Falls Church News-Press 11-25-2021 by Falls Church News-Press

Nov. 25 — Dec. 1, 2021

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FOU N D E D 1991 • VOL. XXXI NO. 40

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Police Chief Gavin Warns Council Of Shortages

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City employees petition for compensatory salary hikes BY NICHOLAS F. BENTON

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

Falls Church Chief of Police Mary Gavin did her best to keep her cool while presenting to the Falls Church City Council Monday a stark picture of what she called “a staffing crisis” facing her department. Veteran officers are leaving the force in comparative droves and there are not the officer reserves that other larger departments can tap into. A usual turnover of two officers per year has escalated into six or seven right away, she said. That’s in a department that is less than three dozen strong. The “accelerated loss of personnel,” she said, has seen 20 percent of the City’s small department leave since July. “We are not being competitive and we don’t have opportunities for advancement,” she said, when asked point blank by Council member David Snyder,

Continued on Page 4

F.C.’S MERIDIAN HIGH SCHOOL MUSTANGS Emerged from the school’s new facility last week to vanquish yet another foe. The team faces long-time rival Brentsville this Friday night at the Meridian stadium. (P��: C�� S��)

F.C.’s Meridian Mustangs Host Regional Finals Friday BY JULIE FELGAR

The mighty Meridian High School Mustangs, playing their first football season with a new school name and campus, have advanced to the regional finals. One last challenge before, with

a win. They enter the state championships. This Friday will be yet another home game at Mustang stadium at 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 26. Friday’s opponent is Brentsville, in what will be a tough rematch challenge. In an

earlier meeting this year in late September, Brentsville prevailed by three points, 23-20. Last Friday night, the Meridian Mustangs played an aggressive game against Goochland. They walked away with a 40-21 win against

a well-coached and talented Goochland team. The Mustangs’ double wing offense was on fire and overwhelmed the Goochland defense.

Continued on Page 5

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After being unable to open last year due to the pandemic, the Falls Church Homeless Shelter is preparing to open for the winter season next Wednesday to help prevent hypothermia in those who are unhoused.

Located in Eden Center, this bakery and deli offers a wide variety of different Vietnamese dishes such as steam buns, durian fruit drinks, bahn mi sandwiches and much more.

SEE STORY, PAGE 2

See Pages 12-13

SEE STORY, PAGE 14

INDEX

Editorial............................................... 6 Letters................................................. 6 Comment ..................................... 7,8,9 Crime Report ...................................... 8 News & Notes....................... 10,11,15 Calendar ........................................... 16 Business News ................................. 17 Classified Ads ................................... 20 Comics.............................................. 21 Critter Corner.................................... 22

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Falls Church Homeless Shelter Prepares To Open for Season Next Week by Amanda Snead

Falls Church News-Press

After being unable to open in winter 2020 and having a short season in 2019-2020 when they had to close early due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Falls Church Homeless Shelter is back with plans to open next week on December 1 to accommodate unhoused people across the city. The shelter has operated for almost 30 years after members of the community saw a need and decided to try and make a change. Since then, they have operated almost every winter with help from the City of Falls Church, which provides the building used for overnight housing accommodations on Gordon Road. The shelter will operate from December 1 (Wednesday) until March 31 of next year with a few changes being put in place in order to keep guests, volunteers and workers as safe as possible as the pandemic continues. The shelter operates in the winter with the primary goal of preventing hypothermia in the colder months for those who are unhoused. The shelter provides overnight housing for up to 12 guests — 10 men and two women — with separate sleeping and shower facilities.

They provide guests with overnight housing from 6 p.m. until 8 a.m. along with a hot dinner, breakfast in the morning and a bagged lunch to take with them to have during the day while they are not at the shelter. The Shelter works with New Hope Housing, a Northern Virginia based nonprofit organization with the goal of “finding creative and lasting solutions to end the cycle of homelessness by offering homeless men, women and children the services they need to change their lives and succeed.” They help by providing staff members as well as a case manager to help those staying at the shelter. After meeting with officials from Fairfax County Health Department, the shelter decided to open its doors again this year with new precautions in place. “Typically to keep our costs down we have a volunteer help staff the shelter for our evening shift and weekend overnight shifts along with a professional staff member from New Hope Housing. This year we are not relying on volunteers to help staff the shelter,” said Julene Jarnot, Executive Director of the Falls Church Homeless Shelter, who works closely with members of the board, the City of Falls Church and New Hope Housing.

MEMBERS OF GIRL SCOUT TROOP 3484 helped to prepare welcome bags for guests coming into the shelter. (Photo: Courtesy of Falls Church Homeless Shelter)

While the shelter will not be using volunteers to staff the building, there are still plenty of ways to get involved and help the shelter out. Sign up lists can be found at fcshelter.org/volunteer/ for grocery givers — someone who shops and provides a weeks worth of groceries, supply providers— someone who provides various other supplies needed for a week, bag lunch providers — someone to make and deliver 12 bagged lunches and holiday dinner providers — someone to provide Christmas and New Years dinners to guests and staff members. More opportunities may become available as the season goes on as well. Additionally, an Amazon wishlist can be found on the website where needed items can be purchased and shipped directly to the shelter. Due to the pandemic, items such as face masks and hand sanitizer are a need for the shelter. A link to donate money can also be found on their website at fcshelter.org/ donate/. To stay up to date with volunteering opportunities and ways to donate, citizens can join the shelter’s email list located at the bottom of their website. The shelter will also be participating in Giving Tuesday on November 30, one day before the shelter opens its doors for the season. Face masks will be required in the shelter for both guests and staff members unless they are eating or sleeping and social distancing will be in effect. Professional cleaning will also take place once a week with cleaning by staff and guests in between. Staff members and the case manager will all be required to be vaccinated as well. Guests are not required to be fully vaccinated but an effort will be made to help guests receive the vaccine as well as other health concerns. Guests will go through a screening process upon arrival to check for any signs or symptoms of Covid. Anyone displaying symptoms will be transferred to another facility where they can quarantine and be treated. For dinners, different community members and organizations work to provide a hot meal once a week including Falls Church Presbyterian,

MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT LILY and her mother updated one of the bulletin boards with positive messages and space for practical information for guests. (Photo: Courtesy of Falls Church Homeless Shelter)

Bethany Ellis, Columbia Baptist Church, Meridian High School’s senior class, St. James Catholic Church, New City Church and Ledo Pizza. Even when they were unable to open last year, the shelter’s team still worked to do what they could for the community by working with the Fairfax County hypothermia program. They helped to provide meals as that is where their guests would be as well as hosting food and supply drives and the Falls Church Community Service Council and Homestretch. The shelter serves a variety of people in the community, some who are chronically homeless and others who are just going through a difficult time. Some of the guests have jobs while others do not. The case manager works with guests on a case by case basis, providing them with whatever services are necessary to them. This can include health services, workforce development and, ultimately, helping them to find a more permanent housing situation. Aside from housing during the night, showers and food, guests also have access to laundry, lockers and bus passes to use during the day when they cannot be in the shelter.

“[The community] has been wonderful so far and we have a lot of things in place for the season with people helping out,” said Jarnot. “I think financial support will be the thing we need the most help with this year due to added expenses as we are operating a little differently than usual.” The shelter will open next week and as the needs of guests are assessed, their website will be updated with any other items that are needed and volunteer opportunities as the season progresses. “We’re incredibly grateful for the community,” concluded Jarnot. “We couldn’t do it without everyone’s support. It’s a real blessing and a great community that really steps up to help when needed.” The Falls Church Homeless Shelter is located at 217 Gordons Road in Falls Church. To find out more information about donating and volunteering opportunities, please visit their website at fcshelter.org, call 703-854-1400 or email contact@fcshelter.org. You can also “like” their Facebook page to see any updates throughout the season on volunteer opportunities and donation needs, as well as signing up for their email list on their website.

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NOVEMBER 25 - DECEMBER 1, 2021 | PAGE 3

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

City Still Facing Shortages, Employees Petitioning for Salary Hikes Continued from Page 1

“What can we do?” The short answer was compensation, she said. “We need to be paying young officers more...We need more officers.” Hiring challenges exist everywhere now, but in the Falls Church case, “We have a minimum staff to start with, and we do not have support units to draw from if needed.” She cited the City’s larger neighbors, who can take personnel from specialized units or task forces to supplement the main department staff. “We don’t have a deep bench,” Gavin said. Difficulties hiring and retaining staff is linked to compensation levels, too, she said. “In the case of Herndon, for example,

people can walk in the door and get offers $6,000 or $7,000 more. Officers have to take a pay cut to come here.” Herndon starts at $60,000 per year, and F.C. at $52,200. On top of that, Gavin said, “The climate generally is that there is not a lot of support for this profession.” Chief Gavin’s testimony came in the context of a large turnout of City employees who showed up in person at the meeting to support the petition of employee Caitlin Sobsey urging that the Council offer not a one percent, as recommended by City Manager Wyatt Shields, but a 3.5 percent salary increase on top of a one-time $1,000 bonus and in wake of the $1.6 million budget surplus and $18 million in federal pandem-

ic relief aid from the American Rescue Plan Act. Sobsey said that representatives of City staff on the Employee Advisory Council (EAC) feel the City Manager’s recommendation “is not sufficient compensation for the staff’s ‘heroic’ efforts during the pandemic, and instead request that the 3.5 percent salary increase that was initially planned and budgeted for in FY21 be reinstated in full, in light of the $1.6 million surplus at the end of FY21, savings that were the result of cuts made to the general government budget and our salaries.” She testified, “We do not view this as a reward or an extra incentive, but a fair and reasonable request to recoup the lost wages due to Covid budget cuts and a necessary step toward getting

FALLS CHURCH CHIEF OF POLICE Mary Gavin spoke to the F.C. Council about staff shortages in her department Monday night. (P��: N��-P��)

compensation on track to be competitive with neighboring jurisdictions.” She added, “We fear that Council’s failure to take meaningful action on this issue will result in even lower employee morale, and create and even greater strain on the City staff, which ultimately could result in the continued loss of valued employees and institutional knowledge.” “On behalf of all employees in the City,” Sobsey said, “The EAC strongly urges you to reciprocate the extraordinary and unprecedented efforts we have made in the past two years, and also take extraordinary and unprecedented measures to show City staff they are valued and respected.” Later in the meeting, Councilmember Ross Litkenhous chimed in that he was “uncomfortable” with the one percent salary hike, saying it was simply “not enough.” While Councilman Phil Duncan proposed “more caution,” Litkenhous implored the Council to “act now.” and Council member Letty Hardi added her support to Litkenhous, proposing an additional $200,000 in ARPA funds be added as bonuses to a 2.5 percent salary increase.

