March 1 – 7, 2018
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. XXVIII N O. 2
F���� C����� • T����� C����� • M��������� • M�L��� • N���� A�������� • B�����’� C���������
I����� T��� W��� S������������� S��� N� M���� D��������
In light of the latest mass killing at a high school in Florida on Feb. 14, Falls Church School Superintendent Peter Noonan reiterated his opposition to the use of metal detectors at entrances to City schools. SEE NEWS BRIEFS, PAGE 8
M���� R������� T��� R���� T� E����, A����
Requests for Proposals Out the Door Today for West End Economic Project Transparency of F.C.’s Process is Unprecedented
BY NICHOLAS F. BENTON
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
Fall Church’s George Mason High School may not be the biggest in the area, but when it comes to robotics, its size is no impediment. SEE PAGE 17
P��� K������: T�� F���� �� D������ A������
A funny thing is happening on the American scene: a powerful upwelling of decency. Suddenly, it seems as if the worst lack all conviction, while the best are filled with a passionate intensity. SEE PAGE 14
M���� F���� �� R����� F����, N�� �� �� S����� George Mason High School’s girls basketball team came oh-soclose, but couldn’t clinch the Region 2B title last Saturday. The squad now heads to Williamsburg to play Poquoson in the quaterfinals of the state tournament this Friday. SEE SPORTS, PAGE 15
INDEX
Editorial.................6 Letters...............6, 9 News & Notes10–11 Comment ........ 12-14 Sports .................15 Calendar .......18–19
Classified Ads .....20 Comics, Sudoku & Crossword ..........21 Critter Corner......22 Business News ...23
GEORGE MASON HIGH School senior Clara Matton testi�ied before the F.C. City Council Monday about the formation of a new chapter of “Students Demand Action” against gun violence prior to the Council’s adoption of a gun control resolution. (P����: N���-P����)
F.C. City Council Adopts Strong Anti-Gun Violence Resolution
BY NICHOLAS F. BENTON
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
A standing room only crowd overflowing the Falls Church City Council’s temporary meeting space at the Community Center Monday night cheered and applauded when the Council voted 7-0 to adopt a stronglyworded resolution “In Support of Gun Violence Prevention.” In the aftermath of the latest mass killing at an American high school on Feb. 14, the F.C. Council’s move followed a rally of over 300 at F.C.’s George Mason High School and drew a strong turnout of citizens of
all ages organized by “Moms Demand Action” and a new, justformed Mason High chapter of “Students Demand Action.” Resolution co-author Councilwoman Letty Hardi said, “I’m a mom, and my son said to me, ‘Mommy, why can’t you make a law to stop this.” She said despite the severe restrictions under state law to make any local policy in opposition to state law, she worked with Councilman David Snyder to craft the resolution. (The City, and all county and independent city jurisdictions in Virginia are hamstrung by the Dillon Rule in Virginia that pro-
hibits them from adopting legislation that is contrary to state law made in Richmond). Nonetheless, the resolution states the City of Falls Church “calls on the United States Congress and state legislatures, including the Virginia General Assembly, to prioritize to protection of students and local government employees by passing legislation that more effectively regulates access to firearms in the interest of public safety, funds public health research on firearms-related issues, advances mental health support and allows
Continued on Page 4
The City of Falls Church’s invitation to the regional and national developer community to come in and fill up 10 acres with dense economic development, including buildings of 14 stories and possibly higher, by the West Falls Church Metro station is due to be dropped into the mailbox today. Remember when you put all those wedding invitations into the mail, and the profound thoughts associated with a pause you took before you let them actually drop? That’s kind of what this is like, involving a combination of excitement and understandable dread associated with notions of possibilities and very long-term commitment. The City is literally looking for a development partner that will transform 10 acres of the 36-acre George Mason High School campus into something that will enhance the already-formidable quality of life for all 14,300 City residents. Along with that, the development should generate a bucket-full of new tax revenue that will help pay for a brand new high school and major renovations of City Hall, the library and other projects. What’s going into the mailbox today is a 22-page “Request for Conceptual Proposals for the West Falls Church Economic Development Project,” (RFP) that is, as stated in its opening paragraph, to “identify qualified teams and solicit project concepts to redevelop and commercialize approximately 10.38 acres of real property adjacent to the replacement site of the existing George
Continued on Page 5
PAGE 2 | MARCH 1 – 7, 2018
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Presenting Sponsorship:
Musical Stage Sponsorship:
Cruise-In Sponsorship: R
Jefferson Street Artists Participating Businesses: Allstate, Art and Frame of Falls Church, BalletNova, Don Beyer Auto Group, Burke & Herbert Bank, Creative Cauldron, Eden Center, Falls Church Foot & Ankle Center, Falls Church News-Press, Quinn’s Auction Galleries
It’s FUN, It’s FREE, It’s FIRSTfriday! Participating Restaurants: Argia’s Italian Restaurant, Clare & Don’s Beach Shack, Eden Center, Ireland’s Four Provinces, Mad Fox Brewing Company
FREE Ice Cream by Lazy Sundae FREE Sweets by Cafe Kindred
Wine Tasting by Monroe Bay Winery
This Friday is FIRSTfriday of Falls Church
• “SpaceCake” photo series exhibit by Dawn Reed
Friday, March 2nd
• Performance by Tradin’ Eights
Come experience FIRSTfriday of Falls Church with featured artists, live music, dining specials, retail discounts, and more! Bring this coupon with you this Friday, March 2nd to receive special FIRSTfriday offers and discounts at our participating businesses and restaurants, including: Argia's Italian Restaurant* • Clare and Don's Beach Shack* • Art and Frame of Falls Church* • Creative Cauldron * dine-in only available throughout the month with coupon
facebook.com/FIRSTfridayFC twitter.com/FIRSTfridayFC
FIRSTfridayoffallschurch.com
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
MARCH 1 – 7, 2018 | PAGE 3
JD Sold More Homes Last Year in Falls Church Than Any Other Agent!
