Nov. 30 - Dec. 6, 2023
Falls Church, Virginia • w w w . fc n p . c o m • Free
Founded 1991 • V o l . X X X III N o . 42
The City of Falls Church’s Independent, Locally-Owned Newspaper of Record, Serving N. Virginia
Popular F.C. Gift Card Initiative Booming
LET THERE BE LIGHTS!
Federal Covid Relief Funds Help Businesses, Customers by Nicholas F. Benton
Falls Church News-Press
With remaining federal American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funds aimed at helping communities recover from the Covid19 pandemic beginning to run low, the City of Falls Church has reintroduced its creative way of putting those resources into direct support of small local businesses through its “Little City Gift Card” initiative. $100,000 of the remaining funds are being dedicated to this purpose, and with the formal launch of the second year of the gift card initiative last weekend, sign ups have been even more brisk than the weather the last couple days. According to Farah SwintonNussbaum, marketing specialist of the City’s Office of Community Planning and Economic Development Services, there have been 731 sign-ups for the card in just its first days earlier this week, and so far 73 businesses have signed up to participate. That’s significantly ahead of last year’s numbers when the program was initially launched. The card (actually, a webpage that is accessed online) functions like a debit card and the service is run by an affiliate of MasterCard, which assures its efficiency and accuracy. There is no plastic involved, per se. But the savings are remarkable for those who sign up. It works like this: a customer goes
Continued on Page 3
A NEW ANNUAL CELEBRATION marking the onset of the season in Falls Church, the “Lighting of the Trees” event, gathered another large contingent to the plaza at the center of the new Founders Row complex. Voila! All the street trees on W. Broad from Washington to West streets are now draped in white lights! (Photo: Gary Mester)
‘Shop Local’ Holiday Push Underway in F.C.
by Brian Reach
Falls Church News-Press
Last weekend Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday ushered in the 2023 holiday shopping season, and U.S. consumers were ready. Americans spent a record $9.8 billion on Black Friday, a 7.5 percent increase from 2022, and a record $12.4 billion, a 9.6 percent increase, on Cyber Monday. But what about Small Business Saturday — and what effect does shopping locally really have on the community?
The biggest benefit, ultimately, is money. Dollars spent at local businesses have significantly more impact on the local economy (and local charities) than those spent at national chains. The local economic effect of spending money at local businesses is, appropriately, called the local multiplier effect. Though numbers for 2023 are not known at the time of publication, in 2022 Small Business Saturday spending totaled an estimated $17.9 billion. According to a Civic
Economics impact study, $12.2 billion of that — 68 percent — was likely reinvested by those small businesses into their local communities. The study found that just 14 percent of national retailer revenue is locally reinvested — compared to 52 percent for local retailers. An even higher 79 percent of local restaurant revenue was found to be reinvested into the local community, compared to 30 percent for chain eateries. Local businesses also give more — way more — to local
charities. A Score report found that small business giving to local charities was, on average, a full 250 percent higher than their big-box competitors. Local businesses have local employees, rent locally, and pay local taxes. Most important, however, they are also our neighbors — part of our communities. The National Retail Federation estimates that, on average, consumers spent about $321 on holiday-related purchases
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
F.C. Gift Cards’ Brisk Sales
Continued from Page 1
on the City’s website and buys a gift card for themselves or someone else for up to $150. With the completion of that purchase, the customer is rewarded with a free card for half the total amount he or she bought. The cards can then be used at any of the 73 local Falls Church businesses, including restaurants, that have registered with the program so far. Swinton-Nussbaum said that even if the funds for the program are running the risk of being used up (a total of $100,000 was authorized for this season by the Economic Development Authority and City Council), the cards never expire, and
more businesses are still able to sign up to participate. She said she is hoping more will do just that. Meanwhile, donations to the Falls Church Education Foundation are continuing to be pitched by the City’s daily events page. It reported this week that “Falls Church City Public School Social Workers use the FCEF Family Assistance Fund to ensure our economically disadvantaged students have what they need to thrive at school. With the surge in students that fall under this category, our social workers will spend close to $35,000 on gift cards for our families to use over the holidays. That’s $10,000 more than last year because of the increase in students and grocery costs.”
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The increase in hate speech and hate crimes isn’t just a worrisome effect of the conflict between Israel and the Hamas organization. Hatred is not an uncommon human attribute; how often has one uttered “I hate this or that (food, a task, a color, music)?” That usage, common as it may be, is just verbiage that may reflect a dislike or pet peeve, not the enmity or hostility that leads to violent language and actions against others. Hate speech and hate crimes are exacerbated, even normalized, by endless posts on social media, by elected and former elected leaders and their followers. This is not just unacceptable; it is vile. Hatred based on a long list of attributes -- faith, belief, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, legal status – simply is wrong. We are not born with a hate gene. As the Rodgers and Hammerstein song goes “You’ve got to be taught to hate and fear.” Those lyrics were written in 1949, long before the nonstop cable television programs and incessant disinformation on social media platforms that supposedly provide “news” to people today. During the 2011
re-election campaign, I recall a conversation with a grizzled Navy veteran who railed at me about Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (American foreign policy is not handled by the Board of Supervisors!). He insisted that I needed to listen to Fox News, as he did all day, every day, and maybe I’d learn what’s really going on in the world. I tried to exit his porch gracefully, and doubted that I would get his vote that year. More than 150 years ago, President Abraham Lincoln, in his first Inaugural Address, spoke about “our better angels” that would move us away from violence and toward cooperation and altruism. His appeal did not bear fruit at that time, as the Civil War began barely a month after he spoke those words. But “better angels” may be exactly what is needed today, to move the focus from hatred to one of understanding and acceptance of differences. Too many people spend too much time and energy on perceived differences when that energy could be put to better use addressing our similarities – shared concerns about affordable housing, healthy communities,
reducing hunger, better transportation options, more parks and open space, and the cost of living. Building on that foundation would pay dividends for our society and communities, and future generations. Hatred is mired in the past; it doesn’t look forward, and we must change that. Too often, hate speech is not challenged but left to hang in the air, an assault on anyone within earshot. Challenges need not be militant, but simply noted that it’s not a correct approach to perceived differences. On a more positive note, the Mason District Holiday Town Gathering will be held on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale. Musical entertainment will feature the Chris Johnson Trio, refreshments, door prizes, and my final State of Mason District Report. All are welcome. Penny Gross is the Mason District Supervisor, in the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. She may be emailed at mason@fairfaxcounty.gov.
C i t y o f Fa l l s C h u r c h
C R I ME R E PORT Week of November 20 - 26, 2023
Larceny/Credit Card Fraud, W. Broad St., November 19, between 12:00 p.m. and 12:16 p.m., an unknown suspect took a wallet and fraudulently purchased items of value. (Delayed report) Public Intoxication/Trespassing, E. Fairfax St., November 20, 6:30 p.m., a male, 58, of Chantilly, VA was arrested for public intoxication and trespassing.
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Larceny from Building/Credit Card Theft/Credit Card Fraud, Little Falls St., between 5:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on November 20, an unknown suspect stole a wallet. The wallet was found and turned into police, however cash and a credit card were missing. The unknown suspect attempted to use the credit card for fraudulent purchases. Shoplifting, W. Broad St., Nov 23, 2:47 p.m., a male, 57, of the City of Falls Church, was arrested for shoplifting.
Larceny of Vehicle Parts, N. Washington St., between 2:00 p.m. on November 23 and 6:30 p.m. on November 24, an unknown suspect stole tires from a vehicle. Commercial Burglary, Rowell Ct., between 11:20 p.m. on November 24 and 8:27 a.m. on November 25, an unknown suspect broke a window to the business and stole merchandise. Trespassing, W. Broad St., November 25, 3:06 p.m., a male, 29, of no fixed address, was arrested for trespassing. Larceny/Destruction of Property, W. Broad St., November 26, 2:07 a.m., an unknown suspect stole a phone and ID from the victim during an altercation. The unknown suspect, described as a male in their early 20s, then fled in a vehicle; the victim gave chase in their own vehicle. During the chase, damage was caused to a lawn and tree of a private residence. The cell phone was later recovered.
