Falls Church News-Press 12-15-2022

No Tax Cut

COOKIES &

The combination of the pandemic and historic global inflation is expected to hit local governments and their taxpayers particularly hard in the coming year, and the City of Falls Church is no exception. So the F.C. Council was cautioned at its last official meeting of 2022 this week.

Sharp rises in residential property values is a singular manifestation of these wider effects on the Little City, and the Council’s aspirational guidance for the coming budget year is limited to no new tax hike or cut and no new debt, and no “off the cliff” increase, as had been feared, in the City’s share of subsidizing WMATA.

The expected 4.2 percent revenue growth, not as much as the 6.3 percent growth last year but still strong, is calculated into these aspirations for the Fiscal Year 2024 City and school sys -

Beyer Celebrates Historic Fusion Energy Milestone

U.S. Rep. Don Beyer of Falls Church and Northern Virginia, founder and chair of the bipartisan Fusion Energy Caucus in the U.S. House, on Tuesday celebrated the announcement by

Review: Christmas Revels

Mark Dreisonstok reviews “Celtic Crossroads” a production performed by the Washington Revels in their forty-year tradition called Christmas Revels. See what performers in the production have to say about being a part of an annual holiday perfomance.

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the U.S. Department of Energy of the first ever net energy gain and first ever fusion ignition from a human-controlled fusion energy reaction in history. The long-sought breakthrough came in a December 5 experiment at Lawrence Livermore National

Laboratory’s (LLNL) National Ignition Facility.

Beyer said:

“The breakthrough achievement in fusion energy research is a watershed moment in human history. I send my profound congratulations and thanks to

Religious Diversity in F.C.

Local churches, synagogues and other houses of worship are holding services/events for their congregation and the public during the holiday season. Take a look at the various, unique and festive services these places of worhsip have to offer.

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all of the scientists and technicians at LLNL and elsewhere, those who supported their work at DOE, and all who contributed to this remarkable moment.

“This experiment marks a

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F.C.’s Michael Curtin Named Non-Profit Leader of Year

Long-time Falls Church resident Michael Curtin was named the Washington Business Journal ’s “NonProfit Leader of the Year” at a ceremony in D.C. last week that celebrated the work of outstanding CEOs.

Curtin, whose three now adult children also grew up in Falls Church, was honored for spearheading the relocation of the D.C. Central Kitchen to a new 36,000-square foot headquarters allowing for a doubling of the job training programs and output to 25,000 meals per day for needy D.C. people. With a $27 million annual budget the program now provides 200 jobs and 25,000 volunteer helpers annually.

Jose Andres, leader of world-famous efforts to address needs around the globe, said of Curtin, “In the kitchen, most importantly, Mike is present. He is a leader who shows up, who brings energy and empathy to the kitchen each day, and in the process, he listens to the people so that he can understand the real-time needs of his organization and our city.”

Curtin is quoted in the Business Journal, “We have always operated on the theory of what we call relentless incrementalism. We know it won’t end hunger tomorrow, we won’t fix poverty tomorrow, we won’t end the systemic racism and stereotypes that prevent folks coming out of prison from getting jobs tomorrow, but if we create one job and put one person out into the workforce and that person succeeds, and we hire more, or others follow that individual person, that’s relentless incrementalism.”

F.C. School Board Adopts New Anti-Hate Policy

Tuesday night the Falls Church City Public Schools’ elected board voted unanimously 7-0 to adopt a statement prohibiting harassment, hate speech and hate crimes.

The following is the text of the board’s statement:

“The Falls Church City School Board prohibits harassment against students, employees, or others on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, ancestry, age, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, military status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

“Hate speech and hate crimes are rising in the United States. Mosques, synagogues, and other places of worship have been repeatedly vandalized and people across the country have been targeted due to their religion, race, sexual orientation, and gender identity. This spring in Buffalo NY, ten African Americans were killed in a grocery store, and last month, a man opened fire at a Colorado LGBTQ club, killing

five people. According to the Anti-Defamation League, antisemitic incidents hit a record high last year with 2,717 occurrences across the country and this year there have been many high-profile antisemitic incidents nationwide including one at our very own high school.

“As members of the Falls Church City School Board, we condemn hate speech and hate crimes. We seek to foster a welcoming and inclusive community that celebrates and embraces each individual’s authenticity and is free of antisemitism, racism and discrimination of any kind. To prevent the normalization of hate speech and maintain a free, just, and welcoming community, we must call out and reject discrimination and bigotry of all kinds. We stand united with our students, families, and staff and those in our community facing hatred for any reason. We reject hate speech and hate crimes in all their forms and affirm our support for all people.

“The School Board has developed policies on discrimination and harassment to protect our school community from hate. We will support all students, staff, and families who experience hatred of any kind, for any reason, and will continue to work towards our mission of preparing every student to be a responsible, caring, and internationally minded citizen.”

Laura Downs, Chair, Tate Gould, Vice Chair, Susan Dimock, David Ortiz, Phil Reitinger, Lori Silverman, Kathleen Tysse

Popular Gift Card Program Gets More F.C. Funding

After a successful launch and strong support from the entire Washington, D.C., Metro area, the City of Falls Church has added $50,000 in bonus gift card funds to The Little City Gift Card program. With an initial allocation of $100,000, The Little City Gift Card encourages shopping, dining, and supporting local small businesses and nonprofits.

The City will continue to match gift card sales for shoppers for a limited time and while supplies last: the customer buys a $30+ gift card and gets a free $15 gift card from the City, the customer buys a $50+ gift card and gets a free $25 gift card from the City, the customer buys a $100+ gift card and gets a free $50 gift card from the City. Customers are limited to three bonus gift cards per person and bonus gift cards expire 90 days from purchase.

Since The Little City Gift Card Program launched on Small Business Saturday, November 26, 2022, over $147,000 in gift cards have been purchased, City Hall reports. Just in time for the holidays, this digital e-gift card is an innovative way to support over 70 participating City of Falls Church small businesses.

A list of participating organizations and businesses and a link to purchase The Little City Gift Cards, is at www. fallschurchva.gov/LittleCityGiftCard.

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tem budgets that the governing bodies will begin crafting in earnest next month.

Council member Letty Hardi noted that the 4.2 percent revenue growth of the past year “has been very solid,” and that a starting point for moving forward should be aimed at “keeping that organic revenue growth going.”

The City’s chief financial officer, Kiran Bawa, said she was in a meeting with the City’s real estate assessor Erwving Bailey, now in his second year here, just days earlier for a “progress report” on how real estate values are trending in the City, She noted that the City will get its numbers on economic activity for the second quarter (Oct.-Dec.) of the current year in early February and that Bailey will deliver his annual assessments of all real estate properties in the City in early February.

While the coming year may prove relatively difficult for taxpayers, despite Council resolve not to increase the tax rate, the years after that will begin to reap the benefits of the dense commercial development now happening the City’s West

End and at Broad and Washington, both of which are now progressing below multiple towering construction site cranes. Once fully operational, those sites, plus others in the pipeline, should result in the resumption of lowered tax rates for City residents even greater than the cuts from $1.355 to $1.23 per $100 of assessed valuation of the last two years.

One upbeat local developer told the News-Press recently that he predicts the tax rate will eventually fall below $1.

But the biggest challenge on the expenditure side of the ledger will be coming in the form of employee compensation, guided by the findings of an exhaustive 2022 Classification and Compensation Study completed and reported on at Monday’s meeting by City Human Resources Director Steve Mason and Mark Holcomb of Evergreen Solutions.

The study found that the City’s rate of compensation to employees is slightly below average for the region, and it would cost about $253,000 to bring it up to the regional average, also taking into account the need for more parental leave.

In that context, another major challenge before the Council is in

the area of affordable housing, and even beyond that, in addressing the issue of homelessness. The projected budget for the upcoming year includes only $100,000 to go into the Affordable Housing Strike Fund.

But, this week the new mayor of Los Angeles, Calif., declared a State of Emergency to address the homeless crisis, and while there is not a lot of evidence of a severe homeless issue right in Falls Church, it can be expected to close in on the community in one form or another.

This Monday, the Council was challenged to address the problem by Meridian High School junior Charles VanHorn, who urged the Council to press Richmond for more funding for affordable housing construction, rental assistance and social services, the latter needed to deal with such collateral issues as addiction and domestic violence.

“With this money, the City should take a housing-first approach to homelessness” he said, which focuses on “getting people housed as quickly as possible without any prerequisites.”

He said that “housing first” approach has worked in Houston, Texas, which saw an over 50 percent decrease in

MERIDIAN HIGH junior Charles VanHorn challenged the F.C. City Council to address the issues of homelessness in remarks at this Monday’s Council meeting (N���-P���� P����)

homeless people with this method.”

To more effectively accomplish this, he suggested, “the City should improve a ‘continuum of care’ and facilitate cooperation between non-government organizations and the local government.”

going into the next budget cycle, the City is enjoying solid financial buffering, with $19 million (out of a total annual operating budget of just over $100 million) being held currently in an “unassigned fund balance” and another $12 million in a capital reserve fund.

huge step forward in humanity’s quest to harness the energy source that powers the stars. Once fully developed, this transformative technology will be regarded as one of the most important scientific advances of the age, comparable to splitting the atom, the invention of the steam engine, and the discovery of fire.

