome as they are for wine sales and shipment.

So, if you’re in the mood to invest both some shoe leather and some keystrokes to do your shopping, give the brands I’ve mentioned a look. Or, add to your list the likes of Han, a Chinese barley vodka infused and blended with polished rice rather than water ($20.99); Pinky Vodka (not to be confused with p.i.n.k. vodka), a Swedish winter wheat product blended with rose and violet petals and 10 other botanicals -- which, in my mind, puts it in the gin category ($25); Blavod Black Vodka from the United Kingdom, which adds color from the catechu herb of Africa and Asia ($15.99), and Boomerang, a chardonnay grape vodka from Australia ($19.99).

These are just a few of the flood of vodkas now on the world market, something you’ll note as you do your own research.  William M. Dowd covers the adult beverage industry online at BillDowd.com.

October 8 - 15, 2008

It’s in the late stages of a tournament when the men are separated from the boys. Players who consistently win on the poker circuit do so by taking full advantage of the opportunities available to them at this time.

One particularly important tactic they use to reach the final table is focusing on opponents who tighten up their play.

Playing tight late in a tournament turns out to be a fairly common mistake even among skilled players. Yes, adjustments need to be made in terms of hand selection in later rounds. But too often players take it to the extreme and fold hands they should be playing.

While a hand like 6h-7h is well suited for early rounds when blinds are low and chipstacks are still high, don’t automatically abandon this type of hand late in the game just because the blinds and the cost of playing are more substantial.

For example, if the players in the blinds are tight and you’re in late position with no other players entering the pot, it would be a mistake to fold a hand like Jh-9h. Recognize the fact that many players tend to tighten up late in a tournament. As that happens, your success rate at stealing blinds will increase.

This is simply not the time to reduce the number of hands you attempt to steal blinds with.

On the contrary, this situation frequently presents a raising opportunity specifically designed to exploit tight players.

If you do elect to raise, the small ball approach will be most effective against tight opponents. These players will often neglect to focus on the amount of your raise. Instead, they’ll zero in on the fact that they just don’t have a strong hand themselves.

Let’s look at another example.

With blinds at 400-800 and a 100 ante, most players will fold a hand like 9-7 offsuit regardless if you make it 2,000, 2,200, or 2,400 to go. With that in mind, you can safely reduce your risk by choosing to raise the lower amount.

For the most part, if you continue to use the same game strategy late in tournaments as you would early on, the adjustments your opponents make will actually render the small ball approach even more effective.

Why? Because winning blinds and antes becomes increasingly more valuable as a tournament progresses.

That’s not only because the value of blinds and antes continue to escalate. It’s also because stack sizes in relation to the blinds

decrease.

The blinds in a typical big buy-in event may start out at 25-50 with a 10,000 stack.

By the second level, however, blinds would increase to 50100 whereas the average stack would be much less than 20,000 -- probably closer to 12,000.

The deeper you get into the tournament, the more extreme this imbalance becomes. So, when the blinds get to 5001,000, the average stack will likely be around 50,000. On a percentage basis, that’s a significant increase when compared to early stage conditions.

Here’s the bottom line: Paranoia is likely to set in among tight players late in a tournament when blinds escalate to a point where they represent a large per-

centage of their stack.

T h e s e players will tend to sit on their hands while more aggressive players rob them blind by relentlessly attacking the blinds with a barrage of small raises.

Tight players simply get gun shy late in a tournament. Don’t make that mistake. Instead, be the player who takes advantage of opponents who play not to lose. Playing to win is the name of the game.  Online poker training is now available from Daniel Negreanu.

Visit www.PokerVT.com. © 2008 Card Shark Media. All rights reserved.

October 9 - 15, 2008

Page 37

Level: 1 3

2 4

SOLUTION TO LAST WEEK’S PUZZLE

10/12/08

© 2008 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Media Services. All rights reserved.

1. Ice remover 8. “Face the Nation” airer 11. Toll rd.

14. Hit HBO series set in Baltimore 15. Tic-tac-toe win 16. “____ you satisfied?”

17. Term used to describe medicines that are developed to treat uncommon illnesses 19. Family 20. Suffix meaning “city” 21. Music for a matador’s ears 22. Director Anderson 23. Latin 101 verb 24. It lasted in China for about 400 years 28. Hamilton’s bill 29. Charged particle 30. “To reiterate ...”

31. Helpers: Abbr.

33. Spots for goatees 34. “Philadelphia” director 38. “Gonna Fly Now” composer Bill 39. Best Supporting Actor of 1986 and 1999 40. 2005 George Clooney film 43. U-turn from SSW 44. Cabinet inits. since 1947 47. Precarious 49. “____ Only Just Begun” (Carpenters hit) 50. ____ Enterprise 51. PBS program since 1988 52. Sasha Obama’s sister 53. Fire proof?

54. Like sections of 17-, 24, 34- and 47-Across 57. Ginger ____ 58. See 18-Down 59. Tangy quencher 60. Cries of regret 61. “I wonder ...”

62. “To be great is to be misunderstood” writer

Down 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Pay a visit to Car trim Map out anew In the least Zadora and Lindstrom Suffix with east, north,

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

14

9

10

11

15

17

18

20

21

23

24

28

13

16 19 22

25

26

29

27

30

31 34

12

32

35

33 36

38

37

39

40

41

42

47

43

44

48 50

45

49

51

52

53

54

55

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59

60

61

62

56

46

© 2008 David Levinson Wilk

Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudoku.org.uk

ACROSS

Across

south or west

32. Egg holder 34. With delight 8. thewoulda, Nation" airer 8. "Face “____, shoulda” 35. Attacks 9. Doesn’t 36. Da ____, Vietnam 11.

Toll rd. quite par 10. Desperate call 37. Fred and Wilma’s pet 14. Hit HBO series set in Baltimore 11. Prepares for firing 38. St. Paul hrs.

15. Tic-tac-toe win 12. Untouched 41. Flamethrower fuel 16. you satisfied?"

13."____ Novelist Kesey 42. False name 18.Term Withused 58-Across, formations 17. to describe medicines 44. that River are developed to treat uncommon illnesses Tarzan’s 45. City of northern Spain 19.

Familyportrayer 22. Message written on a 46. Muffle 20. Suffix meaning "city" dirty car 48. Netflix offering 21. for a matador's ears 24.Music Ball thrower 49. Communion offering 22.

25.Director LiteraryAnderson collection: Abbr.

52. Auntie of Broadway 26.Latin ____101 Creed 53. Tow-providing org.

23. verb (set of Christian beliefs) 54. Small chuckle 24. It lasted in China for about 400 years 27. QB’s gains 55. The Indians, on score28. Hamilton's bill 29. Old Testament prophet boards 29. particle 31.Charged Shenanigans 56. Border 1. remover 7. Ice White alternative

30. "To reiterate ..."