Rental in FC!
*OPEN* SUN 3/4 2-4PM!
JD CALLANDER Top 1% of Realtors Nationwide
#1 Agent, COMPANYWIDE
703.606.7901
$719,000
$2,650,000
5906 Calla Drive, McLean
SPECTACULAR brand-new construction by BlackRock Holdings! Expansive 6BR/5.5 BA home with spacious, open floorplan; gourmet, custom kitchen; owner’s suite with sitting room & luxury bath; 3 car garage; sought-after Chesterbrook!
Per MRIS
2908 Cleave Drive, Falls Church
*WONDERFUL* 3BR/2.5BA home across from picturesque park! This home features newly renovated BAs and updated kitchen; two fireplaces; hardwood floors; freshly painted; beautifully manicured lawn! Hillwood location!
*OPEN* SUN 3/4 2-4PM!
*OPEN* SUN 3/4 2-4PM!
$2,900/mo
2123 Reynolds Street
LOVELY 3BR/2BA home in Haycock, Longfellow & McLean school district! New paint; updated kit; sparkling hdwd floors; moments to WFC Metro!
JUST LISTED!
JD@newNOVAhome.com www.newNOVAhome.com # 1 Listing Agent #1 Selling Agent #1 Total Volume #1 Total Transactions Weichert/Dolley Madison Office Weichert 1313 Dolley Madison Blvd McLean, VA 22101 703-760-8880
6636 Gordon Avenue, Falls Church
$1,590,000
*BEAUTIFUL* brand-new 5BR/5.5BA home on 3 finished levels in desired location! This home features luxury gourmet kitchen; open floor-plan; bay windows; family room with coffered ceiling; huge lower level rec room, media room, bedroom and full bath! Wonderful designs and custom touches throughout!
7073 Idylwood Road, Falls Church
$669,000
FANTASTIC LOCATION in this wonderful 4BR/3 full BA home just blocks to the West Falls Church Metro! Spacious floorplan; light and bright updated kitchen with granite and stainless steel appliances; hardwood floors; big, mature lot—almost a 1/3 of an acre; Lemon Rd, Longfellow, McLean High School pyramid! Not to be missed!
Call Me Today for a Free Analysis of Your Home’s Value!
DONBEYERVOLVO.COM • 703-237-5000 • 1231 WEST BROAD STREET
THE ALL-NEW
VOLVO XC40
INNOVATIVE • SPACIOUS • VERSATILE
Don Beyer Volvo supports our immigrant youth: our friends, family, and colleagues.
Job #: 45684 Size: 7.75" x 9" Branch: KCN
Color(s): 2C Bleed: .125" Misc: 2018 NoVA ROP - Localized Papers
LO CA L
PAGE 4 | MARCH 1 – 7, 2018
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Gun Violence Resolution Adopted
ENJOY LIFE
QUALIFYING PELLA® PROJECTS
1
—
20% OFF
new view
AND
—
with a
Continued from Page 1
NO PAYMENTS, NO INTEREST FOR 12 MONTHS
2
ONE PROJECT. SO MANY BENEFITS. The best-performing window or door is only as good as its installation. That’s why Pella® will provide a professional installation team, led by a Pella Expert InstallerSM. And that’s just the beginning. Once your new windows and doors are installed, you can enjoy these great benefits for years to come. • Long-lasting beauty. Pella products are low-maintenance, add curb appeal and stand up to nature’s elements. • Lower heating and cooling costs. Replacing your windows with ENERGY STAR®-certified Pella windows and doors can help keep your home more comfortable for less.3 • A quieter home. Our sound-control glass4 can help reduce outside noise, so you can relax in peace.