“Fusion is rightly regarded as the holy grail of clean energy. When we learn to develop and deploy it effectively, it can provide virtually unlimited, clean, inexpensive power without the environmental risk of existing nuclear fission plants. The long-term impact on the fight against climate change, the incredible economic potential, and the possibilities for reducing global poverty are hard to overstate.

“After decades of hearing that ‘fusion is always ten years away,’ one of the biggest milestones on the path to fusion has been achieved in 2022. Those of us making the case that the federal government should go all-in on fusion now have a much more powerful argument for ramping up investment to boost scientific

neering to realize the promise of fusion and translate the incredible benefits it offers to our civilization.

“This milestone does not immediately end the climate crisis, and we cannot lessen our efforts to fight climate change with policy and conventional technology. Making fusion energy a cornerstone of our electrical grid will require solving major scientific, energy, and infrastructure challenges – a process of many years. But we now have our foot in the door. The Manhattan Project and the development of Covid vaccines showed that remarkable technological advances are possible with vision, focus, and a sense of urgency.

“I am tremendously proud that this advance was achieved in the United States, and will work with my colleagues in the bipartisan Fusion Energy Caucus to redouble Congress’ efforts in support of U.S. leadership on fusion. Congress already authorized – on a bipartisan basis – a major expansion of that work in the CHIPS and Science Act, which so far has not been fully funded. There are many more scientific and engineering challenges ahead, and Congress and the U.S. government must do

‘The Holy Grail’

all we can to build on the progress announced today, and work to deliver on the promise of fusion.”

Beyer is the founder and chair of the bipartisan Fusion Energy Caucus. He has continuously advocated for fusion energy research on the House Science Committee, with his colleagues in Congress, at the White House, in the pages of Scientific American, and elsewhere.

The bipartisan Fusion Energy Caucus and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, on which Beyer serves, helped secure a record $713 million in investments in the Department of Energy’s Office of Fusion Energy Sciences for FY22 and $45 million for a new milestonebased public private partnership. They also helped secure fusion funds in the Inflation Reduction Act, and authorized major expansions of the U.S. funding for fusion research in the CHIPS and Science Act.

Beyer founded the bipartisan Fusion Energy Caucus in 2021. The Caucus, which has over 50 members in the House, has a mission to educate Congress about the research and increasing potential of fusion energy, and to build support for research and

development.

Beyer has served on the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology since taking office in 2015. His

Northern Virginia district contains numerous scientific research centers, including the headquarters of the National Science Foundation.

Biden’s ‘Respect for Marriage’ Remarks

As President Biden signed into law the historic Respect for Marriage Act in a ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House Tuesday, he delivered the following poignant remarks:

“We’re here today to celebrate their courage and everyone who made today possible. Courage that led to progress we’ve seen over the decades. Progress that gives us hope that with every generation will continue our journey toward a more perfect union.

“The road to this moment has been long. But those who believed in equality and justice have never given up, including many of you standing on the South Lawn here. So many of you put your relationships on the line, your jobs on the line, your lives on the line to fight for the law I’m about to sign. From me and the entire nation, thank you, thank you, thank you.

“It’s one thing for the Supreme Court to rule on a case, but it’s another thing entirely for elected representatives of the people to take a vote on the floor of the United States Congress and say loudly and clearly: Love is love. Right is right. Justice is justice.

“These things are fundamental things that America thinks matter. When a person can be married in the morning and thrown out of a restaurant for being gay in the afternoon, this is still wrong. And that’s why the people you heard speak today continue to fight to pass the Equality Act.

“When hospitals, libraries, and community centers are threatened and intimidated because they support LGBTQ children and families, we have to speak out. We must stop the hate and violence like we just saw in Colorado Springs, where a place of acceptance and celebration was targeted for violence and terror.

“We need to challenge the hundreds of callous and cynical laws introduced in the states targeting transgender children, terrifying families and criminalizing doctors who give children the care they need. And we have to protect these children so they know they are loved and that we will stand up for them and so they can seek for themselves.

“Folks, racism, antisemitism, homophobia, transphobia — they’re all connected. But the antidote to hate is love. This law, and the love it defends, strikes a blow against hate in all its forms. And that’s why this law matters to every single American, no matter who you are or who you love.

“This shouldn’t be about conservative or liberal, red or blue. This is about realizing the promise of the Declaration of Independence, a promise rooted in the sacred and secular beliefs, a promise that we’re all created equal, we’re all entitled to what Abraham Lincoln called ‘an open field and a fair chance.’

“There’s nothing more decent, more dignified, and more American than what we’re doing here today. It’s about who we are as a nation. It’s about the substance of our laws. It’s about being true to the best of the soul of America. Decency. Dignity. Love.”

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Thanks to F.C. for AAUW Support

Editor,

Thank you Falls Church for supporting the Falls Church Area Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW). Your contributions during our 70 year history has allowed us to raise $153,150 in scholarship funds enabling 171 local girls and women to pursue higher education primarily through our annual used book sale. Thank you all who purchased books to support our cause for the last 40 years. The Falls Church chapter is part of AAUW National (founded in 1881), an organization that has supported the academic achievements of many thousands of scholars, from scientist Marie Curie, to astronaut Judith Resnik. It is a distinct honor to support the mission of opening doors for women’s career advancement and encouraging more women to pursue higher education past, present and future. Thank you Italian Café in Falls Church for hosting the Falls Church Area Branch of AAUW Holiday Party.

Manuela Costescu Falls Church Area Branch of AAUW

tion, some brothers objected to Jim’s conservative political leanings.

Our national director asked to speak to us. He said that Jim’s older brother John would be heading to grad school soon. And Jim was already being offered membership in several competing fraternities. Why would we want to pass up a chance to get such a good candidate? That news caused us to vote unanimously for Jim.

Jim fit right in. Soon, he was dating a popular woman on campus. They eventually married and both told their Northwestern friends that they had a happy marriage. I can vouch for that! They always seemed to be very happy together.

His grades were excellent and helped boost our fraternity to first among all male living units. His willingness to work hard on charity projects and intramural sports helped boost us to the top.

Later, Jim was an American politician who served as a Republican member of the United States House of Representatives. He represented Arizona’s 5th congressional district from 1985 to 2003 and its 8th congressional district from 2003 to 2007.

A moderate, pro–abortion rights Republican, he came out as gay in 1996 after voting in support of the Defense of Marriage Act. His subsequent re-elections made him the second openly gay Republican elected to Congress.

Editor,

James Thomas (Jim) Kolbe is dead. He was my fraternity brother at Northwestern University in the early 1960s.

I was in charge of recruiting new members for my fraternity when Jim walked through the front door of the fraternity during rush week. We knew who he was because his older brother John was a member of the fraternity.

Frankly, that fact made it harder for him to get enough votes to be asked to join the fraternity because we had a “diversity” rule that frowned on two brothers from the same family being active members. In addi-

We worked together on charity fundraising and women’s rights. He was popular with people we worked with and quickly became popular with recently elected legislators of both parties. He could do more good work in a few hours than anyone I have worked with.

I miss my brother.

Ken Feltman City of Falls Church

Guest Commentary: Reflections on Chanukah

by Amy Schwartzman,

Chanukah is, by far, the favorite holiday of Jewish children everywhere! No one will be surprised by this fact. The nightly shimmering candles, the games of dreidel (a spinning top), the oh-so-delicious latkes (potato pancakes), and eight nights of presents bring light, joy, and fun into every household. Few people are aware that Chanukah is actually a minor holiday in the Jewish calendar whose origins don’t include presents but do include themes that both inspire and challenge us each year.

The historic context for the events that are commemorated during the holiday is set around 167 BCE. At this time, the people of Israel, who lived in Judea, were semi-autonomous. While they had some independence in their lives, they were mostly under the firm control of the Seleucid Empire, led by Antiochus IV Epiphanies. Over time, Antiochus clamped down on Jewish life creating restrictions for Jewish observance and study. A group of Jews, led by Judah Maccabee, banded together to fight against these oppressive and immoral restrictions. Their revolt lasted a few years, and, in 165 BCE, they regained freedom for the Jewish people, liberating Jerusalem and rededicating the sacred Temple there that had been defiled by the Seleucids.

When the Maccabees entered their ruined Temple, they realized that cleaning and restoring their holy space would take many days. Looking around they found only one cruse of the oil needed to light the Temple’s sacred light. According to sacred legend, this cruse lasted not one, but eight nights – enough time to repair the Temple and rededicate it for its intended Jewish purpose. Chanukah means “dedication” and the eight days connect to the miracle of the sustaining oil.

Often this story is the lead narrative when celebrating the holiday at home as well as when we explain the holiday to our non-Jewish neighbors and friends. We love the saga of a small group of Maccabees, the underdogs, defeating the organized and well-outfitted Seleucid soldiers. We love the idea of this miracle – an unexpected marvel that suggests that when our mission is for the good and the sacred, God will ‘shine a light’ for us and upon us for our righteous deeds.

