Feb. 24 - March 2, 2022
Fa lls Chur c h, V i r g i ni a • ww w. fc np. c om • Fr ee
Fou n d e d 1991 • Vol. X XXI N o. 2
The City of Falls Church’s Independent, Locally-Owned Newspaper of Record, Serving N. Virginia
F.C. Civil Rights Icon Honored in D.C.
Mardi Gras Revelry
Sports Complex Named For E.B. Henderson by Amanda Snead
Falls Church News-Press
In the context of Black History Month last Saturday, the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) renamed its sports complex after the late Falls Church civil rights icon Dr. Edwin Bancroft “E.B” Henderson, also known as the “Grandfather of Black Basketball.” Henderson’s grandson, Edwin Henderson and his wife Nikki are currently prominent community activists in the City of Falls Church. A ceremony at the school campus in D.C. was held that included the announcement of a $200,000 gift from the Ted Leonsis Foundation. Leonsis owns the Washington Wizards professional basketball team. E.B. Henderson, who also founded the first rural chapter of the NAACP in Falls Church over 100 years ago, brought basketball to Washington D.C. in the
Continued on Page 3
MARDI GRAS MAY NOT BE until next Tuesday everywhere else, but in Falls Church it was this Tuesday, when local realtor Tori McKinney and her Rock Star Realty team reached deep into their stash of beads to lead a rousing Mardi Gras celebration for the F.C. Chamber of Commerce at the Settle Down Easy brewery on Rt. 29. McKinney is shown on the right of the twosome in this scene from the festivities, with Christine Wilson to the left. (News-Press: photo)
Deliberations Begin on Fellows Tract Use
by Alex Russell
Falls Church News-Press
Community deliberations have begun on how to utilize the so-called Fellows Property, recently acquired by the City adjacent to the Oak Street Elementary School.
The Fellows Property, a roughly 1.9 acre area of land located at 604 South Oak St. in Falls Church, was purchased by the City of Falls Church in early 2019 and has since been the subject of numerous surveys, meetings and a development plan that is still going through its
public comments phase. In December of last year, the Master Park Plan for the Fellows Property, drafted by the Falls Church Recreation and Parks Advisory Board, was amended to reflect continued input from the community. As outlined in section A, page 1, of
the Draft Master Plan, the core purpose of the park hinges on preserving and protecting the area’s natural resources, providing “environmental education,” promoting “environmental stewardship,” and providing a
Continued on Page 4
Inside This Week Victor’s Grill Impresses With South American Inspired Foods
Meridian Swim & Dive Team Competes in State Champs
See Restaurant Spotlight, Pages 9 and 19
See Sports, Page 5
Victor’s Grill Churrasqueria is a Falls Church City staple offering a wide variety of grilled meats along with seafood, sandwiches and drinks that offer a taste of Latin America
Meridian High School’s swim and dive team headed to Richmond last week to compete in the state championships. The team placed fourth overall, their highest place since rising to 3A a few years ago.
Index
Editorial................................................ 6 Letters.................................................. 6 Comment............................................. 7 Crime Report....................................... 8 Calendar...................................... 10,11 News & Notes..............................12,13 Business News.................................. 15 Comics............................................... 16 Classified Ads.................................... 17 Critter Corner..................................... 18
PAGE 2 | FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2, 2022
Fa l l s C h u r c h
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
NEWS BRIEFS F.C. School Board Submits Final FY23 Budget to Council
Faces of Falls Church
The School Board of the Falls Church City Public Schools formally adopted unanimously Tuesday night a Fiscal Year 2023 budget that it has advanced to City Manager Wyatt Shields to be included in his overall coming fiscal year budget. The employee compensation features of the budget are a step increase for eligible employees, a recovery step from Fiscal Year 2021 for eligible employees, a cost of living increase of 2.25 percent, a $3,000 per year stipend for National Board Certified Teachers, a one-time $1,000 bonus for staff at the end of their salary lane and a $15 per hour minimum wage effective March 1, 2022. Working condition improvements include career and technical education, math and science teacher educational opportunities, the addition of school nurse and psychologist positions and a secondary campus parent liaison. It was announced that “outstanding fiscal and project management” in the $120 million new high school construction project, that led to $100,000 in unspent project funding will be returned to the general government. The board learned that enrollment in the F.C. system is down only 0.3 percent in the current school year, despite all the issues around the pandemic, which is less than the 0.8 percent levels of drop off in the neighboring Arlington, Alexandria and Fairfax school systems.
Fairfax County: A Hefty Tax Hike Seen Despite No Rate Increase Fairfax County residents could see their property taxes increase by $666 on average, based on a proposed $4.85 billion budget presented by Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill this week, subject to adoption by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. Covering fiscal year 2023, which starts July 1, the nearly $4.8 billion spending plan maintains the current tax rate of $1.14 per $100 of assessed value, but it comes amid what Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay called “sky high” residential property assessments. The proposed budget comes in the context of improving economic conditions that have seen nearly 55,000 more jobs in the county than the year before and an unemployment rate that has dropped to 2.2 percent. The budget includes a 4 percent raise for county employees. The plan reflects similar budget proposals that have surfaced in Arlington and Alexandria, where the push has been on reversing years of spending cuts while freezing tax rates.
I BUMPED INTO SUPER FRIENDLY Craig on West Broad St. on a fairly cold day this week. He’s lived in a lot of places but when it comes to Falls Church he’s got nothing but good things to say about the Little City. When asked what he likes most he quickly pointed at me and said, “This right here! Somebody can just come up to you on the street and have a nice friendly conversation.” (Photo: J. Michael Whalen)
Covid-19 Continues to Subside In Fairfax/F.C. Health District The omicron surge continues to subside in Fairfax County. The Fairfax Health District, including the cities of Fairfax and Falls Church, reported 95 new Covid-19 cases Tuesday, making it the first day with fewer than 100 new cases since Dec. 11, when there were 69 cases. The region is now averaging 131 cases per day for the
past week — the lowest seven-day average since Nov. 30 (123 cases). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s data tracker, the level of Covid-19 transmission in the county has dropped from “high” to “substantial” for the first time since the week of Nov. 21-27.
Push to Repeal Va. Constitutional Amendment Due to Fail Virginia State Sen. Adam Ebbin announced this week that the constitutional amendment he is sponsoring this legislative session in Richmond appears to be failing. “I am carrying this bill to repeal the ban on same-sex marriage and replace it with a fundamental right to marry. It will face strategic opposition in the House, where despite having the votes on the floor to pass, the Speaker assigned an identical House Amendment, carried by Delegate Mark Sickles, to a heavily conservative subcommittee where it was killed at 7 a.m. with minimal discussion or debate,” he reported. His amendment, Ebbin said, “Does a simple, but momentous thing. Our Constitution, the foundational document of the oldest Democracy in the western world, currently only once deprives citizens of a right. The right to marry the person you love. If passed, it removes that stain, and permanently enshrines this right, safeguarding it for Virginians regardless of their sex or gender, providing a fundamental dignity and equality to our family, friends, and neighbors and reflects the will of a supermajority of Virginians.” “Additionally,” he added, “As the amendment was made defunct by the 2015 Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges, and it is important for our Constitution to reflect the law of the land. I hope the House leadership can be convinced that voters deserve a chance to consider ratifying this amendment at the polls in November.”
Recall Petition Dismissed With Prejudice in Fairfax School Board Case Fairfax County School Board Member Laura Jane Cohen (Springfield District) said yesterday’s court order dismissing the legal challenge to remove her from office confirmed that the entire case was no more than a political campaign without any legal support. “This dismissal is long overdue,” Cohen said. “In fact, it was a case that never should have been filed in the first place. Elected officials cannot be recalled because of differences of opinion. We have elections to decide who should represent us on school boards. There was never any legal basis for this recall petition. It was all politics driven by massive dark money contributions and even paid signature gathering.” A Fairfax Circuit judge dismissed the petition at the request of a court-appointed special prosecutor, an elected Republican, who said the petition was “not based on facts sufficient to show probable cause for removal.” The removal petition was filed in December 2021 in Fairfax Circuit Court and was essentially identical to one seeking to unseat another Board member that was summarily dismissed in August 2021.
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2, 2022 | PAGE 3
UDC Sports Complex Named After F.C. Black Basketball Grandfather
Continued from Page 1
early 1990s while the game was still in its infancy. A few years later, he worked to organize an All-Black Amateur Athletic Association. By 1910, along with the other Black men he had taught the game to, Henderson and the Washington 12th Streeters were taking on teams from all over the east coast. Along with his wife, Mary Ellen Henderson, a prominent educator after whom Falls Church’s middle school is named, the two lived on South Maple Street in the city of Falls Church. Along with his passion for sports and education, Henderson was also a prolific writer, authoring many letters to the editor to newspapers in the D.C. area and helped to organize the Fairfax County branch of the NAACP, of which he also served as president. Edwin Henderson, founder of Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation and Falls Church activist, is the grandson of E.B. Henderson
and is currently writing a book about his grandfather, which is anticipated to be published later this year. “Dr. Edwin Bancroft Henderson is recognized as the grandfather of Black basketball,” said his grandson. “In other words, he introduced the sport to African Americans on a wide scale, organized basis. He formed groups. He built the infrastructure that made leagues and organizations to train referees so that African Americans could participate in organized athletics. He cultivated the game of basketball at its infancy. In 1904, basketball was largely an unknown quantity, an unknown sport to African Americans.” Henderson graduated at the top of his class from Miner Normal School, which has now become UDC, where his legacy will be preserved through the renaming of the sports complex, the creation of a memorial fund to launch a scholarship endowment and a statue of E.B. Henderson in a mission to keep his story and legacy alive. “In 2018, UDC inducted E.B.
Henderson into their hall of fame because he was an alumnus of what is today known as the University of the District of Columbia,” explained Henderson. “I have to say that the Board of Trustees championed the idea of renaming the sports complex in honor of my grandfather. They came to me about 18 months ago with this idea so naturally I embraced it. They have been very gracious and forthcoming with the idea.” Additionally, the Washington Wizards are holding an essay contest for middle and high school students in the DMV area. Students can submit a 250 word essay about a community leader who has had a positive impact on their lives. Winners will receive a scholarship and be invited to a chalk talk with Henderson highlighting the original letters written by E.B. Henderson to newspapers on the topics of civil rights and race relations. The contest ends March 17. More details can be found at nba.com/wizards/wizards-honor-dr-martin-luther-king-jr.