LI MI TED
Pella Wood Window and Wood Patio Door Limited Warranty includes limited lifetime coverage. See written limited warranty for details, including exceptions and limitations at pella.com/ warranty, or contact Pella Customer Service at 877-473-5527.
855-582-2683
PellaNorthernVirginia.com Minimum purchase of $5,000 required. Discount applies to K.C. Company retail list price and is not available in all markets. Valid only for replacement projects installed by K.C. Company professionals. Only valid on select Pella® products. Only valid on new quotes. Not valid with any other offer or promotion. Prior sales excluded. Repairs to existing products including parts such as sash and panel replacements excluded. Other restrictions may apply. See store for details. 2See www.PellaNorthernVirginia.com/offers for details. 3For more information, go to www.energystar. gov. 4Sound-control glass includes insulated glass constructed with dissimilar glass thickness (e.g. 3 mm/5 mm) and laminated glass. Offers expire 3/10/2018. ©2018 Pella Corporation
1
45684-pellaw-2018 NOVA ROP 7.75x9.indd 1
local governments to enact common sense local gun policies.” Falls Church Police Chief Mary Gavin testified before the vote on the resolution, stating she also “is a mom,” adding that “the strength of moms is beyond nature,” citing how the formation of Mothers Against Drunk Driving in 1980 “changed the culture” in America, and a similar mobilization now can do the same. She is on the executive board of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, which, as the resolution tonight stated, “advocates for the adoption of common sense policies to assist in reducing gun violence, including prohibiting the sale of armor piercing ammunition, reinstating an assault weapons ban, supporting state control of concealed weapons and instituting stronger background checks and waiting periods.” Also testifying Monday were Clara Matton, a senior at George Mason High, who announced the formation of a campus chapter of Students Demand Action after 50 students showed up for a first meeting last week, and Michelle Sandler, the head of the regional Moms Demand Action chapter. Councilman Snyder decried how “extremists have controlled firearms policy the last few decades” in Virginia, and said the resolution is a “petition to those who have the power to act” in Richmond. The Council was buoyed by the 15-seat shift in the makeup of the House of Delegates in last November’s election, bringing the state legislature to within reach of a majority that will be more sympathetic to sensible gun control legislation, a posture that Gov. Ralph Northam supports.
2/22/18 1:07 PM
#DadJokesRule fatherhood.gov
LO CA L
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
MARCH 1 – 7, 2018 | PAGE 5
City Sends Out West End Requests for Proposals Today
Continued from Page 1
Mason High School...intended to activate the parcel and generate both upfront and long-term revenue to fund the construction of a new high school.” For the Little City (as Falls Church has chosen to identify itself in its logo), it will be by far the biggest commercial project undertaking in the 70 years since it became, under Virginia law, an independent city with its own school system, own land use and other decision-making, including taxing, authority. Insofar as the land in question is located on the western fringe of the City, it is not encumbered with the restrictions that would come into play if it were closer to residential neighborhoods, such that height and massing limitations have been relaxed to optimize development. Transportation impacts, such as vehicular congestion, are more relevant, but the site is ideal for dense, and userfriendly, development because of its unique proximity to Metro, I-66 and the Beltway. In fact, in the 1990s, Falls Church’s city manager at the time,
David Lasso, called the property “the most valuable real estate in the entire region” because of its multiple nearby transportation links connecting it readily to the entire D.C. Metro region, including its location in between the area’s two largest international airports. Many of the best and brightest development teams in the nation have already been alerted to this prospect, as the West Falls Church Economic Development Project’s manager Lee Goldstein, hired by the City away from the D.C. government’s economic development office for this assignment in January, told the City Council here that over 80 firms have already been contacted to check their inboxes for the RFP today or tomorrow. Of course, in this day and age, the missive will come not solely through “snail mail” but by electronic means. Some, who knows, may already be working feverishly on plans to bid on the project. The timeline going forward calls for the announcement of a shortlist from among all the applicants by mid-June, the selection of the preferred proposer with the