But this year, I see the observance of the holiday through a different lens. The Maccabees came together in a time when their religious freedoms were being denied. They fought against those who believed

that there was only one way to worship God, one way to pursue the holy, one right path. Perhaps the Seleucids felt threatened by the presence of another tradition. Perhaps they wanted to diminish those who were different – had different values, lived different lives, saw the world differently.

The context of Chanukah is not something of the past. We still live in a world where some groups do not tolerate the existence of those of us who are different in creed or in deed. The light of Chanukah is diminished by the reality that Jews, and many other minority communities, continue to face harassment and discrimination. This year has seen a significant rise in intolerance, prejudice and hate crimes specifically in the form of antisemitism. Last year, there were nearly 3000 antisemitic incidents – attacks on synagogues, Jewish community centers, and individual members of Jewish communities. This statistic is 34 percent higher than the preceding year.

While the events that likely come to mind are the shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh or the hostages in Colleyville, Texas, the heinous words of rapper Kanye West or the misguided movie advice of basketball star Kyrie Irving, the majority of incidents take place on a smaller scale in schools and on playgrounds, in offices and on neighborhood streets. For many Jews, this is a scary and distressing time.

During the eight nights of Chanukah, Jewish tradition instructs those lighting menorahs to display their special candelabra in the window of their home. There are many reasons for this – to highlight the miracle which brings a feeling of hope, to increase the light symbolically and physically, and to affirm a story of good over evil. When Jews display their menorah in their front windows they are also saying to the world, “This is who I am, and this is my story.” In today’s climate, one wonders if this message will be embraced or rejected, welcomed or shunned. It is sad to think that some Jews will keep their lit menorahs from view out of concern for intolerance or in fear for their safety.

Many traditions are entering holiday seasons along with the Jewish community. In the spirit of the Maccabees, may we do all we can to ensure religious freedom and tolerance. Let us encourage one another to display our traditions proudly and use this time to learn about and embrace our diversity. May all have the freedom to celebrate openly and in joy.

Wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday season.

Our Man in Arlington

By Charlie Clark

The vaunted “Arlington Way” has become a political football.

The concept, dating to the 1980s, of active consultation between our governors and governed, is the subject of a lengthy draft statement blasting county government, assembled over months by experienced activists in the Arlington Civic Federation. “Whereas, in this process Arlington residents had a meaningful seat at the decision-making table, which resulted in robust community discussion, producing consensus-driven outcomes that have made Arlington one of the most sought-after places to live in the nation,” begins the plan to “restore confidence.” It appears to many “that current community engagement methods are unevenly applied or have fundamentally changed and no longer consistently include critical engagement principles and features, and where far-reaching decisions may be made without incorporating substantive resident input or broad community consensus.”

Signed by former federation presidents Stefanie Pryor, Michael McMenamin, Duke Banks, Sandy Newton and Allan Gajadhar, it traces various definitions of “the Arlington Way” by luminaries. And its 100-page appendix comes choked with complaints about board and staff behavior during past controversies: uneven public notification, overuse of closed sessions, outside consultants who lack transparency and seem designed for a predetermined conclusion.

The push comes amid polarization over the proposal to rezone for more

Missing Middle (multi-family)

housing. (Critics of that plan launched an online whistleblower newsletter “The Arlington Way: How Arlington Really Works.” It’s anonymous.) But Civic Federation activists see the statement as broader—president John Ford postponed final consideration until February in hopes of improving its practicality.

Former county board member

John Vihstadt (2014-18) praised the effort. “Community engagement systems—whether from county board members, board- or managerappointed advisory bodies or staff— atrophied during the pandemic,” he told me. “The resolution is a timely, well-founded document with compelling recommendations to reinvigorate how the people and their local government interact. It’s long past time for the level of government closest to the community to truly conduct itself that way—and for the entire community to feel it.”

Former county board member Mary Hynes (2007-15) rejects the premise. “The board for years has listened to the public, and developers and citizens have private meetings with board members. Board members meet with staff and talk to each other.” But listening doesn’t necessarily mean agreeing. “Some saying the board doesn’t listen don’t focus in on who is at the table,” she added. “We’ve been trying to get participation of renters, people of color, and low-wage workers who don’t have a lot of time. Parents are doing PTA stuff and working—all of that’s really hard.” Hynes advertised an “open-door Monday, which put us

out in neighborhoods in libraries and communities to open channels. But people are busy, and governance is all about relationships.”

Mary Margaret Whipple, board member (1983-95) called the draft “well-researched and carefully written and deserves consideration. But many of the concerns have been reiterated over the years. Even when, as they claim, the `Arlington Way’ was robust and encouraged citizen participation, there were people who dissented, usually because their opposition to a particular decision did not prevail,” she said. “I can attest that at almost any county board meeting, someone would testify they had never heard about it, even after a lengthy citizen review. Many times when people say the board didn’t listen, what they really mean is that the board didn’t agree with them,” Whipple added. “Even extensive citizen involvement does not mean that consensus is reached.”

***

Data miners at Preservation Arlington posted their November report on demolitions of housing stock.

Sixteen demolition permits were applied for, all for single family homes, noted Eric Dobson. Four are in South Arlington, 12 in the North. Three were purchased in the last two years for over $1 million, only to be torn down. That makes 163 demolitions for the year.

Facebook responder Cathy Evans Pollack noted that the home at 1150 N. Ivanhoe St. was for years owned by Signature Theater co-founder Eric Schaeffer. Now owned by Silver Creek Homes LLC, it is assessed at 1.1 million.

Senior Rabbi at Temple Rodef Shalom

Stardust Melody

beset to no small degree by a deep existential anxiety lying in bed at night over the thought of my very existence.

A Penny for Your Thoughts News of Greater Falls Church

By Supervisor Penny Gross

The holiday season being upon us now, I confess that it is my hypothesis that what is known as the great mystery of “dark matter” that constitutes over 90 percent of the universe that we now know so much better thanks to the work of the James Webb Space Telescope, is in fact what we as humans on this planet experience first-hand as empathy.

It is that very real but invisible force that most of us experience, lacking in any material substance except experienced as a felt connectivity, just as “dark matter” is supposedly limited (by our knowledge at this point) to gravity.

Acknowledging this is a profoundly heretical view that, among other things, violates the separation between objective science and human experience, I nonetheless assert that, as vast as this universe of ours is, it is not just observed, but deeply felt by each human being on this planet, being a substantial parts of said universe, on a very intimate level.

The “Christmas story” with its humble setting, guiding star, wise men and all, basically affirms that all reality, our universe, is at its source defined and governed by love, the love we experience and practice as human beings. That’s it.

My second year in college, for the final exam of a two-semester course on introductory philosophy, first, and then world religions, second, my classmates and I were unexpectedly instructed to write an essay in one of those little blue exam books about which among all the philosophical systems and religions we’d studied we personally liked the best and why.

I sat in a little carrel in the library with an hour or so to do this. I’d taken very seriously studying each and every one of the theories and belief systems we were exposed to over the previous year, trying each of them on for size, as it were. Accompanying this, I dare say I was often

I had found merit to almost all the theories and beliefs we’d studied, and having grown up without any religiosity whatsoever, I was at first taken aback by the wide array of options suddenly before me.

I then had my “aha!” moment that set a course for me for a long time to come. My choice that I completely surprised myself with, was Christianity, and it was because of the Nativity story. This, I proceeded to write furiously, was about the overarching fact that the universe is defined by love, and no particular argument could match that.

I have no recollection of what grade I scored on that exam, but whatever grade it was wouldn’t have been for lack of verbiage as I scribbled my new discovery all over that little blue book.

I subsequently attended and graduated with honors from a progressive, United Church of Christ graduate theological seminary in the San Francisco Bay Area and became while there passionately involved in the social upheavals of that late 1960s era, myself becoming a founding member of the Berkeley, Calif., Gay Liberation Front.

I am struck by the thoughts of playwright Tennessee Williams when asked to comment on the fact that for years, above his work desk, was a copy of a world-famous photograph taken by the Pulitzer Prize winning photographer, W. Eugene Smith. It depicts two young children, barely able to walk, holding hands and earnestly proceeding toward a garden. The photo is titled, “The Walk to Paradise Garden.”

Asked why it was important to him, Williams said, “I think that I always thought of my characters as I do these children: vulnerable, hopeful, lost. Now I find that I think of my fellow men as I do these children: vulnerable, hopeful, lost; a little sweet. It has made the act of living infinitely easier, kinder.”

“Life is the perpetual destruction of innocence,” Williams added. “If we are witness to this, and if we step forward and heal the wounds of this destruction, we become human; we might even become saintly. If we share what we’ve seen and learned, we may create art.”

It hasn’t snowed yet, but this stretch of pre-holiday cold weather reminds us that a dreaded “wintry mix” may be upon us sooner, rather than later. Meteorologists predict a milder winter (less snow), but we all know what happens when even a few flakes are forecast. Bread, milk, and eggs disappear from grocery shelves, and students try to decide whether to finish their homework if school is delayed or cancelled.