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
‘Fellow Travelers’: Roy Cohn & Perils of the Closet Nicholas F. Benton FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
“Listen, kids who die — Maybe, now, there will be no monument for you, Except in our hearts, Maybe your bodies’ll be lost in a swamp, Or a prison grave, or the potter’s field, Or the rivers where you’re drowned like Liebknecht. But the day will come — You are sure yourselves that it is coming — When the marching feet of the masses Will raise for you a living monument of love, And joy, and laughter, And black hands and white hands clasped as one, And a song that reaches the sky — The song of the life triumphant Through the kids who die.” –Langston Hughes. This excerpt from the powerful poem, “Kids Who Die” by mid-20th century poet, scholar and civil rights icon Langston Hughes is the segment recited in the current Showtime mini-series, Fellow Travelers, currently being aired. Through five of eight episodes to date, the remaining three upcoming chapters are aired on Fridays. If the remaining three episodes match what’s been shown so far, I declare this series to be one of the very best ever done about gay people, right up there with the adaptation of Randy Shilts’ And The Band Played On, Tony Kuschner’s Angels in America and the late Larry Kramer’s The Normal Heart. This one is based on the novel by Thomas Mallon by the same name. The series is gritty and, in this case, the sex scenes, which stop short of being pornographic, are integral to an understanding of the characters, the times and the realities of the gay closets of the 1950s. What the series most emphatically depicts with excruciating effectiveness is the seamless postWorld War II world of repression and hate that defined the McCarthy Era and what flowed from it. The link that connects that era to the present day is provided by the singular figure of Roy Cohn, the closeted gay who was the counsel to Sen. McCarthy during his gay witch hunt hearings from 1952
into 1954, a key figure in that era who subsequently took on the career building of one Donald Trump; One can surmise that Cohn’s obsession with securing all manner of special dispensations for a military consultant to the hearings, David Shine, was very much like what he later on did with Trump. Though Cohn died of AIDS in 1986, Trump has continued into the present time to fondly recall his association with Cohn (“Where’s Roy Cohn when I need him,” he’s been overheard quipping in public situations). Still, the best treatment of Cohn belongs to Kurchner in Angels in America, which came out in the early 1990s in the midst of the still ravaging AIDS epidemic. But his role in Fellow Travellers is more thorough and damning. So, the overriding theme of Fellow Travelers is the terrible reality of the closet, especially the particularly damaging effect of the fear-laden struggles of millions to live deceitful double lives. As a boy in the 1950s, I was deeply impacted by all this. I grew into adulthood in the late 1960s and wrestled with the implications of confronting my own closet. How well, indeed, has the Fellow Travelers series resonated with my painful memories of those days. It was only as I finished graduate school in Berkeley, Calif., that I screwed up the courage to break free of all that, but once I’d decided to, I barged out like a howling beast to become an activist. Still, many remain in their closets today, so sadly true. Fellow Travelers helps viewers see how damaging the closet is to so many people on so many levels. One chilly day in early 1969 I remember that I sat in a straight bar looking out the window at a gay bar in San Francisco and thinking to myself all the ways my life could be ruined just by walking across that street and into that bar. Everything from being seen by someone where I worked walking in, to having a snitch inside who would expose me, to having the bar raided by the cops, to being beaten up by thugs, pickpocketed and/or blackmailed, to being subjected to unwanted coercion and numerous more. I didn’t cross the street that day. That day.
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What I Learned From 1,273 Doors by Justine Underhill
Editor’s Note: Underhill was elected to F.C. City Council earlier this month.
The morning after the election I felt a mix of excitement, awe, and exhaustion– it’s been an extraordinary journey over the past few months. My campaign for City Council in Falls Church turned into something beyond policy and politics; it became a story of deep personal development, community connections and friendships, and profound learning. There are very few people who can say they’ve personally visited over half of the houses in our city. For those of you curious as to what it’s like, here are some lessons I learned: • Buy a better pair of walking shoes with good arch support– your knees will thank you later. • Start door-knocking earlier (I was so busy that I mostly waited until the last 2-3 weeks of the campaign). • Expect to pet a lot of dogs– perhaps a necessary prerequisite of getting support in this city. • Ask for help, a lesson that
became crystal clear after I labeled 350 water bottles solo. The number one piece of advice I got before I started campaigning was to keep discussions at doors to 1-2 minutes each. Well, I couldn’t do that. I took my time, and while it meant that I met far fewer people in the city, developing these deeper relationships just felt right. So here are a few highlights of a slice of life in Falls Church: • A 9/11 first responder told me about his role in the Secret Service’s investigation. • A father of three adult sons told me about how excited he was to see the Taylor Swift movie. • I learned about a loved one who passed away, and the kind neighbor who helped plant a tree in her honor. • I chased after and caught a cat who escaped from someone’s house. • There was a kind woman who cut some dahlias for me. • The biggest smiles at the door were from the people in the apartments at Winter Hill. • One person wanted those residing in our affordable housing communities to know they’re welcome here, and offered free
translation services. • Someone came up with a very inventive, self-made system to prevent basement flooding (he watched a bunch of Youtube videos). • Another person showed me a miniature reenactment of a ceremony in India at the turn of the century (if my memory serves me, it was the Delhi Durbar). • I met a teacher who was helping fellow renters register to vote. • A mother told me about trying to help her son find a job. • I met someone who wants neighbors to know they can leave their leaves on the lawn! • There were dancers, artists and people who were clearly artists, but wouldn’t call themselves such, like the person who made a giant Bob Ross TV frame for a community party. So many people who contribute to our community’s vibrancy opened the door for me. And my commitment is that my door (or inbox) will be open to you too. I want to work with you, and continue this journey with the same spirit of community and collaboration that got us here. Let’s keep the conversation going and the ideas flowing.
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Since 1991, an award-winning LGBT-owned general Interest community newspaper. Vol. XXXIII, No. 42 Nov. 30 - Dec. 6, 2023 • City of Falls Church ‘Business of the Year’ 1991 & 2001 • • Certified by the Commonwealth of Virginia to Publish Official Legal Notices • • Member, Virginia Press Association •
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www.fcnp.com The Falls Church News-Press is published weekly on Thursdays and is distributed free of charge throughout the City of Falls Church and the Greater Falls Church area. Offices are at 105 N. Virginia Ave.., #310, Falls Church, VA 22046. Reproduction of this publication in whole or part is prohibited except with the written permission of the publisher. ©2022 Benton Communications Inc. The News-Press is printed on recycled paper.
E ditorial
E D I TO R I A L
Honoring the Work of Tonda Rush
As we are committed to doing all we can to boost the viability of newspapers in our land, we lament, on the one hand, the fact that The Washington Post is still needing to lose about 280 staff members to remain solvent and, on the other, to hail and give credit to the work of so many in our field to keep the home fires burning for the indispensable role that newspapers, in particular, play in the perpetuation of democracy. It is in the latter category that we honor the life service of two who have been so instrumental in maintaining, against the fiercest of ongoing pressures, the viability of newspapers. The data on the demise of such publications just in the last decade is downright staggering, and we at the News-Press are faced with all the same (here is where we pause to find the right word), let’s say, challenges. The biggest single factor is, in our view, commitment. How determined is a newspaper to staying in the game, one way or the other, and why does it matter? That’s a long discussion about which we will have much to say going forward, but the answer has a lot to do with the values of positive, bonded communities overall, which can range from hyperlocal to hyperglobal. Why is a newspaper essential to this? It has to do with the fact that a print newspaper exposes its readers to all its community is made of, from news to sports to weather and beyond, and not just what he or she may be looking for in isolation. So, we celebrate the life work of Falls Church locals Tonda Rush and Carol Pierce. Their National Newspaper Association (NNA) headquarters has been right here in The Little City on Little Falls Street for years. Tonda Rush is a nationally known fierce advocate for newspapers, and she announced her retirement this month. She wrote in the NNA newsletter, “It was with a mix of excitement and sorrow that I informed NNA’s Board of Directors this fall that the time for the next step in my retirement has come…Serving NNA as its chief public policy person for three decades has been like getting a doctorate in the workings of American democracy. The importance of newspapers in helping our nation to function has never been greater, and it was my privilege to be a part of making that equation work since 1992.” Rush recalled from “wonderful victories,” such as “obtaining the new postal sampling privilege last year to helping newspapers avoid junk fax penalties in the 90s and newsprint tariffs a decade ago, as well as preserving foreclosure public notice in the aughts, that simply would not have happened if there had not been a determined and effective organization like NNA.” Rush, she said, helped NNA to reorganize four times as the industry changed. “Determined and effective.” So Tonda Rush has fought in her vitally important role for our democracy.
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
L etter to E ditor
Stratford: Update Teens For Food Parking Requirements Banks Dear Editor, I was happy to hear recently that the eyesore of the abandoned Stratford motel is now planned to be updated into a beer garden and community space. With such an excellent location in the heart of our most walkable downtown area, it’s the perfect place for another “third place” in our community. So why does the city require thirty nine parking spaces for this update?! Obviously, 39 new parking spaces is a terrible use of space on W. Broad street. As a reference, Spacebar only has about eight dedicated parking spots, and Audacious Aleworks has about ten. The more parking we build at bars means more people are driving to get there, instead of walking, and there will be more drunk driving as a direct result. I was incredibly disturbed to see the news this week of six teens in critical condition after a crash where the driver was under the influence on Shreve Road. To avoid these kinds of preventable tragedies we should be designing our city to optimize for more walking and less dangerous drunk driving. Especially at bars, we should have parking maximums, not minimums. I hope the Falls Church Planning Commission will seriously consider the safety implications when reviewing the Stratford update plan and require less parking spaces. -Joseph Schiarizzi
Platform 1. Keep the news clean and fair. 2. Play no favorites, never mix business and editorial policy. 3. Do not let the news columns reflect editorial content. 4. Publish the news that is public property without fear or favor of friend or foe. 5. Accept no charity and ask no favors. 6. Give ‘value received’ for every dollar you take in. 7. Make the paper show a profit if you can, but above all keep it clean, fearless and fair.