EDWIN BANCROFT “E.B.” HENDERSON is known as the “Grandfather of Black Basketball” as he brought the little known sport back to the DMV area. Henderson was a resident of Falls Church for many years and still has family here today. (P����: T����� H��� H������� F��������)
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PAGE 4 | FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2, 2022
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Deliberations on Utilization of Fellows Property Underway Continued from Page 1
“variety of passive and limited active recreation activities for all age groups.” An unofficial, recorded Rec and Parks Advisory Board meeting, held online through Microsoft Teams, took place Wednesday, February 2. Charles O’Hara, Chair of the Advisory Board, began the meeting by explaining that there would be “no voting and no decision making,” as there was no quorum and therefore this session could not constitute an official gathering of the Board. Members of the Board, including Caroline Lian, the Board’s new City Council liaison, as well as members of the Rec & Parks department and several long-time F.C. residents, were present during the meeting. Daniel J. Schlitt, the Rec & Parks Director, offered background on the Master Plan and how the process began with “a very simple survey of the community after the City purchased the land and razed the buildings” that were situated there. Jessica Hilgendorf, Rec & Parks Senior Administrative Assistant, went through a brief synopsis of the comments that have thus far been
compiled by the Board, synthesizing public input that continuously underscored the desire to preserve and maintain the natural, ecological facets of the property. “Overall, there is a strong positive response to keeping this park as natural as possible,” began Hilgendorf. “Some areas that did receive a few comments were the children’s play area,” with one of the concerns being the “the artificial play area with the… tires, lumber, pots, and pans” and how it was not as “natural” as some people would like it to be and that “it doesn’t keep with the environmental and ecological education benefits of the” location. Hilgendorf moved on to the matter of pathways and bike trails, noting that “pedestrian-only walkways with decomposable mulch or woodchips are a preference” and that “paved pathways for bikes should be avoided,” as biking does not “fit with the plan of the park.” She also listed recommendations to “keep lighting minimal,” as light pollution can “disrupt firefly mating behavior.” “Regarding [the] community garden,” Hilgendorf explained, “there are comments that” acknowledge the suitability of the Fellows Property for
an undertaking of this kind, however, the garden “may take up too much space or benefit too few people.” It may also “come into conflict with wildlife on the property.” As Hilgendorf finished her outline of the core ideas, Schlitt opened up the floor for people to voice new concerns or comment on any of the established points and suggestions. Bruce Byers, an ecologist, consultant and Falls Church resident. Byers stressed that “one of the main features that is not emphasized or even mentioned, I think, in the property description of the Draft Plan is that the northern 25 percent, roughly, by visual estimate of the property is canopied, old, natural forest, which is very different than the rest of the landscape.” He proceeded to detail how that chunk of the property “has a very disproportionate share of the biological diversity [that] the species, the wildlife, values,” containing “both plants and animals as well as the habitat for larval fireflies in the forest understory and so forth. So that really should be emphasized.” “There are a lot of behaviors becoming established” at that location “because there’s no signage that”
otherwise prohibits it. Byers shared his experiences seeing “people going in and creating social trails, moving wood and debris…I even met a guy a few weeks ago who brought his chainsaw and he was sawing up a downed tree.” “There are many dogs off-leash in that area now… I think the City should, in order to prevent bad behaviors from being established,” put up signs that “dogs should be on-leash, [the] owner should pick up their dog waste, and also that they should not...build paths” in the more densely-forested portion of the property. Byers was adamant in his rejection of a proposed pathway that would stretch its way around the perimeter of the property, stressing that the City would exclude it from their planning if they “really wanted to emphasize the ecological value of that old canopy forest.” In addition, he expressed a wish to reforest the Fellows area with a new type of American Chestnut that can withstand the blight. Combining the issues of proper signage and ecological education, one resident suggested installing, “like we have in some of the parks,
the display case that can be locked” and which is able to contain a variety of notices and information, making for an area designated for “rotating education,” as opposed to the usual kind of “static” signage. Stormwater mitigation was touched upon briefly, at which point the conversation turned to the practice of conservation landscaping, highlighting the usefulness of “native plants and native shrubs” as a longterm, sustainable solution. Near the end of the meeting, the list of removed items on page 7 of the Draft Master Plan was brought up for clarification as the final bullet point listed the suggestion “certification as a wildlife habitat.” One resident expressed confusion over the fact that this certification would be a welcome addition to the development of the Fellows park and should therefore not have been on the “removed” list. Schlitt stated that this would be readdressed. For more information on the Fellows Property and the ongoing process surrounding its transformation into a sustainable community park, visit fallschurchva.gov/2131/ Fellows-Property.
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Meridian Swim & Divers Compete at Championships
by Leah Kirk Special to the News-Press
The Meridian Swim & Dive team traveled to Richmond, Virginia last week for the 2022 Class 3 Swim and Dive Championships. The Mustangs sent 22 athletes to compete against over 30 High Schools in the State. Mustang Diving kicked off the event on Thursday evening at St. Catherine’s School where the Mustangs sent a record number of divers to a State Meet. The Boys team started off the events at 5:30 where they took on 16 Divers from across the State. The Girls Team followed at 6:30 with 20 divers, many from Southwest Virginia. Four of the five divers, prior to the start of the season, had little to no experience diving, but continued to work hard each week, earning their spots at States after just 3 and a half months of diving. On the Boys team, Freshmen Connor Tweddle and Markus Kummer continued to impress as the meet continued. Connor placed 5th with a score of 212.60 followed by Markus in 9th with a score of 174.50. The Girls Team had some very steep competition from twotime State Champion Natalie Jones of Christiansburg, among others. However, Freshman Jane AfsahMohallatee and Sophmore Julia Hall both rose to the occasion. Jane placed 6th with a score of 263.35 and Julia placed 9th with a score of 207.65. Keep an eye on the Dive Team over the next few years as it continues to grow. Swimming Prelims began at 7 a.m. on Saturday, February 19 as the 17 Mustang swimmers competed to advance to the Finals. The top 16 in each event continued on to Finals and for the first time ever, all 17 Swimmers advanced to Finals. The Boys 200 Free Relay team, comprised of Juniors Ben McCracken, Carson Ruoff, and Wesley Sturgill, along with Freshman Wills Fleming, had a 1st seed into Finals. Every relay team advanced to Finals. All Individuals and Relays continued to impress throughout the
day as the excitement continued to build. Due to Covid, there were no spectators allowed last year, but fans were out in full force this year bringing an electricity to the all-day event. The Meridian Boys Team came in 4th overall, their highest placing at States since rising up to 3A just a few short years ago. The Girls Team still came to impress with a 13th place finish. As the meet continued, many of the Mustangs had personal best times and continued to impress with their determination and drive. Final Results: 200 Medley Relay – Wesley Sturgill, Wills Fleming, Ben McCracken, and Carson Ruoff – 4th; Anna Dickson, Mya Taheri, Lydia Sturgill, and Lexi Ries – 13th. 200 Free – Anna Dickson – 4th; Wesley Sturgill – 15th. 200 IM – Wills Fleming – 10th. 50 Free – Carson Ruoff – 2nd, Ben McCracken 7th; Lexi Ries – 16th. 1 M Diving – Connor Tweddle – 5th, Markus Kummer – 9th, 100 Fly – Ben McCracken – 5th; Lydia Sturgill – 15th. 100 Free – Carson Ruoff – 5th; Lexi Ries – 12th. 500 Free – Alexa Wagner – 16th. 200 Free Relay – Ben McCracken, Wesley Sturgill, Wills Fleming, Carson Ruoff – 2nd; Elysha York, Emerson Mellon, Alexis Niemi, Lauren Mellon – 13th. 100 Back – Wesley Sturgill – 9th, Matthew Janicki 14th; Anna Dickson, 13th. 100 Breast – Wills Fleming – 11th. 400 Free Relay – Matthew Janicki, Jonathan Katen, Eddie Hughes, Gaspar Green – 14th; Lexi Ries, Lydia Sturgill, Elysha York, Anna Dickson – 10th. The Mustangs will be back in action next fall. The team would like to thank the Mustang Community for their support – especially the team’s fantastic families – for being a huge part of the success of the team each year.
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FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2, 2022 | PAGE 5
MERIDIAN SWIM & DIVE compete in State Championship meet. (Photo: Leah Kirt)
Our Man in Arlington By Charlie Clark
During Black History Month a Yorktown High School grad named Jack (class of ’65) spawned a rich discussion on Facebook’s “I Grew Up in Arlington, VA.” Why, with such thorough coverage of the history-making integration of Stratford Junior High in 1959, there was less clarity on when Yorktown integrated? I bore witness to some of that drama at my alma mater. Facebookers responded that the school boundaries were “gerrymandered” in the early ‘60s by a Republican county board and appointed school board. That meant most of the AfricanAmerican students from Halls Hill after desegregation (and the close of Hoffman-Boston High in 1964) went to Washington-Lee (now Liberty). “In its place in time, Arlington was attempting progress in a very conservative state,” noted Terry ‘67. Others recalled only one or two Black classmates, and one Black teacher (Government instructor Harvey Wright). Sterling ’69 provided the text of a 1965 U.S. District Court case (Wanner v. County School Board of Arlington County) brought successfully by white parents objecting to their kids being zoned into the newly integrated Thomas Jefferson Junior High. The county had declared all the schools officially integrated, having appointed a committee in 1964 to redraw boundaries and asking to be relieved of the 1956 order to
desegregate. Several alumni recalled just one or two Black classmates at Yorktown in the early and mid-‘60s. English teacher Eric Christenson told me he cultivated long-term friendships with two of those isolated souls, one of whom “did well in our class to adjust to the change.” The other “was “a sullen and angry young man” who in later life launched a successful business and apologized to Eric for not taking better advantage of opportunities. Math teacher Wilmer Mountain recalled how integration altered Yorktown’s climate. “We were called `The Country Club’ school, and with additional non-club members there was a general change in the perception of our school.” Posting as a onetime student reporter from the class of ’71, I underlined a difference between de facto and de jure integration. For most of the ‘60s, the one or two Black students in each class lived on the north side of Lee Highway, now Langston Blvd. In fall 1968, new boundaries took effect. We then had dozens of Black graduates of Swanson Junior High who previously would have gone to W-L. By my senior year, they numbered about 60, or 4 percent of the student body—as I reported in the Sentry. Students set up a Black-White Relations Committee, and I polled the Black students— who expressed alienation and plans to organize against discrimination. Brian ’70 recalled days of tension and wondering why Black kids sat together at a lunch table
“as if that meant they somehow weren’t friendly when they were just sitting with their friends like everybody else.” My friend Charlene Gardner, one of those isolated African Americans, told me she resented being “invisible” to some of those currently debating integration who still “did not acknowledge our existence. “When I was at Yorktown I received hate mail at my house. My mother and I read it, discussed it and, being the person she was, she taught me how to put it aside and go to school and get educated. So, Yorktown as an institution was a place Blacks had to get through, not necessarily to enjoy.” *** Area jurisdictions recently recalled how our public libraries got integrated. The Arlington Public Library’s Center for Local History researched how African Americans in our county—barred from the fledgling mainstream library system— created the Henry Louis Holmes Library. It existed from 1940-49, first at the Mount Olive Baptist Church on S. Ridge Rd, then at 13th and South Queens streets. It operated separately from the volunteer-created Arlington Library Association, which became a county department in 1937. The Holmes collection comprised 2,334 books and was named for a onetime slave who was Alexandria County’s Revenue Commissioner from 1877-1904. Its building was razed after the 1950 integration.