A repeat of the infamous blizzard that shut down portions of Interstate 95 in Virginia, stranding thousands of motorists in early January, is unlikely to repeat, but there were a lot of lessons learned. The state investigation of the I-95 debacle revealed many missteps in communication between and among state agencies responsible for road maintenance and safety, but many motorists were unprepared as well. Creating an emergency kit to carry in your vehicle is not difficult, nor expensive. An old tote bag or small suitcase could hold a few bottles of water, some non-perishable snacks, a flashlight and fresh batteries, tissues, paper and pen, and a small blanket or throw. Stash it in the trunk or back seat and remember to replace items that are used. Check and update the contents in the fall of each year. You may never have to use the emergency kit, but you’ll be glad you have it when you need it.

As winter approaches, your vehicle needs to be ready, too. Ensure that your headlights and taillights are in proper working order, and that they are clean and visible. Road spray can dim them; you probably won’t notice it, but other motorists will. Seems like only a little spray when you hit the button, but you can use up a lot of fluid in a bad winter. Check the level of windshield washer fluid and top off or replace with fresh fluid. I learned how to do

that myself; it’s not difficult! Don’t forget to clean the inside of the windshield, too, as well as the other windows, and mirrors. Clean windows help make your trips safer, especially in areas frequented by pedestrians. Keeping your vehicle fueled up also will make winter driving less fraught with anxiety. Some of the complaints in the January blizzard centered on running out of fuel; travelers were not expecting extreme weather problems, and when the road conditions worsened, they were unprepared for multiple hours of shutdowns.

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), a state agency, is responsible for snow plowing and maintenance of most roadways in Fairfax County. Under VDOT’s guidelines, plows are not dispatched for snowfalls of two inches or less. In most situations, the underlying temperature of the roadway, and traffic, is enough to keep a road passable. In heavier snowfalls, VDOT contractors plow to open at least one lane of traffic in residential areas. Subsequent passes may open additional lanes, but curb-to-curb plowing may be difficult because of parked vehicles on neighborhood streets. Information about VDOT’s neighborhood plowing may be found at https:// www.vdotplows.org/.

Winter weather is a given; some years are mild and others are not, but a little preparation now will save headaches later. Perhaps the Puritan poet Anne Bradstreet had the right idea: “If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant.” Keep that thought!

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

C��� �� F���� C����� CRIME REPORT

Week of December 5- 11, 2022

Larceny of Vehicle Parts, S Roosevelt St, between 1 PM, November 30 and 3 PM, December 5, unknown suspects stole the catalytic converter from a green Toyota Prius.

Counterfeiting-Forgery, W Broad St, December 5, 6:55 PM, checks which had been placed in a USPS mailbox in the 1200 block of W Broad St on October 30 were intercepted by unknown suspect(s) and altered. Investigation continues.

Commercial Burglary, Roosevelt Blvd, between 6:45 PM, December 6 and 8 AM, December 7, a suspect entered through an unsecured window and tampered with vehicles. Investigation continues.

Shoplifting, S Washington St, December 8, 3:29 AM, unknown suspect, described as a male wearing a red jacket, took an item of value and left

the area in a black sports car driven by a second male. Shoplifting, S Washington St, December 10, 2:57 AM, unknown suspect, described as a male, 225 lbs., 5`05”-5`07” in height, mid-twenties, wearing a hat and sunglasses, took an item of value and left the area in a white sedan with three other subjects

Destruction of Property, N Washington St, December 10, between 5 PM and 5:20 PM, unknown suspect(s) entered a parking garage and broke the rear window of a 2023 Honda HRV. Larceny from Vehicle, W Broad St, December 9, between 4:20 PM and 6 PM, unknown suspect(s) took a laptop which had been left in an unsecured vehicle. Larceny from Vehicle, Gibson Pl, between 11 PM, December 10 and 10:06 AM, December 11.unknown suspect(s) shattered the driver’s side window of a 2018 Acura and took a laptop.

Christmas Revels Regales, Adds Festivity to a D.C. Christmas

BY MARK DREISONSTOK

Christmas Revels is a forty-year Christmas tradition in Washington, with the Washington Revels (the performance group) dedicated to fostering community through the celebration of a variety of cultural traditions. Although there is another like event in May, and throughout the year classes for children, community sings, and even parades, the Revels hit their stride at the yuletide season.

The Christmas Revels varies its theme each year, focusing on the traditions of a different country, culture, or time period. Music, dance, storytelling, and drama are performed, but with a focus on authenticity based on meticulous research. This year’s production is “Celtic Crossroads,” focusing on Celtic nineteenth-century Appalachian traditions, but also German, African-American, and Melungeon cultural contributions to the region.

During the course of the evening of festive entertainment, we met long-time Falls Church resident Marissa Maley. She told us: “I was brought to my first Revels in December 2000 by a coworker. She said her ‘family had been going for years,’ and she invited me because that year’s theme was Celtic, and she knew I loved attending the Maryland Renaissance Festival. I remember thinking that the ticket was rather expensive and hoped it would be worth the price. I was not disappointed: within 15 minutes, I was leaning forward in my seat, utterly enchanted by the imagery, songs, and storyline. By the intermission, I knew that I had to be a part of this.

“I volunteered the following year, helping out in the makeup room. I was overjoyed to learn that I didn’t have to wait until December to revel, as there were celebrations year round, so the next year, I sang in the first of many May Revels, held on the grounds of the National Cathedral. I was first cast as part of the chorus in the 2005 Northlands Revels (Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Finland, and Karelia), and since then have sung in many more productions—and languages!”

Now in its 40th year of production, Christmas Revels has formed a solid community of performers, fans, and many like Marissa who are both. There are people who attended as children and, now grown up, have had children of their own and bring them each year to be part of the audience. Marissa elaborates: “People that met during the earliest Revels are now parents and grandparents of singers, dancers, and volunteers. ‘Once a Reveler, always a Reveler!’ is often heard at rehearsals and events throughout the year—an acknowledgement of how the Revels community just keeps growing.”

This sense of community allows for a tremendous rapport between performers and audience. One example was “Lord of the Dance,” in which the cast danced in a chain in the aisles, picking up and adding to the chain audience members who wanted to join along the way. Another example of audience involve-

ment was in the singing of “The Twelve Days or Christmas,” in which audience members were encouraged to stand up, sing, and gesture approximations of phrases of the song such as “golden rings,” “seven swans a swimming,” and “twelve drummers drumming.” The popular “Deck the Halls” was also sung. Pleasing, if lesser known Christmas songs were also presented, such as “Star in the East,” “Sussex Mummers Carol,” and An American Wassail.” A welcome bit of theatricality was offered by British actress Catherine Flye as “Gran.”

The Celtic element was certainly present throughout, perhaps most notably in the closing with a rendition of Scottish poet Robert Burns’ “Auld Lang Syne,” which was both played on the bagpipes and sung by the audience. A memorable non-Celtic element was a gospel rendering of “Amazing Grace.” Bells, flutes, and groupings of brass instruments also were heard, along with choral singing. Occasional Irish dancing made its way onto the Lisner auditorium stage, which was framed by a semblance of a large traditional patchwork quilt (representing the various traditions which have been patched together to become one).

Revelers come from all over the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, Falls Church included! As resident Marissa told us: “I’ve made so many friends, learned so many things, and had such joyful celebrations as part of Washington Revels. I am so very thankful to my coworker, who gave me a gift I can never repay—a second family of those who volunteer their time and effort to bring joy to the community, and each other, because we believe that we are more alike than we are different.”

“Celtic Crossroads” runs two more days (December 16 and 18) at George Washington University’s Lisner Auditorium. For more information,

CHRISTMAS REVELS is a forty-year tradition in Washington, D.C., with this year’s production called “Celtic Crossroads.” (P����: B���� H���)

Giving Back: How to Help Out the Community This Holiday Season

BY KYLEE TOLAND FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

One of the most important themes during the holiday season is giving back, whether it be to family members, friends or even the community. In the City of Falls Church and surrounding areas, nonprofit organizations, toy drives and donation centers are helping those less fortunate during the holidays. These are also great ways for people to help their fellow local community members who need it.

The Shepherd Center of McLean/ Arlington/Falls Church is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that provides free rides for adults of 50 years of age or older. These rides, provided by background-checked volunteer drivers, can include going to the doctor, therapist and dental appointments — as well as pharmacy and grocery store visits. The organization also responds to requests for “minor household repairs.”

Carol Edelstein, the board secretary of the Shepherd Center of McLean/ Arlington/Falls Church, said the organization is committed in continuing to provide free rides throughout the holiday, stating the volunteers they have are “willing to drive 24/7, 365 days a year” for the older adults in the community who need it.

Edelstein said the center is always looking for more volunteers during the holidays, as the organization has seen a rise in requests for rides by older adults in the community. For volunteers, they can be of any age and there’s no “minimum requirement;” they are free to choose “how often [they drive] and the hours they drive,” providing some flexibility during the season.

“Typically, we are able to provide well over 95 percent of the ride requests,” Edelstein said, “and if we can do that throughout the holiday season, or even exceed that, we would be thrilled because that’s when the need is [at its] greatest.”