Dear Editor, I am writing on behalf of TeensForFoodBanks, a student-run nonprofit based in McLean that is working to fight food insecurity in our local community. For the past few years, our organization has hosted numerous food drives and fundraisers, through which we have collected and donated over 13,000 pounds of food to help families in need in the Falls Church and McLean area. Just a couple days ago on November 11th, we hosted our annual pantry sort event at the Share of McLean. Through this impactful event, our student volunteers sorted through donations and prepared packages of food that will go directly to helping feed local families struggling with food insecurity, impacting countless lives in need. Our group is entirely youth-led and our motivation stems from seeing the hunger that exists right in our own neighborhoods. As students, we aim to use our time and abilities to make a real difference for local families struggling with food access. I wanted to reach out to see if the Falls Church News-Press would be interested in featuring our nonprofit to help spread awareness of food insecurity issues in our city. It would be an honor to have our young volunteers highlighted for their sustained community service efforts. Please let me know if you would like any additional details about TeensForFoodBanks or if you have any questions. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. Sincerely, Alan Wang TeensForFoodBanks
Got Beef? Send us a letter and let us know what you think. The deadline for Letters to the Editor is 5:00 p.m. Monday each week of publication. Letters should be 350 words or less.
Email • letters@fcnp.com Mail: Letters to the Editor, c/o Falls Church News-Press, 105 N. Virginia Ave., #310, Falls Church, VA 22046
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NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 6, 2023 | PAGE 7
In The Little CIty
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14. 13. 7.
12. 10. 11. 15.
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1. Skin Lab Med Spa • 2. Verso Founders Row • 3. Modera Founders Row • 4. Stylish Patina Home 5. Falls Church Holiday Market • 6. Thai Traditional Bodywork and Yoga 7. Dude’s Dog House & Spa • 8. Disturbingly Delicious Foods • 9. Foxes Music Co. 10. Art and Frame of Falls Church • 11. Doodlehopper 4 Kids • 12. VPIS TreeFest • 13. Brown's Hardware 14. Capital Petsitters •15. Providence Players •16. Eden Center
Located in the DMV
Mobility City-Alexandria • Marshall Roofers-Lorton Mather-Tysons • Revelers-DC
See Pages 8-15
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Reinvest In the Community By 'Shopping Local' This Holiday Season Continued from Page 1
during the five-day period starting on Thanksgiving and ending on Cyber Monday, totaling a whopping $38 billion in online sales alone. That sounds like a lot, but in 2022 total holiday spending topped $936 billion — and the NRF estimates total 2023 spending may top 966 billion (a four percent increase). With just under four weeks left before Christmas, there are still a lot of dol-
lars left to be spent. Last weekend the City of Falls Church announced the return of The Little City Gift Card Program, as well as a $100,000 fund providing bonus gift cards worth 50 percent of each card purchased (limit 3 cards up to $150 per person). The cards operate as prepaid MasterCards, and are exclusively redeemable at over 75 local businesses, stores, and restaurants around Falls Church City that have been approved into the program. Bonus cards must be spent within 90 days, but Little City Gift Cards never
A hot bowl of pho at Eden Center. Voted best shopping center in the DMV! IT'S GOING TO BE A SMASHING GOOD TIME!
Studios at 307 Open Studio & Winter Market Sun, Dec. 3rd 1 pm to 4 pm
SHOP LOCAL
Come out this weekend to the Studios at 307 Open Studios and Winter Market! Artists • Vendors • Food • Music • Art Demo • Portrait Session PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELSEA Holiday-themed photo shoots • MAUREEN MINARD Abstract artist • MARA FLYNN Artist JENNY KANZLER Painter • AMANDA WOOD Fiber art, Illustration • DAVID BARR Mixed media artist • IRENE GUTIERREZ Brainstorm • DAVE CURTIS Surreal artist • ANDREA URAVITCH Sculpture • CYNTHIA MILLER Abstract Artist • CASEY WAIT Painter • MEAGHAN DECELLE Artist • STUART HINDLE Artist • JULIA BEZGACHEVA Artist • JOHN BALLOU Painter • BARBARA L. GREENE Artist • SHAUN VAN STEYN Photography • ZARA GONZALEZ HOANG Illustrator • ELISA TORRES Artist • ZOE LINN JARVIS Colored pencil and paper artist • PALETTE 22 Art and catering of small bites • ELEANOR MEEHAN (viola) & JOSEPHINE VAN HOEY (violin) • SCRUMMY GORGEOUS Handcrafted Belgian chocolate • RARE BIRD Coffee, cocoa, pastries, merchandise • THE DULCETONES Acoustic music group • REFIKA PRIBADI Quilling artist • SWEET SUZANNE’S COOKIES • SABRINA CABADA Small scale art, prints, ornaments • MOLLY MCCRACKEN Artist
307 E. Annandale Rd, Falls Church, VA Located inside Art and Frame of Falls Church
expire. The News-Press, I should mention, is on this list, and Little City Gift Cards may be used to purchase subscriptions to FCNP. Subscriptions make a great gift — and help secure the future of what has become a rarity these days: a local print newspaper (and one that certainly reinvests — heavily — in local businesses, restaurants, and charities)! With free money on the table, the program has substantial incentive to participate — but the list of approved participants goes further, providing a great starting point for
how and where to spend locally, ensuring your holiday spirit makes the whole neighborhood bright. The NRF estimates that U.S. consumers will spend an average of $875 each in core holiday purchases. For a community of 14,493, that’s $12,681,375 — and Falls Church is one of the wealthiest places in the country, likely spending significantly more than the average American. A lot of potential reinvestment is at stake, based on how much we decide to spend locally this holiday season (and beyond).
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Remove the line that says Tree Pick-Up Sunday Remove the lines that say – We invite --- more details Ad our webpage info www.vpis.org
Eighth Annual Falls Church Tree Fest A festive fundraiser for our community service organizations, sponsored by the Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPIS).
Friday, December 1st, 5 pm to 9 pm & Saturday, December 2nd, 1 pm to 9 pm* *Bidding stops at 8:30 p.m.
Ireland’s Four Provinces
105 West Broad Street, Falls Church
www.vpis.org
On Sale Now! Avaliable at News-Press Office. Contact us at ads@fcnp.com or 703-532-3267
Give the Gift of a News-Press Membership
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Christmas Tree, Traditions Explored in “A Beautiful Happiness” by Mark Dreisonstok
Have you ever been curious about the origins of the Christmas tree and the evergreen wreath? Follow a priest on his investigations into the early medieval pre-Christian North in two intriguing books! In his book "Tree of Salvation" (Oxford University Press, 2013), Father G. Ronald Murphy, S.J., explores the origin of Christmas trees and their use during the holiday season. Father Murphy, professor emeritus at Georgetown University’s Department of German, tells us: “The Christmas tree harks back to the myth of Yggdrasil which, according to the Icelandic Edda of Scandinavian mythology, is the great central tree that stands in the middle of the universe. It is the axis of the world, the world tree that holds up the skies, and the tree of life. Medieval artists in the North depict Yggdrasil on occasion as a stolid evergreen spruce, the highest of trees.” “Perhaps the most famous of the many functions of Yggdrasil is to provide protection, especially at the time of the end of the world, Ragnorak, the twilight of the gods. Yggdrasil, seeing and feeling the destruction of the whole world which
the tree supports and protects, will open to the last man and woman, or boy and girl, to admit them and provide protection for them throughout the end of the world. A new earth will emerge from the sea, eternally green.” This myth became so enshrined in the pagan Scandinavian mythic world that people would cut down evergreen trees and bringing them into their homes to decorate, yielding the Christmas trees of today. In a more recent book, "The
Heliand, a Beautiful Happiness" (an extended interview with Dr. Murphy conducted and written by Sister Nectaria McLees, an Eastern Orthodox nun), there are further fascinating parallels between holiday traditions today and pre-Christian pagan mythology. First, however, what is the Heliand of the title? In the book (St. Nicholas Press, 2021), Father Murphy answers this directly: “… it is a poetic paraphrase of the [Christian] Gospel […] written in Old Saxon, the language of
the Saxons who did not migrate to England around AD 450.” It is written in the style of medieval epic poetry and was composed by an anonymous author between 800 and 850 with the purpose of narrating and explaining the Gospel to an audience new to its message. Thus, "The Heliand" (which means “savior”) becomes a story imbued with heroic values in which “blessed are the peace-makers” is rendered into something more understandable to Germanic warrior culture: “Blessed are those who do not like to start fights,” says Father Murphy in paraphrase. This desire and ability to appeal to the local, pre-Christian belief system is especially clear in the Nativity narrative so prominent during the seasonal holidays: “When the Wise Men go [to the manger], they present their gifts, kneel down, and greet Christ in a royal manner.” Yet in early Germanic culture, gift giving had to be reciprocal, so in the The Heliand, Mary the mother of Jesus gives the Wise Men a gift in return: they are allowed to hold the Christ child, an event not mentioned in the four traditional Christian gospels. Other holiday traditions are explored in "The Heliand, a Beautiful
Happiness" as well. For example, we find the roots of the twelve days of Christmas. According to Father Murphy, “Before Christianity, the twelve days originally celebrated the turning back of the sun. […] Now, of course, the twelve days of Christmas are Christian.” The phrase “yuletide” heard so much at this time of year also has associations with Northern pagan traditions and the sun, for “yule means a turning or wheeling, when the sun, which had gone as far south as it could on the horizon, wheeled around to begin its northern ascent. The ceremonial Yule logs were to burn hot because the sun needed help […] to pull itself back up north along the horizon.” Father Murphy concludes his interview in "A Beautiful Happiness" with these words: “The Christmas tree, the wooden manger, the Norns, the Cross, the male driftwood and the female ivy, the tree stave church and runes on wooden twigs of Yggdrassil; they are all promises to us of the intercommunication of all things in the Lord of all life and in his beautiful happiness” Briefly interviewed for this article, Father Murphy wishes Falls Church News-Press readers: “Merry Christmas and Glad Yule!”