Last Thursday’s Puzzle Solved

31. Helpers: Abbr.

M A R C I E

A P O L A R

L O C K S I N

R A N A R A C E

N O T I M E

D E E M

S C A I V E C R P A L G E D

Y L I M C O N A X E S Y R S S I N S O L A M I N E D I L B R I O U T W E I

I F E R N U R E T R O L I M S T O T P L A M G O R A L F T H E D A A X E T O S M A G A E R O S N G E M H T A E U S S R E

R A D I O E R A

A V O N L A D Y

H A N G E R S

O T O O L E

F I L M E D

T A S E R S

© 2008 N. F. Benton

Page 38

October 9 - 15, 2008

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

A Growing Business That's Come of Age: Seniors represent the fastest growing segment of the population. Our client, a leading provider of comprehensive, non-medical home care services for seniors in the Northern Virginia region, is currently entertaining buyer inquires. Ideal buyer candidate is a hands-on, locally based manager with a strong desire to make a difference and the wherewithal to acquire a business with owner discretionary profit of approximately $400,000.00 To learn more call, Call Bob Cusack at 314-862-6655 x 333 or email him at bcusack@pritchardosborne.com www.poequityventures.com

Help Wanted CHILDCARE Fitness First is hiring for our

New Arlington Location. All shifts available morning/evenings & weekend shifts. Experienced preferred, but will train the right individual. Parent with child welcome to apply. Please page Barbie at 301-208-3643/ or call 301-972-4800

DRIVERS: Exp’d & Inexp’d - Local CDL-A Career Training Swift Transportation Trains and Employs!

Dedicated, Regional & OTR Fleets.

800-397-2423

HELP WANTED Sheet Metal Mechanic or experienced helper. Dixie Sheet Metal. 703-533 -1111.

PT RECEPTIONIST POSITION for medical practice. Bilingual. Medical experience is a plus.

Fax resume to 703-538-5112 or call 703-538-5110

For Rent 1 BR. OCEANFRONT TIMESHARE - Sleeps 4, 1st & 2nd Week 01/09, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, GORGEOUS, $2,000/wk. Call 202-821-9399 eves.

BEAUTIFUL SINGLE FAMILY HOME FOR RENT 4 br, 3 ba, 1 1/2ba, 3

Fls, 2 Car Attached gar, 2668 Hillsman Street, Falls Church, VA, new carpet, Form DR, Two Storeyed LR, 2 Gas FP, eat-in kitchen, fenced yard, W/O Bsmt, Call Manish 202-549-0229. Pictures of the property can be see at http://picasaweb.google. com/2668hillsman

HOUSE FOR RENT FALLS CHURCH Rambler, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms,

basement with wet bar. Vacant.$2400/month.

Contact Nuria Perez@703 346-0951 McEnearney Associates

OFFICE FOR SHORT LEASE IN FALLS CHURCH 2 Metro accessible, fully furnished offices in large suite for short term lease in Falls Church, Virginia. All utilities included, use of one private and one shared receptionist area plus conference room and kitchen with eating area, suitable for any services. Please call Ana 571-212-2000

PRIME SUBLET OFFICE SPACE in

Falls Church available for small business (1,837 RSF) Contact Syed @ 703-207-0933 ext 112 or sali@jdgcommunications.com

TOWNHOUSE IN FALLS CHURCH CITY 2 bd 1 1/2 b in Winter Hill Condominium $1650.00 per month Contact 703 380 8051.

Services CHILD CARE Experienced childcare provider provides quality care for your infant in F.C. home. (703) 241-0605.

FALL SERVICES Aeration, Dethatch,

Seeding, Limestone, Planting, Leaf Removal, Yard Clean Uo & Tree Service. Free Est. Phone 703691-2351 Gabriel

GIT RID OF IT For Removal of Junk,

Trash, Yard Debris, Appliances, Furniture & Estate clean-ups. Call 703-533-0094. We will beat most competitors prices!

GREAT CLEANING SERVICE Residenttal and Commercial, affordable rates, great references, excel-

CLEANING

SERVICE

Available 7 days a week. Week, biweekly, monthly or one time. Good references in Falls Church City.

10 years experience. For further information call me at 703-901-0596. Senior discount, Ask: Susy.

HOUSE CLEANING SERVICES. Low rates. Good references. Call Dolores 571/232-1091.

To be filed in triplicate with City Manager and to be considered by the City Council.

JEWELRY REPAIRS Broken clasp?

1.Name: Murphy Brothers, Inc. Home Address: Neal C. Nichols, President, 21467 Oatlands Road, Aldie, Virginia. Charles O. King, Vice President, 2035 Franklin Cluster Court, Falls Church, Virginia.

Thomas O. Lawson, Secretary, 11021 Country Place, Oakton, Virginia. Business Address: 11 Hillwood Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia.

String stretched out? Call Hazel (703-901-3738) for a costume jewelry repair estimate. Visit www. ofallthebeads.com

MORALES LANDSCAPE & LAWN CARE LLC Fall Clean up, Leaf removal, Brick patios, Aeration, Seeding, Mulch & More.

David (o) 703-502-3990 or (c) 571-221-4330

PC TECH VA COMPUTER REPAIR Viruses & Spyware Removal, Backup

System Files, Data Recovery, Networking and More. 5622 COLUMBIA PIKE SUITE 108 Falls Church, VA 22041 703-746-8070 or 703-229-9364

PIANO LESSONS In Falls Church home!

Gifted teacher and muscian. Children and adults.

Flexible hours. First lesson free! Susan 703204-0649

THE ALL AROUND ARTISAN Handyman/ Home Repairs/ Remodeling meticulous work/ reasonable rates.

Greg Wright 703-217-7253

Public Notice CBIRT PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE Wednesday, 15 October 2008 – 9:00 AM City Hall – Planning Conference Room (G-4) The City’s Chesapeake Bay Interdisciplinary Review Team (CBIRT) will review the following project for compliance with the Chesapeake Bay Protection Ordinance’s (CBPO) General Performance Criteria to ensure that the development disturbs the environment and water quality as little as possible.

Application CB08-11, proposal to construct a single-family home at 306B Grove Avenue within the City’s Resource Management Area (RMA) The CBIRT will not review aesthetics, construction scheduling, massing, or functionality. Concerns other than CBPO General Performance Criteria should be directed to the appropriate City staff prior to the meeting.

PUBLIC NOTICE The Board of Zoning Appeals of the City of Falls Church, Virginia will hold a public hearing on October 16, 2008 at 7:45 p.m. in the Council Chambers, 300 Park Avenue, for consideration of the following subject: V1484-08 an application for a variance to Sec. 38-16(E)(3)(a) to allow a rear yard setback of thirty-two (32) feet instead of forty (40) feet on premises known as 621 Laura Drive, Lot 20 Section 2 of the Timber Lane subdivision, RPC #52-604-009 of the Falls Church Real Property Map Zoned R-1A, Low Density Residential; applicants Nisha and Pradeep Sensharma, owners.