PAGE 6 | FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2. 2022
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Viva Public Education
The news was heartening this week of the deserved dismissal with prejudice of a recall petition brought against yet another Fairfax County School Board member, Laura Jane Cohen, reported elsewhere in this edition. An elected Republican official assigned as a special prosecutor for the case found there was no merit to the allegations as presented and sought the dismissal. Dismissed “with prejudice” means it cannot be refiled. But we cannot expect that this will be the end of the growing movement led by pro-Trump Republicans to attack public education and its seminal role in our democracy. The outrageous disruptions of School Board meetings across the U.S. in the past year, using the difficulties associated with the Covid-19 pandemic as pretexts, have fueled the latest iteration of the nationwide and international grassroots campaigns against the core values of the American way of life. It is clear to us that when you look at the behavior of key figures of the Fox News debacle, people like Tucker Carlson, taking together their relentless opposition to public health measures aimed at stemming the Covid-19 scourge and now outspoken support for Putin’s invasion of Ukraine that the work of a hostile foreign power is involved. The two elements were cornerstones of the foul-wind Trump presidency that would be laying the nation prostrate had it achieved a second four years. It is all about “helter skelter,” anything and everything that can be brought to bear against the rational sensibilities of the U.S. population. Not the least of these, of course, is the value of public education. Sadly, just as there are millions of misguided Americans who are willing to stand on the wrong side of these issues, so it is true when the fabric of public education is at stake. Americans, those of us who value the lives and potentials of our population, at least, need to stand up and take note. Yes, an enormous amount was done to unseat Trump but none of this is over in the least. We as a free people need to rise up and start paying serious attention to what these evil forces are trying to do to us. Sadly, this anti-democracy current is running deeper than ever in the so-called Republican Party now, and elements are trying to push the envelope to ban books, for example, and to reintroduce an unnatural prejudice in the public. So far, their book burning fixation is beyond the pale for most Americans, but so it was for other things that gain traction over time if not stomped out decisively. Nowhere better than in Northern Virginia, where the values of human dignity and universal public education are cherished as much as anywhere else in the world, should campaigns to protect such basics be advanced the most aggressively. The Falls Church School Board’s well-articulated commitment to such core principles needs to be touted as an oft-repeated mantra to the wider world.
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Concerns Over Snyder’s Labor Practices Editor, Your column, “No Pro Football In Virginia,” focused heavily on health issues and cultural elements associated with the sport, but neglected to mention Dan Snyder’s labor practices, which would directly impact Virginian employees as a result of financing a stadium for the team. Dan Snyder has infamously cultivated a culture of abuse and inappropriate conduct, “both generally and especially against women” according to the NFL’s own statement following a workplace review. Congress is currently deciding whether to hold a hearing on the Commanders’ workplace investigation, in part because the NFL declined a written report that could be distributed to stakeholders like Virginian taxpayers. Prior to Virginia’s vote authorizing the bond financing bills, the NFL convened a new investigation into a recent allegation against the owner. Where will it end? The majority of Virginian legislators don’t seem to care how far it goes. Senator Ebbin introduced an amendment to withhold financing until investigations into these abusive labor practices were disclosed. Senator Saslaw, speaking in opposition, said asking questions about these affronts to labor “does not belong in” the bill to bring Dan Snyder, the employer, to Virginia. The amendment failed, as did Delegate Simon’s similar effort in the house. Saslaw has yet to announce where these issues do belong, but it seems we
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can assume it’s somewhere after Virginians’ tax revenue is committed to Snyder’s pockets. It appears that contemporary legislators have only one criteria when giving funds to billionaires: avoid debt financing. This is, of course, woefully inadequate. Then again, Senator Saslaw received a $5,000 campaign donation from the Washington Football Team eleven days before the bill was introduced, so maybe he was always going to be a vote in favor for this field of schemes. Steven Savoldelli Falls Church
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FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2, 2022 | PAGE 7
Do Democrats Have A Technocrat Problem? Paul Krugman NEW YORK TIMES
More than a decade ago, commentator Jonathan Chait wrote about the “hack gap,” a striking difference between the behavior of Republican and Democratic experts (or in some cases, “experts”) when their party controls the government. Republican experts slavishly praise their leaders, no matter what they do; Democratic experts strive for objectivity and, if anything, bend over backward to criticize their own side.This happens in many areas; Chait was talking about legal analysis, but I see it all the time in my home field. During the Trump years, Republican economists, even those you might have expected to be concerned about their professional reputations, rushed to embrace extravagant and implausible claims about what Donald Trump’s tax cuts would achieve. Some were even willing to abase themselves in ways reminiscent of Putin cronies. Remember when Tomas Philipson of the University of Chicago declared that Trump had economic instincts “on par with many Nobel economists I have worked with”? Democratic economists, by contrast, often seem eager to display their independence by criticizing Biden administration policies. And while intellectual integrity is a good thing, I’d argue that sometimes the desire for independence leads Democratic economists to overdo it — to criticize arguments or policy proposals that actually make sense, perhaps especially if these proposals would be politically popular. Let me give you two examples, one minor and
one much bigger. The minor example is proposals for a temporary cut in gasoline taxes to reduce inflationary pressures. There are some good arguments against doing this; in the long run we want to discourage people from burning fossil fuels, not make them cheaper. But I’ve been astonished to encounter Democratic-leaning economists and economics writers asserting that a gas-tax cut wouldn’t help consumers and that it would simply increase oil company profits. What? The price of crude oil is set on world markets and can’t be much influenced by U.S. policy. But there’s no world market for retail gasoline; Europeans can’t fill their tanks at American gas stations. There are, in fact, large international differences in gasoline prices, precisely because tax rates are so different. The data for the Group of 7 economies suggests a roughly one-to-one effect — that is, higher or lower fuel taxes are fully passed on to consumers. Why assert anything different? I can only guess that it’s an instinctive reaction against anything that sounds crowd-pleasing. The same thing is, I suspect, going on when Democraticleaning economists summarily reject suggestions — most notably by Sen. Elizabeth Warren — that corporate abuse of market power may be one factor in inflation, or (not quite the same point) that stepped-up antitrust efforts might be a useful part of anti-inflation strategy. These views have wide public support, but the Biden administration has been diffident about advancing them, reportedly because its economists are reluctant to challenge the professional orthodoxy that such things can’t happen. I understand where that orthodoxy is coming from. It’s not a naive denial that corporations are greedy or have price-setting market power. It comes, instead, from the assertion that corporations
have always been greedy and had market power, and there’s no reason to believe that these problems have suddenly gotten worse. This argument, however, misses two important points. The first is that market power gives businesses some wiggle room on prices. Yes, there’s a profitmaximizing price, but the cost to a business of charging somewhat less than its profit-maximizing price is small, because lower margins would be offset by increased sales. (To be formal about it, the losses caused by deviating from the optimal price are second-order.) This wiggle room means that corporate pricing may be strongly influenced by intangible considerations, like fear of alienating buyers. A similar argument helps explain why social pressure and prevailing norms seem to have a strong effect on wage rates, and a related argument helps explain why minimum wages don’t seem to reduce employment. Given this reality, it’s not foolish to suggest that some corporations have seen widespread inflation as an opportunity to jack up prices by more than their costs have increased without experiencing the usual backlash. And it’s not just liberal politicians saying this: Recently market analyst Edward Yardeni, explaining why profits soared in 2021, declared that “it kind of became culturally acceptable to raise prices” because everyone knew that costs were going up. This phenomenon may, for example, explain recent huge price increases in the meatpacking industry. Nobody sensible would argue that opportunistic exploitation of market power is the main factor behind recent inflation. But contrary to what some people might want you to believe, economic theory by no means rules out the possibility that it may be factor. And perhaps an even more important point,
Czar Putin’s Feudal Restoration Plan Nicholas F. Benton FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
In his rambling diatribe on the eve of his military invasion of Ukraine this week, Putin revealed a lot about his fevered obsession which is precisely the manner by which aged, demented Russian oligarchs continue to see the world. It is not the post-World War II world they seek to restore, it is the pre-World War I world, the pre-Russian revolution one. Ah, but that they could breathe new life into Czar Nicholas II and that Anastasia is alive and well! Not sure about Rasputin. Who imagined that their persisting fantasy would be so, well, old? It was frankly astonishing that Putin would put the concept of a new genocidal military invasion
in the context of angry revenge for misdeeds of Russia’s past. It’s justified entirely by an obsession to undo the last century of history. Were he driven by images of a forward-looking, future-oriented world and Russia’s role in it, the gas pipeline currently under construction to deliver to Germany would be a solid ground to pursue optimism in a bright future. If reactionary forces in the West were trying as he insists to undermine and destroy his nation, he would have the force of international economic cooperation to counter such trends. But Putin has exposed himself as a totally out of date feudal dinosaur who wants to revert the world to back before the rise of democratic institutions in the West altogether, when arbitrary autocratic rule had for centuries been the order of the day. Putin is a remnant of that medieval world, of a prehistoric
mercantile system where blood and soil are the only things that matter, and there are no upstart subject peoples to complicate or interfere with the impulses of their overlords. Not surprisingly, it is a world view shared by the regrettable Trump. It is grounded in a paranoia which sees all outsiders as systemic adversaries and there is no way to counter their influence except through force of arms. All the liberal, humanitarian moral and political gains deriving from the 18th century Enlightenment that produced the American revolution are to be abolished in the minds of Putin and his oligarchic cronies. Being at the onset of a new great massacre on European soil, this one if it occurs precipitated yet again by blind and jealous egos at the cost of countless valuable human lives, we can’t help but be reminded of the first
cracking down on excessive industrial concentration and market power would help reduce inflation, regardless of the role market power played in causing inflation in the first place. As an old line puts it, you don’t have to refill a flat tire through the hole. Now, it would clearly be a mistake to make a campaign against price-gouging the core of America’s economic strategy. But nobody is suggesting doing that. At this point, monetary policy is bearing the main burden of inflation-fighting, and the Biden administration — unlike its predecessor — has been careful about not placing pressure on the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates low. Republicans may portray Joe Biden as the second coming of Hugo Chavez, but he isn’t even the second coming of Richard Nixon, who tried to fight inflation with price controls while a complaisant Fed, probably trying to ensure his reelection, helped create an unsustainable boom. In fact, Biden has been far less forthright about condemning corporate power than John F. Kennedy, who publicly berated the steel industry over what he considered excessive price increases. Why, then, are Democratic-leaning economists coming down so hard on the Biden administration’s modest, intellectually defensible attempts to highlight the role of abusive corporate pricing? As I said, I suspect that the desire of Democratic experts to avoid being seen as hacks is causing them to overcompensate, dismissing ideas that actually make sense. So here’s a plea to my fellow wonks: Evaluate economic ideas on their merits. You don’t want to endorse bad policies because they’re popular; but you don’t want to reject policy ideas simply because they aren’t popular, either. By Paul Krugman © 2022 The New York Times
great conflagration on that same soil that kicked off in 1914 and became known as the Great War. The biggest irony of that war – which before it was finally over in 1945, what was known as the Second World War following on inevitably from the First taking in total about 70 million lives European lives – was that the all the principal players in its execution were intimately related by blood, direct offspring of Britain’s Queen Victoria of the previous century: the leaders of England, Germany and Russia, who not infrequently were in one another’s company at celebrations of one kind or another in the decade leading up to the Great War. In today’s case, there is no life or death matter requiring a resolution by the loss of 50,000 lives or more by a Russian led invasion of Ukraine. Even though Putin claims a false pretext for an
invasion, completely and entirely avoidable, and the wanton human misery associated with it as well. No other sentient beings on this planet aside from human ones kill and maim for no reason. Yet now here we are at an historic moment again when, as goaded on by the great industries of mass death, proverbially and actually speaking, all hell is now in the process of breaking loose. As much as there are now fabrics of wiser souls at play with tireless and exhaustive energies directed to war avoidance, it is still far too easy on this planet for bloodthirsty leaders to bypass all that and plunge us into yet another horror. How can this be prevented? Well, at least now we have a better idea and the mechanisms to make it happen, if they can prevail. God help the Biden administration doing all it can to this end.