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Community News & Notes
1860S REENECTORS welcomed friends and soldiers to Cherry Hill Farmhouse last weekend for A Very Victorian Christmas (Photo: Gary Mester)
A Very Victorian Christmas as Reenactors Spread Holiday Cheer at Cherry Hill
It was a “Very Victorian Christmas” indeed at Cherry Hill Farmhouse on November 25, as 1860s reenactors welcomed friends and soldiers alike to the historic building to enjoy holiday cheer during the Civil War.
Falls Church Police, Sheriff, Fire Departments Seeking Donations For Holiday Drives
Three holiday fundraisers are being held by Falls Church first responders over the coming weeks. On Thursday, November 30, the Falls Church Volunteer Fire Department is seeking donations of specific household goods and gift cards, which are listed at bit.ly/ FCNP1223fd. Community members should drop off their donations and gifts at the ambulance parked outside the F.C. Community Center on November 30, between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. The Falls Church City Police Department is holding a Toys for Tots drive. Community members are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys and items for teens to a donation box located in the lobbies of City Hall (Police Department, East Wing), the F.C. Community Center, or
Mary Riley Styles Public Library between now and December 7 at 6:00 p.m. The Falls Church Sheriff’s Office is holding a toy drive between now and December 12. Donations of new, unwrapped toys should be dropped off in a donation box in the City Hall lobby. Toys will be given to children in local hospitals.
Fairfax County Police Department Hosts Tenth Annual Holiday Gift Card Drive
Fairfax County Police Department is holding a gift card drive benefiting child victims and witnesses of domestic and sexual violence. Please drop off or mail gift cards between now and December 16 to Saly Fayez at the Fairfax County Public Safety Headquarters building (12099 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax, VA 22035). For more information, contact saly.fayez@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Little City Gift Card Program And Bonus Cash Returns For the 2023 Holiday Season!
The Little City Gift Card program has returned for the 2023 holiday season! Gift cards are redeemable with over 70 participating businesses and restaurants, and can be purchased at bit.ly/lcgiftcard.
THE NUTCRACKER comes to Meridian High School on December 9 and 10, presented by the Kintz-Mejia Academy of Ballet. Tickets are on sale now. (Courtesy Photo)
Purchase fees are $1 plus five percent of the card total (i.e. $6 for a $100 card). Gift cards do not expire, however a monthly $3 fee may be applied after 12 consecutive months of non-use. The F.C. Economic Development Office and Economic Development Authority are sponsoring The Little City Gift Card Program again this year with $100,000 of approved ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds to support local businesses and organizations. Until the $100,000 funds are depleted, a 50 percent bonus gift card will be provided with each purchase (limit three bonus gift cards per purchaser, while supplies last). Bonus gift cards must be used within 90 days of purchase. Last year’s designation of ARPA funds was well-received and successful, recognized as having a significant impact on the community. For questions or additional information, email Sarah Swinton in the Economic Development Office at sswinton@fallschurchva.gov or 703-248-5468.
NOVA Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Receives International Recognition
At last month’s Go Global Awards, a program of the International Trade Council,
the NOVA Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce received one of the top recognitions for business associations: The International Trade Advancement Award. The awards, which recognize organizations that have made significant contributions to the field of international trade, brought together leaders and visionaries in the international trade community to celebrate the outstanding achievements and innovations of 125 business organizations from over 85 countries. The NOVA Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce received the International Trade Advancement Award in recognition of its dedication to advancing global trade initiatives. “We have consistently demonstrated excellence in fostering international trade relationships, creating opportunities for businesses to expand their reach, and enhancing the global competitiveness of our members and partners alike,” said Susan Marino, president and CEO of the chamber. “We understand that 95 percent of the world’s population and 80 percent of the world’s purchasing power is outside the United States, that one in four jobs in Virginia are related to
international trade and furthermore, 75 percent of identified U.S. exporters are very small businesses with less than 20 employees,” Marino continued. Winning in the category underscores the chamber’s role as a catalyst for economic growth and cross-cultural collaboration.
‘Grandfather of Black Basketball’ E.B. Henderson Bio Release Date Announced
A release date has been announced for the highly anticipated definitive book on Falls Church native and influential civil rights advocate Dr. E.B. Henderson, who is credited as the first to introduce basketball to African Americans on a wide-scale, organized basis. The book will release on February 20, 2024, and is available for pre-order on Amazon at a.co/d/ fCDfmuQ.
Assistance League of Northern Virginia Announces White House Ornament Sale
Herndon-based Assistance League of Northern Virginia is raising money for their programs with their annual White House ornament sale, with a deadline of December 15 to place orders. The 2023 White House Historical Association’s Ford Christmas
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THE SANTAMOBILE will be hitting the streets of F.C. a week earlier than in previous years, from December 8-16 (Photo: City of Falls church) Ornament is usually $35.95, but purchase through ALNV and you’ll pay just $23, with a portion of sales supporting the organization, and delivery to homes in Northern Virginia. Get yours today, and no later than December 15, by visiting tinyurl.com/ WHOrnaments or calling 800-426-0781 (mention campaign ID #300777). Send inquiries to ornaments@alnv.org. Between now and December 10, ALNV is also selling wreaths, centerpieces, garland, and decor through a partnership with Lynch Creek Farm Fundraising at tinyurl.com/ ALNVshop4holidays, with 15 percent of sales supporting ALNV.
Tickets Now Available For ‘The Nutcracker’ Ballet At Meridian December 9 and 10
The Kintz-Mejia Academy of Ballet presents The Nutcracker, adapted from E.T.A. Hoffman’s story, “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King,” featuring music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and original choreography by Mark Mejia. In this beloved and timeless story, a young girl Clara is presented with a Christmas gift, a Nutcracker doll. Clara falls to sleep that night and dreams that the Nutcracker has come alive. After battling with the evil Mouse King, the Nutcracker carries Clara away to a magical kingdom with filled with dolls and sweets. Come and enjoy this classic ballet for the holidays! Performances are on Saturday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, December 10 at 2:00 p.m., at Meridian High School (121 Mustang Alley, Falls Church, VA). Tickets are $35 and available at kintzmejiaballet.org. For more information, call 703-501-4319 or email info@ kintzmejiaballet.org.
Santamobile Will Be Hitting The Streets of Falls Church Early This Year
The Falls Church Volunteer Fire Department has announced that this year the beloved Santamobile will start a week earlier than in past years, from December 8 through December 16. As is the tradition, Santa will wave from atop the “sleigh” to children and
adults of all ages who brave the cold to see him. Santa will be joined by his team of elves handing out candy canes and safety information. “This festive community tradition shouldn’t be missed, said Jenny Quinn, the Department’s Santamobile Coordinator. “We can’t wait to see everyone starting December 8. And a big thank you to the Bitici group at KW Metro and The Freshman Group with Atlantic Coast Mortgage for being the exclusive sponsors of the Santamobile — the FCVFD appreciates their generous support!” The nightly routes for the Santamobile are posted on the Department’s website, Facebook, and Instagram pages with a real time “Santa Tracker”. Schedule changes and cancellations will be posted to Facebook and Instagram. The Santamobile schedule is below, but routes may change because of road conditions, traffic, construction, and to ensure Santa’s safety. The remaining days are reserved for Santa to drive through neighborhoods in Fairfax and Arlington, weather permitting. •December 8: South of W. Broad Street in the St. James Cemetery and Virginia Forest neighborhoods up to and including Seaton Lane and S. Oak south of the Tripps Run bridge. •December 9: North of W. Broad Street including Little Falls Street. •December 10: South of W. Broad Street in the Tyler Gardens neighborhood and Virginia Forest neighborhood south of Seaton Lane; also includes streets north of the Tripps Run bridge (Hillier, S. Oak, Lee, Rees, Chanel). •December 11: The Little Falls neighborhood, and streets east of Washington Street including the Madison Park and Whittier Park neighborhoods. •December 12: Broadmont neighborhood and streets on the north side of Hillwood east of Cherry Street. The FCVFD respectfully requests that you refrain from calling the fire station for information on Santa’s intended routes. Instead, send your questions to santamobile@fallschurchfire.org. Please note that Santa is unable to respond to requests for private drive-bys.
NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 6, 2023 | PAGE 17
NEWS BRIEFS Police Confirm Teen Death In Shreve Road Crash
Fairfax Disability Inclusion Awards Presented Dec. 11
On Monday, Fairfax Police confirmed that one teenager has died of the seven involved in a high-speed crash in Shreve Road adjacent Falls Church last Monday morning. The News-Press learned through a GoFundMe campaign that one of the passengers in the Shreve Rd. accident passed away on Thanksgiving. Kevin Guardado Landaverde, a 14-year-old Longfellow Middle School student in McLean, VA, passed away on November 23, 2023, three days after he was critically injured in the tragic accident. Shortly before 5:00 a.m. Monday, Nov. 20th, the Fairfax Police Department responded to a crash at the 2600 block of Pioneer Ln. on Shreve Rd. between Rt. 29 and Rt. 7. Kevin Guardado Landaverde and his brother Jay Guardado Landaverde were among seven teenagers involved in the crash; six of whom were hospitalized under critical condition. While Jay was released from the hospital later that day, Kevin, the youngest victim, succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash. In the wake of this, a GoFundMe page titled “Kevin Guardado Landaverde” created by a community member to render financial assistance to the victim’s grieving family, has been set up. As of press time, over $50,000 was raised on the site from over 600 donors, mostly anonymous. According to a Fairfax Police statement, “Detectives from our Crash Reconstruction Unit are continuing to investigate and working closely with the Office of the Fairfax Commonwealth’s Attorney to determine when charges will be placed.” Police said they believe alcohol and excessive speed were factors in the crash, initially moving to charge the 17-year-old driver with driving under the influence. However, after consulting with prosecutors, the FCPD decided to wait to file charges.