After a convoluted and tortured effort to find the right language for their proposal, the measure that passed 7-0 was described by City Clerk Celeste Heath as follows: “Motion as amended by Ms. Connelly, seconded by Mr. Snyder, to grant first reading, schedule second reading and public hearing for Dec. 13...with the following changes to the proposed ordinance, at line 390, strike $1,500 one-time premium pay and replace it with $1,000 one-time premium pay, and strike 1 percent increase in base salary and replace it with 2.5 percent increase in base salary, add $100,000 to the sidewalk fund, direct staff in addition to a salary compensation study to also include a staffing capacity study, and that in addition to the 2.5 percent and the $1,000 that the City Council moves to allocate a total of $200,000 from a mixture of ARPA or the surplus to provide employees additional compensation above the 2.5 percent, the $1,000 and the $1,000 premium pay.” Get all that? The unusually lengthy Council meeting adjourned at 12;28 a.m., just short of five hours after it was first convened.

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Meridian Mustang Football Team Wins Region Semi-Final

Continued from Page 1

“That style of offense is really, really, really tough,” said Goochland coach Alex Fruth. “If you’re not able to duplicate it during the week, you’re never going to be really prepared for it.” Mustang’s head coach Adam Amerine was pleased with the what he saw from his team. “Overall, I thought we showed great energy and effort and played with the confidence and swagger needed to match a team of Goochland’s caliber.” The team went into the week laser focused and feels they are starting to peak at the right time. Evans Rice, the Mustang’s QB, credited the coaches with prepping the team. “The coaches did a great job in preparing all week and showing us all the fronts Goochland might come out in. We had a great week of prep and were dialed in from the start of the game.” After some back and forth at the start of the game, Goochland took advantage of good field possession after the Mustangs failed to convert to a first down on a trick punt. Goochland took

over on the 38-yard line and drove 62 yards for a TD. The Mustangs bounced right back and on the first snap of the next drive, Graham Felgar took the ball 80 yards downfield for a touchdown. Feglar totalled 255 yards in rushing offense and four TDs before the night was over. Extra point was not good. Goochland fumbled on the next drive and Felgar jumped on the ball. Evans Rice, senior QB, put together an 11-play drive that resulted in a 9-yard rushing TD by Senior Griffin Harrison. Up 12-7, the Mustangs defensive stand out, George Papadapolous, intercepted the ball. A few plays later, the Mustangs fumbled and Goochland took the conversion to an ultimate TD by their QB, Towles. With the score 12-14, Mustangs took over on offense and for the second time of the night, Graham Felgar turned on the jets and outran the defense for an 85 yard TD. Right before half, the Mustangs scored once again on an 85 yard drive that ended with a 15 yard pass from Rice to Felgar in the endzone with the extra point kicked in by Holmgren.

The Mustangs went into half time 26-14. They received the ball at the start of the second half and drove another 70 yards down field, taking seven minutes off the clock and resulting in a one yard QB sneak by Rice. On the very next series, Goochland’s Towles threw a 15 yard pass that Felgar wrestled from the receiver and ran 45 yards back for the pick six after a series of key blocks by Rice and Seth Stillwagoner to give him the room he needed. “I wanted to win more than anyone else on that field,” said Felgar. “Goochland has been the football powerhouse in our region for years. I knew we had to truly bring it if we wanted to win. Credit to my offensive line for opening up holes and running with me downfield, blocking for me to score.” Goochland scored once more in the 4th quarter but was never able to catch up and the Mustangs did a good job of managing the clock. Stillwagoner is excited about the next game, “We’re playing good complimentary football right now. Offensively, we are hitting those big plays and defen-

THE MERIDIAN HIGH MUSTANGS, in red, romped past Goochland at the Meridian stadium last Friday. (P��: C�� S��) sively, we are flying round and forcing those turnovers. We have been talking about being in this position since August, so we’re really excited for the opportunity to go against Brentsville this week and win the region.” Coach Amerine is realistic about the challenges Brentsville poses but is in no way intimidated. “Brentsville presents challenges for us. It’s a team we are very familiar with, but also

a team we have struggled with in the second half of contests over the past few seasons.” said Amerine. We’ll have to find a game plan that will allow us to finish in a positive fashion Friday. We are super excited to be playing at home in front of our fans and look forward to seeing a big crowd Friday.” The game will be played at 6 p.m. this Friday at Meridian. Tickets will be $8 at the gate.

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Homestretch Executive Director Reflects on the Season of Giving B� C�� F��

Some years ago, as Thanksgiving approached, a mother with a young son and daughter entered Homestretch. They had spent months in a family shelter, after spending time in their car until the weather got too cold. Having fled an abusive home, with nothing but a few bags of clothes, both mother and children were depressed by all that they’d experienced. Some volunteers had staged a home for this family. They had decorated the boy’s bedroom with a soccer theme, the girl’s room with a “Frozen” theme, stocked the refrigerator and shelves, and made up the beds with plush new linens and comforters. Upon entering the apartment for the first time, the mother, surveying the beauty of their new home, collapsed in tears. Meanwhile, the boy and girl ran through the home, jumping on all the furniture and squealing with delight as they discovered their rooms. The boy dashed into the kitchen, opened the refrigerator, and gasped. He yelled, “Mom, come look at all the food!” He ran to his mother carrying a gallon of milk, almost as big as him, and announced, “Mom, look – real milk!” The mother was struck by the love and care shown to her by people she had never met. Albert Schweitzer said, “At times our

light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has to

“This mother felt an

ignition of hope within herself and for her children, knowing that someone truly cared for them, and the sadness of the past months could be replaced by hope for a better life. The love the volunteers had put into staging this home gave her the faith to trust the staff of Homestretch.” think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” This mother felt an ignition of hope within herself and for her children, knowing that someone truly cared for them, and the sadness of the past months could be replaced by hope for a better life. The love the volunteers had put into staging this home gave her the faith

to trust the staff of Homestretch and to undertake the hard work of rebuilding her life. Homestretch serves about 75 families a year with a staff of 24 people and 500 or so volunteers. These volunteers teach life skills classes, run household supply drives, landscape our homes, tutor adults and children, read to children in our preschool, and provide pro bono expertise in numerous ways. This week, every family will be given gift cards for a Thanksgiving meal, all thanks to devoted and generous donors. The same thing will happen at Christmas, when every family in Homestretch will be adopted by another family in the community, or a church or business. They will receive a bounty of holiday gifts for the family, carefully chosen according to wish lists provided by the parents. This will not only ensure that every child in these families has a wonderful holiday; it also ensures that the parents can save their money to build savings, pay down their debts, and focus on all they hope to achieve in Homestretch, like acquiring skills, earning certifications, repairing their credit, restoring their health, and resolving legal problems. Most importantly, it says that someone cares for them, and has faith in them, which inspires them to have faith in themselves. A recent graduate said, “Homestretch will not change your life. You will change your own life. But Homestretch

will show you how to do it and they will be with you every step of the way.” This graduate, a young mother with one daughter who became homeless when she fled an abusive home, is now employed at a great job, saved over $30,000 and graduated with a credit score of 750, which means she qualifies to become a first-time homeowner. The love and generosity of our volunteers and donors tells these families that they are worthy, that they are loved, and with hard work, they can accomplish great things. And Homestretch families do accomplish great things. Another recent graduate, who started a nursing degree program while in Homestretch, was just counted as one of the best nurses in Washingtonian Magazine’s annual list of top medical professionals in the metro DC region. We are deeply grateful to all our volunteers and donors and friends, who, through their love and generosity, rekindle sparks of hope and faith among homeless families so accustomed to sadness and loss. Those sparks of hope are priceless. Thank you to everyone who gives of their treasure, talent, and time, so that someone else can imagine a bright future of their own. You are our heroes. Happy Thanksgiving!

Fay is the Homestretch.