Throughout the City of Falls Church, various toy and gift donations are being held to give children and their families a happy holiday season. The City collected new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots, while the City of Falls Church Sheriff also collected toys for children in area hospitals. While those toy drives have already stopped their donations, one can support the Mary Riley Styles Public Library by taking part in their annual donation drive, which helps the library expand the “collection, programming and vibrance of our library.” They also sell merchandise that is perfect for holiday

gifting and giving back to the library. Four-legged friends also deserve some holiday spirit this season. Barkley Square Pet Spa is taking donations for the Homeward Trails Animal Rescue until December 23rd. People can stop by the pet spa Monday through Saturday between 9:00 a.m. — 6:00 p.m. to drop off donations, which can include dog leashes, high quality canned cat and dog food, and collars. People can also give back to the pet spa by donating cleaning supplies, office necessities and gift cards.

Medical Care for Children Partnership Foundation (MCCP) is a public/private partnership with the Fairfax County government dedicated to providing access to medical and dental care for low-income, uninsured children living in Fairfax County.

Eva Starrak, the Director of Development for MCCP, said the foundation will be holding a food distribution drive at Culmore United Methodist Church in Falls Church on Thursday, December 22nd. Locals can help out the foundation by dropping off food donations during the drive, or donat-

SHEPHERD CENTER will be committed to continuing their mission of providing free rides to older adults during the holiday season. (P����: C����� L�)

ing financially to MCCP on their website. They also accept new, unworn children’s clothing, full-sized toothpaste, individually packaged toothbrushes and floss.

“MCCP hopes to provide smiles, relief and access to health for vulnerable children in Fairfax County this holiday season,” Starrak said.

Other local organizations

offering volunteer opportunities one can become involved with during the holidays are Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC), Falls Church Community Service Council and the American Red Cross Blood Services. Welcoming Falls Church has an Amazon link for items for new refugee and immigrant families. The link is https://www.amazon.com/hz/ wishlist/.

15 - 21, 2022

Religious Diversity in F.C.: What Local Houses of Worship Are Offering This Season

BY KYLEE TOLAND FALLS

During the holidays, churches, synagogues and other houses of worship hold annual services and celebrations during the month of December. In recent years, these houses of worship have expanded their holiday services and events to appeal to not only congregation members, but also to the public.

At The Falls Church Presbyterian Church, associate pastor Megan Klose said they will have their regular Sunday worship on December 18th followed by a “special” Christmas carol fellowship hour at 11:30 a.m. as well as a new event called “Cookies and Carols.” On Christmas Eve, a Christmas Eve Blessings and Carols service will begin at 8:00 p.m., followed by a regular Sunday worship service on Christmas Day at 10:00 a.m. The public is invited to attend these services and events, with Klose stating people are welcome to attend the Christmas Day service in their pajamas.

After the Christmas holidays, the church will also hold a New Year’s Day service on Sunday, January 1st. Klose said the purpose of holding these services and events is to “wor-

ship God and to celebrate as a community,” while also welcoming those who want to be a part of the church. She followed by saying the church wants to welcome and affirm people of all genders and sexual orientations.

“We are a community of recovering perfectionists and welcome folks with faith and with doubts,” Klose said.

The Chabad Lubavitch of Alexandria-Arlington celebrates Chanukah this year with services and events starting December 11th through December 21st. Some of these events include a Pre-Chanukah on Ice, an ice skating event held on December 15th at Pentagon Row Outdoor Ice Skating in Arlington, and a Chanukah Festival in Old Town Alexandria on December 19th with the annual Menorah lighting followed by a public Menorah lighting on December 20th in Arlington.

Robert Wallace, the senior pastor at McLean Baptist Church said they will be holding their annual 7:00 p.m. Christmas Eve service on December 24th, also stating it’s the church’s largest attended service of the year. On the last Sunday prior to Christmas — December 18th — the church invites

anyone in their congregation that morning to stand with the choir and sing the “Hallelujah” chorus. This is a beloved tradition for the church and has been missed since the rise of the pandemic.

McLean’s Christmas Eve service is open to the public, and is modeled on the church’s “standard” Sunday morning service with an emphasis on music and a candle lighting closing out the service with the holding of participants’ hands and singing of “Silent Night.”

One unique event McLean Baptist Church held recently was their service of consolation, which Wallace said was an opportunity for church members and the public to come together and “offer grief and worship because sometimes the holiday season brings a lot of grief for people.” This service is held annually for those who would want to attend in future years.

“The goal is always to bring a worshipful experience together,” Wallace said. “The hope is that someone who has come to that service will feel welcomed into this fellowship of people and also leave feeling as though they have been a part of something special.”

THE FALLS CHURCH PRESBYTERIAN will hold a Christmas Eve service called “Christmas Eve Blessings and Services” filled with

December 14th. The event, which was open to the public, offered people who may be grieving a safe space to embrace their sadness as well as support others who may feel the same way in a

Temple Rodef Shalom in Falls Church will be celebrating Chanukah by welcoming the public to attend their services where one can sing their “favorite holiday tunes, savor the aroma of latkes” and watch

Continued on Page 15

Synagogues & Churches Offer Multiple Services for the Holidays

Continued from Page 14

their young vocalists “shine with as much brilliance as the flames of the chanukiyah.”

The Falls Church Episcopal will be hosting numerous holiday events and services just in time for the holidays. Ellie Bangay, the director of communications and digital ministries at the church, said The Falls Church Episcopal will start off their holiday service by hosting a live

8:00 p.m. The event will feature a walkthrough of the nativity scene with live animals, carol singers and Christmas lights. Last year, Bangay said the event saw 600 people attend.

On Sunday morning, December 18th, the Church will have their advent lessons and carols service, which Bangal calls a “traditional” service with carol singing, communion, coffee and snacks. On Christmas Eve, two services will be held at 4:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.; the ity scene performed by the church’s

children, while the latter service will be a Festal Holy Eucharist with performances by the choir and instrumentalists. On Christmas morning, a Holy Eucharist will be held with performing carolists.

Bangay said the goal of hosting the live nativity scene is to “welcome the community to our campus to show that we’re open to everybody” and “to give the community something fun to do.” As for their other holiday services, Bangay stated the church “wants everybody to experience the Christmas story” and for people to enjoy coming and seeing “a traditional service” that people can join in.

Columbia Baptist Church is looking forward to celebrating the holidays by offering various services, including a unique spin on their traditional Christmas Eve worship. Kristin Clifton, the communications manager at the church, said on Thursday, December 15th, a service of remembrance will be held for those who may have lost a loved one this year. The service is open to church members, as well as their family and friends, and gives them the opportunity to put a butterfly on a wreath in memory of the person

or people whose lives they are celebrating.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day will both be celebrated by Columbia Baptist Church with worship services; however, an afternoon service on December 24th will be held for young children and their families. This service, which is held at 3:00 p.m., is described by Clifton

as being “festive” and “loud,” with a petting zoo set up outside the church so children can participate in their own holiday worship.

At Strawberry Park in the Mosaic District in Fairfax, a community Menorah lighting will be held on December 20th from 5:00 p.m. — 6:00 p.m.

THE FALLS CHURCH EPISCOPAL will be hosting numerous holiday events and services, including a live nativity scene and a Festal Holy Euchraist on Christmas Eve and Day. (P����: E���� B�����)

MCLEAN BAPTIST CHURCH will be holding a service on the last Sunday before Christmas (December 18th) which will allow people to join the choir and sing. (P����: R����� W������)

Does ChatGPT Mean Robots Are Coming For Skilled Jobs?

Paul Krugman

Will robots take away our jobs?

People have been asking that question for an astonishingly long time. Regency-era British economist David Ricardo added to the third edition of his classic “Principles of Political Economy,” published in 1821, a chapter titled “On Machinery,” in which he tried to show how the technologies of the early Industrial Revolution could, at least initially, hurt workers. Kurt Vonnegut’s 1952 novel “Player Piano” envisaged a near-future America in which automation has eliminated most employment.

At the level of the economy as a whole, the verdict is clear: So far, machines haven’t done away with the need for workers. U.S. workers are almost five times as productive as they were in the early postwar years, but there has been no long-term upward trend in unemployment.

That said, technology can eliminate particular kinds of jobs. In 1948, half a million Americans were employed mining coal; the great bulk of those jobs had disappeared by the early 21st century not because we stopped mining coal — the big decline in coal production, in favor first of natural gas and then of renewable energy, started only around 15 years ago — but because strip mining and mountaintop removal made it possible to extract an increasing amount of coal with many fewer workers.

It’s true that the jobs that disappear in the face of technological progress have generally been replaced by other jobs. But that doesn’t mean that the process has been painless. Individual workers may not find it easy to change jobs, especially if the new jobs are in different places. They may find their skills devalued; in some cases, as with coal, technological change can uproot communities and their way of life.

This kind of dislocation has, as I said, been a feature of modern societies for at least two centuries. But something new may be happening now.

In the past, the jobs replaced by technology tended to involve manual labor. Machines replaced muscles. On the one hand, industrial robots replaced routine assembly-line work. On the other hand, there has been ever-growing demand for knowledge workers, a term coined by management consultant Peter Drucker in 1959 for people engaged in nonrepetitive problem solving. Many people, myself included, have said that we’re increasingly becoming a knowledge economy.

But what if machines can take over a large chunk of what we have historically thought of as knowledge work?