Weekly Classifieds are BACK On Line!

rotted wood, petdoors, lighting, fans, faucets, fences, bath, Flat screen TV installation and kitchen remodeling. Insured Free estimates. Call Doug (703) 556-4276 www.novahandyman.com

www.fcnp.com

News-Press Classifieds

$20 for up to 20 words 50¢ each additional word Add a box - $10

Deadline: 2 p.m. Tuesdays

Please include payment (check or money order) with your ad or call us to arrange payment by credit card.

For public & legal notices, please email legalads@fcnp.com

The Falls Church News-Press accepts no financial responsibility for typographical errors in advertisements. Advertising which has minor discrepancies such as misspelling or small type transposition, but which do not affect the ability of the reader to respond to the ad will be considered substantially correct and full payment is required. The Falls Church News-Press is not responsible if the original copy is not typewritten or legible and clear. The Falls Church News-Press is not responsible for copy changes made by telephone.

3.The name and address of any person lending money or furnishing capital to the Applicant and amount of unpaid judgments and their origin: None at present. No unpaid judgments.

4.Number of Vehicles: Two hundred eighty-three (283) taxicabs. Kind, class, and seating capacity: 217 Fords, 9 Chevrolets, 27 Mercurys, 1 Nissan, 20 Toyotas, 4 Hondas, 1 Lincoln, 3 Chrysler; all four-door sedans, station wagons, or minivans, six (6) passengers, including driver. All cabs are orange, and have black lettering on the front and rear doors, and rear deck lid. All Cabs have plastic leather upholstery, yellow cruising lights, and are equipped with two-way radios. Eleven (11) minivans are wheelchair accessible.

Be better together.

5.The specific experience of applicant in the transportation of passengers for hire: Neal C. Nichols, President, has been in the taxicab business in Arlington, Virginia for 55 years, has been President of Arlington Red Top Cab Company for 44 of those years, and has been the President of Murphy Brothers, Inc. for 39 years. Charles O. King, Vice-President, has 38 years of taxicab experience. Thomas O. Lawson has 39 years taxicab experience.

Couple your love of pets with our rapid international expansion and we could really go places. Whether it’s promoting responsible pet care, working as a sales associate, or even managing one of our new stores, you’ll be helping to create lasting relationships between pets and pet parents everywhere. And have some fun along the way.

NOW HIRING FOR OUR FALLS CHURCH LOCATION!

6.Reason why the applicant believes that convenience and necessity require the granting of his application: The taxicab service has been in existence for 59 years and in view of our past experience, we feel that we have furnished and can continue to furnish first-class taxicab services in Northern Virginia. Considering the facts above, we feel that we are in the best position to furnish this much needed service to the residents of the City of Falls Church, Virginia.

Overnight Stocking Crew • Cashiers • Stocking Associates Pet Trainers • Groomers • Pet Bathers • Tropical Fish, Reptile, Small Pet and Bird Specialists

You’ll enjoy great benefits including:

8.The sole terminal of Murphy Brothers is located

126952

MURPHY BROTHERS, INC. SUBMITTED BY: CHARLES O. KING

Vice-President

• competitive pay • 401(k) / savings plan • stock purchase plan • part-time associate benefits

• health coverage • dental coverage • vision coverage • store discounts

7.Neither Murphy Brothers, Inc. nor officer of the corporation has been convicted or entered a plea of guilty for violation of the law. at 11 Hillwood Ave, Falls Church, Virginia. At this location is the manager’s office and two restrooms, a public waiting room at the front of the building, a taxicab repair and maintenance facility and offstreet parking. A direct line call-box is located at Giant Food Store, 1230 West Broad Street, and at Kaiser Permanente, 201 North Washington Street, Falls Church, Virginia.

(two days before publication)

Fill out our Classified Ad form online at www.fcnp.com Phone: 703-532-3267 • Fax: 703-342-0352 E-Mail: classads@fcnp.com Mail: 450 W. Broad St. #321, Falls Church, VA 22046

2.Trade name under which application does or proposes to do business: Falls Church Yellow Cab, Bailey’s X-Roads Yellow Cab, Vienna Yellow Cab, McLean Yellow Cab, Fairfax Yellow Cab, Tysons Yellow Cab, and Annandale Yellow Cab.

APPLY ON LINE AT PETSMARTJOBS.COM Please fill out application for FALLS CHURCH, store number 0442.

Discover the rewarding opportunities of the PetSmart team, where you’ll find the training and experience you need to make your career even better.

-

1

19:50

12/10/01

AB

85

Dolev

*126952

Equal opportunity employer m/f/d/v. We screen for drug use.

Information on this item is available for review at the Zoning Division Office, 3rd Floor West Wing of City Hall, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia.

lent job call Maria 703.277.1098/703.626.0665

HANDYMAN SERVICE Windows, doors,

APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE FOR PUBLIC CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY City of Falls Church, Virginia Ordinance No. 34

APPLY TODAY!

News-Press Classifieds Remember, New Classified Deadlines: Every Tuesday, 2 p.m.!

Fabiano Farm

HOUSE

Bruce Gilden/Magnum

For Sale

FALLS CHURCH NEWS PRESS 10/9/2008 6143252-SJ34138 PETSMA 3.75” x 7” THEN YOU SEE THE POWER OF COMMUNITY COALITIONS. Jessica Jamin v.1

Do you see a BALLFIELD? They help community groups organize resources and fight to keep kids away from drugs. Contact a community coalition and find out what your group can do.

www.helpyourcommunity.org or 1-877-KIDS-313 Y O U

G E T

M O R E

W H E N

Y O U

G E T

T O G E T H E R

Office of National Drug Control Policy

NOTE TO PUB: DO NOT PRINT INFO BELOW, FOR ID ONLY. NO ALTERING OF AD COUNCIL PSAs. Office of National Drug Control Policy -Newspaper (4 1/4 x 3 1/2) ON2TK3-N-09176-C B&W “Ballfield” - screen: 85 Film at Horan Imaging: 212-689-8585 Horan Ref#:126952

October 9 - 15, 2008

Professional Services

Page 39

Professional Services

Home Improvement

Home Improvement Since 1981

Other Services

VA License #2705 023803

Grand Opening!

(571) 330-3705

HENRY HASSAN, MSFM, EA

TAX ACCOUNTANT – IRS ENROLLED AGENT

Driveways • Steps Sidewalks • Patios Small Jobs Welcome

YASMEEN HASSAN JONES PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT

SMALL BUSINESS ACCOUNTING PAYROLL SERVICES INDIVIDUAL AND BUSINESS TAX PREPARATION BUSINESS CONSULTING

Licensed and Insured. Free Estimates.