Executive

Director

Q�� W�� Are you looking forward to the holidays this year? • Yes

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

A Penny for Your Thoughts

News of Greater Falls Church By Supervisor Penny Gross

Speeding on neighborhood streets appears to be endemic in Mason District and Fairfax County, leading to frustration among residents and multiple complaints to the police. The speed limit on most residential streets is 25 mph, but speed surveys for participation in the Residential Traffic Administration Program (RTAP) reveal that average speeds often exceed the posted limit. Add drivers running stop signs to the mix, and you have a recipe for potential disaster. Neighborhoods that qualify for RTAP enter a process to determine potential locations for speed control devices, usually speed humps or speed tables, and a vote by ballot. To qualify, the street must be classified as a local, residential collector, or residential minor arterial road with a 25 mph speed limit, and meet the volume and speed requirements of the program. Many neighborhoods in Mason District have navigated the RTAP process successfully; a few have not been able to muster community support via the ballot, and others have qualified only for partial relief. The first speed devices in Mason District were installed on Kerns Road in the late 1990s; the most recently approved devices were installed on Randolph Drive near Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. In each instance, the process was instituted by a request to the district Supervisor from a civic or homeowners association, or by at least 10 residents from different households if the neighborhood does not have an association. Speed devices may force drivers to slow down but, unfortunately, they may not change driver behavior. It is not unusual for traffic and speeding to move to adjacent streets without devices, requiring those neighbors to trigger the process for relief. RTAP is designed to address current traffic issues, not prospective ones. RTAP does not address stop sign violations; that requires

police enforcement. To assist police, residents are asked to provide a time frame when stop sign runners are observed (day/time, sign location) for the most effective enforcement. As people return to post-pandemic activities, complaints about speeding on major roadways also are increasing. Leesburg Pike, Little River Turnpike, I-395, and I-495 especially are popular for speeders and noisy vehicles. Last week’s news item about two teenagers in a multi-jurisdiction police chase that ended on the Woodrow Wilson Bridge resulted in property damage, not loss of life, but remains a cautionary tale for others who were on the roadway at the same time. Don’t be a statistic; slowing down saves lives, fuel, and tickets for reckless driving! Thanksgiving this week promises to bring families back together again, something they could not do last year during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and lack of appropriate vaccines. One thing remains the same – many people do not have enough to eat, at Thanksgiving or any other time. Food drives by faith communities and non-profit organizations do a remarkable job distributing food through local food pantries, but they need your help to meet the need, year in and year out. Locally, the Annandale chapter of NARFE partnered with the Mason District police station and ACCA (the Annandale Christian Community for Action) to collect food and cash donations in the station parking lot. During this holiday season, there are many ways to support those in need. Please be generous, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.  Penny Gross is the Mason District Supervisor, in the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. She may be emailed at mason@ fairfaxcounty.gov.

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Webb Telescope’s Promise To Find Life Out There

Our delightful pop astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson used uncommon superlatives in his post on social media this week, “So,” he wrote, “possibly one of the biggest events to happen during our lifetime is about to happen on Dec. 18 of this year, yet I’m surprised to see that no one in the press seems to be talking about it.” Mostly but not totally true, because CNN prepared a well-done 90-minute special about it, “The Search for Planet B,” that aired late night last weekend. I’m confident we FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS can expect more media coverage as the launch date approaches (so far, it’s set back only a few days from the Dec. 18 launch). But other than the requirement for launch perfection on that day from a pad in French Guinea and the weeks it will take for it to reach a million miles into space, the James Webb Space Telescope, named for our former U.S. Senator from Northern Virginia, will be poised to provide the most dramatic and awe-inspiring look, by far, into deep space than Earthlings have ever has access to. The JWST (James Webb Space Telescope) is three times larger and 100 times more powerful than the groundbreaking Hubbell telescope with its stunning images of our universe we’ve been able to observe. And although many scientists involved in the project are focused on the fact that the JWST will enable us to look back to the earliest periods of the universe’s existence, what most of us are anticipating the most is its promise to definitively establish if, and generally where, intelligent life exists elsewhere in the universe. The year of 2022 promises to go down in human history as the year when it will be conclusively established that, yes, we are not alone! The other burdens of such a discovery, however, may take eons to address, such as how to visit or even just make contact with such intelligent life. Still, getting the news definitively is, I think, going to have a radical impact on us all. Still, as Jill Tarter, one of the key scientists working on the JWST, said in the CNN special, “Time is a very funny thing,” and addressing the “disconnect” between human time, geological time and cosmic time as the JWST takes us far out to the fringes of our known reality will present a major challenge. As I’ve been wont to stress repeatedly, there is this bizarre phenomenon called “entanglement theory” that attempts to explain the reality that there are forms of connectedness in the universe that appear to defy all the rules and cause something akin to “action at a distance” to occur. Now, with the eventual effective deployment of the JWST, maybe we’ll get to see about this. Fasten your seatbelts, folks! It was only with the results from the Kepler telescope in recent years that science has been able to conclusively establish the existence of “exo-planets,” that is, planets rotating around stars outside of our known solar system. Now, with the JWST, scientists will be able to examine these exoplanets in much greater detail to see if there are abnormalities that can be explained only by the operations of intelligent life. Like, someone observing Earth might be saying, “Damn, those folks better be getting their act together or they’re going to fry!” The key signature of intelligent life to others looking at our planet will be the evidence of the abnormal changes in the temperature of spheres. There are 100 billion stars in our Milky Way galaxy, and there are 100 billion galaxies, so the chances are overwhelming that there is an abundance of intelligent life out there. There is nothing uncommon throughout the universe about the building blocks of life on this planet. When asked if she believes life is out there, Dr. Tarter said, “What I believe matters not,” saying we must replace “to believe” with “to explore.” It is scientific observations by which myths are overthrown, just as the key to Galileo’s discoveries through a telescope that the moons of Jupiter revolve around that planet, and not Earth, led to his discoveries that overthrew the idea that Earth is a center of the universe.

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NOVEMBER 25 - DECEMBER 1, 2021 | PAGE 9

Nicholas F. Benton

Our Man in Arlington By Charlie Clark

My neighbor Richard Sullivan is proud of his front yard’s 60-foot oak and maple trees he planted from county-supplied seedlings 40 years ago. That program distributing free plantings to residents continues, but not without critics, who see it as weak tea. Canopy protectors in the Arlington Tree Action Group fear that Arlington is losing the broader battle to inject environmental consciousness in the quotidian decisions that balance exploding development with the human need for greenery. Several activists were miffed when the county board Nov. 13 rejected a proposal from nonprofits ATAG and EcoAction that Arlington declare climate change an emergency and create a chief climate change and sustainability officer. Board members said such a “rhetorical device” would not enhance powers and would tie managers’ hands. ATAG’s hopes for pending state legislation addressing the tree canopy dimmed when Richmond advisors removed components that could allow Arlington to raise the $2,500 fine for removing classified trees. And its proposal to budget for a new tree census was merely taken under advisement. “All the climate change events around the world” prompt responses that “recognize the value of trees in saving energy and sequestering carbon,” said ATAG member Kit Norland. “But it falls on deaf ears.

No one pays attention” over the longterm to the new plantings by builders and residents, “and some trees are planted but not maintained.” Despite state law restricting local authority to force developers to preserve a larger percentage of trees on building lots, “the county has more power than they think they do, to change the culture,” added her colleague Susan Land. “If the board is cautious about requiring builders to do X and Y for fear that they won’t come to Arlington anymore, they’re way off the mark. Builders will jump through hoops to build here.” I ran these issues by Arlington Urban Forest Manager Vincent Verweij, who noted that some involve political questions best answered by the county board and state officials. “Construction soils can be tough places for trees to survive, so we have started requiring soil remediation…, to improve the chance of survival of trees on these lots,” coupled with continued education. When a building is ready to be occupied, “an inspection is required by a forester, to ensure the trees conserved and planted are in good health,” he said. “The management of trees becomes the responsibility of the new owners. Most developers in Arlington have to follow the soil remediation requirements, which helps tree establishment.” Addressing Arlington’s larger, shall we say “overstory,” Verweij said his forestry staff helped promote shade-giving trees in the county’s 2019 community energy plan, and will do so in its com-

ing Forestry and Natural Resources Plan. “Trees are part of the solution,” he said. “But even if all of Arlington was covered in trees, we could not offset the carbon used by our population. What we can do in our community is important, and we need to look at all tools, from renewable energy sources to natural solutions and carbon offsets to manage climate change.” *** County brass and history curators gathered at Lubber Run Community Center Oct. 19 for the 18-month-pandemic-delayed marking of the 100th year anniversary of Arlington taking its name. That end to the era of our being Alexandria’s “out-county” was recalled with exhibits to make history “easily accessible for the next 100 years,” said project chair and county board member Libby Garvey. A blue plastic trunk containing a hundred 2020 time-capsule items— pandemic masks, a Black Lives Matter sign, a General Assembly proclamation — was ceremoniously locked for keeping at the library’s Center for Local History until 2071. Library Director Diane Kresh spoke of resisting “book banning and disinformation.” County Manager Mark Schwartz noted more census respondents self-identifying as more than one race. School board member Barbara Kanninen vowed to “make sure students are informed but not harmed” by learning of past unpleasantness. Then Economic Development director Telly Tucker led a keyboard rendition of “Happy Birthday.”

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Webb Telescope’s Promise To Find Life Out There

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Nicholas F. Benton

Our Man in Arlington By Charlie Clark

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Community News & Notes NOVA ScriptsCentral Provides Emergency Aid to Refugees When the number of Afghan refugees skyrocketed NOVA ScriptsCentral, a charitable pharmacy, became the lifeline for community partners who needed help obtaining resources to address the health needs of these refugees. Marine Corps contacted NOVA ScriptsCentral to provide emergency supplies and resources to Afghan refugees at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia By leveraging local and national partnerships with organizations such as Abbott and Direct Relief, NOVA ScriptsCentral rapidly mobilizes infant and geriatric formulas, personal hygiene kits, and other vital resources for refugees in need NOVA ScriptsCentral collaborates with Direct Relief, an international disaster relief organization with decades of experience, to provide supplies and culturally competent care uniquely tailored to Afghan culture When Lt. Col. Natalie Trogus (USMC) found her team unable to supply resources to more than 5,000 Afghan refugees housed on the Marine Corps Base Quantico in Quantico, Va., she turned to her personal network of friends for resources. With limited funds and an urgent need, Trogus knew she would quickly exhaust her resources and that donated goods were her only option. One of her colleagues, Whitney ZatzkinBowman, happened to serve on the board of NOVA ScriptsCentral, a charitable pharmacy based in West Falls Church, Va. Zatzkin-Bowman contacted the pharmacy’s executive director, Donney John, PharmD for help. In turn, John, leveraged his network, reaching out to Direct Relief, an organization that specializes in disaster relief. The end result: Through its partnership with Direct Relief, NOVA ScriptsCentral, secured 5 pallets containing more than 14,000 goods. Among the many items were infant and geriatric nutrition supplements, soap, hygiene kits, and disinfectant wipes.