PAGE 8 | FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2, 2022
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It used to be that you could count on three things on or around President’s Day: great sales, a significant snow storm, and release of the proposed Fairfax County budget. The great sales disappeared years ago, and Monday, with temperatures in the 60s, felt like early spring, not snow. That leaves release of the county budget as the stalwart item for what, in Fairfax County, we call George Washington’s Birthday, since our first president was a long-time resident of Fairfax County, and is buried at his historic home, Mount Vernon. County Executive Bryan Hill released his proposed FY 2023 county budget on Tuesday, and recommended full funding of the school system’s request, as well as compensation increases for county employees. With significant increases in assessed real estate values in a hot residential market, the budget also gives the Board of Supervisors the opportunity to reduce the real estate tax rate for the coming fiscal year, which begins on July 1. Budget details were released as this column went to press, so I will discuss particulars of the budget in future columns. The annual Mason District Budget Town Meeting will be held, in person, on Thursday, March 10, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale. Masks still will be required, as Fairfax County continues its mask mandate for county buildings. Throughout the pandemic, Fairfax County library staff have done it all – providing direct public service in branches, supporting community health efforts, pivoting to virtual services, and much more. Even when libraries had to be closed to patrons, you could order books and pick them up curbside in contactless format, and the library website was available around the clock. For the
third year, the Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) is sponsoring Staff Excellence Awards. The nominating period ends on Monday, February 28, and you can nominate your favorite Fairfax County library employee for an excellence award. There are three terrific FCPL facilities in Mason District – Thomas Jefferson on Arlington Blvd., Woodrow Wilson on Knollwood Drive, and George Mason Regional Library in Annandale on Little River Turnpike, but any library employee at any branch is eligible. The Library Board of Trustees sponsors the awards program, which garners dozens of nominations annually. The current chairman of the Library Board is Fran Millhouser, who represents Mason District on the board, and provided insight into this opportunity to say “thank you” to a favorite employee. Winners will be recognized at the Library Board’s virtual meeting on March 9. Find more information online at awb://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library, or email library staff at wwwlib@fairfaxcounty.gov. The current Art in the Mason District Governmental Center features Springfield artist Lewis A. Smith. A retired civil engineer, Mr. Smith captures images via photography, and prints them on canvas. One of my favorites in the show is brickwork in shadow, with an inviting wrought iron chair, a perfect spot for a casual cup of tea. In addition to the photo images on canvas, Mr. Smith has several bright abstract oils on display. The art show may be viewed Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale, through April 29. Penny Gross is the Mason District Supervisor, in the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. She may be emailed at mason@fairfaxcounty.gov.
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Family Owned Victor’s Grill Brings South America to F.C. BY PATRICIA LESLIE
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
A carnivore’s delight and restaurant staple in Falls Church has got to be Victor’s Grill Churrasqueria on Lee Highway, famous for its steaks, food and culinary practices from South America. Victor’s (whose “churrasqueria” name is Spanish for “steak house”) has served the Little City and its area residents for decades. The restaurant prides itself on food served according in the South American way with huge pieces of grilled steak served on big platters and plopped in the center of a table with side dishes which range from yuca and plantains to American-familiar fries and mashed potatoes. Victor Serrano, the son of Victor Serrano, the owner, took time from managerial duties last week to sit and talk about the family’s business. The most popular dish on their menu, Serrano said, is the “Parrillada Argentina” ($78.95). Whoa! That’s a lot of money for one but hold it: That’s for four (and maybe, more). Just take a look at what’s included: two short ribs, two Argentine sausages, two flank steaks, two New York strip steaks, sweet bread and cow’s intestine, sides and one blood pudding (a sausage; not a dessert and famous in South America, Serrano said). South Americans use their hands and bread to eat steak right off the grill, not on plates, and, no, Serrano smiled, they don’t burn their fingers because someone is slowly carving the meat. (The restaurant serves food on plates.)
At Victor’s, grill marks crisscross the steak and cooked onions. “We are trying to replicate scenes from a South American cookout, so we have the platter,” Serrano said, “which we put in the middle of the table with side orders.” (A question is: How big is the table? I observed many customers coming to eat in groups, easily accommodated at Victor’s. ) “South Americans are known for eating steaks when they gather with family and friends and for special occasions.” (According to a beef website, Beef2Live, Uruguay consumed the most beef per capita in the world in 2016, followed by Argentina, Hong Kong, the U. S., Brazil and Paraguay.) But I was not four but one, and Serrano recommended for me the Churrasco Argentino ($35.95) which might as well have been for four since that’s how many meals it lasted me. (Although it seems like “Argentina” enjoys favored nation status on the menu, Serrano assured me the restaurant plays no favorites when it comes to food.) My entree was a piece of New York strip steak topped with grilled onions, two sides, and bread. (My membership in the “faux” vegetarian society has gone lapse. Indeed, I salivated at the prospect of having steak, my first in years. For vegetarians, Serrano smiled and said slowly: “This place is a nightmare,” and he went on. At George Mason University where he was a student, “I used to have a professor from India. He came here once, and he was not happy. We had to take him
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ONE OF MANY DELICIOUS ITEMS on the menu at Victor’s Grill is Churrasco Argentino, pictured here with a side of cheesy rice. (P����: P������� L�����)
FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2, 2022 | PAGE 9
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FALLS CHURCH CALENDAR LOCALEVENTS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24 “Near and Far” Photography Exhibit (Recurring Event Until Mar. 20). Thirty-six photographers will be featured in “Near and Far,” a photography show at the Falls Church Arts gallery from Feb. 5 — Mar. 20. The show celebrates 61 images from photographers who have interpreted the world around them by capturing minute details of macro photography and scenic vistas around the globe and beyond our solar system. All artwork is for sale. Admission is free and the gallery is open Wednesdays — Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Masks and social distancing are required. (700 B. W. Broad St., Falls Church). 11 a.m. — 6 p.m. DADA 2.0 Art Exhibit at Del Ray Artisans Gallery (Recurring Event Until Feb. 26). The DADA 2.0 art exhibit features art by local artists, expressing modern day political and social discontent through the lens of Dada, the absurdist, post-WWI art movement that sought to reject nationalism and state violence. Capacity is limited to 15 people at a time; masks are required. Free to the public. Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center. For more information, visit DelRayArtisans.org/ exhibits. (2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301). Thursday, 12 — 6 p.m., Friday, 12 — 9 p.m., Saturday, 12 — 6 p.m., and Sunday, 12 — 6 p.m. Falls Church Fiber Artists. Join Mary Riley Styles Public Library for this informal weekly knitting and crochet group. Share what you create and get advice from others. All are welcome. Geared towards adults. (120 N. Virginia Ave. Falls Church). 10 a.m. — 12 p.m. Walk-in Tech Clinic. A tech tutor will be available every Thursday
morning at the Thomas Jefferson Library Study Room to help out with visitors with their tech issues. Geared towards adults. (1545 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 10 — 11 a.m.
explored. $180 for class admission. Presented by Richard Levine; visit fallschurcharts.org for more information. (Falls Church Art Gallery, 700 W. Broad St, Falls Church.) 1 — 3 p.m.
Five and Under Storytime. Join Thomas Jefferson Library for stories, songs, and activities that build early literacy skills. Ages 0 — 5. Space is limited to ticketed attendees for in-person events. Tickets are free and first-come, first-serve at the information desk 30 minutes before each program. (1545 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 10:30 — 11 a.m.
District Trivia. Trivia is back at Clare & Don’s every Thursday night. Bring your friends and show off your trivia chops. (130 N. Washington St., Falls Church). 7 p.m.
Winter Storytime. 20 minute storytime at Mary Riley Styles Library for kids ages 2 — 4 with a caregiver. Masks are required for all attendees and social distancing will be enforced. If you or your child are feeling sick or are having any respiratory symptoms, please cancel and stay home. Please be prompt; if you are more than five minutes late your space may be given to someone on the waitlist. 7 seats currently remaining. Visit mrspl.librarycalendar.com to register. (120 N Virginia Ave., Falls Church). 11:15 — 11:45 a.m. In-person English Practice. Interested participants are invited to join the Thomas Jefferson Library for a small conversation group geared for people learning English and looking to practice their speaking skills. For adults. (1545 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 12 — 1 p.m. Pastel & Gouache: Mixed Media Painting. Those interested in traditional art techniques are invited to learn about pastels and gouache and how the two complement and enhance the other. Learn how to add richness, texture, and depth to a painting. Working from reference photos and still life, attendees will learn basic techniques for the successful integration of these two versatile medias. Final finishing and framing will also be
Falls Church Writers Group. A virtual group for local aspiring writers where attendees are encouraged to share their work and will be able to give and receive feedback. All kinds of writing considered. The Falls Church Writers Group typically meets the last Thursday of the month. Email Peter Sullivan at psullivan@fallschurchva.gov to request a Zoom invite to participate. Suitable for ages 18 and up. 7 — 8 p.m.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25 In-person English Practice. Interested participants are invited to join the Thomas Jefferson Library for a small conversation group geared for people learning English and looking to practice their speaking skills. For adults. (1545 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 2 — 3 p.m.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26 2-Day Used Book Sale. Visit the Upper Level Conference Room of the Mary Riley Styles Library this coming weekend for great bargains on books, CDs and DVDs for all ages. Most hardback books sell for $2 plus tax, while most paperback books and DVDs sell for $1 plus tax. Proceeds support library programs and services. This 2-day sale runs from February 26 — February 27. (120 N. Virginia Ave, Falls Church.) 10 a.m. — 6 p.m. Watercolor Painting. Attendees will learn to capture the transparent quality of watercolor, utiliz-
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2022 MARDI GRAS WITH “FAT TUESDAY,” is a days-long holiday that marks the close of the pre-Lenten season. New Orleans will be coming to DC this coming Saturday, Feb. 26, from 3 — 7 p.m. with free, community-wide events, including a parade down Wharf Street, a dance party with live music on District Pier, and fireworks (760 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC). The Little City’s own Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad St, Falls Church) will be hosting an all-day Mardi Gras celebration on Mar. 1, from 11 — 2 a.m., spotlighting Cajun music, cocktails, and traditional Fat Tuesday fare, with customary purple, green, and gold beads for all. There will be a raw seafood bar, with vintage salt oysters by the half-dozen and sauteed mussels, as well as classic New Orleans cuisine like oyster fritters, seafood gumbo, jambalaya, and popcorn shrimp. For more information, call (703) 237-8333. ing it in the creation of still life and landscape art. Individualized instruction accommodates students of all levels, from beginner to experienced. Classes are taught indoors and are limited to 6 vaccinated persons, with emphasis on Covid-19 safety protocols. $195 admission. Visit fallschurcharts.org for more information. (Falls Church Art Gallery, 700 W. Broad St, Falls Church.) 10 a.m. — 12 p.m. Saturday Morning Stories. Start your weekend off at the Woodrow Wilson Library. Enjoy in-person Saturday Morning Stories event with Ms. Nancy. Guests will hear three to four stories and find new stories to check out. All ages are welcomed. (6101 Knollwood Dr., Falls Church). 10:15 — 10:45 a.m. Give Tutoring. GIVE (Growth and Inspiration through Volunteering and Education), a community organization run by high school students, will be providing free tutoring for kids in grades kindergarten — 6th at Thomas Jefferson Public Library. (1545 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church.) 12 — 2 p.m.