With Personal Service

703-241-7771 www.hassansacctg.com

MOTTERN MASONRY DESIGN

Walsh & Assoc.

PC Attorneys

Specializing in custom firplaces, patios, walkways, walls, driveways.

Small and large repairs.

Free estimates Licensed and insured.

6404-N SEVEN CORNERS PLACE FALLS CHURCH VA 22044

•Injury cases & Death cases •Medical/Legal malpractice •Breach of contract •Commerical/Insurance • Car accidents Free Consultation 703-448-0073 Hablamos Español 703-798-3448

CGA IMMIGRATION ASSOCIATES Family and Employment Based Immigration Petitions Skyline Plaza Falls Church

703.578.3556

www.motternmasonry.com

Cleaning Services

We’ll help you find the perfect paint color!

Mike’s Carpet Cleaning 5 Rooms deep cleaned only $98 •Stretching•Mold Remediation •Oriental Rugs•Upholstery•Pet Problems • 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage We Clean the White House!

Call Mike 703-978-2270

Liberty Chem Dry

Superior Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Residential and Commerical

Joseph

Licensed Work

Cell 703-507-5005 Tel 703-507-8300

Seven Brothers Landscaping Service

12 Years Experience • Weekly • Bi Weekly • Monthly • Home • Apartments Great References

Fast

www.bentonpotter.com

JOSEPH HOME IMPROVEMENT Drywall • Paint Exterior / Interior, Bath & Kitchen Remodeling, Basements, Handyman, Moving, Clean Garage, All kinds of hauling

Direct Cleaning Services

Licensed & Insured

Benton & Potter, P.C.

703-241-8548

Lawn & Garden

See all of the Falls Church listings as soon as they hit the market!

RE/MAX Allegiance 5100 Leesburg Pike, Suite 200 Alexandria, VA 22302 mobile. 703-868-5999 office. 703-824-4800 ShaunMurphy@remax.net

ArlingtonColorConsultants.com

703-533-0239

Drier. Cleaner. Healthier.™

www.FallsChurchListingMap.com

All work guaranteed.

703-496-7491

703-858-4589 703-909-9950

One Hour Dry Time

Deep Clean Pile Lifting Technology Safe for Children & Pets Pet Odor & Stain Removal Experts Convenient Appointments The power of oxygen is undeniable; Mother Nature has used oxygen to naturally purify the Earth for thousands of years. Now let the power of oxygen clean your carpets!

®

703.652.0675

www.oxifresh.com

Spring Cleanup, mulching, mowing, edging, trimming.

Residential & Commercial Tree Service & Snow Removal

703-241-4990

Serving Falls Church & Northern V.A. •Yard Cleanup •Mulching • Edging • Trimming • Pruning • Planting & Removal • Lawn Care • Power Washing • Deck • Siding • Painting • Hardscapes • Other handyman services

Free Estimates

703-532-3267

109 Park Avenue, Falls Church

(703)532-2221 FCSchoolofBallet.com ROOFING

DOORS

SIDING & TRIM

GUTTERS

WINDOWS

REPAIRS

703-560-7663

Make a Joyful Splash! with

Eileen Levy

ShinerRoofing.com/FallsChurch

Create unique art masterpieces using acrylics, water-based oils, pencils and an innovative variety of tools and brushes.

WILLIAMS PLUMBING

Held at 111 Park Avenue Falls Church on Tuesday Evenings from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm Cost: $90 On-going monthly enrollment Enroll on-line at www.creativecauldron.org Or call 571-239-5288

Licensed and Insured...

Free Estimates

For Plumbing & Electrical Work call: 571/263-6405 571/274-6831 (cell)

Gutters Cleaned

Powerwashing Screening and repairs Estimates by phone Licensed and insured Tom. 703/855-3031 REMODELING & ADDITION, CERAMIC, TILE, FINISHED CARPENTRY, CROWN MOLDING, CHAIRS, DECK RAILS, STAIR, WINDOWS, DOORS, CONCRETE, SIDEWALKS, DRIVEWAYS, BRICK INSTALLED & REPAIRED

Food & Dining Phone # Cell Number

703-848-8322 703-901-2431

Ledo Pizza Caterers Tysons Station • 7510 Leesburg Pike Falls Church, VA

GET

(703) 847-5336

Pizza • Pasta • Wings • Subs • Salads • Desserts

NOTICED! in the News-Press

703-532-3267 to advertise!

703-508-3976 or 703-323-9251

Weaver Enterprises

CSA 2009 Membership Community Supported Agriculture Fresh, local, wholesome, quality fruit & vegetables, flowers, more 1-240-353-8408 dffarms.com limited shares available Sign up asap!

Government contract law, all areas of business and corporate law.

In Falls Church 703-992-9255, in D.C. 202-416-1660

Ballet • Jazz • Tap • All Ages

Put Your Business & Service Directory Ad ONLINE!

Just

703-532-3267 www.FCNP.COM Business & Service Directory

$125 for 3 months $200 for 6 months $325 for 1 year w/ 3 mo. , 6 mo. or 1 year print ad

www.fcnp.com

to advertise!

Business & Service Directory 1 x 1” Ad 3 mo. = $220 • 6 mo. = $400 • 1 yr. = $725 1 x 1.5” Ad 3 mo. = $330 • 6 mo. = $600 • 1 yr. = $1100 1 x 2” Ad 3 mo. = $440 • 6 mo. = $800 • 1 yr. = $1450

1 x 2” 1 x 1.5” 1 x 1”

Page 40

Mayor Robin S. Gardner . . . . . . . . . .

Vice Mayor Harold Lippman. . . . . . . . . . .

City Council Nader Baroukh. . . . . . . . . . . .

Daniel Maller . . . . . . . . . . . . .

David F. Snyder. . . . . . . . . . . .

Daniel X. Sze . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Lawrence Webb . . . . . . . . . . .

City Manager Wyatt Shields. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Home Page <www.fallschurchva.gov>

October 9 - 15, 2008

* Indicates TTY 711 Accessibility

city calendar

OCTOBER 9

Story Hour, 10:30 a.m.

Zoning Ordinance Advisory Committee, 7:30 p.m.

Yom Kippur

11 Farmers Market, 8 a.m.-Noon Fall Cleanup & Picnic, 10:30 a.m., Community Center Farm Day, Cherry Hill Park, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

13 City Hall, Courts, DMV Select, Library, Schools, Senior Center, Sheriff’s Office Closed Community Center Open No Yard Waste, Bundled Brush, or Special Collections Volunteer Fire Department Business, 8 p.m.

The Week

703-534-8644 703-237-9089 703-992-9433 703-731-8433 703-241-0419 703-538-5986 703-532-1043 703-248-5004*

Columbus Day

14 Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court in Session Story Hour, 10:30 a.m.

City Council, 7:30 p.m.

15 Leaf Collection Begins General District Court in Session Senior Citizens Commission, 4 p.m.

Story Hour, 7 p.m.

Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation, 7:30 p.m.

Library Board of Trustees, 7:30 p.m.

Tree Commission, 7:30 p.m.

16 Story Hour, 10:30 a.m.

Human Services Advisory Council, 7 p.m.

Environmental Services Council, 7:30 p.m.

Board of Zoning Appeals, 7:30 p.m.

18 Farmers Market, 8 a.m.-Noon 19 Food for Fines Week Begins

Alert Falls Church Get real-time updates and instructions on what to do and where to go during an emergency in Falls Church City, by registering for Falls Church Alert. You will receive alerts from the City via portable electronic devices and e-mail, only in the event of an emergency. Sign up for this free service at alert.fallschurchva.gov. You can also visit alert.fallschurchva.gov to update your profile, and add or delete devices from the emergency distribution list.

Register for the City’s Online Newsletter at www.fallschurchva.gov

Register to Receive Emergency Alerts

provided as a public service by the city of falls church

Questions or Comments? City of Falls Church, Harry E.Wells Building, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church,VA 22046 703-248-5003 (TTY 711) The City of Falls Church is committed to the letter and spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act.This document will be made available in alternate format upon request. Call 703-248-5003 (TTY 711).

FOR THE WEEK of

Columbus Day Holiday Schedule Monday, Oct. 13, 2008

Classes and Events

COMMUNITY CENTER

CITY HALL

COURTS DMV SELECT OFFICE MARY RILEY STYLES PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHOOLS SENIOR CENTER SHERIFF’S OFFICE GEORGE LOCAL TRANSIT

YARD WASTE/BUNDLED BRUSH/ SPECIAL COLLECTIONS

Farm Day Saturday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Cherry Hill Park, 312 Park Ave. Enjoy old-fashioned activities for the entire family, including hayrides, pony rides, a petting farm, scarecrow making,pumpkin painting,beekeeping, blacksmithing, live music and more! Free tours of the 1845 Cherry Hill Farmhouse and Barn are also available. Nominal fees apply to some activities. Call 703-248-5171 (TTY 711) for more information.

OPEN CLOSED

REGULAR WEEKDAY SERVICE NO PICKUP For information about collections, call 703-248-5081 (TTY 711).

Leaf Collection Begins Next Wednesday City crews will collect loose leaves from Oct. 15 through Dec. 12, 2008 except for holidays. Residents who wish to have their loose leaves collected by the City are advised to rake their leaves to the curb, but avoid gutters and sidewalks wherever possible.

Please allow one week (weather permitting) to finish each zone. Crews will continue to pass through areas until the Dec. 12 cutoff date.

• Wednesday, Oct. 15 through Friday, Oct. 24 Areas south of Broad Street (Tuesday and Wednesday Collection Zones) • Monday, Oct. 27 through Friday, Nov. 7

Areas north of Broad Street (Thursday and Friday Collection Zones) Residents must keep all other collection material at least 5 feet away from leaf piles. Do not mix brush or other items with leaves. These items may injure City crews, damage equipment, damage private property, and cause delays.

The leaves that are collected will be processed into high-quality leaf mulch and offered back to residents in January (leaf mulch applications will be posted online in January).

For more information and to view the complete collection schedule, visit www.fallschurchva.gov.

16th Annual Farm Day This Saturday The City of Falls Church Recreation & Parks Division is sponsoring its 16th Annual Farm Day on Saturday, Oct. 11 at Cherry Hill Park (312 Park Ave.). Enjoy a day of old-fashioned family fun including hayrides, pony rides, a petting farm, scarecrow making, pumpkin painting, beekeeping, blacksmithing, live music and more. Free tours of the 1845 Cherry Hill Farmhouse and Barn are also available. Nominal fees apply to some activities.

For more information, call 703-248-5171 (TTY 711).

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 703-248-5077 (TTY 711).

Mary Riley Styles Library “Food for Fines” Week Begins Oct. 19 The annual “Food for Fines” initiative provides patrons the opportunity to help those in need by donating non-perishable groceries as payment for fines on overdue items.This year’s“Food for Fines” Week runs Sunday, Oct. 19 through Saturday, Oct. 25.

Check back here next week for more information, or call 703-248-5030 (TTY 711) or visit www.falls-church.lib.va.us.

Community Blood Drive Tomorrow The City of Falls Church is hosting a community blood drive on Friday,Oct.10.The Inova Bloodmobile will be parked outside the Community Center (223 Little Falls St.) for residents and City staff to donate blood from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

The blood shortage is so critical right now that there is less than a one-day supply of most blood types. Please donate to help patients in our community! Most healthy people can be blood donors, but you must meet the following requirements: Age

17 years minimum (no maximum limit) Health Good general health – no symptoms of illness, including colds, for three days prior to donating Weight 110 pounds minimum Time

56 days after a whole blood donation, 14 days after a platelet donation Identification Photo ID (such as driver’s license) Please call the City’s Human Resources Office at 703-248-5128 (TTY 711) to schedule a time for your blood donation.Each donor should allow 30 to 45 minutes for the regular blood donation process.It is important to eat something,especially foods rich in iron,and drink plenty of fluids 4-6 hours before donating.

Special Events

Halloween Carnival Saturday, Oct. 25 Community Center, 223 Little Falls St. Infants through fifth graders are invited to enjoy carnival games, a moon bounce, face painting, crafts, and candy! Event festivities are open to infants through second graders from 6-7 p.m.; and from 7:30-8:30 p.m. the event is open to third through fifth graders. A live “Raptor Show” featuring birds of prey by The Raptor Conservancy of Virginia will be held at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. for infants through fifth graders. Call 703-248-5077 (TTY 711) for more information.

Classes & Activities

Let’s Make a Story (Ages 4-6) We’ll read and make up stories; interact to music connected to the topic of that session.

Not so Scary Things Wednesdays, Oct. 22 & 29, 2-4:30 p.m.

Thanks for Things Wednesdays, Nov. 12 & 19, 2-4:30 p.m.

Sparkly & Shiny Things Wednesdays, Dec. 3 & 10, 2-4:30 p.m.

Twoosy Doodlers (Ages 20 months-3) Little fingers will experiment with painting, gluing,sticking,printing and creating,while developing fine motor, language and self-help skills. Call 703-248-5077 (TTY 711) for dates and times.

Fear Fest Saturday, Oct. 25, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Kings Dominion Kings Dominion Fear Fest brings haunts and horrors that include the Maze of Madness and Blood Shed. Cost is $40 and includes admission to park.

Knitting Workshop (Ages 12 & older) Saturday, Oct. 4 or Oct. 11, noon-2 p.m.

Students will be taught the basics of knitting and pattern reading.

Paid registration required. All classes meet at the Community Center (223 Little Falls St.) unless otherwise indicated.Call 703-248-5077 (TTY 711) for fees and more information.