Falls Church Concert Band Holiday Concert The City of Falls Church Concert

Band is a community band open to musicians with a wide variety of skills and interests. Sponsored by the City of Falls Church Recreation & Parks Department, the band performs an entertaining mixture of marches, classical pieces, Broadway show medleys, regional tunes and American classics at concerts held at outdoor parks and indoor retirement centers in the local community. The band’s holiday concert will take place on December 5 at 7 p.m. at Meridian High School (121 Mustang Alley, Falls Church). For more information, visit. fallschurchconcertband.org/.

NWARLions 2021 Citrus Fundraiser The Northwest Arlington Lions Club has begun their second year of contactless citrus and maple fundraising. Ordering has started and will end on the 14th of December for deliveries by Christmas direct to the customers. Then ordering online will resume about the 12th of January through March 31 2022, again with deliveries direct to customers. Citrus products can be purchased online at nwarlionscitrus.fwffb.net Maple products can be purchased online at purintonmaple.com with the promo code “nwarlions” at checkout. The ckub thanks the communirt for their support. “We Lions of Northwest Arlington Lions Club/ Charities very much appreciate all that you have done and do for us. And we very much appreciate all that you do for other charitable organizations in your/our community. We wish you are careful and stay safe and healthy, and can enjoy the coming Holidays, as best possible.”

Quinn’s Auction Galleries Online Art Auction Quinn’s Auction Galleries presents a Washington DC Area In-home Auction. No shipping available for this auction. Designer Furnishing, Art and all that comes with it. Before bidding, please be certain you are available to pick up any items won during scheduled removal time. Removal date — December 1st 9:40 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. No shipping available for this

FALLS CHURCH POLICE CHIEF Mary Gavin (left) swore in new officers and announced promotions in an annual ceremony at the F.C. City Hall Monday morning. New officers were Boris Miranda and Lance Fischli. Receiving promotions were Major Jiwan Chhetri (to Deputy Chief of Police), Captains Markus Bristol and Kevin Ankney, Lieutenants Rachel Henderson and Sy Symoun, and Sergeants Clark Gagnon, Darian Chuquillangui, Fallon Norloff and Jennifer Wood. (Courtesy Photo) auction. Please note 23 percent buyers premium. Covid-19 Protocols: Masks Required, Maintain Social Distance, removal of masks by appointment only! The auction will be an onlineonly auction. Lots will have a soft close with rolling close times. The auction will begin to close on November 30th with the first lot closing at 2:05 p.m.. You will not be able to leave bids on their website. No in person inspection avail-

able? Please email with questions about items Pick up will take place December 1st 9:40 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. by appointment only via SignUpGenius. More details and the link to sign up can be found on the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce website at https://www.fallschurchchamber. org/.

Falls Church Tree Fest 2021 Next Weekend VPIS is proud to sponsor this

two-day event showcasing trees creatively decorated for the holidays. Funds for the organizations represented will be raised via donations and a silent auction, presenting you with an opportunity to win the tree of your choice. Members of the Meridian High School Band will play holiday music from 5 pm to 7 pm Saturday. Participants in the event include the American Heart Association, Arlington Philharmonic, Aurora House, Ellie & Evangeline Foundation, Falls Church Arts, Falls

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Church Homeless Shelter, Falls Church-McLean Children’s Center, Grace Christian Academy, Falls Church Women’s History Group, The Kensington, Lost Dog & Cat Rescue, and VPIS. Viewing/bidding hours are Friday, December 3, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday, December 4, from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Those who placed the winning bids will be notified Saturday night. Trees can be picked up between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Sunday, December 5. This is a free event. Donations to the charity/charities of your choice are welcome and can be made by cash or check made payable to the charity.

An Irish Carol at Keegan Theater The Keegan Theatre is pleased to announce the cast and team of Matthew J. Keenan’s “A Irish Carol”, Keegan’s own holiday tradition returning for its 11th year, as part of Keegan’s 25th Anniversary Season. “Since its world premiere in 2011, ‘An Irish Carol’ has been a special part of every Keegan season,” remarks production director and Keegan founding director Mark A. Rhea, “but this year feels extra special as we return to live, in-person performances after going virtual last season. We always look forward to sharing this original work with patrons – many of whom return year after year as part of their holiday traditions – and connecting with our community through its story of friendship, compassion, and redemption. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back to the ‘Diskin’s Pub’ properly for the first time since 2019!” The cast features returning favorites Kevin Adams, Dave Jourdan, Mike Kozemchak, Timothy H. Lynch, Jessie Power, Josh Sticklin, and Jon Townson. Michael Replogle and Matthew J. Keenan round out

the cast, and Donagh Gilhooly joins for a special guest appearance. “An Irish Carol” is directed by Keegan’s founding director Mark A. Rhea. The artistic team also includes Mary Doebel (Stage Manager), Ben Harvey (Master Electrician), Cindy Landrum Jacobs (Properties & Set Dressing Designer), Matthew J. Keenan (Set Designer), Dan Martin (Lighting Designer), Craig Miller (Hair & Make-up Designer), Jake Null (Sound Designer), Kelly Peacock (Costume Designer), and Matt Rippetoe (Original Music). The show runs December 10 — 31, 2021 with evening performances Monday — Saturday at 8 p.m. and performances on Sundays at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.. To find more information about “An Irish Carol” or to purchase single tickets or build a custom tickets package, visit www. keegantheatre.com

Tysons Library Friends Quarterly Book & Media Sale The quarterly Tysons Library Book and Media sale will take place on Friday December 3, Saturday, December 4 and Sunday, December 5 from 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. with special sales taking place on Sunday. There will be a large selection of books and media for all ages and interests. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library and related activities. Donations of books and media appreciated, as well as volunteers. For more information, email tysonslibraryfriends@gmail.com or call 703-338-3307.

MCC Annual Holiday Craft Show Next Weekend The McLean Community Center (MCC) is pleased to present its 39th annual holiday crafts show in person the first weekend of December. As patrons have come to expect, the McLean Holiday Art & Crafts Festival will feature a wide variety

LO CA L of high-quality handmade items just in time for the holidays. Produced by MCC in conjunction with the Northern Virginia Handcrafters Guild, the juried show will be held Friday through Sunday, Dec. 3 through 5. Show hours are 11 a.m. — 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 3; 10 a.m. — 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 4; and 11 a.m. — 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 5. Admission is $5 and free for children ages 12 or younger. The admission price is good for all three days of the show. MCC is located at 1234 Ingleside Avenue. MCC Special Events Manager Catherine Nesbitt is excited to be able to bring the show back. “This is a fun and festive community event that is sure to inspire holiday cheer! Esteemed jurors have carefully selected artists who have created extraordinary and affordable treasures. Come support your community and shop locally,” she said. Proceeds from the show benefit the Northern Virginia Handcrafters Guild, a 501(c)3 that offers scholarships and supports the arts. This highly anticipated, three-day indoor show features the work of 80 talented, juried, regional artisans. The show provides an opportunity for patrons to shop local and find one-of-a-kind gifts for every budget. Products for sale include pottery, glass, jewelry, holiday decor, mixed media, fashion accessories, wood, fine art, artisanal foods and soaps. An onsite café will provide food and beverages during show hours. For more information, visit the center’s website, www.mcleancenter. org/special-events, or call 703-7900123, TTY: 711.

The Cheer and Hip-Hop program focuses on teaching fun cheers and modern hip hop movements with a vivacious urban feel. The hip hop portion of the camp will focus on rhythm and musicality, how to “find the beat”, count music and dance in with a team. Different styles of hiphop dance will be combined with fun choreography. The cheer portion of the camp will teach various dance and cheer combinations, basic stunts, and fun choreography. Along with these skills, participants will receive daily take home activities that build teamwork, confidence and leadership skills. On the last day participants will provide a performance to showcase what they have learned. This camp takes place at the Community Center (223 Little Falls St., Falls Church) from December 27 — 30 from 9 a.m. — 3 p.m. for ages 6 — 13. Registration is required. How do detectives and investigators use science to solve a mystery? Participants will spend the Spy Science! camp understanding forensic science and learning the tricks of the spy trade. They’ll investigate fingerprints, spying techniques (surveillance), secret codes, invisible ink, evidence under a black light, and other sneaky science! Materials are included in the price of the camp. This camp takes place at the Community Center (223 Little Falls St., Falls Church) from December 27 — 30 from 9 a.m. — 3 p.m. for ages 6 — 12. Registration is required. For a full list of all of the camps being offered., visit fallschurchva. gov/BreakCamps. Registration is required for all programs. Prices vary based on program.

Camps Offered Over School Breaks

The Alden Offers Two Holiday Music Concerts

The City’s Rec & Parks team is ready to entertain your kids on school breaks! Spots are still available for the camps listed below; find out more details online, fallschurchva.gov/BreakCamps.