Paws to Read With Lucy. Read aloud to Lucy, a trained therapy dog, at Thomas Jefferson Library. Bring your own book or choose a book from the library. Walk-ins welcome. Ages 6 — 12. (1545 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 2 — 3 p.m.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 27 NOVA Central Farm Markets. A year-round market located at the Church of the Holy Redeemer in Vienna, Virginia, the NOVA Central Farm Market features fresh, local meat, fish, produce, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods to go, eggs, flowers, and ice cream. There will be table seating, as well as live music, kids’ activities, chef demos, and many other fun events. For more information, visit nova.centralfarmmarkets.com. (543 Beulah Road, Vienna, VA 22180.) 8:30 a.m. — 1 p.m.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 28 ESOL Conversation Group. Adult participants ages 18 and up are invited to practice their English
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with the weekly conversation group. The group meets every Monday evening through Zoom. Those interested should email mwebster@fallschurchva.gov for their Zoom invite. Presented by Mary Riley Styles Public Library volunteers. 7 — 8:30 p.m.
City Council Meeting. The City Council meets the second and fourth Monday of the month, with the exception of August and December when only one meeting is held. The public is welcome to address the City Council on any topic during the public comment period. Those interested in speaking can sign up at fallschurchva.gov/publiccomment. All members of the public may view the meeting at fallschurchva.gov/ CouncilMeetings. The meeting may also be viewed on FCCTV (Cox 11, RCN 2, Verizon 35). Video will be available after the meeting both online and on FCCTV. 7:30 — 11 p.m.
TUESDAY, MARCH 1 Green Eggs and Ham Take and Make. Visitors are invited to Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library to pick up a kit to take home and play a word game with Green Eggs and Ham. Suitable for all ages. All day event. (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). Basic Computer and Internet Skills. Those interested in learning basic computer and Internet skills are invited to Thomas Jefferson Public Library for an afternoon session with the library’s technology volunteers. Geared towards adult participants. (1545 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church.) 1 — 2 p.m. Solace Outpost Trivia Night. Join Solace Outpost for live trivia every Tuesday and Thursday presented by Pour House Trivia. Come drink, eat and win. First place teams win a $30 gift card. Second place teams win a $20 gift card. (444 W. Broad St., Falls Church). 7 — 9 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2 Needlecraft Circles. For those interested in hands-on crafts, the Thomas Jefferson Library will be hosting needlecraft lessons each Wednesday. Geared towards adult participants; supplies provided. (1545 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 1 – 2 p.m. Afterschool Activities and Adventures. After School Activities and Adventures is the
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after-school activity of the week at Woodrow Wilson Library. It may be games, activities, or crafts but it's always a fun surprise. Ages 6 — 12. Limited to the first 12 participants. (6101 Knollwood Dr., Falls Church). 4:30 — 5:30 p.m.
FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2, 2022 | PAGE 11
Drag Bingo at Clare & Don’s. Clare & Don’s hosts Drag Bingo the first Wednesday of every month, featuring prizes and an evening of drag performances. Bingo mainstays Lips Maccin, Katja Attenshun and Chasen Attenshun will take part. $5 per bingo board. For more information, call (703) 532 9283. (130 N. Washington St, Falls Church.) 8 p.m.
LIVEMUSIC THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24 Hot Buttered Elvis, Alpha Dog Blues, and Monster Madhouse. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $12. 7:30 p.m. 703255-1566. Shaken Woods. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8:30 p.m. 703-2419504. Sister Hazel. The State Theatre (220 N Washington St., Falls Church). $25. 8:30 p.m. 703-2370300.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25 George Harrison Tribute. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 4 p.m. 703-2419504. Big Tow. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack (130 N Washington St., Falls Church). 5 p.m. 703-5329283. The Second City. Wolf Trap (1645 Trap Rd. Vienna). $32. 8 p.m. 703-255-1900. Jon Tyler Wiley & His Virginia Choir. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $15. 8 p.m. 703255-1566. Wicked Jezabel Show. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8:30 p.m. 703-2419504. The Legwarmers: DC's Biggest 80’s Retro Dance Party. The State Theatre (220 N Washington St., Falls Church). $25. 9:30 p.m. 703237-0300. Jameson Green Band. Dogwood
THE UPCOMING BOOK SALE AT MARY RILEY STYLES PUBLIC LIBRARY will take place this Saturday, Feb. 26, from 10 a.m. — 6 p.m. and Sunday, from 1 — 6 p.m., with a wide variety of books, CDs, and DVDs for all ages at exceptionally low prices. The library's mega-sale, which typically runs the last weekend of each month, is held in the Upper Level Conference Room and features an even larger selection of items. (Photo: Courtesy MRSPL.) Tavern (132 W. Broad St., Falls Church). 9:30 p.m. 703-237-8333.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Groovequest. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 4 p.m. 703-241-9504.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Tom Saputo & Friends. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 7:30 p.m. 703-2419504.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2
Ladywood. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack (130 N Washington St., Falls Church). 5:30 p.m. 703-532-9283.
The Mallett Brothers Band. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $12. 8 p.m. 703-255-1566.
Wayne Krantz ft. Keith Carlock & Tim Lefebvre. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $25. 8 p.m. 703-255-1566.
SON VOLT with Jesse Farrar. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $35. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500.
The Rockits. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8:30 p.m. 703-241-9504.
THEATER&ARTS
Sean Tracy Trio. Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad St., Falls Church). 9:30 p.m. 703-237-8333.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Crossfire Band. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 4 p.m. 703-241-9504. Jammin' Java's Songwriter Circle: A Tribute to The Beatles & Love Songs. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $16. 7 p.m. 703255-1566. Just For Fun Band. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8:30 p.m. 703-241-9504.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24 Girls of Madison Street (Running Through Mar. 6). A tight-knit family of African American sisters confronts hidden truths and well-kept secrets as they come together for their mother's funeral. Conflicts emerge, tensions flare, but they soon learn that the bonds of sisterhood know no bounds. A "Bold New Works for Intimate Stages" premiere from Iyona Blake, presented by Creative Cauldron. Patrons must wear masks. Social distancing between parties and proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test within 24 hours of the performance is required for everyone ages 5 and above. Tickets are $35 and can be
purchased online at creativecauldron.org/girls-of-madison-street. html. Performances take place at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays. (410 S. Maple St., Falls Church). 703-436-9948.
TUESDAY, MARCH 1 daphne's dive (Running through Mar. 20). Focusing on a neighborhood watering hole run by the warm and enterprising Daphne, this production pays tribute to found family, highlighting a disparate band of society’s outsiders. Over the course of nearly twenty years, they drink, dance, rejoice, and grieve together in a captivating weave of interconnection. Tickets can be purchased online at sigtheatre.org. (4200 Campbell Ave, Arlington, Virginia 22206.) 703-8209771
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2 Recording of Leaving Bedrooms. Leaving Bedrooms is a journey of romantic recovery in four scenes, with each scene taking place in a different bedroom. For those who were not able to make the live show, Nova Nightsky Theater will be presenting a recording of Leaving Bedrooms on Wednesday, Mar. 2, at 7 p.m. RSVP online at novanightskytheater.com/eventdetails/recording-of-leaving-bedrooms.
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Community News & Notes F.C. Band to Commemorate St. Patrick’s Day
fallschurchva.gov/2140/MayorsFitness-Challenge to register.
The City of Falls Church Concert Band, sponsored by the City of Falls Church Recreation & Parks Department, invites one and all for an evening of live Irish music and dance. The 5th Annual St Patrick’s Day Concert will be held in the Meridian High School auditorium (121 Mustang Alley, Falls Church, VA) on March 6, beginning at 7 p.m. The O’NeillJames School of Irish Dance will join in the festivities. Admission is free.
Nominate a Grand Marshal for the Memorial Day Parade
Arlington Philharmonic Players Present: Music for All Time Washington-Liberty High School will be presenting the Arlington Philharmonic Orchestra next Sunday, March 6, at 4 p.m. Elizabeth Field, featured violin soloist, will be playing Bach’s Violin Concerto in A minor and viola soloist Uri Wassertzug will play Bruch’s Romanze, as well as Haydn’s Symphony No. 101 in D major. Admission is free. (1301 N Stafford St, Arlington, VA 22201.)