City of Falls Church Farmers Market Every Saturday from 8 a.m. - Noon

Growing Green Fall Recycling Extravaganza a Big Success!

The City of Falls Church held its semiannual Recycling Extravaganza on Sept. 20.

Many tons of electronics, textiles, bikes, cell phones, eye glasses, medical supplies and more were diverted from the waste stream to the recycling or reuse stream. In just five hours, volunteers helped to collect: • 22 tons of electronics • 1.15 tons of textiles and clothing • 125 bikes • Dozens of cell phones, printer cartridges, eye glasses, medical supplies and more!

PNC Bank sponsored free paper shredding resulting in three tons of shredded and recycled paper! That represents about 181 file boxes of paper.

The event was sponsored by the Environmental Services Council (ESC) and the Department of Environmental Services.Thanks to the many wonderful volunteers who donated their time in order to make this event possible.The next Recycling Extravaganza will be April 25,2009,9 a.m.to 2 p.m.at the Falls Church Recycling Center and Property Yard (217 Gordon Rd).

20th Annual City of Falls Church Fall Cleanup Join in the fun of working together!

Volunteers are needed for the City’s 20th Annual Fall Cleanup on Saturday, Oct. 11.

Meetinfront of the FallsChurchCommunity Center (223 Little Falls St.) at 10:30 a.m. to pick up gloves, bags and tools, and receive work assignments. After an hour or so of litter pickup, participants are invited back to the Community Center for a“thank you” picnic featuring delicious food donations from Falls Church City restaurants.

The Fall Cleanup is co-sponsored by the Department of Environmental Services and the Falls Church Environmental Services Council. Call 703-248-5176 (TTY 711) to volunteer or for more information.

Falls Church Recreation & Parks Division 223 Little Falls Street Falls Church, VA 22046 703-248-5077* Phone Numbers Open Gym/Weather Hotline 703-248-5125* Special Events Hotline 703-248-5178* Fax 703-536-5125 Senior Center 703-248-5020*/21* Community Center Hours Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Friday 8 a.m. - Midnight Saturday 8:30 a.m. - Midnight Sunday Noon - 6 p.m.

Open Gym Hours Open Gym hours are updated on a bi-weekly basis and are also posted on the Open Gym Hotline, 703-248-5125*. All hours are subject to change. * Indicates TTY 711 Accessibility

October 9 - 15, 2008

Page 41

ly Focus

Chairman: Ronald Peppe II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Vice Chairman: Susan Kearney . . . . . . . . . . .

School Board Rosaura Aguerrebere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Kathryn Chandler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Charlotte Hyland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Kieran Sharpe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Joan Wodiska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Superintendent: Dr . Lois Berlin . . . . . . . . . . .

government and the falls church city public schools

october 9-15, 2008

For more news about the Falls Church City Public Schools visit: www.fccps.org

“The research is clear that healthful, nutritious meals are a fundamental component of student wellness, learning, and success,” school board member

Joan Wodiska said. “Our vote to subsidize meals for families that meet federal income guidelines was the right thing to do for our students, and we strongly encourage every eligible family to apply for the school meals program.”

For more information, or to request a printed copy of the

application, contact FCCPS Food Service Coordinator Richard Kane at (703) 248-5534 or by email at kaner@fccps.org.

Students who qualify will receive electronic meal cards that are identical to those given to students who are not eligible for subsidized meals. The debit system is computerized, allowing all payment and free meal information to be kept confidential.

Income guidelines and applications are available at: www.fccps.org/meals.

FCC-TV Spotlight: EDA Development Forum Tune in to Falls Church Community Television (FCC-TV) to watch the City of Falls Church Economic Development Authority’s forum on the city’s fiscal impact model for analyzing new develoment projects . In this forum, taped on September 9, L . Carson Bise, II, President of TischlerBise, Inc ., answers questions and provides information on this model . You can watch the EDA Forum on FCC-TV at the following times: • Saturday, October 11 at 6:30 p .m .

• Monday, October 13 at 7:30 p .m .

• Thursday, October 16 at 9:00 p .m .

Families may apply for assistance at any time throughout the school year.

• Sunday, October 12 at 11:00 a .m .

• Wednesday, October 15 at 8:30 a .m .

FCC-TV airs on Cox Channel 12, Verizon Channel 35 and RCN Channel 2 . For a complete schedule of the variety of community programs on FCC-TV, visit www.fcctv.net .

BIE Partner of the Week

Apple FCU Opens MEHMS Branch Talk about convenient banking.

Some wanting to make a deposit to their Apple Federal Credit Union account now need only walk to the Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School lobby.

The student-run Husky Branch of Apple FCU opened its door last week. The program gives students an opportunity to explore future employment options by performing many credit union duties, including accepting membership applications and processing deposits.

Lesley Cranshaw

Students also learn about savings options and money management.

Road Runner Sports

Apple FCU operates 35 student-run branches throughout the Washington D.C. metropolitan area.

School Involvement: Sponsored the Falls Church Education Foundation Run for the Schools as a site for packet pick-up; donated running shoes as a prize; business sponsors Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School’s “Girls on the Run” program .

Why Lesley is a BIE partner: “As a company dedicated to running and supporting the local running community, Road Runner Sports is happy to partner with the only 5K run in Falls Church . We’re also pleased to be able to support the local schools .”

For more information about sharing your expertise through the BIE Partnership, visit www.fccps.org or contact Marybeth Connelly at connellym@fccps .org .

Foundation Footnotes

governor Kaine thanks FcEF for Supporting India Education Exchange The FCEF recently sponsored a new initiative in the Commonwealth of Virginia that promotes development of international partnerships--the India as Global Partner Program, which is directed by the Virginia Association of School Superintendents (VASS) . As a program participant, Superintendent Lois Berlin, will travel from Virginia to more fully understand the skills that our students will need to become successful in the global economy . “Your sponsorship will further our mission to improve Virginia’s educational system and economy”, Gov . Kaine wrote in a letter to the Foundation .

The Foundation is a registered as a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization . For information about the Falls Church Education Foundation, visit www.fcedf.org or contact Donna Englander at denglander@fcedf .org .

School content published in The Weekly Focus is written and edited by the Falls Church City Public Schools. For more information, contact the Falls Church City Public Schools Communications Office. Phone: (703) 248-5699 Fax: (703) 248-5613.

703-536-8638 703-536-7564 703-237-6993 703-536-3130 703-533-1248 703-248-5601*

* Indicates TTY 711 Accessibility

School Board Approves Free Meals for Qualifying Students The Falls Church City School Board recognizes that current economic difficulties may lead to financial hardships for some families. In an effort to provide direct assistance to families, the school board voted at its last regular meeting to subsidize reduced-price student meals for students who meet federal family income guidelines. For the rest of this school year, any FCCPS family that qualifies for reducedprice student meals will be provided those meals at no charge.