The 2023 Martha Glennan Disability Inclusion and Equality Awards Ceremony is taking place on Monday, December 11, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. The event will be in-person at 12011 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, Conference rooms 200/206. Jeremy Smith, Cheryl Johnson and University Mall Theatres and the Cinema Arts Theater are recipients of the Martha Glennan Disability Inclusion Equality Awards, honored for demonstrating a commitment to promoting equal rights and community inclusion for people with disabilities in our community. Remarks will be provided by Fairfax Supervisor Penny Gross.
New Cafe Zevian Slated To Open in F.C. in March At the site of the now-defunct Famile Restaurant below The Kensington in the 700 block of West Broad in downtown Falls Church, a new restaurant will open next March as the latest, called Cafe Zevian. All the contracts have been signed to move forward, according to owner Adam Kaplan, who is the current owner of the Sfizi restaurant just over a block to the west. Kaplan, a native of Turkey, said cuisine at the Cafe Zevian will be “Mediterranean themed” and the hours will run daily from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Russian Anti-Press Campaign Notches 2 More Journalists Russia’s crusade against a free press continues to rage on. The Vladimir Putin-led government has now opened a criminal case against Masha Gessen, a renowned journalist whose reporting for The New Yorker has been critical of the Kremlin, for allegedly spreading “false information” about Russia’s war on Ukraine. “The chances that I will ever be able to go back to Russia — I’m 56 years old — are pretty slim,” Gessen told The Washington Post. “That has a significant impact on my life and at some point, my journalism.” New Yorker Editor-In-Chief David Remnick said in a statement, “These charges are baseless and absurd, and The New Yorker stands with Masha Gessen.”
More Big Names Flee From Musk’s ‘X’ Site Paris, France Mayor Anne Hidalgo quit X, calling the site a “global sewer” and saying the “platform and its owner intentionally exacerbate tensions and conflicts.” X “may lose up to $75 million in revenue as more advertisers pull out,” the New York Times reported last weekend. Elon Musk is in damage control mode. On Monday he visited Israel and met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. But the trip wasn’t necessarily a PR victory. Israeli President Isaac Herzog told Musk that his platform “is a harboring of a lot of old hate which is Jew hate, which is antisemitism.” And Haaretz Editor-In-Chief Esther Solomon called Musk a “blatant antisemite and publisher of antisemitism,” arguing that the billionaire conspiracy theorist “should be persona non grata in Israel.”
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
THIS WEEK AROUND F.C. THURSDAY
NOVEMBER 30
Gala Film Fest: Silent Witnesses
Winter Lantern Festival
Quarterly book sale, Thursday through Sunday. A large selection of books and media for all ages and interests. Free to attend. Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church), 10:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m.
Part of the Gala Film Fest, November 29 through December 3. Emerging young directors bring their unique and critical perspectives on the issues facing Latin America and are defining a new era for Lain America cinema. Enjoy Q&As with artists and experts, receptions, and more. Schedule and tickets at galatheatre. org. Gala Theatre (3333 14th St. NW, Washington, DC), 7:00 p.m.
Step into a dazzling world of light with over 1,000 Chinese lanterns, all handmade by artisans with decades of experience. A whimsical walk-through experience to light up and warm up the holiday season! Weekends through February 18. Tickets at bit.ly/FCNP1223wl. Lerner Town Square at Tysons II (8025 Galleria Dr., Tysons, VA), 5:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.
Intersection: Identity and Culture
FRIDAY
Millennium Stage: Brian Lopez
Tysons Library Book & Media Sale
Most people explore the deep question of personal identity at some point in their lives. Identity can be expressed in many ways, including in terms of the self, environment, cultural influences, and gender. For this exhibit, artists were invited to share works expressing the intersection of their identity and their culture of origin or the culture in which they find themselves. Falls Church Arts (700B W. Broad St., Falls Church), 11:00 a.m. — 6:00 p.m.
Favorite Things Ornament Class
Craft a festive holiday ornament featuring your favorite things of the year. Can be books, movies, family photos, or anything you can imagine. All supplies and instructions included. Tickets start at $50 and support Junior League of Northern Virginia. Tickets at bit.ly/FCNP1123ns. Northside Social F.C. (205 Park Ave., Falls Church), 7:00 p.m.
DECEMBER 1 McLean Holiday Art & Craft Festival Friday through Sunday, the McLean Holiday Art & Craft Festival is held at MCC for its 41st year. Features approximately 80 talented, juried, regional artisans. 3-day admission $5 available at nvhg.org/shows. Free admission children 12 and under. McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, VA), 11:00 a.m. — 6:00 p.m.
Falls Church Tree Fest
Eighth Annual Falls Church Tree Fest, a festive fundraiser for local non-profit organizations. Free to attend Friday or Saturday. Trees decorated by local non-profits will be available by silent auction; last bids accepted Saturday at 8:30 p.m. Ireland's Four Provinces (105 W. Broad St., Falls Church), 5:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.
Singer-songwriter Brian Lopez performs "a lush, dreamlike collection of songs and guitar-driven storytelling that will take you on a sonic journey to the heart of the American Southwest." Free to attend; first come, first served. Kennedy Center Millennium Stage (2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC), 6:00 p.m.
Festival Ballet Virginia: The Nutcracker
Festival Ballet Virginia performs this full-length, festive holiday tradition featuring Tchaikovsky’s complete score. Follow Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they travel through the Land of Snowflakes and on to the Kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy where all the sweets come to life! While at the show, visit the Holiday Boutique – featuring ornaments, handmade items, nutcrackers, jewelry, stocking stuffers, books, toys, and sweets. All proceeds benefit Festival Ballet Virginia, a non-profit 501(c)3 pre-professional dance company. Tickets at tinyurl.com/FBV-Nutcracher Richard J. Ernst Cultural Center (8333 Little River Tpk., Annandale, VA), 7:00 p.m.
Madeline's Christmas
THE GAY MENS Chorus of D.C. puts on The Holiday Show this Saturday at Lincoln Theatre. (Photo: Courtesy GMCW)
For ages 4 and above. In this musical adaptation, Madeline’s schoolmates and tutor are all sick in bed on Christmas Eve, unable to go home for Christmas to be with their families. So it’s Madeline to the rescue! And with the help of a magical rug merchant she takes her friends on a Christmas journey they will never forget. Creative Cauldron (410 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church), 7:30 p.m.
SATURDAY
DECEMBER 2 Falls Church Farmers Market
Shop the award winning market every Saturday, year-round! City Hall Parking Lot (300 Park Ave., Falls Church), 8:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m.
Children's Holiday Shoppe
Volunteers help kids choose and wrap gifts ($6 and less) for their friends and family! Hosted by the Friends of Cherry Hill Farmhouse. Saturday only. Falls Church Community Center (223 Little Falls St., Kenneth R. Burnett Bldg., Falls Church), 9:00 a.m. — 3:00 p.m.
F.C. Holiday Gift and Craft Show
Deck the halls during the holiday season with special gifts from the annual Holiday Gift and Craft Show. Nearly 40 crafters and merchants show their wares selling unique handmade items, baked goods, and more! Sunday Hours 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Falls Church Community Center (223 Little Falls St., Kenneth R. Burnett Bldg., Falls Church), 9:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m.
Season's Greenings
Holiday display featuring model trains in the gated outdoor gardens, festive lights throughout the garden, and poinsettias, hoiday décor, and D.C. landmarks made from plants in the Conservatory. Free and open daily through December 24. United States Botanic Garden (100 Maryland Ave. SW, Washington, DC), 10:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m.
St. Anthony of Padua Christmas Attic
Free community event with an international food market, kids zone, raffles, and a Christmas craft market. Saint Anthony of Padua School (3301 Glen Carlyn Rd., Bailey's Crossroads, VA), 10:00 a.m. — 2:00 p.m.
Used DVD & Book sale
Check out MRSPL's used book sale this Saturday and Sunday, with great bargains on books ($3
hardback, $2 paperback), audiobooks ($1), and compact discs and DVDs ($0.50) for all ages. Proceeds support library programs and services. Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Upper Floor Conf. Rm., Falls Church), 10:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m.
Native Art Market
Support more than 30 awardwinning Indigenous artists at the Native Art Market, with a DJ throughout the day and live music performance by QVLN. Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian (4th St. & Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC), 10:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m.
FCCPS Holiday Chorus
The F.C. Public School Holiday Chorus performs at the F.C. Holiday Gift and Craft Show. Encore 2:00 p.m. Sunday. Falls Church Community Center (223 Little Falls St., Kenneth R. Burnett Bldg., Falls Church), 1:00 p.m.