The Alden at the McLean Community Center (MCC) in McLean is bringing holiday joy to its stage in December by offering a pair of holiday music concerts. “Joy to the World: A Christmas Musical

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Journey” with Damien Sneed, at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 1, offers a soulful mix of original and traditional Christmas music. Tickets are $30, $20 for MCC district residents. “A Klezmer Hanukkah” with Seth Kibel and the Kleztet, at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 11, features traditional klezmer music as well as jazz favorites. Tickets are $20, $15 for MCC district residents. The Alden is located at 1234 Ingleside Ave. A multi-genre recording artist and instrumentalist, Damien Sneed is a pianist, vocalist, organist, composer, conductor, arranger, producer and arts educator whose work spans multiple genres. “Joy To the World: A Christmas Musical Journey” will take the audience through Sneed’s original arrangements of gospel, jazz and classical favorites. The performance features a cast of 10 singers and musicians performing well-known holiday classics such as “Silent Night,” “This Christmas,” “O Come Emmanuel,” “Little Drummer Boy” and “The Christmas Song,” as well as excerpts from “The Messiah.” “Damien is an extraordinarily talented, intelligent and wellrounded musician as well as a human being of depth and passion.” – Jessye Norman. Hanukkah comes early this year, but Seth Kibel and the Kleztet keep the party going with festive klezmer tunes with a little jazz thrown in. Chag Sameach! Kibel is one of the Mid Atlantic’s premier woodwind specialists. Working with some of the best bands in klezmer, jazz and swing, he also wows audiences on saxophone, clarinet and flute. A featured performer with the Kleztet, Bay Jazz Project, Music Pilgrim Trio and The Natty Beaux, he has won 28 Washington Area Music Awards (Wammies), including “Best World Music Instrumentalist” and “Best Jazz Instrumentalist.” Tickets are on sale now at aldentheatre.org or contact Patron Services Manager Evelyn Hill at evelyn.hill@ fairfaxcounty.gov or 571-296-8385.

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HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL OF OUR WONDERFUL FALL CHURCH NEIGHBORS

Buying local for the holidays: a gift to your community The holiday season is the busiest time of year for many merchants and service providers in your area. But did you know that if you buy local this Christmas, you’ll help support your community? Here’s what you should know. A SMALL GESTURE WITH A BIG IMPACT In addition to endorsing the merchants in your area, buying local allows you to contribute to your region’s economy by keeping jobs in the community. Plus, it’s a great way to invest in your neighbourhood’s businesses. Afterall, your support is what makes it possible for them to offer a wide variety of products and services. Furthermore, a business that earns more money from transactions made by local citizens contributes a greater amount of tax revenue to the government. This money can then be reinvested in services that benefit the entire community. Finally, buying local products helps protect the environment. This is because fewer greenhouse gases are emitted when locally made goods are transported to stores in the area.

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX Buying local isn’t just about the products you can put in a shopping cart; it’s also about investing in your region’s many services. For example, think of the various offerings provided by regional businesses in the arts such as museums, theatres, galleries and more. This year for Christmas, consider giving an experience as a gift. It may turn out to be the perfect way to spend quality time with a loved one. SPECIAL DEALS AND GREAT OPPORTUNITIES During the holiday season, it’s not uncommon to see city officials and business organizations implement initiatives to encourage people to buy local. This may include posting online directories that list all the businesses in the area. In addition, sometimes stores will offer special promotions, gifts and discounts to local residents. This year for Christmas, give yourself and your community the gift of buying local.

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Friday, December 3rd, 5 pm to 9pm Saturday, December 4th, 1 pm to 9pm Tree pick up: Sunday, December 5th, 11 am to 1 pm Ireland’s Four Provinces 105 West Broad Street, Falls Church This event showcases a display of creatively decorated trees for the holidays. Funds for the organizations represented will be raised via donations and a silent auction, presenting you with an opportunity to win the tree of your choice. Members of the Meridian High School band will perform from 5 pm to 7 pm Saturday.

Participants in the event include: American Heart Association, Arlington Philharmonic, Aurora House, Ellie & Evangeline Foundation, Falls Church Arts, Falls Church Homeless Shelter, Falls Church-McLean Children’s Center, Grace Christian Academy, Falls Church Women’s History Group, The Kensington, Lost Dog & Cat Rescue, and VPIS. Event sponsored by the Falls Church Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPIS)

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BAHN MI (pictured on the left) is a Vietnamese staple. Huong Binh Bakery makes the sandwiches homemade with a variety of choices for meats and vegtables for $4.50. Quang Le, the general manager of the bakery, is pictured on the right with a steam bun centered with pork, sausage or egg for $2.75 or $10.50 for a pack of four. (Photo: Patricia Leslie)

Eden Center Deli and Bakery Brings Vietnamese Food and Culture to F.C.

by Patricia Leslie

Falls Church News-Press

Speaking Vietnamese is not a requirement at the Huong Binh Bakery and Deli in Eden Center, but it helps, especially if you’re the only person in the restaurant who does not speak the language. The woman in front of me in line could speak English, though, and she kindly helped me with my food selections. From the wall listing, I chose M2, “Banh Mi Ga (Jambon)” which the menu describes as a shredded dry chicken sandwich with veggies. I would call it “shirred” chicken surrounded by lots of lettuce and chopped carrots, onions, and cucumbers and some of the best French mayonnaise to be found in the DMV, homemade at the Huong Binh, of course. It was only $4.50 and the calories did not take a toll on my mental health or my wallet. In Vietnam, the “banh mi” is a staple and similar to a six-inch submarine sandwich of crusty bread, cut the same way. Huong Binh serves nine banh mi variations, ranging from one with five types of meat and vegetables to a fish patty, grilled meatballs or a sardine sandwich with a tomato sauce and pickled radish. When I later told Quang Le, the general manager, about

my ordering experience, he laughed: “We took a page right out of McDonald’s play book and posted the menu high on the wall with numbers so everybody could see it and order more easily.” Huong Binh’s menus all have English translations, but who needs English when 95 percent of your customers are Vietnamese, which Le told me they are. But, at his family’s restaurant, they do care a lot about customers, all their customers, whatever nationality. Le tells about a regular American customer who comes in and says “’I love these sandwiches and they’re under $5. Where else can I get that?’ “We know our customers and want them to come in three or four times a week. Most of them already know what they are going to order,” Le said. And, indeed, they did. Or, at least the ones I observed in a long line on a recent Saturday afternoon knew what to order. They moved quickly in the bakery, weaving between readyto-go foods stacked on tables and refrigerators of cold drinks and desserts. “We’re a ‘grab and go,’” Le said. Wikipedia describes the Eden Center as “the largest Vietnamese commercial center on the East Coast, and the larg-

est Asian-themed mall on the east coast of North America.” Le said: “It’s a quite competitive business and Eden Center has no ‘non-compete.’” Which rewards the customer with good prices, food and egg rolls priced at 70 cents. Now who could resist that? They were scrumptious, crunchy and tasty, a tad greasy one must admit, but at 70 cents, who’s complaining? The restaurant barely breaks even on them. And then there was the tofu. Sigh. My last bout with tofu left my mind brimming with cooked leather, I told Le. But at Huong Binh Bakery, the “hot tofu” dessert is a hot seller ($3 or $5). Please, he urged me, try some. What was a girl to do when faced with to tofu or not to tofu? “We believe we make the best,” he said. And after my initial sampling (and continuing thereon), I agreed! Every morsel was delicious with the magical syrup of ginger, brown sugar, and water from a recipe thousands of years old. Which brings me to the best: The durian fruit drink ($5), absolutely the freshest, tastiest of any natural drink I’ve had (which includes freshly squeezed o.j.), made from sugar

cane (the “healthy sugar, natural sugar,” not the “fat” processed kind, Le said) and the imported southeastern Asian fruit. Some other Huong Binh specialties include ready-to-goplatters in 20 varieties, most for $16, which have enough to feed a family of four, Le says. “Where else can you feed a family of four for that? That’s what you’d pay for one person in a sit down restaurant, and you’d easily spend $60 for a family outing.” (Huh? Only $60?) Huong Binh lists 75 menu choices at the restaurant his parents started in 1986 on Columbia Pike. They moved to Eden Center in the early 90s. Le says Huong Binh is the oldest continually operating Vietnamese specialty bakery and deli in the region. “My mother is quite the story,” he beamed. “She came from a privileged family in Vietnam and she didn’t know a thing about cooking until she was 45 and needed to develop a talent after the war. She went to cooking school, and I’ll guarantee you that 100 percent of the other Vietnamese restaurants here are run by self-taught cooks. Not my mom. She trained!” She is 89 now and her husband is 90. He still comes into the bakery seven days a week and works four to five hours,

Le said, conducting “research,” doing odd jobs and whatever is needed at the restaurant. Like their son who left his engineering career five years ago to help out. Le attributes the deli’s success to authentic Vietnamese food, taste, pricing (“we are very price sensitive”) and “being plugged in to the community. My dad supports organizations and non-profits. They see a familiar face, like an old friend. We’re a friendly place.” If anyone needs proof that “our food is healthier and more delicious” than most found in the U.S., Le’s parents are living proof of their son’s claim. Soon the bakery’s popular yule log which is a maple sponge cake with Christmas decorations ($25) will be available and although it will add calories to the count, Santa is not making a list. Huong Binh Bakery & Deli, Eden Center, 6781 Wilson Blvd., Falls Church 22044, ph. (703) 237-9228, www.huongbinh.com, open every day 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. • This article is part of the “Restaurant Spotlight” series, which will feature one local restaurant and its menu each month. To suggest that your restaurant be covered, contact Amanda Snead, News Editor at asnead@fcnp.com

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School News & Notes Over 300 Students Vaccinated at Clinic Vaccines, photo props, lollipops, stickers, new masks and tears were all available at the FCCPS Vaccination Clinic on Wednesday, the 17th. FCCPS says thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the Clinic a huge success, including Fairfax County Health Department, FCCPS Staff, volunteers, and the FCEPTA, for providing food and beverages. The tears were mainly tears of joy from the grateful parents who could finally add an additional mitigation tactic to their children’s COVID tool belt. FCCPS Vaccine Clinic Number Two: December 8th. More details are coming soon.