Help The F.C. Keep Its Mayors’ Fitness Challenge Trophy The City of Falls Church, City of Fairfax, and Town of Vienna are hosting the second annual Mayors’ Fitness Challenge. This event is an opportunity for City residents and employees to get involved in a healthy competition to determine the “Most Fit Community” of 2022, with the City coming out on top last year. Residents are encouraged to walk, bike, hike, practice yoga, or play in the park, while encouraging their family, friends and co-workers who live or work in the City to join in. From Mar. 19 — May 7, participants will track their minutes doing any physical exercise and log their data on a Google Doc that will be sent to each participant. At the end of the challenge, minutes will be tallied to determine which locale gets the title of “Most Fit Community.” Registration required; register for free or pay a $5 fee to receive a 2022 Mayors’ Fitness Challenge t-shirt. Visit
Residents are invited to nominate someone who has made a significant contribution to the community for the role of Grand Marshal of the Memorial Day Parade and Festival. This individual will be escorted in a special parade vehicle and will be profiled by the Falls Church News-Press. Email nominations to sawilliams@fallschurchva.gov by Mar. 7, 2022. Include the nominee’s name and describe why that person deserves the honor of Grand Marshal. Past honorees include Lindy Hockenberry (2021), Rob Donovan (2019), Midge Wang (2018), Barb Cram (2017), Kathy Halayko (2016) Kathy and Barry Buschow (2015), Sergeant Steve Rau (2014), Janet Haines and Audrey Luthman (2013), Harry Shovlin (2012), Howard Herman (2011), Edna Frady (2010) and Jessie Thackrey (2009). Previous Grand Marshals are not eligible to serve again. See the full history of the Grand Marshal at fallschurchva.gov/649/Grand-Marshal.
NoVa TEEN Book Festival Returns After Covid-19 Hiatus The D.C. metro area’s biggest Young Adult (YA) book festival will be hosting a “homecoming” of Bestselling YA Authors during a week of themed panel discussions. NoVa TEEN, an annual book festival celebrating YA literature, is typically held in March at George C. Marshall High School in Falls Church, VA. This year’s festival will be completely virtual and will span a week of panel discussions each afternoon, beginning at 6 p.m. (running from March 14 — 18). Julie Murphy, the New York Times bestselling author of “Faith: Greater Heights” and “Dumplin’” will be featured in the keynote conversation. More than 17 additional YA authors will round out the event roster. The TEEN Book Festival is free and open to the public; advance registration is available at
THE FALLS CHURCH CITY COUNCIL held a special visioning and planning “retreat” at City Hall Tuesday night, where sheets of butcher paper were posted on the wall for ideas to be condensed into pithy phrases by Deputy City Manager Cindy Mester. (Photo: News-Press) novateenbookfestival.com/ where a full events schedule is also available. Those interested are encouraged to follow NoVa TEEN Book Festival on Twitter @novateenbf and on Instagram @novateenbf. One More Page Books (2200 North Westmoreland Street in Arlington, VA), an independent, neighborhood-oriented bookstore that services the Falls Church/ Arlington area and co-hosts the event with Fairfax County Public Library, Fairfax Library Foundation, Loudoun County Public Library, and many other public library and school systems in the northern Virginia area. One More Page Books will offer books with signed bookplates from each author via their website. To learn more about One More Page Books, visit onemorepagebooks.com.
Tysons Library Quarterly Book & Media Sale, Mar. 2 — 5 All are invited to stop by the Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library Quarterly Book Sale, running over a period of four days: Wednesday, March 2, from 5 — 8 p.m. (including an opportunity for library members to shop first); Thursday, March 3, from 10 a.m. — 4 p.m.; Friday, March 4, from 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.; and Saturday, March 5, which is split into a regular
sale from 10 a.m. — 1 p.m and a special bag sale from 2 — 5 p.m., where shoppers will be able to pick up a full grocery bag of books for just $10, or half-price for less. The quarterly book sale features a large selection of books and media for all ages and interests. Proceeds will benefit the TysonsPimmit Regional Library and related activities. Volunteers are always welcome; book and media donations are always appreciated. Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library is located at 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church. Call 703-338-3307 for additional information or email tysonslibraryfriends@gmail.com.
Omicron Delta Kappa Celebrates New Members Omicron Delta Kappa, the National Leadership Honor Society, welcomed 265 new initiates from 9 universities during January of this year. Students initiated into the Society must be sophomores, juniors, seniors, or graduate/professional students in the top 35 percent of their class, demonstrate leadership experience, and embrace the ODK ideals. Fewer than five percent of students on a campus are invited to join Omicron Delta Kappa each year. Naila Ohmke of Falls Church, a student of Virginia
Commonwealth University, was among the new initiates.
Update on Leaf Collection for F.C. Residents Crews are continuing their final collection rounds of leaves from each street. Once the crews have passed through your street, do not place more leaves at the curb. Residents can always bag leaves in paper bags, add a Yard Waste Sticker, and leave them at the curb for Wednesday collection.
D.C. Center’s Black Lesbian Support Group Put together by the D.C. Center and the Beta Kappa Chapter of the Beta Phi Omega Sorority, this peer-led support group is devoted to the joys and challenges of being a Black Lesbian. Participants are not required to be a part of either organization to take part in the group. The DC Center for the LGBT Community will be offering limited spaces for in-person participants during this support meeting. The Center asks for those interested in participating to RSVP; those who sign up will be notified 3 days prior to the event with a confirmation for inclusion in the physical meeting
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
or the virtual variant. Booking does not guarantee a spot in the in-person meeting. This is a hybrid group so a Zoom option is available for those who wish to attend but cannot do so in-person. The group will take place Feb. 26, from 1 — 3 p.m. (2000 14th St NW #105, Washington, DC 20009.) To RSVP, visit thedccenter.org or send an email to supportdesk@ thedccenter.org.
D.C. in Bloom: The History and Science of Cherry Blossoms The cherry blossoms in Washington, DC, are the ultimate symbol of spring in the region; their fluffy, pink blossoms signify the end of winter and the start of warmer days ahead. Those interested to learn more about the science and history of this natural icon are invited to join Bethany Bagent and Jen Rudnick of the National Park Service Rangers at the National Mall and Memorial Parks, for a discussion on a variety of topics, from infestations to international relations, all focusing on the cherry blossoms. Bethany and Jen will also highlight some lesser-known, but
equally lovely, spring-blooming trees you can see on the U.S. Botanic Garden’s campus and around the capitol. This program will be offered through the online platform Livestorm; registration is required. Saturday, Feb. 26, from 11:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m. Visit https://www.usbg.gov for more information.
Attacks on Democracy Through Black Photojournalism January 6, 2022 marked the one-year anniversary of the Capital Insurrection perpetrated by followers of then-president Donald Trump. Shedrick Pelt, a D.C. photojournalist, has used his camera to illuminate the vile attack. This Black History Month, he will be curating “Attacks on Democracy: Through the Lens of a Black Photojournalist,” hosted at Gallery O on H, re-examining the January 6 terror attack and the shutdown of D.C. through the lens of Black photojournalism while simultaneously shedding light on what it’s like to navigate an industry dominated by white counterparts. Opening night will take place on Friday, Feb. 25 with a cocktail hour, artist discussion, and cash bar. After opening night,
LO CA L the exhibit will be free and open to the public: Saturday, Feb. 26; Sunday, Feb. 27; Friday, Mar. 4; Saturday, Mar. 5; and Sunday, Mar. 6. Individuals or groups may request individual appointments, or direct general purchase inquiries, to Shedrick Pelt at s.pelt@ yahoo.com. 7 — 9 p.m. (1354 H Street Northeast, Washington, DC 20002.)
D.C. Center’s All-Day Produce Program To Take Place Mar. 24 To fulfill one of their mission targets of empowering the LGBTQ+ communities, the D.C. Center for the LGBT Community has embarked on a partnership with Hungry Harvest to provide members of the community with fresh farm produce. Participants are required to register weekly to reserve a spot as produce is limited. Registrations are open every Monday at 12 p.m. D.C. Center is also implementing a lottery system to be more fair with who is receiving produce. People will be informed on Wednesday at 5 p.m. if they are picked to receive a produce box that week. Proof of residency or income is not required. Masks are mandatory
FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2, 2022 | PAGE 13
for entrance into the building; those without a mask will be provided with one. For more information on this program, visit thedccenter.org/ events/dc-centers-food-pantryprogram-2022-02-03/ or email supportdesk@thedccenter.org. Those with questions can also call 202-682-2245. (2000 14th Street, Suite 105, Washington, D.C.)
Virtual Trans Support Group Via Zoom Set For Feb. 25 The D.C. Center’s Trans Support Group is intended to provide an emotionally and physically safe space for trans people and those who may be questioning their gender identity/expression to join together and learn from one another. All who identify under the trans umbrella or are unsure, and seek to continually reinforce core principles of respect, acceptance and protection through ongoing input from our attendees, are invited to take part. The Center stresses the importance of a safe space where folks that identify along the trans spectrum or are questioning may collectively share stories, experienc-
Camp Guide
es, and advice. Ongoing support from allies is appreciated but the Center does ask, due to the vulnerable and sensitive nature of the trans support group, and out of respect for its attendees, that allies reach out to more appropriate channels better suited toward ally support. There is a group gathering on the second Tuesday and fourth Friday of each month, starting at 7 p.m. Email supportdesk@ thedccenter.org to receive your Zoom information.
Radford University’s Dean’s List Features F.C. Natives Radford University has released its Dean’s List for the Fall 2021 period, the university’s most prestigious academic recognition a student can receive for their performance during a given semester. The following students are from Falls Church, VA: Steven Pham, Accounting major; Daniel Tyler, Art major; Isabella Armstrong, Biology major; Emma Tyler, Comm Sciences & Disorders major; Emily Cha, Nursing major; Carter Graceson, Psychology major; and Izabella Sisson, Social Work major.
Coming March 3rd
Contact: Sue Johnson sjohnson@fcnp.com • 703-587-1282
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
School News & Notes Nominees for 2022 Employee Awards
egory will be announced in April and a celebration will be held in May.
On Wednesday, the in-person FCCPS/FCEF Prize Patrol visited all five schools to announce the 19 nominees for three annual FCCPS Employee Awards. FCEF Teacher of the Year Award Nominees are: Dorothy Baden-Mayer, First Grade Teacher, Mt. Daniel Elementary School Meaghan Barret, Early Childhood Teacher, Jessie Thackrey Preschool Clare Bournigal, Math Teacher, Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School Torey Fay, Fifth Grade Teacher Oak Street Elementary School Jennifer Jayson, Math Teacher, Meridian High School Kate Mahr, Special Education Teacher, Mt. Daniel Elementary School Terry Mountain, Kindergarten Teacher, Mt. Daniel Elementary School Kristin Sherard, Math Teacher, Meridian High School Support Staff Employee of the Year Award Nominees are: Sally Ding, Food Services and Transportation Yolanda Jordan, Bus Driver, Transportation Services Sindy Morel, Assistant Director of Food Services Alane O’Neill, Technology Aide, Oak Street Elementary School Nittaya Strength, Food Services. Professional Specialist of the Year Award Nominees are: Jennifer Fessenden, PreK-12 Mathematics Coordinator, Systemwide Tara Filmyer, School Counselor, Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School Sarah Leahey, Math Specialist, Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School Mary Manzione, Speech Language Pathologist, Jessie Thackrey Preschool Lisa Myklestad, Librarian, Meridian High School Eb Okai, Technology Specialist, Meridian High School. Find out more about the nominees at fccps.org/o/fccps/page/ employee-recognition-awards. The award winners for each cat-
Helping Kids Process Big Emotions Mt. Daniel teacher Lisa Murphy was awarded an FCEF grant for Kimochis: “a social and emotional learning program designed to give children the knowledge, skills, and attitudes they need to recognize and manage their emotions, demonstrate caring and concern for others, establish positive relationships, make responsible decisions, and handle challenging situations constructively.” This program gives young students the ability to deal with these emotions through play. “The Kimochis lessons use stuffed characters and little feelings pillows to teach children to get in touch with their emotions in a fun and comfortable way.” Lisa was recently featured in the Arlington Magazine article: “Helping Kids Process Their Pandemic Emotions” by Sydney Johnson.