Commedia Christmas Carol
Ebenezer Scrooge is an excellent man of business. He cares a lot about money – but very little for his fellow man. This miserly banker categorically shuns charity, compassion, and cheer. Enter a terrifying ghost on Christmas Eve! Traveling Players Studio at Tysons Corner Center (1961 Chain Bridge Rd., DL01, Tysons, VA), 8:00 p.m.
GMCWDC: The Holiday Show
The Gay Mens Chorus of Washington, D.C. puts on their annual holiday concert: The Holiday Show. Tickets at gmcw. org. Lincoln Theatre (1215 U St. NW, Washington, DC), 8:00 p.m.
SUNDAY
DECEMBER 3 Chanukah Bazaar
Shop all your holiday favorites; come early before the best items sell out! Or shop online at treasures-judaica-gift-shop. square.site. Temple Rodef Shalom (2100 Westmoreland St., Falls Church), 8:00 a.m. — 2:00 p.m.
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NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 6, 2023 | PAGE 19
EVENTS, LIVE MUSIC, & ART Luca, MEHMS Guitar Soloist
Luca, Mary Ellen Henderson MS guitar soloist, performs at the F.C. Holiday Gift and Craft Show. Falls Church Community Center (223 Little Falls St., Kenneth R. Burnett Bldg., Falls Church), 11:00 a.m.
Santa at Mosaic
Select dates in December, Santa visits the Target atrium in Mosaic District. Bring your family for pictures! Mosaic District (2905 District Ave., Fairfax, VA), 11:00 a.m. — 8:00 p.m.
Meridian HS Band
Meridian High School Band performs at the F.C. Holiday Gift and Craft Show. Falls Church Community Center (223 Little Falls St., Kenneth R. Burnett Bldg., Falls Church), 1:00 p.m.
Open Studios & Winter Market
Art and Frame of F.C. hosts an open house and winter market with artists, vendors, food, live music, and more! studiosat307 (307 E. Annandale Rd., Falls Church), 1:00 p.m. — 4:00 p.m.
Mason Symphony and Choirs Holiday Concert
Join a joyous concert celebration by the Dewberry School of Music as they ring in the holiday season! Showcasing Mason’s Symphony Orchestra and Choirs, this evening will feature holiday favorites and festive new works performed by extraordinary student artists. Tickets at cfa.calendar.gmu.edu. GMU Center for the Arts (4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, VA), 7:00 p.m.
An Irish Carol
An homage to Dickens’ classic, told as only the Irish can. This comic and touching play, set in a modern Dublin pub, follows one evening in the life of David, a wealthy pub owner who has lost touch with his own humanity in the interest of self-protection and material success before being visited by voices of the past, present, and future. Tickets at keegantheatre.com. Keegan Theatre (1742 Church St. NW, Washington, DC), 8:00 p.m.
MONDAY
DECEMBER 4 Electoral Board Meeting
Electoral Board meets. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Oak Room, Falls Church), 3:00 p.m. — 5:00 p.m.
Evening Art Critique Group
Meets the first Monday of each month. Free and open to all levels. Falls Church Arts (700-B W. Broad St., Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.
City Council Work Session
City Council Work Sessions are open to the public and are conducted to allow Council Members to discuss upcoming legislation and policy issues; the public is not generally invited to speak. Watch the meeting live or on-demand at fallschurchva.gov/CouncilMeetings or FCCTV (Cox 11, RCN 2, Verizon 35). City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 7:30 p.m. — 11:00 p.m.
TUESDAY
DECEMBER 5 MHS Rooftop Solar Ribbon Cutting
Ribbon cutting for Meridian High School's rooftop solar array. Meridian High School (121 Mustang Alley, Falls Church), 3:30 p.m. — 5:30 p.m.
Economic Dev. Authority Meeting
Economic Development Authority meets. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.
Christmas with Stephen Carter-Hicks
Part of the CC Holiday Cabarets series, December 5-20. Returning for his fourth Christmas show is Stephen Carter-Hicks, accompanied by Howard Breitbart at the piano, Virgil Night on bass, and percussionist Jeanie Broderick. The evening
will take you over the river and through the woods with both secular and sacred Christmas songs and will include stories of Christmases past in D.C., on Broadway, and in Las Vegas. Tickets at creativecauldron.org/holidaycabarets. Creative Cauldron (410 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church), 7:30 p.m.
A Christmas Carol
Join all your favorite Dickens characters as they transport us to Victorian England and remind everyone of the meaning of Christmas. Through December 16. Tickets at bit.ly/FCNP1123lt. The Little Theatre of Alexandria (600 Wolfe St., Alexandria, VA), 8:00 p.m.
WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 6 First Responders Breakfast
All Falls Church/McLean area first responders (active duty military, healthcare staff, police, EMS, and firefighters) are invited for a free grab-and-go breakfast for serving senior residents throughout the year. Chesterbrook Residences (2030 Westmoreland St., Falls Church), 8:00 a.m. — 9:00 a.m.
Ask the Council Session
The public is welcome to attend this session to meet with Council members and ask questions in an informal setting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Oak Room, Falls Church), 9:00 a.m. — 10:00 a.m.
School Board Office Hours
Community members may drop by (no registration required) to ask questions and offer feedback in a casual environment. Those who prefer to have a private exchange with the School Board should contact the members via email. The Falls (370 W. Broad St., Falls Church), 6:00 p.m. — 8:00 p.m.
Planning Commission Meeting
Planning Commission meets. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Council Chambers/Court Room, Falls Church), 7:30 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.
THE NATIVE ART Market this weekend on the National Mall.
(Photo: "Winyan Wanakiksin" buffalo horn belt, Kevin and Valerie Pourier)
PAGE 20 | NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 6, 2023
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE: On Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at 7:30 p.m., the City of Falls Church Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and meeting on proposed changes to the Zoning Ordinance. These are minor amendments that are intended to: (a) clarify meaning where ambiguity has been identified in the course of administering the ordinance, (b) reflect recent changes to Virginia State Code, and (c) remove general errors. Public comments can be submitted ahead of time to jtrainor@fallschurchva.gov or delivered in-person at the time of the public hearing. The Planning Commission will consider the following item and recommendation to City Council: (TO23-14) ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 48 “ZONING” OF THE CITY CODE OF THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH AS FOLLOWS: ARTICLE 1, “IN GENERAL,” SEC. 48-2, “DEFINITIONS;” ARTICLE II, “ADMINISTRATION,” DIVISION 3, “AMENDMENTS,” SEC. 48-86, “PROCEDURE,” AND DIVISION 4, “OFFICIAL DESIGNS,” SEC. 48-112, “PROCEDURE;” ARTICLE III, “BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS,” SEC. 48-172, “POWERS;” ARTICLE IV, “DISTRICTS,” DIVISION 13, “O-D, OFFICIAL DESIGN DISTRICT,” SEC. 48-585, “INTENT,” AND SEC. 48586, “PRINCIPAL USES PERMITTED BY RIGHT;” ARTICLE V, “SUPPLEMENTARY REGULATIONS,” DIVISION 6, “HEIGHT, LOT AND YARD REGULATIONS,” SEC. 48-1101, “GENERAL REQUIREMENTS,” AND SEC. 48-1102, “ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPTIONS AND MODIFICATIONS;” AND DIVISION 8, “LANDSCAPING,” SEC. 48-1184, “DESIGN CRITERIA” TO: CHANGE ADVERTISING REQUIREMENTS AND VARIANCE CRITERIA IN CONFORMANCE WITH STATE CODE; REMOVE REFERENCE TO T-1 PRINCIPAL USES WITHIN THE OFFICIAL DESIGN DISTRICT; CHANGE FRONT YARD SETBACK DEFINITION SYNTAX FOR CLARITY; REMOVE OUTDATED REFERENCES TO STREET SIDE YARD AND INTERIOR SIDE YARD; AND ADDRESS CODIFICATION ERRORS The public hearing meeting agenda and materials will be available on the following page prior to the meeting date: http://www. fallschurchva.gov/PC. This location is fully accessible to persons with physical disabilities and special services or assistance may be requested in advance. (TTY 711)
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY COUNCIL CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA The following was given first reading at the October 23, 2023 City Council meeting. A public hearing, second reading, and City Council action is scheduled for Monday, December 11, 2023 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard. (TO23-14) ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 48 “ZONING” OF THE CITY CODE OF THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH AS FOLLOWS: ARTICLE 1, “IN GENERAL,” SEC. 48-2, “DEFINITIONS;” ARTICLE II, “ADMINISTRATION,” DIVISION 3, “AMENDMENTS,” SEC. 48-86, “PRO-
CEDURE,” AND DIVISION 4, “OFFICIAL DESIGNS,” SEC. 48-112, “PROCEDURE;” ARTICLE III, “BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS,” SEC. 48-172, “POWERS;” ARTICLE IV, “DISTRICTS,” DIVISION 13, “O-D, OFFICIAL DESIGN DISTRICT,” SEC. 48-585, “INTENT,” AND SEC. 48586, “PRINCIPAL USES PERMITTED BY RIGHT;” ARTICLE V, “SUPPLEMENTARY REGULATIONS,” DIVISION 6, “HEIGHT, LOT AND YARD REGULATIONS,” SEC. 48-1101, “GENERAL REQUIREMENTS,” AND SEC. 48-1102, “ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPTIONS AND MODIFICATIONS;” AND DIVISION 8, “LANDSCAPING,” SEC. 48-1184, “DESIGN CRITERIA” TO: CHANGE ADVERTISING REQUIREMENTS AND VARIANCE CRITERIA IN CONFORMANCE WITH STATE CODE; REMOVE REFERENCE TO T-1 PRINCIPAL USES WITHIN THE OFFICIAL DESIGN DISTRICT; CHANGE FRONT YARD SETBACK DEFINITION SYNTAX FOR CLARITY; REMOVE OUTDATED REFERENCES TO STREET SIDE YARD AND INTERIOR SIDE YARD; AND ADDRESS CODIFICATION ERRORS The proposed amendment to the Zoning Ordinance is intended to: (a) clarify meaning where ambiguity has been identified in the course of administering the ordinance, (b) reflect recent changes to Virginia State Code, and (c) remove general errors. The following was read at the November 23, 2023 City Council meeting. A public hearing and City Council action is scheduled for Monday, December 11, 2023 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard. (TR23-36) RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AMEND SECTION 4.14, “APPOINTMENTS,” OF THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH TO REQUIRE THAT APPOINTED MEMBERS TO CITY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OF AGE AND RESIDENTS OF THE CITY, AND REMOVING THE REQUIREMENT THAT THEY BE QUALIFIED VOTERS OF THE CITY The following public hearing was continued to Monday, December 11, 2023 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard. AN APPEAL TO THE CITY COUNCIL TO REVERSE THE HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL ADVISORY BOARD’S DENIAL OF AN APPLICATION TO RAZE A PROTECTED STRUCTURE AT 1011 FOWLER STREET All public hearings will be held in the Council Chambers, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia. Remote participation information at www.fallschurchva.gov/publiccomment. Comments may also be sent to cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov. For copies of legislation, contact the City Clerk’s office at (703-248-5014) or cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov or visit www.fallschurchva.gov/ councilmeetings. The City of Falls Church is committed to the letter and spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, call 703-248-5014 (TTY 711). CELESTE HEATH, CITY CLERK