FCEPTA Awards Teacher Grants The FCEPTA says Thank you to everyone who supported the fundraising events like Trivia Night. Through your support, the FCEPTA was able to award eight teacher grants this week. Evidence-Based Literacy Materials will provide more multi-sensory, research-based literacy teaching materials in firstgrade classrooms. #HandleWithCare Lounge for Staff will provide items to create a safe, relaxing haven for Oak Street staff. Best of Both Worlds will provide new hard copy books for use in 5th-grade literary circles. Numicon is an approach to teaching math that helps kindergarten students see connections between numbers. Using Sound Walls to Build Decoding Skills so K-2 students in reading intervention can quickly match the sounds letters make with graphic representations, early literacy acquisition is improved. Stand Up provides some standing desks for a 5th-grade classroom where students are given more opportunities to move throughout the day. More than Peach provides all Mt. Daniel classrooms with a

starter pack of coloring tools to ensure all student skin colors are represented. Let’s Talk will provide tools to aid JTP students with articulation deficits, phonological processing deficits, or motor speech deficits. Teachers and staff who missed this cycle of teacher grants will have an opportunity to apply in late January / early February of 2022.

Student Feedback for Food Services FCCPS Food Services department would like to hear feedback on how your students feel about the school lunch options. For students to submit feedback, they can go to the School Lunch page on the FCCPS website, select their school, click on a food item, click on the number of stars they would like to rate it and submit comments on the next page. Please email Richard Kane at rkane@fccps.com if you have additional questions or comments.

OSE Science Olympiad Was A Success The Oak Street Elementary School Science Olympiad team won medals in seven of the 19 events, with 17 students winning medals. In the ‘Crave the Wave’ event, all six students who participated won medals. The Oak Street team came in third place in ‘The Wright Stuff’ Event. Medals and certificates were distributed on Friday.

MHS Students Worm Composter The Meridian Urban Farm Project has started a worm composting bin (vermiculture). The students feed the worms leftover organics, and the worms produce fertile soil. The more food given, the more worms there are and the greater the soil production.

FCCPS FACILITIES DIRECTOR BRIAN FOWLER showed up for his Mystery Reader duties at Jessie Thackrey Preschool in a tractor! The students loved the opportunity to touch it. And they also got to sit in it and operate the bucket. (Photo Courtesy FCCPS)

The next step for the project is to scale it up by using building waste, which will involve asking students and staff to separate their trash as they dispose of paper/ cardboard and finish eating. The goal is to have an internal source of soil for the gardens planned in the building and around campus. Curious about the Meridian Urban Farm Project? Email Carey Pollack at pollackc@fccps.com to see how you can get involved.

ViSSTA Program To Start Next Week The asymptomatic screening program provided in collaboration with the Virginia Department of Health and the Virginia Department of Education will start on Thursday, Dec. 2. The schools anticipate the elementary students (and staff) participating will be tested in the morning and secondary students and staff in the afternoon. It’s not too late to sign up for the Covid ViSSTA testing program. Please complete the permission form at FCCPS Covid Screening Test Permission Form on the FCCPS website for your student(s) to participate. This is a voluntary program. Any FCCPS staff member or student registered for this program can access

free onsite testing each week at school. Please get in touch with John Brett at jwbrett@fccps.com, Director of Communications, for registration questions.

MHS International Club Winter Drive The Meridian High School International Club is hosting a supply drive now through December 3 to support newlysettled refugees in the DMV area by donating bedding, blankets, and other winter necessities (hats, gloves, coats, etc.). Donation boxes can be found at the entrances of Meridian, Mary Ellen Henderson, Oak Street and Mary Riley Styles Library. Donations can also be made via their Amazon wishlist, which will ship the items directly to them. For more information and a link to the Amazon wishlist, follow the club on Instagram at @ meridianinternationalclub.

MUSIC Days Now Through December 5 FCCPS asks Falls Church City families to consider participating in Meridian MUSIC Days by hiring students for jobs like yard

work, babysitting, dog walking, animal sitting, spreading mulch, car washing, musical performance, holiday decorating, gift wrapping, etc. The fundraiser runs now through Dec 5th. If you have multiple jobs, please fill out this form for each one. You may submit jobs as far in advance as you’d like. We’ll confirm receipt of your job request via email, and then during the week before your job (by Thursday), you can expect another email from us with the names of the students assigned to your job. It will also include instructions on how to make your donation. This annual fundraiser helps students pay for travel to perform at Walt Disney World. For more information and to book a job, visit https://musicdays.square.site/.

Informational Speakers Needed Do you have expertise in the treatment, mitigation, messaging, or policy decisions related to Covid-19? Meridian’s Student Council is planning an information session for students on December 9th at 2 p.m. Email Chloe Calabrese at chloecalabrese11@gmail.com if you are interested.

NOVEMBER 25 - DECEMBER 1, 2021 | PAGE 16

CA L E NDA R

FALLS CHURCH

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

CALENDAR LOCALEVENTS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 27 Falls Church Farmers Market. The Falls Church Farmers Market runs every Saturday at City Hall, where attendees will find fresh, local produce, meat, dairy, flowers & plants, honey, music and more. For more information, visit fallschurchva.gov/547/FarmersMarket-To-Go. (300 Park Ave., Falls Church). 8 a.m. — 12 p.m. A Very Victorian Christmas Open House. Visit Cherry Hill Farmhouse to enjoy period decorations and learn how Christmas was celebrated by the Blaisdell family in the 1860s. Costumed reenactors welcome guests to experience popular holiday traditions. Hosted by the Victorian Society at Falls Church. (312 Park Ave., Falls Church). 10 a.m. — 2 p.m. Kids in Motion. This is an interactive experience that engages kids to form healthy fitness habits and empowers them to enjoy movement and fitness. Come dressed ready to move! Best suited for ages 3 — 8. Weather permitting this event will be held outdoors in the grass, in the event of rain the program will take place in an inside meeting room. (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). 11 — 11:30 a.m. Paint Your Own Holiday Ornament. Paint your own personalized holiday ornament with Clay Cafe Studios at TysonsPimmit Library! The various ornaments are holiday and winterthemed and after decorating will be fired and returned to the branch for pickup. For families with children aged 6+ with an adult present. They will only have enough ornaments for those who register, each family member who wishes to paint must be registered. Paints can be messy, please dress appropriately and arrive on time to be seated. Due to meeting room capacity limits they are breaking the program down into

four separate groups to provide room for everyone. Time slots are available in 30 minute increments beginning at 1 p.m. Limit 1 registration per person, additional registrations will be removed. If you have questions about the appropriate age for a program or its content please call the branch at 703-790-8088 (option 4). (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). 1 p.m. — 3 p.m.

GET IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT with Peter White’s Christmas Tour coming to the Birchmere on Monday, November 29. (Photo: Katrina S. Crawford Photography)

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 29

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1

Storytime Fun for Preschoolers. Space limited to 15 children with one caregiver each. No registration. Please check in at the information desk for tickets. Masks are once again required at the library regardless of vaccination status. (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). 10:30 — 11 a.m.

Pre-K Time. Join Thomas Jefferson Library for stories, songs, and activities to get ready for kindergarten. Space is limited to ticketed attendees for in-person events. Tickets are free and firstcome, first-serve at the information desk 30 minutes before each program. (1545 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 10:30 — 11 a.m.

Baby Lap Time. Join Thomas Jefferson Library for stories, songs activities for babies. Space is limited to ticketed attendees for inperson events. Tickets are free and first-come, first-serve at the information desk. (1545 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 1:30 — 2:30 p.m. Tree Lighting. It’s time to light the lights! Join City officials for a small celebration. Parking is available in public spots on the street (look for signage), the Kaiser-Permanente Garage, and the George Mason Square garage.(100 Block W. Broad St., Falls Church). 6 p.m. — 7 p.m. City Council Meeting. The City Council meets in-person in City Hall’s Council Chambers. In-person capacity may be limited due to COVID-19 safety, and all attendees must wear a mask and stay socially distant at all times. The meeting can be viewed live online (fallschurchva.gov/CouncilMeetings) or on FCCTV (Cox channel 11, RCN channel 2, Verizon channel 35). Public comment can be made inperson or via MS Teams on any topic; sign-up by noon on the day of the meeting, fallschurchva.gov/ PublicComment. (300 Park Ave., Falls Church). 7:30 — 11 p.m.

After School Activities and Adventures. Introducing After School Activities and Adventures at Woodrow Wilson Library: the after-school activity of the week. It might be games, activities, or crafts. Ages 6 — 12 Limited to first the 12 participants. (6101 Knollwood Dr., Falls Church). 4:30 — 5:30 p.m.

LIVEMUSIC THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25 Jimi Smooth & The Hit Time. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8 p.m. 703241-9504.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 26

Mark Williams & Friends. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $20. 8 p.m. 703-2551566. Rusty’s Lost Highway Band. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8:30 p.m. 703-2419504.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 27 Smokin’ Lounge. Falls Church Distillers (442 S. Washington Street, Ste A Falls Church). 1 p.m. 703-858-9186. Lesson Zero Band. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 4 p.m. 703-241-9504. Red Shoes Band. Falls Church Distillers (442 S. Washington Street, Ste A Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703-858-9186. Chris Isaak. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $115. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500. Time Loves a Hero: A Tribute to Little Feat. Wolf Trap (1645 Trap Rd. Vienna). $27+. 8 p.m. 703255-1900.