MHS Wrestling Team Competed at States Ed Kennedy, Jeremy McInerney, Emmett Wood, and Justin Cerullo represented the Meridian Mustangs wrestling program in Salem, VA, at the class 3 Virginia state wrestling tournament. Ed and Justin both finished with two wins and two losses, concluding their season as one of the top eight wrestlers in their respective classes in the state of Virginia.
Black History Month Essay Contest To celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the Washington Wizards have launched an essay contest for DMV area high school and middle school students. The contest will honor Dr. Edwin Bancroft (E.B.) Henderson, a sports historian, educator, administrator, coach, athlete, and civil rights activist known as the “Grandfather of Black Basket-
THE MERIDIAN HIGH Girls Basketball team advances in the post-season State 3B regional tournament this Friday at 6 p.m. at the Meridian gym after a decisive 74-33 win over Skyline Tuesday (shown here). Top scorers for the Mustangs were Icabalceta with 18, Jones with 15 and Arensault, Creed and Paradiso each with 8. (Photo: News-Press) ball” here in Washington, D.C. Dr. Henderson, a great activist, wrote over 3,000 letters to the editor for the Washington Post and other newspapers on civil rights and race relations. Like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Dr. Henderson was a leader who inspired many, and now is your opportunity to write about a leader that has inspired you. Submit a 250-word essay about a community leader who has had a positive impact in your life. One submission from a high school student and one submission from a middle school student will be selected to receive a scholarship contribution and additional recognition from the Washington Wizards. The deadline to submit your essay is March 17. For more information on the contest as well as rules and regulations, please visit nba.com/wizards/blackhistory.
Students Recognized by Team USA Ms. Christina Sather’s first graders wrote letters to Olympic Team USA during their Writer’s Workshop. The class also spent time during their PYP Unity of Inquiry: Where We Are In Place and Time learning about the history behind the Olympics (when it started, who is in it, when the Olympics occur, etc.). The students enjoyed writing the letters. And when Ms. Sather emailed the letters to the official Team USA email address, she never
thought they would actually hear back! And what a surprise to have Dr. Jill Biden retweet the TeamUSA tweet with such a special message reading “Team USA, you continue to inspire the next generation of athletes. Joe and I are so proud of all you‘ve accomplished.”
OSE Kids Jumping for Healthy Hearts PE teachers Nathan Greiner and Julie Huber hosted the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge at Oak Street this week. The Kids Heart Challenge prepares children for success through physical and emotional well-being. Note: donations are optional, but students are encouraged to take Finn’s Challenge. The deadline for all contributions is February 25th. Email Julie Huber at huberj@fccps.org if you have any questions.
Buy Mulch to Support Meridian Athletics Order top quality doubleshredded hardwood mulch in individual bags (3 cubic feet). $5.50 per bag. For orders of 20 bags or more, we will provide free delivery to those local addresses within the City of Falls Church. All other orders can be picked up at Meridian High School, at the back parking lot (just past the
tennis courts, near the upper turf practice field). Visit mustangfanshop.com/ collections/mulch-spring-only/ products/yard-mulch to learn more and place your order. The deadline to order is March 23, 2022.
OSE 3rd Graders Making Global Art A great way to become a global citizen is through the art of different cultures. Third Grade Oak Streeters were inspired by the Aboriginal people of Australia. Mrs. Angela Guy shared that aboriginal people have a deeply rooted connection with nature. The classes discussed that symbolism is used in their artwork as a means of communication. Aboriginal people use symbolism instead of written language to tell stories and preserve their culture. The dots or “over dotting” in Aboriginal art began to obscure the symbolism to keep their messages private and sacred.
Celebrating TWOSday in First Grade First graders in Ms. Julia Noble’s class filled out time capsules to be sealed on 2/22/22. They will open these special notes to themselves on 3/3/33 when they are seniors in high school. That will sure be a fantastic reflection for the students.
FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2, 2022 | PAGE 15
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Fa l l s C h u r c h Business News & Notes
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BYU-Idaho is hosting a Washington D.C. Internship/Career Fair. This online event will feature employers from the D.C. area and will be promoted to the student body of over 23,000 students, some of whom want to relocate to the area and others are local. Businesses recruiting for jobs and/or internships are invited to participate. The career fair is Thursday, March 10, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and businesses can participate in the group sessions and one-on-one interviews according to their availability. Contact Ben Watson at 406-468-5030 for more information.
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SECAF Unveils Refreshed Brand and Website The Small and Emerging Contractors Advisory Forum (SECAF) introduced its new logo and refreshed website to re-establish its commitment to equipping government contractors with the tools they need to achieve results. Boasting more than 350 members, SECAF is comprised of the senior leaders from active government contractors and established service providers. Members have access to the connections, events, education, tools and resources needed to stay on top of industry trends, win government contracts, and experience exponential growth.
Northrop Grumman Secures $252M Marine Corps Contract Falls Church-based Fortune 500 defense contractor Northrop Grumman Corp. landed a $252 million contract to produce and test a handheld precision ground targeting system for the U.S. Marine Corps, the Department of Defense announced Thursday. Under the hybrid, follow-on contract, Northrop Grumman will work on the Next Generation Targeting Handheld System, a lightweight, man-portable system that allows Marines to acquire and locate targets as well as perform guidance against them. The contractor will also provide spare parts, engineering services, logistics support, training and documentation. This will be completed in Apopka, Florida by February 2030.
*For those who qualify. One coupon per household. No obligation estimate valid for 1 year. **Offer valid at time of estimate only 2 The leading consumer reporting agency conducted a 16 month outdoor test of gutter guards in 2010 and recognized LeafFilter as the “#1 rated professionally installed gutter guard system in America.” Manufactured in Plainwell, Michigan and processed at LMT Mercer Group in Ohio. See Representative for full warranty details. CSLB# 1035795 DOPL #10783658-5501 License# 7656 License# 50145 License# 41354 License# 99338 License# 128344 License# 218294 WA UBI# 603 233 977 License# 2102212986 License# 2106212946 License# 2705132153A License# LEAFFNW822JZ License# WV056912 License# WC-29998-H17 Nassau HIC License# H01067000 Registration# 176447 Registration# HIC.0649905 Registration# C127229 Registration# C127230 Registration# 366920918 Registration# PC6475 Registration# IR731804 Registration# 13VH09953900 Registration# PA069383 Suffolk HIC License# 52229-H License# 2705169445 License# 262000022 License# 262000403 License# 0086990 Registration# H-19114
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General Dynamics Secures $162M DISA Agency contract Falls Church-based General Dynamics Information Technology Inc. (GDIT) will move DOD financial management apps to tech solution under a potential $162 million contract with the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) to secure identity, access, and account management for the Departments of Defense applications. The Identity, Credential and Access Management (ICAM) Other Transaction Authority (OTA) Phase III production agreement is a one-year base period with four option years. GDIT completed a pilot prototype in phases I and II. In this phase, it will continue to onboard the Defense Department’s financial management applications into the system and will expand the program to include non-financial management applications.
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Business News & Notes is compiled by Elise Neil Bengtson, Executive Director of the Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. She may be emailed at elise@fallschcurchchamber.org.
2022 Real Estate Section Coming March 24th
Call: Sue Johnson sjohnson@fcnp.com • 703-587-1282
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PUZZLE NO. 124
PUZZLE NO. 123
11. Garden produce 17. Gather in 19. Climbing plant 22. Tearful moan 23. Half of a bikini 24. “____ Day Will Come” 25. Sniffling’s partner 26. Wet dirt 28. Swiss peak 29. High-wire precaution 31. Physician, briefly 32. Liberation 34. Knights’ titles
35. Mug 37. Sheriff’s helpers 38. Fine 39. Went by carriage 40. In a group of 41. Hammer or chisel 42. Ready to be picked 43. ____ out (barely makes) 44. Comfortable rooms 46. Little devil
22. Hula-Hoop’s site 23. Release 25. Dwelling 27. Like a jug, e.g. 29. Wall hanging 30. Is situated 31. Botches 34. Relies 37. Rubbed out
30. Litter’s littlest 31. Title 32. Folder 33. “You ____ Sixteen” 34. Grasscovered ground 35. Moved slowly 36. Heroic poem 38. Rightful 39. Shaving need 41. Got slimmer 45. Oversight 47. Dam 48. Clamors 49. In fashion 50. Unzip 51. Brink
JOHN DEERING
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52. Tissue layer 53. Disarray DOWN 1. Catcher’s catcher 2. What’s the big ____? 3. Close with force 4. Violent storm 5. View 6. Breathing organ 7. Nonetheless 8. Blot 9. Undies 10. Building curve
39. Naughty child 41. Andean animal 43. Serpents 44. Gather 45. Sugar source 47. Sitting above 50. Long fish 52. Flirt with 53. Have title to
STRANGE BREW
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ACROSS 1. Aerosol spray 5. Tricky 8. Marble slice 12. At a standstill 13. Stick for billiards 14. Wear down 15. Sports group 16. Exit’s opposite 18. Packing down 20. VIII 21. Eden dweller 22. Mentally healthy 23. Pushy 26. Broom’s relative 27. Hurried
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 123
CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING
ACROSS 1. Ship defector 4. Herring’s kin 8. Graceful bird 12. Past 13. Music system: hyph. 14. Evergreen 15. Hair cream 16. Carney et al. 17. Tiny pests 18. Border 20. Admission slip 22. Savior 24. Gravy 26. Portrayal 28. Brush part 32. Orchestra ____
33. Brick house 35. Balloon input 36. Navigated 38. More mature 40. Fend off 42. GI’s supper 43. Covered passageway 46. Licks 48. Oceans 49. Orderly 51. “Tea for ____” 54. Plate of glass 55. Dealer’s vehicle 56. Line of seats 57. Ran 58. Hit
59. Mate of hither DOWN 1. Scrap of cloth 2. Iron or Stone 3. Put up with 4. Kind of carpet 5. Takes on 6. Foreand-____ 7. Bother 8. Gaps 9. Blink of one eye 10. Add a share 11. Robin’s roost 19. Pug or collie 21. Frostier
ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 124
CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING
SPORTS QUIZ By Ryan A. Berenz 1. Which of the placekicking Zendejas brothers had the most career NFL regular-season field goals made: Max, NO. Joaquin PUZZLE 125or Luis?