703-534-4951 703-532-0321

MEH sponsor Kathryn Smolarek (left) makes a deposit into her savings account during the grand opening of the Apple FCU Husky Branch last week.

SCHOOL CALENDAR DATES ARE SubjEcT To chAngE Testing now – 10/10 PALS (grades 1-3) now – 10/31 DRA Testing (grades 1-2)

Q/SRI Testing (grades 3-5) 10/10 – 10/17 cogAT Practice, Test (MD) 10/14 – 11/7 PALS (Kindergarten) 10/15 PSAT (grades 10-11) October 6:30 p.m. Odyssey of the Mind (TJ) 9 7:00 p.m. Homecoming Pep Rally (GM) 7:15 p.m. Manassas Park @ Mason (Volleyball) All Day Fall Pictures (TJ) 10 7:45 a.m. Parent/Teacher Mini Conferences (GM) 7:30 p.m. Homecoming Game vs.

Manassas Park (Football) 11 TBA Mason @ Glory Days Invit.

(Cross Country) 8:30 p.m. Homecoming Dance (GM) 13 Columbus Day (Schools/Day Care Closed) All Day Single A State Tournament (Golf) 7:30 p.m. GMHS Athletic Boosters (GM) 6:30 p.m. School Board Work Session 14 7:15 p.m. Mason @ Rapp. Co. (Volleyball) 8:30 p.m. School Board Regular Meeting 15 6:00 p.m. Naviance/Family Connection Night (GM) 7:00 p.m. Elementary PTA (MD) 16 7:15 p.m. Strasburg @ Mason (Volleyball) 7:30 p.m. JV Show (GM) All Day Make-Up Picture Day (MEH) 17 7:30 p.m. JV Show (GM) 7:30 p.m. Mason @ Eastern View (Football) (MD) Mount Daniel School (TJ) Thomas Jefferson Elementary (MEH) Mary Ellen Henderson Middle (GM) George Mason High Check the FCCPS Web site for more calendar information. www.fccps.org

A Gift Before We Go George Mason interim principal Mary McDowell (l) accepts a gift of three books for the school’s library from Chilean exchange program coordinators Ximena Arecheta and Monica Ramirez from the Trewela’s School in Santiago, Chile .

Nearly two dozen Chilean students spent the last two weeks immersing themselves in American culture . Next spring, GMHS students will travel to Santiago to complete this year’s exchange .

It’s Academic: Round One Members of George Mason’s scholastic team bone up for its first round match on the popular quiz bowl “It’s Academic” to be taped this Saturday . The Mustangs face off against DeMatha and Maret in a program that will air Saturday, November 22nd on NBC4 .

Page 42

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15 s Yearo Ag

to come aid the ir of there. pa stu is Now e the timall for o d g o to cows to come aid the ir of there. pa stu

October 9 - 15, 2008

Falls Church News-Press Vol lll, No. 30 • October 14, 1993

Falls Church News-Press Vol VIII, No. 31 • October 15, 1998

almost all the territories,” Olmert said.

Israeli withdrawal from the territories captured during the 1967 war is the price of peace with the Palestinians. The problem is that Olmert’s high-minded words do not match his deeds. During his two-year tenure as prime minister he has continued Shamir’s expansionist settlement policy.

Peace Now says settlement

construction nearly doubled during Olmert’s tenure and that the number of Israelis living on the West Bank increased more than 10 percent, to 290,000.

Now we come to outgoing President Bush. Admitting mistakes does not come easy for this proud man. Nor does he take responsibility easily. Let’s hear what he has to say in his farewell address.

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The Portuguese Water Dog breed once lived all along the coast of Portugal. They are avid swimmers, even having webbed feet, and at one time would dive into the ocean in order to retrieve broken nets for their master fisherman. Carrying messages between boats and even herding fish, the Portuguese Water Dog is highly intelligent. The breeds coat is non-shedding, profuse and waterproof. Oreo, above, is a wavy haired black and white two year old PWD who lives with her family in Vienna. Far from the icy waters of the Atlantic, and work on the fishing boats, Oreo spends her summers swimming in the pool, retrieving her favorite toys from calm waters.

If you would like to see your pet here, e-mail us at crittercorner@ fcnp.com or send a picture and a short description to Falls Church News-Press c/o Critter Corner, 450 W. Broad St., Suite 321, Falls Church, VA 22046.

Merrifield Garden Center FALL IS FOR PLANTING! Glorious Color–

Page 1

Licensed and Insured Email: jphandymanservices@live.com

c

Think the Real Estate Market Has Gone to the Dogs?

Ask Suzanne for the Real Scoop!

Thro w it up.

Pour it up It now is the time for all go od cows to go to the aid

“The City of Falls Church’s enormous water system, which goes way beyond city limits to service over 120,000 customers in McLean and Tysons Corner, could be the source of a revenue windfall for the City, members the Falls Church City Council’s budget committee speculated at their meeting Monday night.

With a book value of $150 million ...”

“Five pillars of the Falls Church Community, who have served as either mayor or School Board chair here, have come out openly in a full-page advertisement published in today’s edition of the News-Press opposing the referendum that will be on the Nov. 2 ballot in ...”

It’s not just American leaders who unload as their governing days wane. The Israelis know they cannot keep defying United Nations resolutions against the building of illegal settlements on occupied Palestinian lands.

According to the Washington Post, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzak Shamir in 1992 revealed he was “never serious about peace negotiations” with the Palestinians.

Shamir played for time and tried to drag out the talks for a decade, while settling hundreds of thousands more Israelis in the occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Were the American officials so naive that they believed him?

Now Ehud Olmert, the Israeli prime minister who also served in Shamir’s cabinet and had supported the goal of “a greater Israel,” is leaving his post with a different approach.

Olmert recently acknowledged in an interview with the Israeli newspaper Yediroth Aharonot that as a supporter of settlements in East Jerusalem for a long time, he was “unwilling to look at reality in all its depth.”

Olmert’s turnaround is remarkable, but in line with Peace Now, the Israeli pro-peace group.