FOR SALE Six (6) cemetery spaces at National Memorial Park, 7482 Lee Highway, Falls Church, VA. 22042-1725, located in desirable Block II, Lot 38, Spaces 3 & 4, and Lot 39, Spaces 1, 2, 3 & 4. The cemetery list price is about $12,000 each space and our
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Fa l l s C h u r c h School News & Notes
MEHMS Students Conduct Tasty Experiment Ms. Liebner’s 6th graders rated various types of Cheez-Its as they learned how to create rubrics. They evaluated whether their rubric accurately measured which type was best and then adjusted. The evaluation included different varieties, such as Cheddar Jack, White Cheddar, Puffs, or Off Brand compared to the Original. In the end, all agreed that Original was the best!
Move Along... No Turkeys Here! The halls of Mt. Daniel Elementary were filled with everything but turkeys in an annual tradition, where kindergartners disguise a turkey to be saved from a Thanksgiving Day Feast. Superheroes, football players, rock stars, ballerinas, and unicorns decorate the walls, but no turkeys were spotted at the school, thanks to the artistic efforts of the kindergartners.
OSE Girls Triumph at GOTR Fall 5K Girls on the Run (GOTR) from Oak Street Elementary participated in its Fall 5k on November 19 on a closed loop at Dulles Town Center. The event represented the culmination of ten weeks of training (twice per week before school), included numerous schools and more than 1,000 runners from around the area. Each girl was accompanied by a buddy runner and was cheered on by enthusiastic friends and family who gathered to celebrate such an incredible achievement. Over 70 girls from Oak Street participated in GOTR, supported by nine volunteer coaches who taught the GOTR curriculum. GOTR is a national organization with lessons designed to empower young women by boosting self-confidence, valuing relationships, and highlighting how women can impact their
communities. The Oak Street GOTR team dedicated an entire practice to beautifying the blacktop and playground area as their community impact project. The girls worked hard to sweep mulch off the blacktop and walkways, pick up litter, and wash writing off walls. GOTR will be back in the Spring! Look for sign-up information for the new year.
MHS Junior Recognized at Yorktown Day Events Meridian Junior Nora Stufft attended the Yorktown Day Celebration last month, commemorating the 242nd anniversary of the Victory at Yorktown. As President of the Virginia Society of the Children of the American Revolution (VSCAR) this year, Nora was a recognized, honored guest at the Yorktown Day Dinner, along with the Ambassador from Spain, the French Deputy Chief of Mission, and other dignitaries. Nora also participated in a commemorative ceremony at the French Cemetery honoring France’s contribution to America’s Revolution effort. She marched in the Yorktown Day Parade with Virginia and National CAR members. The festivities aligned well with Nora’s state theme for the year: France, America’s First Wingman. The Virginia State Project for this year supports two great copilot organizations that honor Rochambeau and Lafayette: First, the WashingtonRochambeau Revolutionary Route Association of Virginia, and second, the American Friends of Lafayette. Nora aims to raise $15,000 for the W3R to produce an educational documentary about the Washington-Rochambeau Route in Virginia for use in Virginia schools. This film series includes episodes at critical locations along the Route and interviews with key historical experts like Dr. Robert Selig. For the bicentennial of the Lafayette farewell tour in 2025, $2000 will be raised and donat-
SCHO O L
NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 6, 2023 | PAGE 21
ed for a large set of educational panels that discuss the life of Lafayette and will be seen by countless public attendees at the bicentennial events.
Meridian Wins Platinum VSBA Award The Virginia School Board Association awarded Meridian High School the Platinum Design Award. Stantec architecture designed the six-story adaptable urban school building, which opened in October 2021. Meridian High School’s vertical high school design offers flexible floorplans, providing security, efficiency, and adaptability to support programs and educational needs as they evolve. The academic setting, with visual transparency and natural daylighting, encourages creative thought, community building, and individual growth. All aspects of the design, from the space planning to the furniture, reinforce the client’s goals of community and collaboration.
MERIDIAN BOYS OPENED Basketball Season With Win Over Kettle Run. Winter sports season has officially tipped off, with Meridian High School’s boys’ basketball team hosting its season opener on Tuesday night against Kettle Run for a divisional showdown. The team was without senior big man Grant Greiner, who is out for a few weeks with a wrist injury, but with depth being a notable strength, there were plenty of others to step up in his absence. The Mustangs won by a final tally of 73-55. Martino had 24 points to lead all scorers, while newcomer John Lyman added 15. Head coach Jim Smith has had high praise for Martino, who he says could be the best point guard inthe district this season. Meridian will have an opportunity to assert itself as Falls Church’s premier high school basketball program this Friday when the Mustangs play at Justice. (Photo: FCNP)
MEHMS & MHS Bands Hold Benefit Concert On Monday, Solace Outpost hosted a special benefit concert featuring performances by the Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School Jazz Band, Meridian High School Jazz Band, and Meridian High School Rock Band. Event proceeds supported the Fall Church City Band Boosters program.
OVER 70 GIRLS FROM Oak Street E.S. participated in the Girls On The Run 5k on November 19. (FCCPS Photo: Carla Cardona Sighu)
Congressional School To Hold Open House On Tuesday, December 12, the Congressioal School is holding an open house. Meet school administrators and current parents, take a tour of the Congressional School campus (3229 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Falls Church), and see the school in action. Open to all grades, infants through grade 8. Interested families may RSVP at congressionalschool. org/welcome.
THE MHS JAZZ Band performs at a Band Boosters benefit concert held at Solace Outpost on November 27. (Photo: Brian Reach)
PAGE 22 | NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 6, 2023
In Memoriam: Jimmy Alverson
James Gibson Alverson IV – known to all as Jimmy – passed away peacefully at age 20 on November 20, 2023, surrounded
by his family at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, DC. His death resulted from complications of medulloblastoma brain cancer, with which he was diagnosed in 2015, and AML leukemia. Jimmy was a lifelong resident of the City of Falls Church. He participated in Falls Church Kiwanis Little League and Greater Vienna Babe Ruth baseball, Falls Church recreation league basketball, soccer, and flag football, high school golf, and Cub Scout Pack 657 and Scout Troop 895. He graduated from George Mason High School in 2021. At the time of his death, Jimmy was a junior at James Madison Uni-
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versity, where he majored in sports and recreation management. He was a member of Rock Spring Congregational United Church of Christ in Arlington. Jimmy is survived by his parents, Susan and Jim, his sister and his brother-in-law Sarah and Neil Menon, his brother John, his sister Rebecca, his grandmother Judy Alverson of North Tustin, California, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. A private burial service for Jimmy took place at Oakwood Cemetery in the City of Falls Church. A celebration of Jimmy’s life will occur at a later date.
In Memoriam: Mary Hautanen
Jean S. Lewis passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, November 21, 2023. Jean was married to Alex Lewis and lived in Falls Church City from 1975 to 2014 when she moved to Virginia Beach to be near her son’s family and her grandchildren. Jean grew up in Arlington and graduated from Yorktown High School. She graduated from Radford College with a degree in education and later received her master’s degree in
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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reading from the University of Virginia. She taught fourth and fifth grades at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School, now Oak Street School, from 1985 until her retirement in 2010. While living in Falls Church, she was active in the Junior Women’s Club and the Falls Church League of Women Voters. Jean is survived by her husband, son Jason Lewis, daughterin-law Wendy, and grandchildren Britten and Gracen.