Last week, research company OpenAI released — to enormous buzz from tech circles — a program called ChatGPT, which can carry out what look like natural-language conversations. You can ask questions or make requests and get responses that are startlingly clear and

even seem well-informed. You can also do fun things — one colleague recently asked for and received an analysis of secular stagnation in sonnet form — but let’s stick with things that might be economically useful.

ChatGPT is only the latest example of technology that seems to be able to carry out tasks that not long ago seemed to require the services not just of human beings but of humans with substantial formal education.

For example, machine translation from one language to another used to be a joke; some readers may have heard the apocryphal tale of the Russian-English translation program that took “the spirit was willing, but the flesh was weak” and ended up with “the vodka was good, but the meat was spoiled.” These days, translation programs may not produce great literature, but they’re adequate for many purposes. And the same is true in many fields.

You can argue that what we often call artificial intelligence isn’t really intelligence. Indeed, it may be a long time before machines can be truly creative or offer deep insight. But then, how much of what human beings do is truly creative or deeply insightful? (Indeed, how much of what gets published in academic journals — a field of endeavor I know pretty well — meets those criteria?)

So quite a few knowledge jobs may be eminently replaceable.

What will this mean for the economy?

It is difficult to predict exactly how AI will impact the demand for knowledge workers, as it will likely vary, depending on the industry and specific job tasks. However, it is possible that in some cases, AI and automation may be able to perform certain knowledge-based tasks more efficiently than humans, potentially reducing the need for some knowledge workers. This could include tasks such as data analysis, research and report writing. However, it is also worth noting that AI and automation may also create new job opportunities for knowledge workers, particularly in fields related to AI development and implementation.

OK, I didn’t write the paragraph you just read; ChatGPT did, in response to the question “How will AI affect the demand for knowledge workers?” The giveaway, to me at least, is that I still refuse to use “impact” as a verb. And it didn’t explicitly lay out exactly why we should, overall, expect no impact on aggregate employment. But it was arguably better than what many humans, including some people who imagine themselves smart, would have written.

In the long run, productivity gains in knowledge industries, like past gains in traditional industries, will make society richer and improve our lives in general (unless Skynet kills us all). But in the long run, we are all dead, and even before that, some of us may find ourselves either unemployed or earning far less than we expected, given our expensive education.

By Paul Krugman © 2022 The New York Times

Delegate Marcus Simon’s Richmond

Report

As I prepare to return to Richmond next month for my 10th session representing Falls Church and Fairfax County in the Virginia House of Delegates, I wanted to use my last column of 2022 to share my plans for the 2023 election cycle with you.

I am thrilled to announce that I am running for re-election and will be seeking the Democratic nomination in the newly drawn 13th House District in 2023.

Over the last decade, I have worked hard to be the best possible representative for the values and shared interests of our Falls Church community. I’ve been fortunate to be able to make a real and meaningful difference on some of the most pressing issues facing our Commonwealth, particularly in our two years in the majority with a Democratic Governor.

As a member of leadership in the House Democratic Caucus (Deputy Floor Leader), I participated in a panel for the Virginia Press Association recently on the issue of Education and parental rights, where I was able to highlight the real issue behind recent headlines — a desire to undermine public education.

I am committed to protecting public education in our commonwealth. I believe that every student should have access to a high-quality education that prepares them for success in college, career, and life. I have supported legislation to increase funding for public schools, reduce class sizes, and improve teacher pay and working conditions. I have also advocated for policies that expand access to early childhood education, support students with special needs, and provide opportunities for students to learn technical and vocational skills. I will continue to prioritize public education and ensure that every student has the support they need to succeed.

I am proud of my strong record on gun violence prevention.

I will continue working to stop the tragic mass shootings that have devastated communities across our country. I have supported legislation to strengthen background checks, restore Virginia’s one handgun a month limit, give localities the ability to restrict firearms in public places, and budget items that invest in programs to prevent gun violence. I will continue to be a vocal advocate for commonsense gun laws that keep our community safe.

I have also been a steadfast supporter of protecting abortion access in Virginia, making us a sanctuary state in the south. I believe that every indi -

vidual has the right to make their own reproductive choices, and I will never stop fighting to defend this fundamental right. I will continue to support legislation that ensures access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare services, including contraception and abortion.

I am committed to addressing the climate crisis and protecting our environment. I recognize that the health of our planet is at risk, and I have supported legislation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy, and protect our natural resources. I will continue to prioritize the health of our planet and the well being of future generations.

As Chairman of the Housing Subcommittee in 2020, I helped to pass the Virginia Values Act. I believe that every individual has the right to live their lives without fear of discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. The Virginia Values Act bans discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. I will continue to fight for the rights of LGBTQ individuals and for a society that is free from discrimination and prejudice.

As a member of the Public Safety & Courts of Justice Committees, I have been committed to advocating for criminal justice reform. I believe that our justice system should be fair, equitable, and focused on rehabilitation rather than punishment. I have supported legislation to reduce the prison population, improve conditions in correctional facilities, and provide support for individuals returning to their communities after serving their sentences. I have also advocated for better mental health resources for individuals involved in the justice system, as well as for programs to help them find employment and housing upon release. I will continue to work towards a criminal justice system that prioritizes justice and rehabilitation over punishment.

Lastly, I am proud of my efforts to raise the minimum wage to $15 per hour. This is a critical step to ensure that all workers in our community can earn a fair and livable wage. I have supported legislation to gradually increase the minimum wage, and I will continue to push for policies that support working families and reduce income inequality.

As I seek re-election, I am committed to continuing this work and addressing the challenges facing our community. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve, and I hope to earn your support and trust for another term.

Community News & Notes

adventure at the Lerner Town Square in Tysons starting December 16 through February 12th. Created by Kaleido Arts & Entertainment Group, the Festival will feature a total of over 10,000 LED Chineseinspired artisan lanterns, along with live performances and on-site food vendors.

This is an experience for the whole family. Running until 2/12/23, located in the Lerner Town Square at 8025 Galleria Drive, Tysons.

Wreaths to be Provided to Oakwood Cemetery

Earlier this year, Wreaths Across America worked with the Oakwood Cemetery Manager and Board of Trustees to establish Oakwood as a participating location to receive the same wreaths that are placed at Arlington National Cemetery each December.

In the past few months, Oakwood received over 100 sponsored wreaths through the WAA website which will be placed on grave sites the same day as over 3,400 cemeteries across the United States to honor our military veterans.

There will be a short ceremony starting at noon on Saturday, December 17th involving local veteran organizations and the Oakwood Board of Trustees. They are also

nial wreath. Following the ceremony, wreaths are placed at veterans’ graves which have been previously marked with American flags. They encourage members of the community to attend the ceremony, and if desired, to help place the wreaths.

Jingle in the Season with the Alexandria Symphony

The Alexandria Symphony Orchestra (ASO) will present a holiday program, “Jingle!” Saturday, December 17, 2022 (7:30 p.m.) at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center and Sunday, December 18, 2022 (3:00 p.m.) at the George Washington Masonic Memorial.

Adult prices for single tickets start at $20, and all tickets for youth are priced at $5. Military, senior and group discounts are also available in select sections. Seating is very limited at the George Washington Masonic Memorial, so book tickets early. Visit www.alexsym.org or call (703) 548-0885 for more information.

Barkley Pet Spa Taking Donations for the Holidays

Barkley Square Pet Spa is taking donations for the Homeward Trails Animal Rescue. Starting December

9th through the 23rd they will accept donations in their front lobby. Please come by any day, Monday — Saturday, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.

They appreciate in-kind donations of supplies to help with caring for their animals as well as helping with the administrative side of rescue. Animal needs include dog leashes, bath and beach sized towels, training treats, Martingale-style collars – all sizes, Frontline for dogs and cats – all sizes, high quality canned cat food, high quality canned dog food, hot dogs, string cheese and tough toys like Kongs and Nylabones.

Office needs include white copy/printer paper, Brother toner cartridges TN-760, Brother toner cartridges TN-221 black and color and postage stamps. Gift cards needed include gas stations, Amazon, Target, WalMart, Costco, Safeway and Home Depot. Cleaning supplies needed include bleach, laundry soap, dish soap, paper towels, toilet paper and nitrile gloves – all sizes.

Local F.C. Resident Publishing Book

Leanne Berthiaume is a City of Falls Church resident and author of the upcoming book “Defining Me,” which will be published by New Degree Press in May 2023.

“Defining Me” is a novel about a woman at a crossroads in her

many women face but hardly talk about.

Along with the book’s publisher New Degree Press, Berthiaume developed a pre-launch effort to help spread the word and message of her book. She is hoping to raise enough pre-sale dollars to fully publish the book in paperback and eBook. The presale campaign runs through December 18. She will also donate 5 percent of her presale proceeds to the Falls Church Elementary PTA for everyone who places a preorder.

The link to Berthiaume’s presale page where one can read more about her journey, her book and the presale campaign is here: https://leanne-berthiaume.presale.manuscripts.com/

“A Christmas Angel” Holds Special Performances

Creative Cauldron will be holding special performances of their production of “A Christmas Angel” on Friday, December 16th and Saturday, December 17th.

On Friday, December 16th, guests can attend the performance in their favorite “ugly” holiday sweater. Ugly Sweater Day at

son a free drink ticket when one wears their ugly holiday sweater to

On Saturday, December 17th, the performance of “A Christmas Angel” will be live-streamed at 7:30 p.m. for those who want to watch the production but can’t leave their homes or work. One can stream it live for only $15.