Acoustic Soul. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 4:30 p.m. 703-241-9504.

Kreek Water Band. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8:30 p.m. 703-2419504.

The Seldom Scene & Dry Branch Fire Squad. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $45. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500.

Zoso: The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience The State Theatre (220 N Washington St., Falls Church). 9 p.m. 703-237-0300.

The Nighthawks. The State Theatre (220 N Washington St., Falls Church). 8 p.m. 703-2370300.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 28 Country Show. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls

Church). 2 p.m. 703-241-9504. Open Mic. Falls Church Distillers (442 S. Washington Street, Ste A Falls Church). 5 p.m. 703-8589186. American Crush. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $20 35. 7 p.m. 703-255-1566. Chris Esten Live. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $59.50. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500. Honky Tonk Casanovas. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8 p.m. 703-2419504.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Tom Saputo & Friends. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 7:30 p.m. 703-2419504. Steve Tyrell. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $55. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500. A Peter White Christmas with Mindi Abair & Vincent Ingala. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $59.50. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500. Magic Trio Classic Rock. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8 p.m. 703-2419504.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 30 Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $15 – $20. 7:30 p.m. 703-255-1566.

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Fa l l s C h u r c h Business News & Notes Tech Hiring Spree Defense tech company Raytheon Intelligence and Space is hiring for 400 positions for local technologists. Raytheon’s intelligence and space arm, which specializes in warfighter innovation, is hiring for Virginia technologists as it plans to double down on its presence in the area. The company has an office in Dulles, with positions available at locations including Chantilly, Falls Church, Herndon, Springfield, and Arlington.

NOVEMBER 25 - DECEMBER 1, 2021 | PAGE 17

Protect the ones you love,

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BAE Purchase BAE Systems agreed to purchase Bohemia Interactive Simulations, a Florida-based software developer specializing in military training simulators. This acquisition gives BAE Systems new software and engineering expertise that will enhance military readiness for the U.S. and allies. BISim spun out of a Czech Republic-based gaming studio and has been backed by The Riverside Co., a New York City private equity firm. BAE Systems, a subsidiary of British BAE Systems PLC, and parent companies already count a lot of work in military simulation systems.

Northrop Grumman Investment in Virginia Tech Northrop Grumman, the Falls Church area-based global aerospace and defense company, will donate $12.5 million to Virginia Tech to support a quantum research center at the new Alexandria Innovation Campus. The Blacksburg-based university will invest another $15.8 million to create the Center of Quantum Architecture and Software Development at the campus. This could potentially revolutionize information technology and research across multiple industrial sectors.

Bake Shop in the Top 10

@vaccinatevirginia

Northern Virginia Magazine named Bake Shop to the top 10 bakeries for the holidays. The review highlighted a few specialties and recommends placing orders early.

#LiveLocalFC Continues

The November campaign for supporting local businesses continues. The community is encouraged photograph visits to favorite places to shop, eat, drink, spend, learn, teach, workout, play, create, build and more and post on social media with #LiveLocalFC. The competition for the posts will be selected at the end of November in three categories: the user with the most #LiveLocalFC posts, the user with the most ‘likes’, and the user with the most creative posts will each receive a gift card to their favorite Falls Church spot. Use Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram via https://woobox.com/kwg2wk

Crumbl Coming to Falls Church

Crumbl Cookies made its debut in Vienna and has set its’ sights on Falls Church next. Slated to open in March, the gourmet cookie shop will slip in between Jersey Mike’s Subs and Domino’s Pizza at Birch & Broad.

December 8 — Virtual Health & Care Job Fair The FCEDA and Work in Northern Virginia are hosting a virtual Health and Care Job Fair on December 8 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. The event will present opportunities for small businesses and government agencies to hire in the health care industry at all experience levels. There are many positions for those helping older adults and those with disabilities. The event will be hosted on Premier Virtual, an online event platform. For more information, visit https://workinnorthernvirginia.com/virtual-career-fairs/.

Kariju Japanese Fried Chicken Kariju Japanese Fried Chicken is a karaage-ya-san, an eatery specializing in marinated, then fried chicken. The Falls Church restaurant received the attention of Northern Virginia Magazine, and the review highlighted the karaage, small chunks of thigh or breast, and the bento box, noted as Kariju’s signature item.

The Lighting of the Trees The City of Falls Church will host the annual lighting of the trees on Monday, November 29 at 6:00 p.m. in Mr. Brown’s Park, 100 block of W. Broad (between Hunan Café and Hot & Juicy Crawfish). Join City officials for the celebration and light refreshments.  Business News & Notes is compiled by Elise Neil Bengtson, Executive Director of the Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. She may be emailed at elise@fallschcurchchamber.org.

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PAGE 18 | NOVEMBER 25 - DECEMBER 1, 2021

Fa l l s C h u r c h

NEWS BRIEFS Del. Simon: No Brinksmanship Expected in Richmond in 2022

from the outside. There are four weeks left as the 8-8 deadlock is now in the hands of the Virginia Supreme Court.

Virginia State Del. Marcus Simon came before the Falls Church City Council Monday to report and offer an assessment of what the General Assembly will look like now that a Republican has been elected governor and the House of Delegates will shift from Democratic to Republican control by a 52-48 margin. He said outgoing Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam will present his two-year budget next month and that since “there is enough money to go around” this year as, from a revenue standpoint, “times have never been so good,” he doesn’t envision brinksmanship to dominate the coming legislative session even if there is a split in the leadership. He said the new governor’s push to fulfill a campaign promise to end the grocery tax will require “figuring out how to pay for some things,” such as school resource officers. Still, the outlook in Richmond is not bleak. Simon said challenges will involve Republican efforts to roll back local authority on firearms, and to address the need for expanded mental health services and eviction diversion programs. Progressives will be pushing for outlawing “ghost guns” (assembled from component parts so as to be untraceable by normal security checks) and to limit GOP rollbacks. There is $95 million in the state’s affordable housing trust fund and Simon said he’ll be pushing for passage of the City of F.C.‘s request to make participation on City boards and commissions more accessible by removing the citizenship requirement. He expressed concern that the new bipartisan redistricting process has run into a partisan stone wall, which caused him to resign from the committee to assert more influence

F.C. Council Backs Fairfax $ Request, But Not 7C ‘Ring Road’ Plans While agreeing to Fairfax County’s request to weigh in on funding from the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority to build a pricey $750 million “ring road” around the Seven Corners intersection just outside the City, the F.C. Council removed language in the measure to endorse the current “ring road” design plan because it steps over the F.C. city limits and onto the City’s turf. Councilman David Snyder stressed the Council’s need to not OK the current concept plan as it calls for the “ring road” to utilize City land in a manner that has not been vetted by City staff or the public. As now envisioned It would use a section of the parking lot for the 24 Hour Fitness facility. The purpose of the “ring road” would be to alleviate the congestion at the Seven Corners, which currently does involve no less than seven corners. The new plan would make the center a four-way intersection. The final approval for the funding request will need to be made by late December.

Turkey Day Conversation Starter Ideas from The Lasso Meridian High School juniors Clara Kasik and Elizabeth Creed and freshman Kylie Moffatt collaborated for an article in this week’s students newspaper, The Lasso, to present a list of suggested “conversation starters” for when families get together this Thanksgiving.

UNVEILING OF Virginia Historic Marker for Dr. Edwin B. Henderson, located on South Maple St. (Photo: Gary Mester)

The article, both helpful and hilarious, suggests that aunts or uncles may be asked “Do you have any embarrassing stories about my mom or dad?,” and grandparents could be asked, “How much longer do I have to wait for my inheritance?” or “Which one of your children is the biggest disappointment?” For cousins, “Do you think grandma should stop being vegan?” The entire list is contained in the Lasso article online, “Thank Goodness, Conversation Starters for Family Gatherings This Season.”

Lane & Ramp Closures on I-66, I-495 Set Nov. 29-Dec. 3 The Virginia Department of Transportation has announced that lane closures, traffic stoppages, and ramp closures on I-66 East, I-495 North, and associated ramps at the I-66/I-495 Interchange are planned during the overnight hours next week, Monday, November 29, through Friday, December 3, as crews continue installing bridge beams and performing overhead bridge work for new ramps at the I-66/I-495 Interchange as part of the Transform 66 Outside the Beltway Project. There will also be full closures of the northbound 495 Express Lanes from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. from Robinson Terminal (the beginning of the Express Lanes) to I-66. Overhead variable message boards will direct traffic to alternate routes. Additionally, there will be lane closures and traffic stoppages on I-66 East and I-495 North at the I-66/I-495 Interchange, and on the following ramps: I-66 East to I-495 North, I-495 North to I-66 West, and I-495 North to I-66 East. Drivers traveling on I-66 and I-495 during overnight hours next week should expect delays and consider using alternate routes.

CITY EMPLOYEES attend council meeting on Monday night to urge a 3.5 percent salary increase. (Photo: News-Press)

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

NOVEMBER 25 - DECEMBER 1, 2021 | PAGE 19

Holiday Guide December 2nd - December 23rd issues Our holiday guide this year will cover everything you need for a wonderful, enjoyable holiday with your family and friends.

Included in these 4 issues: There will be gift suggestions for every budget, and many with options for you to purchase locally. We’ve found some great ideas for how to decorate both inside and outside your home. And of course – food! Recipes and preparations no matter how big or small your gathering. From our December 2nd edition to the December 23rd edition look for our guide to provide helpful suggestions and ideas for your holiday celebrations. If you are a business or service and would like to advertise in this special section

Please email Melissa Morse at mmorse@fcnp.com

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Respected Northern Virginia weekly newspaper seeks the right person with a passion for a free press, understanding of print and online media, a focus on business development, sales and accounts receivables. Please send resumes to ngatz@fcnp.com.