“We have to reach an agreement with the Palestinians, the meaning of which is that in practice, we will withdraw from

10 Year s Ago

‘Tap Water Fund? - Council Explores New Avenues for Obtaining Revenue’

‘BATTLE LINES DRAWN AS ELECTION NEARS - 5 Former City Mayors and School Board Chairs Come Out Vs. Elected School Board Referendum’

Continued from Page 10

It is no the timw e for g o all o cows d to go to the aid of the ir pa stu re. *** **

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Dulin Church United Methodist

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513 E Broad St. Falls Church, 703-532-8060

PUMPKINS CORNSTALKS s GOURDS

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October 9 - 15, 2008

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ACCOUNTING

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Diener & Associates, CPA.. . . . . . . . . 241-8807 Eric C. Johnson, CPA, PC . . . . . . . . . 538-2394 Hassans Account & Tax Services . . . 241-7771 Mark Sullivan, CPA. . . . . . . . . . . 571-214-4511 Walsh & Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 448-0073 Hahn & Associates, PC, CPAs. . . . . . 533-3777 n

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ATTORNEYS

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BANKING

Burke & Herbert Bank & Trust Co.. . . 519-1634 BB&T . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241-3505 Acacia Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 506-8100 n

BOOK BINDING

BCR Binders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 534-9181 n

BUSINESS SERVICES

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CARPET CLEANING

Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning . . . . . . . . 652-0675 Mike’s Carpet Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 978-2270 n

CATERING

Bubba’s Bar-B-Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 560-8570

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EQUIPMENT RENTAL/SALE

VA Outdoor Power Equipment . . . . . . 207-2000 EZ Tool Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 531-4700 Ace Tool & Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . 532-5600 n

EYEWEAR

Point of View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237-6500 n

FLORISTS

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

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INTERIOR DESIGN

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JEWELRY

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LAWN & GARDEN

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Caliber Mower Service & Repair . . . . 691-2995 Dragon Fly Farms . . . . . . . . . . . 240-353-8404 Weaver Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 323-9251 Lawn Care Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 691-2351

FRAMING

Art and Frame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 534-4202

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Stifel & Capra. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-0770

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GIFTS

REAL ESTATE

Merelyn Kaye . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .790-9090x218 www.helpfulmortgage.us . . . . . . . . . . 237-0222 Casey O’Neal - ReMax . . . . . . . . . . . 824-4196 Rosemary Hayes Jones. . . . . . . . . . .790-1990 Leslie Hutchison. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .675-2188 The Young Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .356-8800 Shaun Murphy, Realtor . . . . . . . . . . . 868-5999 www.TheJeffersonatBallston.com . . . 741-7562 Susan Fauber. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 395-8741

INSURANCE

www.ofallthebeads.com . . . . . . . . . . . 901-3738

PET SERVICES

Dog Trainer - Nicole Kibler. . . . . . . . . 593-6340 n

IMMIGRATION SERVICES

design2follow llc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 534-1610

MUSIC

Academy of Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 938-8054 World Children’s Choir . . . . . . . . . . . . 883-0920 Columbia Institute - Fine Arts. . . . . . . 534-2508 Foxes Music Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 533-7393

Bob Snyder - Life/Health/Disability . . 449-0117 State Farm Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . 237-5105 n

MEDICAL

Dr Gordon Theisz, Family Medicine. . 533-7555 The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy. . . . 536-4042

CGA Immigration Associates, LLC. . . 578-3556 n

Galleria Florist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 536-0770 Falls Church Florist, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . 533-1333 n

HOME CARE

Arlington Color Consultants . . . . . . . . 241-8548 Courthouse Kitchens & Baths . . . . . . 352-3011 Andy Group Construction. . . . . . . . . . 503-0350 Joseph Home Improvement. . . . . . . . 507-5005 FC Heating & Air Service . . . . . . . . . . 534-0630 Shiner Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 560-7663 J & S Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 448-1171 The Vinyl Touch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 793-3111

COUNSELING

Drs. William Dougherty, Julie D. Tran 532-3300 Drs. Mark A. Miller, Melanie R. Love . 241-2911 Dr. Nimisha V. Patel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 533-1993

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Human Touch Home Health. . . . . . . . 531-0540

CONSTRUCTION

DENTISTS

HEALTH & FITNESS

Curves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 536-0140 Sacred Well Yoga and Healing . . . . . 989-8316

Carol S. Miller, LCSW . . . . . . . . . . . . 395-4980 Josette Millman, APRN . . . . . . . . . . . 855-0396

Jon Rizalvo, PAYCHEX . . . . 698-6910 x27045 n

COMPUTER SERVICES

Healthy by Intention, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . 534-1321 Sheraton Premiere Women’s Massage 403-9328

GUTTERS & SIDING

Thomas Most - Gutters Cleaned . . . . 855-3031

Alba Construction, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . 204-0733

AUTOMOTIVE

Beyer Volvo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237-5000 Swedish Motor Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237-0988

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NADsys - Computer Sale & Repair. . . . . .534-3800 Systems Management Technology . 891-1491 x14

ASSISTED LIVING

Bose Law Firm: Former Police. . . . . . 926-3900 Mark F. Werblood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 534-9300 Janine S. Benton, Esq. . . . . . . . . . . .992-9255 n

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Sunrise of Falls Church . . . . . . . . . . . 534-2700

CLEANING SERVICES

Direct Cleaning Services . . . . . . . . . . 858-4589 Pressure Washing/Deck, Siding. . . . . 980-0225 Liberty Chem Dry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 533-0239 Maid Brigade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 823-1922 Carpets, Ducts, Windows. . . . . . . . . . 823-1922

ARTS

Falls Church School of Ballet. . . . . . . 532-2221

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Dr. Solano, solanospine.com . . . . . . 536-4366 n

ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES

Falls Church Antique Company . . . . . 241-7074 Antique Annex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241-9642

CHIROPRACTOR

TAILOR

Tailor Lee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 534-8886

TRAVEL

All Travel & Cruises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 970-4091

TUTORS

Your Computer Tutor . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204-2821 TCY Learning Solutions, LLC. . . . . . . 371-9067

MASONRY

Mottern Masonry Design . . . . . . 571-212-1711

MASSAGE

Massage & Hair Removal . . . . . . .571-282-4522

All numbers have a ‘703’ prefix unless otherwise indicated.

Just because you’re not famous doesn’t mean your pet can’t be!

Visit Us Online

Snap a pic of your critter and email it to: CRITTERCORNER@FCNP.COM OR mail it to Critter Corner c/o Falls Church News-Press 450 W. Broad Street #321 Falls Church, Va 22046

www.fcnp.com News•Photos•Online Polls•Sports and More

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October 9 - 15, 2008

UNDER CONTRACT Fabulous New “City” Home Walk to West Falls Church Metro from this quality built beauty! Hardi-plank siding, inviting covered front porch, (just the place for a porch swing) gracious open floor plan offering five bedrooms, playroom, three and one half baths, gorgeous hardwood floors, gas fireplace flanked by built-in bookcases, gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, maple cabinets, stainless steel appliances, table space, and adjoining family room with French doors to deck. Gorgeous mouldings, including crown, chair rail, shadow box and oversized baseboards and case mouldings.

Lovely pillars separate Living and dining Rooms. Stunning light fixtures! Daylight lower level. A wonderful house. $960,000

Merelyn Kaye Selling Falls Church Since 1970

Life Member, NVAR TopProducer Member 20+ Million Dollar Sales Club Top 1/2% of all Agents Nationwide

Home 241-2577 Office 790-9090 X418 Mobile 362-1112

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1320 Old Chain Bridge Road McLean, Virginia 22101