This production features adult professionals and students enrolled in their Musical Theater PreProfessional Training program.

Watch Night, a New Years Celebration, Resumes

Watch Night 2022, the New Year’s Eve celebration in Falls Church, will resume this year, as it was briefed to the City Council by Keith Thurston of the CATCH Foundation. He announced that there would be three different music venues, operating both indoors and on the outside stage with different genres of music — including local legend Andrew Acosta with the Electric Band performing at the Falls Church Episcopal. This event, first held in 1998, happens in downtown City of Falls Church with free admission

because of the sponsorship by business and nonprofit sponsors. Thurston mentioned he has worked with the local restaurants that will remain open — and taking reservations. More details will follow.

LOCAL EAGLE SCOUT PHILIP STUART (pictured far right) led a group of helpers to pick up trash and clear an area where firefighters could sit quietly, read, chat or have lunch. A garden was also created and a picnic table was installed. (Photo: Polly Myers)

THIS WEEK, President Joe Biden signed into law the Respect for Marriage law ensuring that all marriages, without regard for race or sexual orientation, shall be protected by federal law. In June 2009, then VicePresident Biden hosted an event for LGBT leaders when this photo was taken flanked by LGBT movement pioneers Frank Kameny (left) and News-Press owner Nicholas Benton (right). (News-Press Photo)

AREA EVENTS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15

CANDLELIGHT TOURS

Explore the historic Tudor Place house in a new light. Partake in period-appropriate refreshments and complete a holiday craft. View

seasonal decorations and rarely-exhibited objects.

Tours will be held from 6:00

p.m. — 7:30 p.m. and 6:30

p.m. — 8:00 p.m. 1644 31st Street, NW Washington, DC

CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE

Cirque Dreams Holidaze lights up the stage in this awe-inspiring and eye-popping family holiday spec -

tacular. This annual tradition wraps a whimsical, Broadway-style musical infused with contemporary circus artistry into the ultimate holiday gift for the entire family. Showing at MGM National Harbor at 7:00 p.m.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16

WINTER LANTERN FESTIVAL

Winter Lantern Festival will feature a total of over 10,000 of LED Chineseinspired artisan lanterns, along with live performances and on-site food vendors. Guests will wander through a wonderland of light that includes myths, legends, and zodiacs. In addition, they will view handmade lanterns encompassing a world of ice. Lerner Town Square (8025 Galleria Drive, Tysons).

magically transforms into the Celebration Station on select nights this holiday season. The park’s train station, carousel and train tracks will be festively lit for a unique experience filled with lights and memories. Register for tickets online at https://fairfax.usedirect.com.

6:00 p.m.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17

A CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS

Under the direction of Artistic Director Eugene Rogers, “A Candlelight Christmas” is a 75-minute holiday music experience featuring spirited brass, a festive chorus, and thrilling special guests. TWC’s “A Candlelight Christmas!” is among the DC region's most treasured traditions. Showing at the Kennedy Center from 1:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

MOSAIC HOLIDAY VILLAGE

Mosaic’s Holiday Village returns this year for a fun-filled weekend. Shop for everyone on a gift list from their 65+

tainment, Christmas carolers and so much more. District Avenue, Fairfax. 11:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18

"JINGLE!" BY ASO

The Alexandria Symphony Orchestra (ASO) will present a holiday program at 3:00 p.m. at the George Washington Masonic Memorial. Sunday's concert will include selections from Duke Ellington’s “The Nutcracker Suite.” Soprano Helena Colindres will sing popular holiday favorites: “A Swedish Carol,” and “All I Want for Christmas is You.”

CAPITAL CITY SYMPHONY HOLIDAY CONCERT

Come celebrate the holiday season with Capital City Symphony. Potomac Fever is an a cappella group made up of members of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC. Grab family and friends for a fun-filled concert and sing along to holiday clasing Center of the Arts. 3:30 p.m.

BURKE LAKE'S TRAIN STATION magically transforms into the Celebration Station on select nights this holiday season. Held on Friday, December 16th at Burke Lake Park. The park’s train station, carousel and train tracks will be festively lit for a unique experience filled with lights and memories. (Photo: Cindy Fortuno)

WINTER LANTERN FESTIVAL will feature a total of over 10,000 of LED Chinese-inspired artisan lanterns, along with live performances and on-site food vendors. It will be held at Lerner Town Square on Friday, December 16th. (Photo: Dianne Murphy)

ily holiday spectacular. This annual tradition wraps a whimsical, Broadway-style musical infused with contemporary circus artistry into the ultimate holiday gift for the entire family. Showing at MGM National Harbor at 7:00 p.m. on Thurday, December 15th. (Photo: Charisse McDaniel)

LIVE MUSIC THEATER & ARTS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15

THRILLBILLYS

JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8:00 p.m. (703) 241-9504

CARBON LEAF Birchmere Hall (3701 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria). 7:30 p.m. (703) 549-7500)

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16

SKINNY WALLACE

JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8:00 p.m. (703) 241-9504

DAN & CHUCK

Clare & Don’s Beach Shack (130 N Washington St, Falls Church) 5:30 p.m. (703) 5329283

ABACAB

The State Theatre (220 N Washington St, Falls Church, VA) 8:00 p.m. (703) 237-0300

THE WALKAWAYS

Solace Outpost (444 W Broad St., Falls Church).

8:00 p.m. (571) 378-1469

ACOUSTIC AUBREY

Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad Street, Falls Church).

9:30 a.m. (703) 237-8333

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17

SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY & THE ASHBURY JUKES

Birchmere Hall (3701 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria). 7:30 p.m. (703) 549-7500)

CURTIS KNOCKING

Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad Street, Falls Church).

9:30 p.m. (703) 237-8333

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15

An Irish Carol

An original work by Keegan favorite Matthew J. Keenan, “An Irish Carol” is an homage to Dickens’ classic –told as only the Irish can. This 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 material success. Performed at Keegan Theatre from December 15th — 31st. 8:00 p.m.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16

Magical Cirque Christmas

The world’s greatest entertainers unite for a spellbinding holiday production.

Experience the enchantment of Christmas as Magical Hostess Lucy Darling takes people through an evening of dazzling performers and breathtaking cirque artists.

Showing from December 16th — 18th at the National Theatre. 7:30 p.m.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 19

Frosty

Billy discovers magic in a hat, and when he places the hat on a snowman’s head, that snowman comes to life. Alden Theatre 4:00 p.m.

SKINNY WALLACE is a classic rock and country band based in Dale City, Virginia. Described as incorporating "a little rock, a little country and a lot of fun," the band plays everything from classic country to modern rock. They will be performing at JV's Restaurant on Friday, December 16th at 8:00 p.m. (P����: S����� W������)

"FROSTY" tells the classic story of a boy finding a hat to put on a snowman, which leads to a magical adventure. It will be performed December 19th at the Alden Theatre. (P����: S������ A����)

PUBLIC NOTICE

Invitation For Bids (IFB) IFB 0103-23-HAWKS

Broad Street Pedestrian Crossings Project City of Falls Church

PASSWORD-PROTECTED ELECTRONIC BIDS (SEALED) will be accepted by the City of Falls Church by electronic submission to Purchasing Agent James Wise, jwise@ fallschurchva.gov for the federally-funded Broad Street Pedestrian Crossings Project. Due date for the electronic submission of Bids is Tuesday, January 3, 2023 @ 11:00 AM. A Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting will be held virtually via Microsoft Teams on December 15, 2022 (see the IFB for details). A copy of the IFB which includes all details and requirements may be downloaded from the City’s website: www.fallschurchva.gov/Bids. Notice of the IFB may also be accessed via eVA, the Commonwealth of Virginia’s electronic procurement portal for registered suppliers, www.eva.virginia.gov.

For more information and/or questions regarding this IFB contact the City’s Purchasing Agent; (703) 248-5007; jwise@fallschurchva. gov. To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, call 703 248-5007 (TTY 711).

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE PLANNING COMMISSION

NOTICE: On Wednesday, December 21, 2022, at 7:30 p.m., the City of Falls Church Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and meeting. Public comments can also be submitted ahead of time to jtrainor@ fallschurchva.gov and pstoddard@fallschurchva.gov. The Planning Commission will consider the following item and recommendation to City Council:

(TO22-09) ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAP-

TER 48 “ZONING” TO COMBINE TRANSITIONAL DISTRICTS; ELIMINATE SINGLE FAMILY AND TWO FAMILY RESIDENTIAL USE THEREIN; ALLOW FOR A TOWNHOUSE, APARTMENT AND CONDO OPTION AND ALLOW FOR EXPANDED LOT COVERAGE.

The Planning Commission is considering proposed changes to the Transition Zone (“T-Zone”) districts. The proposed changes are intended to facilitate development of small residential projects on infill sites too small to support large commercial or mixed-use developments. Notable proposed changes include: (1) allowing townhouses and multifamily to increase housing options in the City,

(2) allowing more neighborhood-serving retail, and (3) allowing larger buildings to encourage reinvestment, while controlling storm-water and transitioning to single family homes.