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We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap. All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-8530. Toll free call (888) 551-3247. For the hearing impaired call (804) 367-9753.

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PUZZLE NO. 111

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

33. Beginnings 35. Motor coach 38. Elongated fish 40. Statistics 43. Australian “bear” 45. Factions 47. Speak to God 49. What’s the big ____? 50. Woodland creature 51. “And I Love ____” 52. Kind of league 53. Charge for service 55. Needle hole

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING

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NOVEMBER 25 - DECEMBER 1, 2021 | PAGE 21

STRANGE BREW

JOHN DEERING

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PAGE 22 | NOVEMBER 25 - DECEMBER 1, 2021

BACK IN THE DAY

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

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25 � 10 Y�� A�� N��-P�� Falls Church News-Press Vol. VI, No. 36 • November 21, 1996

Falls Church News-Press Vol. XXI, No. 37 • November 24, 2011

Lasso Calls for Greater Density, Council Decisions on Site Plans

First November Elections, Now No CBC to Nominate Slates for Them

Recently departed from 14 years of service to the City of Falls Church, former City Attorney and City Manager David Lasso laid out bold ideas for moving ahead with economic development in the City of Falls Church to the meeting of the Private Public Partnership here last week.

Following on the Nov. 8 referendum that saw two-thirds of voters cast ballots to move the City’s local City Council and School Board elections from May to November, last Sunday night the City’s premiere civic organization that has historically shaped those elections voted to get out of that business.

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SEUSS is just over 5 years old and is an Abyssinian. If you live in the Winter Hill area or around TJ you may have seen her out and about because she loves To be outside. She is playful, busy and loving — in fact, she loves to bring home treats. Just because you’re not famous doesn’t mean your pet can’t be! Send in your Critter Corner submissions to crittercorner@fcnp.com.

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A TRANSPLANT FROM VANCOUVER BC, Emma came to Falls Church at the age of 9. I ran into her while she was walking her dog Jack this weekend. Emma got into listening to Audible on her walks during the pandemic. (P��: J. M�� W��)

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

NOVEMBER 25 - DECEMBER 1, 2021 | PAGE 23

Where to Pick Up The • 7 Eleven (Box), 3019 Annandale Rd • Amazing Smiles, 444 W Broad St – D • Anthony’s Restaurant, 3000 Annandale Rd. • Audacious Aleworks, 110 E Fairfax St. • Ballston Quarter (Box) 4238 Wilson Blvd. • BB&T Bank, 225 W Broad St. • Bikenetic, 201 W Jefferson St. • Bowl America, 140 S Maple Ave. • Clarendon Blvd & Courthouse Rd. Bus Stop (Box) • Broad Falls Apartments, 809 W Broad St. • Broadway Apt (in mailroom), 500 W Broad St. • Brown’s Hardware, 100 W Broad St. • Burke & Herbert Bank, 225 West Broad St. • Byron Apartments, 513 W Broad St. • Timberlane Condos Bus Stop, 7368 Lee Hwy • Lee Hwy/ Hollywood Rd. Bus Stop • Café Kindred, 450 N Washington St. • Celebrity Delly – Graham Park Plaza, 7263A Arlington Blvd. • Clarendon Metro, 3021 Wilson Blvd. • Clay Café Studios, 101 N Maple Ave. • Clare & Don’s Beach Shack, 130 N Washington St. • Courthouse Parking Lot, 2100 Wilson Blvd. • CVS, 1150 W Broad St. • CVS (Box), 134 W Broad St. • CVS (Box), 6404 N Williamsburg Blvd. • Falls Church Distillers, 442 S A. Washington St. • Across from Dar Al Hijrah Islamic Center (Box), Route 7 & Rio Dr. • Differences Hair Designer, 8122 Arlington Blvd. • Dogwood Tavern, 132 W. Broad St. • Don Beyer Volvo, 1231 W Broad St. • East Falls Church Metro (Box), 2001 N. Sycamore St • Einstein Bros. Bagels, 913 W Broad St. • El Tio Restaurant, 7630 Lee Hwy. • Elevation Burger (Box), 442 S. Washington St. • Exxon Gas Station, 400 W Broad St. • Fairfax Auto Parts, 431 S Maple Ave. • Falls Church Animal Hospital, 1249 W Broad St. • Falls Church City Government, 300 Park Ave. • Falls Church City Public Schools, 150 S. Washington Street, Suite 400 • Falls Church City Public Utilities, Gordon Rd. • Falls Church Community Center, 223 Little Falls St. • Falls Church News-Press, 105 N. Virginia Ave. Suite #310 • Falls Green Apartments (formerly Oakwood), 501 N. Roosevelt Blvd. • Flippin’ Pizza, 800 W Broad St. • Floyd’s 99 Barbershop, 8296 Glass Alley, Fairfax • Foxcraft Design Group, 110 Great Falls St • Galleria Florist, 248 W. Broad Street • George Mason & Wilson Blvd (Box), 5015 Wilson Blvd • George Mason High School, 7124 Leesburg Pike • Giant – Graham Park Plaza, 7235 Arlington Blvd. • Giant Food, 1230 W Broad St. • Goodwin House, 3440 South Jefferson St. • Grand Hunan Restaurant, 5845 Washington Blvd. • Harris Teeter, 301 W Broad St. • Hillwood Cleaners, 165 Hillwood Ave. • Hilton Garden Inn, 706 W Broad St. • Idylwood Towers Condominium, 2300 & 2311 Pimmit Dr. • Indian Spices, 1067_B W Broad St. • Inns Virginia Hotel, 421 W. Broad St. • Ireland’s Four Provinces, 105 W Broad St. • Joe’s Place Pizza & Pasta, 5555 Lee Hwy. • Jhoon Rhee Tae Kwon Do, 1136 W Broad St. • Kensington Falls Church, 700 W Broad St. • Lazy Mikes Deli, 7049 Leesburg Pike • Ledo Pizza, 7510 Leesburg Pike • Liberty Barbecue, 370 W Broad St. • Lil City Creamery, 114 W Broad St. • Lincoln At Tinner Hill Apartments, 455 S. Maple Ave. • Long Foster Realtors, 6299 Castle Rd. • Madison Apartments, 600 N Roosevelt Blvd. • Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School, 7130 Leesburg Pike • Merrill House Apartments, 210 E Fairfax St. • Metro Diner, 4711 Lee Hwy. • Metro Dunn Loring, Gallows Rd & Belleforest Dr. • Mr Tire Auto, 105 Falls Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046 • Moby Dick House of Kabob, 444 W. Broad St. • Munson Hill Apartments, 6729 Leesburg Pike • N Virginia Av & W Broad St (Box), 105 N Virginia Ave. • N. Washington & E. Columbia St., 106 E Columbia St. • Neighborhood Barbershop, 417 W Broad St #103 • Northern Virginia Center, 7054 Haycock Rd.• Northgate Apartments (lobby), 450 N Washington St. • Northside Social, 205 Park Ave. • Original Pancake House, 7395 Lee Hwy. • Park Towers Condos, 200 N. Maple Ave. • Peach Tree Towers, 2042 Peach Orchard Dr. • Pearson Square Apartments, 410 S. Maple Ave. • Pete’s Barber Shop, 5847 Washington Blvd. • Pho 88 Restaurant, 232 W Broad St. • Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library, 7700 Leesburg Pike • Pizzeria Orso (Tax Analysts building), 400 S. Maple Ave. • PNC Bank, 402 W. Broad St. • Point of View, 701 W. Broad St. • Professional Building, 313 Park Ave. • Providence Recreation Center, 7525 Marc Dr. • Quick Copy, 417 W. Broad St. • Rare Bird Coffee Roasters, 230 W. Broad St. • Read Apartments, 402 W Broad St. • Re/Max West End, 710 W Broad St • Roosevelt Towers, 500 N Roosevelt Blvd.• Safeway, 5101 Wilson Blvd. • Safeway, 2500 N Harrison St. • Safeway – Route 29, 7397 Lee Hwy.• Sfizi Café, 800 W Broad St. • Silver Diner, 3200 Wilson Blvd. • Sislers Stone, 7139 Lee Hwy. • Smokey’s Garage, 1105 W Broad St. • Sonic Car Wash, 1050 W Broad St. • The Spectrum, 444 W. Broad St.• Spectrum Cleaners, 444 W Broad St. • Stratford Motor Lodge, 300 W. Broad St.• Sunrise of Falls Church, 330 N. Washington St. • Super A Market, 2800 Graham Rd. • Target, 500 S Washington St. • Target – Skyline Mall (Box), 5107 Leesburg Pike • West Broad Building, 301 W Broad St. • Thomas Jefferson Library, 7415 Arlington Blvd. • Towne Place Suites – Marriot, 205 Hillwood Ave. • Unity Club, 116-B W Broad St. • UPS Store Seven Corners, 6312 Seven Corners Ctr. • US Post Office, 2045 Wilson Blvd. • Virginia Hospital Center (Box), 1701 N George Mason Dr. • Virginia Hospital Center ER (inside), 1702 N George Mason Dr • Virginia Tech, Courthouse 7054 Haycock Rd. • Washington & S. Broad St. (Box) 101 W Broad St. • West Lee Apartments, 2200 N Westmoreland • Wendy’s – Bus Stop, 7391 Lee Hwy.• West Falls Church Metro (Box) 7040 Haycock Rd. • Woodrow Wilson Community Library, 6101 Knollwood Dr.

PAGE 24 | NOVEMBER 25 - DECEMBER 1, 2021

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