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MEET ZIGGY a pure bred 115 pound American bulldog who just turned two years old on November 2. Ziggy is very exuberant and loves to run fast in open spaces. His owners are still working on his manners. He is a very friendly, big, bouncy kangaroo who loves people and other dogs.
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Kozma Vereb Bartha, husband, Edward Hautanen, sister Irene Vereb Kepics and brother Joseph Vereb. Surviving her are her daughter Jane Hautanen of Washington, DC, sister in law Elizabeth Steinwand of Ahmeek, MI, cousin Michael Vereb of Pemberton, NJ, nephews Leonard (Jane) Vereb and Sean Vereb of Vandergrift, PA, niece Dianne (Kevin) James of Ford City, PA and several great nieces and nephews. Funeral mass will take place on Thursday, December 7th at 9:30 AM at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 2506 Gulf Gate Dr, Sarasota, FL. The family suggests making memorial donations the animal charity of your choice, or to the Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court Kavanaugh #54 to assist members unable to pay their dues: 407 Princess St., Alexandria, VA 22314.
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Former Falls Church resident Mary Vereb Hautanen, age 93, of Sarasota, Florida died on September 24th at the Brookdale Phillippi Creek Assisted Living in Sarasota. She was born on June 30th, 1930 in Leechburg, Pennsylva-
nia, graduating from Leechburg Area High School and later from the St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing in Pittsburgh, becoming a registered nurse. Mrs. Hautanen relocated to Washington where she worked, among other places, at the Washington Clinic in Friendship Heights, Northern Virginia Doctors Hospital and the medical practice of Drs. Howard Mott and William Stone in Arlington. In 1959 she met and married FCC attorney Edward Hautanen. The couple moved to Falls Church in 1968, living there until they retired to Sarasota in 1986. Mrs. Hautanen was a member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas in Alexandria, remaining a lifetime member. Even after moving to Florida she continued to root for the Pittsburgh Steelers. She was preceded in death by parents Joseph Vereb and Mary
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
The LGBTQ+ Reach
by Brian Reach
Falls Church News-Press
Florida Students Push Back On Monday, at Monarch High School in Broward County, Florida, the principal, assistant principal, athletics director, and an information management technician have been reassigned to “non-school sites,” and the school’s temporary volleyball coach’s “services are paused,” while law enforcement officials with the Broward County Special Investigative Unit say they conduct an investigation into “allegations of improper student participation in sports.” The allegation is that the faculty broke a 2021 state law (signed by Governor Ron DeSantis) by allowing a Trans girl to play on the girl’s varsity volleyball team. The law, dubbed the “Fairness in Women’s Sports Act,” bans Trans women from participating in team sports (and directs public funds to charter and private schools). Broward County superintendent Peter Licata says a constituent, who would like to remain anonymous, called in with the allegation. On Tuesday, in response, hundreds of Monarch students staged a walkout in support of the student and removed faculty. The student’s family challenged the law in court in 2021, arguing that their daughter, whom they recognized as Trans at “five or six years old,” should be allowed to participate in girls’ sports. Their daughter, their lawsuit adds, “began taking hormone blockers at the age of eleven to stop testosterone and stave off male puberty.” The Trend The anti-trans Florida law is not unique. Since 2020, 23 states have passed laws restricting Trans participation in team sports that match their identity. In 18 of these states, Trans girls are specifically blocked: Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, West Virginia, and Wyoming. Five additional states — Alabama, Missouri, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas — block Trans boys from participating as well. According to Trans Legislation Tracker, In 2021 144 anti-Trans bills were introduced across 37 states, and 18 of those passed. In 2022, 174 were introduced and 26 passed. In 2023, 590 bills were introduced, and at least 84 have passed. The Science Elizabeth Meyer, PhD. wrote in Psychology Today in response to the 2021 wave of legislation targeting Trans student athletes, “It is important to understand that sports programs are considered as part of the “educational opportunities” offered by schools and are subject to civil rights laws. They are an important part of a school community and we know that sport offers different kinds of learning and development that benefit and keep youth engaged at school much like music and arts programs.” She continued that the science does not support arguments that testosterone creates an unfair advantage (and points out that, even if it did, the hormone blockers taken by most trans students would negate it). Meyer suggests that “If we want to regulate
school sports to keep them “fair” and “safe,” then propose height and weight limits to athletes in sports that may involve contact. For example: you can’t play football, hockey, basketball, or soccer if you’re over 6-foot or weigh more than 200 pounds. This would make school sports safer and more fair, but no one is seriously proposing such a restriction.” An article in Scientific American put it rather bluntly: “There is no epidemic of transgender girls dominating female sports. Attempts to force transgender girls to play on the boys’ teams are unconscionable attacks on already marginalized transgender children, and they don’t address a real problem. They’re unscientific, and they would cause serious mental health damage to both cisgender and transgender youth.” The article continues that a parallel history of discrimination exists. “It’s worth noting that this isn’t the first time people have tried to discredit the success of athletes from marginalized minorities based on half-baked claims of ‘science.’ There is a long history of similarly painting Black athletes as ‘genetically superior’ in an attempt to downplay the effects of their hard work and training.”
NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 6, 2023 | PAGE 23
Falls Church Business News & Notes Little City Gift Card Bonus Funds Going Quickly
For the second year, Falls Church City has invested in a program to support the local businesses, the Little City Gift Card. The Falls Church City Council and Falls Church Economic Development Authority have approved $100,000 from federal ARPA funds towards the bonus funds offered by the program. Activated on Small Business Saturday, $36,450.50 of those funds have already been issued with $63,450.50 remaining. Given the sales report after four days, the expectation is that the bonus funds will be exhausted very quickly. Purchasers should note that the bonus cards expire 90 days from date of purchase, and the regular cards have no expiration date. There are currently 73 businesses participating in the program and the list is available on the city site, app.yiftee.com/ gift-card/falls-church-va#business-section. New businesses are welcome to join the program.
Webinar on Starting a Business
“I’m One Of The Lucky Ones” CBS News Miami also reports that the Monarch student previously spoke at a 2017 Broward County School Board meeting — when she was just ten years old — to share her experience as a Trans girl. “I openly transitioned three years ago. It was the best time of my life. I got to be who I was born to be. I had the support of my family, friends, and teachers, but not all kids get that privilege. I know I’m one of the lucky ones. There are lots of kids who aren’t living as their true selves,” she reportedly said. Briefly — as somebody who grew up in the ‘90s and early ‘00s, I’ve said very similar things about my family, friends and teachers — I was one of the lucky ones, too. I didn’t feel lucky — I didn’t even feel safe. I changed schools six times before my sophomore year of High School. My luck wasn’t apparent until I started meeting folks from other backgrounds who had been through so much worse.
Thursday, December 7, 10:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m. — Learn the legal and administrative steps to starting a business in a free webinar facilitated by the Mason Small Business Development Center (SBDC). This session covers legal forms, tax registration and filing, naming your company, finance and accounting, employees vs contractors, and the foundations for your business plan. Bernard Ferret is the speaker.
This Is Not An Issue The Trevor Project estimates that 1.8 percent of youth identify as Trans. A small fraction of those participate in sports, 12 percent of Trans girls and 14 percent of Trans boys, according to a Human Rights Campaign report. The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) says 7,618,054 high schoolers played sports in 20212022. After Utah passed its anti-Trans law in 2022, Politico reported that, out of 85,000 students competing in high school sports in Utah, just four were Trans — and only one competed in girls’ sports. The Associated Press similarly found that of just 14 Trans athletes competing in high school sports in North Carolina, two were Trans girls. Medical physicist and researcher Joanna Harper told Newsweek she’d be surprised if 100 of 520,000 NCAA student athletes were Trans. Trans students deserve to feel welcomed, and Trans athletes belong on sports teams — the ones they identify with.
Northern Virginia Magazine critics have listed the 14 best Asian restaurants, and several are local to Falls Church. NUE, Pho 75, and Rice Paper received great reviews and top menu recommendations.
The Zoom link will be shared after registration, clients.virginiasbdc.org/reg. aspx?mode=event&event=110430045
VPIS Tree Fest The Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPIS) is hosting the 8th Annual Falls Church Tree Fest on the patio of Ireland’s Four Provinces Restaurant December 1-2. This event is a fundraiser and opportunity to raise awareness for nonprofits in the greater Falls Church area. Companies and individuals are also welcome to submit a tree for the charity of their choice. The funds are raised via a silent auction of their tree and the donations raised.
Best Asian Restaurants
BAE Collaborates on Military Simulation Environments BAE Systems has joined a strategic collaboration with Red Hat and The Weather Company, an IBM business, to incorporate weather data into synthetic training environments for enhanced decision-making capabilities during military operations. Leveraging the Red Hat OpenShift container platform will enable BAE to advance the delivery of capabilities, streamline the move to a government cloud platform and enhance security features. Live demonstrations of simulation environments showing how weather could impact air defense, communications, and other military operations will be conducted at an upcoming Orlando conference. Business News & Notes is compiled by Elise Neil Bengtson, Executive Director of the Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. She may be emailed at elise@fallschurchchamber.org.
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