Meeting agenda and materials will be available on the following page prior to the public meeting: http://www.fallschurchva.gov/ PC. More information about the proposed changes to the Transition Zones (“T-Zones”) are available on the project webpage: http:// fallschurchva.gov/2167/Proposed-T-Zone-

Updates

This location is fully accessible to persons with physical disabilities and special services or assistance may be requested in advance.

(TTY 711)

FOR SALE

Gently used

Alesis DM Nitro 8 piece Drum Kit

The Alesis DM6 Nitro Kit is one of Alesis’ entry-level electronic drum sets that it is extremely compact and portable. The whole kit comes with five drums, three cymbals and a module, all mounted on a lightweight Alesis drum rack. The kit can be set up in minutes and taken down just as quickly.

It’s an ideal drum set for beginners to learn their trade on as well as established drummers who are looking for a practice tool. $250 Pick up in Falls Church. Contact Sue: sjohnson@fcnp.com

AUCTIONS

ATTN. AUCTIONEERS: Advertise your upcoming auctions statewide and in other states. Affordable Print and Digital Solutions reaching your target audiences. Call this paper or Landon Clark at Virginia Press Services 804-521-7576, landonc@vpa.net

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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.

Falls Church School News & Notes

Music Students Ready to Work/Perform

Have a yard full of leaves that need raking? Or kids that need babysitting? Or a child interested in music lessons? Or a performance that you need someone to play for? Or some other fall project that needs tackling? If so, consider participating in M.U.S.I.C Days — the MHS instrumental music’s annual fundraiser that allows people to hire students for their fall jobs which are then donated to defray the costs of their music performance trip to Nashville. Residents can engage music students for jobs like yard work, babysitting, dog walking, animal sitting, spreading mulch, car washing, musical performance, holiday decorating, gift wrapping, etc.

Money raised during M.U.S.I.C. (Many Useful Students In our Community) Days will be donated to help

SCHOOLS

students pay for travel to perform in Nashville, Tennessee, in March. Students will be recording at RCA Studios, performing at Vanderbilt University, and experiencing musical opportunities in Nashville.

The fundraiser runs through December 17th. To request a student for a job or for more information, email Musicdaysgmhs@gmail.com

MHS Student to Perform at Sydney Opera House

Megan Carpenter, MHS Wind Ensemble clarinetist, is a finalist for the 2023 Honors Performance Series at the Sydney Opera House in Sydney, Australia.

She will perform with other talented performers in Sydney from July 31 to August

5. Megan will perform at the world-renowned Sydney Opera House and attend rehearsals, cultural and social activities,

and sightseeing events. This results from talent, dedication, and achievement, as demonstrated in her outstanding audition.

Support Oak Street for GIVE Day

Take a night off from cooking and support Oak Street Elementary GIVE Day Club in their fundraising efforts for GIVE Day by ordering takeout at baddpizza on Thursday, December 15th. Use code OSGIVE22 and 15 percent of all sales from 3:00 p.m. — 8:00 p.m. will be donated to support the Elementary GIVE Day goal of packing over 1,500+ Power Packs for Food For Others.

On Saturday, December 17th from 9:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m., swing by the Falls Church Farmers Market (in front of the Community Center) for some sugary holiday baked goods and hot chocolate com -

plete with whipped cream and marshmallows. The Oak Street Elementary GIVE Day Club will be hosting a bake sale to raise funds for Welcoming Falls Church, an organization helping refugees in the Falls Church.

Meridian Scholastic Bowl Starts Season

The Meridian Scholastic Bowl

team began its season on Monday, December 5th against Warren County, and the Mustangs were victorious in both matches by scores of 295 to 90 and 240 to 165. The team was led in scoring by seniors Zander Werner, Ailene Neal, Daniel Fried, and junior Riley Chirico. Next, the Mustangs traveled to Brentsville District High School on Monday, December 12th, for their first road match of the season.

Big Night for Meridian Basketball as Boys & Girls Both Defend Home Court

by Ryan McCafferty

Supporters of Mustang basketball were treated to a doubleheader on Monday night, as Meridian’s boys faced off against visiting Trinity at 5:30 and then the girls hosted McLean later on. The boys took their 3-3 record into the matchup as they looked to move back above .500, and things got off to a fast start as they scored the first sixteen points of the game, forcing several turnovers with their aggressive defense. Trinity finally got on the board with a free throw midway through the opening quarter, but the Mustangs didn’t let off the gas and took a commanding 31-7 lead into the first break.

The advantage only grew from there. Meridian scored the first ten points of the second quarter and remained ahead 45-9 at halftime. The starters were pulled for the second half, but the Mustangs continued their rout as the lead was 53-17 after three quarters, and by the time the final buzzer sounded, the home team had

cruised to a resounding 69-19 victory. Daylen Martino led the way with 14 while Jarrett Jardine added ten, and thirteen different players scored at least once.

The girls’ game tipped off shortly afterwards, as they looked to continue their undefeated streak. They too started hot, jumping out to a 5-0 lead before two McLean free throws got the visitors on the board, beginning a five point run of their own to tie the game. The teams played a low scoring first quarter, remaining tied at 9-9 into the break, but the girls asserted themselves in the second period as they used a 7-0 run to take a 16-9 lead late in the half.

McLean was able to cut it to 21-16 at the intermission, and then to 23-20 early in the third, but another Mustang run gave the home team their largest lead of the game at 30-21 moments later. They remained ahead 31-25 heading into the final frame, and after the visitors converted on an and-1 to cut it to three, the Mustangs pulled away to take

their first double digit advantage of the night at 38-28 with less than four minutes remaining. McLean frantically rallied with a few timely turnovers and baskets to make it a two point game in the closing sec -

onds, but Maureen Tremblay made two clutch free throws to seal the 42-38 win. Tremblay and Elizabeth Creed both had 11 to lead the scoring.

Both the boys and girls will see their next action against

Spotswood on Friday, with the boys at home and the girls on the road. Head boys’ coach Jim Smith and assistant Rusty Payne both believe this will be a tough test for the Mustangs, but they are up for the challenge.

A MHS CHEMISTRY CLASS took a trip to the D.C. Department of Forensic Science where they learned about forensic science. (Photo: Damian McCarthy)

MERIDIAN MUSTANG GUARD Billy Asel drains a 3 point jump shot with a hand in his face. The boys cruised to victory 69-19. (News-Press Photo)

BACK IN THE DAY

Falls Church News-Press

Vol. VII, No. 39 • December 11, 1997

Council Readies Eight Sweeping Charter Changes

Eight changes to the Falls Church City charter that will come before the City Council at its next meeting Dec. 22 will also be open for comment at that meeting from the public. The changes are in line with efforts of City Manager Hector Rivera.

Falls Church News-Press

Vol. XXII, No. 42 • December 13, 2012

F.C. Council, School Board Call on Richmond to Fund Retirement Plan

Both the Falls Church City Council and the Falls Church School Board adopted stronglyworded statements forwarded this week to the Virginia State Legislature as it prepares for the launch of its next general session in early January.

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East End Small Area Plan Survey Closes Sunday

The Draft Small Area Plan for the East End of the City is available for review and comment, along with a survey in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese on the city’s website, https://www.fallschurchva. gov/2128/East-End-Small-Area-Plan. The survey asks about the importance of various goals, like preserving the Eden Center culture and identity, preserving and providing housing, and which urban designs, if any, to add, like pocket parks and public art. The survey closes on Sunday, December 18 and comments may also be sent to plan@fallschurchva.gov.

Thompson Italian to Open Another Location

Gabe and Katherine Thompson are expanding Thompson Italian into Old Town Alexandria, set to open late December in the former home of Hank’s Oyster Bar. Several popular dishes making the menu are rigatoni bolognese, spaghetti cacio e pepe, roasted focaccia and Katherine’s famed olive oil cake which helped earn her a James Beard nomination for Outstanding Pastry Chef of the Year in 2020.

Transportation Projects Affecting Falls Church

The Northern Virginia Transportation Authority adopted the long-range transportation plan with 424 projects last week geared toward enhancing the infrastructure to meet the growing needs in Northern Virginia. Among the 29 projects impacting Falls Church are multimodal improvements, enhanced bus service, enhanced regional bike routes, BRT service on Route 50, and Seven Corners Ring Road improvements. To review the projects, visit https://nvtatransaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/ NVTA_TransActn_Project-List_Dec2022_Final.pdf.

Patch Shout Out to Foley

The Patch is highlighting heroes making a difference in their community, and local barber Dustin Foley was recently nominated by Jan-Michael Sacharko. Foley, barber and owner of The Neighborhood Barbershop, has taken his team to visit two homeless shelters operated by New Hope Housing and provide free haircuts to men and women for five years. The barbershop has hosted fundraisers annually as well, raising over $40,000 thus far.

Grants for Women-Owned Businesses

IFundWomen and Johnnie Walker have come together to provide support to “trailblazing” womenowned businesses that continue to push boundaries and grow, helping their businesses succeed. Ten recipients of the First Strides Grant will receive a $10,000 grant and one year of coaching services through IFundWomen. Submit your application by December 31. Visit https://www.ifundwomen.com/ johnniewalker for more information.

 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.