PUZZLE NO. 126
22. Rude look 23. Require 25. Undesirable plants 28. Rude glance 29. Chance 30. Some resorts 32. Underground prison 33. Free time 36. Not pro 39. Restaurant customer
17. Corrects copy 37. That lady 2. Name the Baseball Hall of Famer and five-time World Series champion who39. pitched 19. Timespan Pelts a perfect game on May 8, 1968, while a member of the Oakland A’s? 21. Heavenly body 41. Fairy-tale 22. Famed giant diamond play42.a Combat 3. In what 1984 fantasy film did Basketball Hall of Famer Wilt Chamberlain warrior named of 24. Mistreat Bombaata? honor 25. Convent 43. Radio knob denizen 4. What Buffalo Sabres player won the Vezina Trophy for best goaltender six times fromoutput 1993-2001? 45. Hens’ 28. Intensify 5. Since 1977, what sporting goods manufacturer has supplied the official baseball used by Major 47. Puncturing 29. Behind League Baseball? tool 30. Tug 48. Ms. Zadora 32. Unnerve 6. Name the soccer legend from the Netherlands who is credited with saying, “If can’t 50.you Term of win, make ____ 33. “The respect sure you don’t lose”? Commandments” 51. The girl 36. Flips over
40. Young’s opposite 41. “The Sun ____ Rises” 42. Coil 43. Loafing 45. Laze around 48. Green veggie 49. As well 50. Squirt gun, e.g. 51. Shepherd’s charge
7. What team defeated Stanford 49-0 in the inaugural Rose Bowl game held in 1902?
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Last 57. Week’s Make a Answers
32. Dazes ACROSS 1. Birthday mistake 34. Dead ____ number Scrolls1. Vitas Gerulaitis • 2. Marv Levy. 4. Walking 35. Marks down DOWN 3. Goaltenders on the team with the fewest goals against rhythm 1. Every 37. Examine TO PUZZLE NO. 125 8. Some vipers 4. Chicago’s Soldier Field • 5. TheANSWER Sheffield Shield 2. Moo ____ 38. Window 12. Cured salmon 6. One • 7. Vuvuzelas gai pan components 13. Female singer 3. Searched 40. Listen! 14. Dog’s pest 41. More strange 4. Entry 15. Prune 44. Ship bottom 5. Siren 16. Tacky (c) 2022 King Features Syndicate, Inc 18. Impolite look 46. Common pet: 6. “____ Not 2 wds. Unusual” 20. Extinct birds 49. Fire residue 7. Kindergartner 21. Scram! 52. Pore over 8. Cruising 23. Craze 53. Aircraft part 9. Snow 26. Shredded vehicle 54. Make a knot 27. Like some 10. Mexican 55. Room popcorn coin extensions 31. Sight in a CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING Tarzan flick 56. Young woman 11. Back talk
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ACROSS 1. Derby, e.g. 4. “____ a Wonderful World” 8. Long narrative 12. Spud bud 13. Long-eared animal 14. Heroic poem 15. Harbors 17. Egg holder 18. Acorn bearer 19. Browns bread 21. Roger Moore role 24. Fast 26. Iron or Stone 27. Surrounds
31. Santa’s vehicle 33. Relay portion 34. Gather a crop 35. Won over 37. Time division 38. Harsh sound 40. Mine products 41. Straightens 44. Each part 46. Mine deposit 47. Current: hyph. 52. Song for one 53. Film segment 54. Currently 55. Diner sign 56. British noble 57. Hair tint
DOWN 1. Males 2. Pirate’s yes 3. Afternoon gathering 4. Halt! 5. Listens 6. Painting or photography 7. Sampling 8. Member of Congress 9. Copycats 10. Meaning 11. Behaves 16. Legume holder 20. ____-thewall 21. Deep tone
ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 126
CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING
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BACK IN THE DAY
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
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25 � 10 Y���� A�� �� ��� N���-P���� Falls Church News-Press Vol. XXI, No. 49 • February 23, 2012
Falls Church News-Press Vol. VI, No. 49 • February 20, 1997 City Council Showdown on Whittier Sale Due Monday
Barraged by National Derision & Anger, McDonnell Buckles on Ultrasound Law
After two long years of endless meetings, hearings and deliberations, the Falls Church City Council may be prepared at last to sell the 9.6 acre Whittier site.The matter is on the agenda for final action — following still one more public hearing — at this Monday’s meeting at City Hall at 7:30 p.m.
From beneath an avalanche of national outrage and derision, Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell reversed himself yesterday on the controversial issue of state mandated transvaginal ultrasound legislation being pushed in Richmond’s Republican controlled General Assembly.
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Doris Hansen Doran died February 10 on what would have been her 71st wedding anniversary. Doris was born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1928 and spent her childhood and much of her adult life in the Chicago area. She married Thomas Edward “Ed” Doran in 1951 and they moved to LaGrange, Illinois where they raised a family of three children. In 1972, Ed accepted a job offer in Tokyo, Japan and they lived there until 1978. While in Tokyo, Doris enrolled and completed her college degree at Sofia University. This stay sparked a passion, as they became avid world travelers, visiting many places throughout the far east, Indonesia and Southeast Asia. Upon their return to the U.S, they moved to Falls Church. Virginia. Doris lived in the City until moving to Goodwin House Baileys Crossroads in 2009 following the death of Ed in 2005. Doris was active in the League of Women
Voters for most of her adult life and was awarded a Life Member Award of the League of Women Voters of Falls Church by Proclamation from the City of Falls Church in 2020. In addition to her husband, Doris was preceded in death by son-in-law Joe Gerrity. She is survived by three children: Pam Doran (Carl Swartz); Kathleen Gerrity; and Edward “Bud” Doran (Seemeen Hashem); six grandchildren, Eric (Meredith), Kevin and Brian Swartz; Victor Gerrity (Shannon); and Erin and Aisling Doran; and two great grandchildren, Ben and Maddie Swartz. A memorial service is planned for April 30 at 2 p.m. at Goodwin House/Baileys. Interment will be with her husband Ed at Arlington Cemetery at a later date. Contributions in her name can be given to Goodwin House/Baileys at goodwinhouse. org/giving/donate for staff support and/or the League of Women Voters of Falls Church, PO Box 156, Falls Church, VA 22040.
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THIS IS HONEY, who last summer moved to Georgia from Falls Church, and handled the 12 hour drive in the car like a curious kitten, despite her 15 year elderly age. Just because you’re not famous doesn’t mean your pet can’t be! Send in your Critter Corner submissions to crittercorner@fcnp.com.
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2, 2022 | PAGE 19
Victor’s Grill Churrasqueria Is a Steak Lovers Dream
Continued from Page 9
somewhere else.” And we both laughed.) I ordered my steak medium well (hot and almost brown on the inside; one of five ways to order meat) and it was perfectly cooked, moist with the hint of grilled flame, and meek seasoning which did not overpower the taste. Delicious with every bite, even the leftovers! This could be compared to the ecstasy brought on by afternoon chocolate, but this was meat. (Making me wonder why I had ever joined the “fauxs” anyway.) For a side, I ordered cheesy rice, my first experience with it and more to come! It came out in a bowl, looking like a chunky white sauce and mixed with white cheese and hidden rice, unlike anything I have found in an American restaurant. The salad was okay, but why waste an authentic South American choice at Victor’s on a side as boring as lettuce, tomatoes and beets? Dumb me! The rolls were warm and tasted homemade which Serrano confirmed they were. Besides steak, Victor has several chicken choices and a kid’s menu ranging from a hamburger and fries
($5.50) to a kid’s pizza ($8.95). Thanks to Covid, seafood and pasta inventories have been reduced or deleted from the menu. “We are famous for our breaded steaks,” Serrano beamed. “They are deep-fried and topped with optional two fried eggs and ham. It’s kind of like a pizza, but with ham and cheese and marinara sauce. They are why people come here. A replica from South America and we are one of the few restaurants in this area, maybe the only one, that has them.” (Do the calories count? Who’s counting?) Several weeks ago, before its liquor license was approved, I visited the new Cuates Grill in Falls Church where I was deprived of a much-desired margarita. Having a strong yearning for one ever since, and to celebrate National Margarita Day February 22 (a bit early, as if I needed an excuse!), my taste buds were about as excited as an Olympian getting ready to leap at the top of the half pipe. The margarita wait was worth it. “Kevin” at the bar made me a perfect drink, not too strong as they often are, not too weak, saltless per request, and big. Neither he nor another server were willing to guess
the quantity of the “small” cocktail ($8.95) which I pegged between 10 and 12 ounces. Certainly, too big to have two and drive home! Fanny’s Grill, a Bolivian restaurant now occupies Victor’s first home in Falls Church on Washington Street which Serrano launched in 1999. Victor’s opened its second location in the present spot in 2003, but “it was hard to run two restaurants” which were located fairly close to each other. The original restaurant closed in 2011. The Serranos live in the City of Falls Church where Serrano, the son, graduated from George Mason High School. Covid’s aftermath has left the family feeling “blessed. We are doing much better than before,” and the larger-than-expected crowd in the middle of a weekday afternoon was proof. The restaurant was hard hit by Covid’s darkest days, some days with no sales at all, yet Victor’s remained open, and followed guidelines. Now, the big issues facing it and other restaurants are the labor shortage and inflationary pressures. “We learned that we have to be
TREAT YOURSELF to a margarita for a belated national Margarita Day celebration. (P����: P������� L�����) more proactive and manage everything and plan for the unexpected or otherwise you cannot survive in the industry,” Serrano said. Victor’s has a new menu but inflation’s ugly head leads the owners to consider whether they should raise prices. They don’t want to reduce their large portions “because that’s what we are known for,” Serrano said. “Restaurants are not like grocery stores which can immediately
raise prices.” If restaurants did that, they would lose business, he noted. Some restaurants are charging more and some have closed, but survivors persist, making sure their food and service are great and protecting their namesake. Victor’s hours on weekdays are 10:00 a.m.—- 9 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays, 11 a.m. — 10 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m.— 9 p.m. They are located at 7634 Lee Highway, Falls Church 22042.
Drs. Love & Miller, PC
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Drs. Love and Miller provide a family practice with special emphasis on healthy and beautiful smiles for adults and children. We have created a warm, caring environment that allows our patients to feel comfortable and safe. Both doctors graduated from the Medical College of Virginia and have been practicing together in Falls Church for over 25 years. We are proud to have served the community in ways beyond dental care. Our patients’ health and safety are always our first priority. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are continually following updated CDC and ADA guidelines.
We are continually following CDC and ADA guidelines in order to keep patients safe and healthy. Make an appointment with this award winning dental team.
www.loveandmiller.com 450 W. Broad Street, Suite 440, Falls Church, VA 22046 703-241-2911 (office) • 703-534-3521 (fax)
We are appreciative of our patients’ continued confidence in our ability to maintain proper safety measures, allowing us to care for their dental health.
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PAGE 20 | FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2, 2022
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