execution of an exclusive rights agreement by October, the finalization of a comprehensive agreement by May 2019, a construction bond sale for the new high school project in June 2019, and the transfer of the property and demolition of the current high school by the Summer of 2021. The length of the timeline is to allow the process for the construction of the new high school to be completed prior to the demolition of the old one, and decisions on a shortlist of three developers to build the new school have already occured. In the near term, the timeline includes a public non-mandatory industry forum set for March 14 where information can be shared, and a March 27 deadline for questions to be submitted about the RFP. The deadline for the submission of formal responses is May 1, prior to the announcement of a shortlist in mid-June. In the last week, three public meetings of City officials and the citizenry have been held, in the spirit of the City’s extraordinary and almost-unprecedented commitment to transparency and openness in this process. There
THE FIRST MEETING of the Campus Coordinating Council (CCC) providing oversight on the two components of the West End campus development was held in the F.C. School Board offices last Friday morning. (Photo: News-Press) was the first meeting of the Campus Coordinating Committee, another Sunday town hall forum and Monday night’s final meeting of the City Council to have one last crack at massaging the RFP language. The open process is giving the City’s consultants on the project
of Alvarez and Marsal heartburn, but the public has been privy to almost all the deliberations that went into the crafting of the RFP, and will continue to have that kind of access through the whole process. It is a uniquely transparent
Continued on Page 22
IN T RODUCING T HE BRAND NE W
stinger 2018 KIA
• 22/29 MPG CITY/HIGHWAY • REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY • NAVIGATION SYSTEM • AUTO TEMPERATURE CONTROL • BRAKE ASSIST & MORE
AVAILABLE IN STOCK TODAY! B E Y E R K I A . C O M • 7 0 3 - 2 3 7 - 5 0 0 0 • 112 5 W E S T B R O A D S T R E E T F A L L S C H U R C H , V A 2 2 0 4 6
PAGE 6 | MARCH 1 – 7, 2018
One of the Nation’s Foremost Weekly Newspapers, Serving N. Virginia
(Published Weekly by Benton Communications, Inc.)
FOUNDED IN 1991
Vol. XXVIII, No. 2 March 1 – 7, 2018 • City of Falls Church ‘Business of the Year’ 1991 & 2001 • • Certified by the Commonwealth of Virginia to Publish Official Legal Notices • • Member, Virginia Press Association •
N������� F. B����� O���� � E�����-I�-C���� �������������.���
J��� F������ M������� ������
�������������.���
M��� D������ N��� E�����
�������������.���
N��� G��� A���������� S������� A������������ ����������.���
H���� W������ C����������
�������������.���
C������ C����, T�� W������ C��������� T�� W���� C��� E����� J���� I����� C���������� M������
�������������.���
T� C������ ��� N���-P���� �����: 703-532-3267 ���: 703-342-0347 �����: ���������.��� ������� ����������� ��������.��� ���������� ��� �������������.��� ������� �� ��� ������ ������������.��� ������������� ������������ � �������� �������������.���
WWW.FCNP.COM The Falls Church News-Press is published weekly on Thursdays and is distributed free of charge throughout the City of Falls Church and the Greater Falls Church area. Offices are at 200 Little Falls St., #508, Falls Church, VA 22046. Reproduction of this publication in whole or part is prohibited except with the written permission of the publisher. ©2018 Benton Communications Inc. The News-Press is printed on recycled paper.
E D I TO R I A L
E��������
F.C.’s New Shift In Temperament
There’s been a subtle but important shift in the temperament of the vast majority of citizens of Falls Church that we’ve detected over the course of the most recent years. It’s a shift for the good, and overall we credit the relentless commitment to open dialogue and transparency by our government that some consider almost excessive. Just the last year has been instructive and hopefully a harbinger of continued good trends for the future. If you think about it, the six months, even, have been remarkable. First of all, the difficult situation that arose over the expansion of Mt. Daniel Elementary, owing to its being located in Fairfax County, that delayed the project for over a year. A lot of acrimony surfaced as a result, both in Falls Church and Fairfax County. But reasonable forces prevailed on both sides, and the project is now moving ahead with dispatch. Then there has been the past year’s highly public deliberations concerning the disposition of the 34 acres of Fairfax County land that was annexed by the City as a part of the deal to sell the Falls Church Water System to the county. The way the planning and decision making process has proceeded has been extraordinary, leading to the unexpected wide margin of support for a school bond referendum that passed by over 60 percent last November. The bond authorization is the biggest, by far, of any in the 70 year history of the City at $120 million. Then there was the decision by the City Council to proceed ahead with the City Hall and library renovation projects, over and above the daunting challenge represented by the bonds approved for a badlyneeded brand new high school. The ground covered since last November has been little short of amazing. It’s hard to imagine that it’s been less than four months, and now the City and Schools are plowing ahead with well-reasoned and smart processes toward selecting principal developers to build the new school and to heavily develop 10 acres of the campus land for commercial use. The transparent process associated with the last four months’ of progress has been astonishing, and all to the strengthening, rather than diminishing, the prospects for maximum success of the effort. This more transparent approach grew out of the City’s frustration with a first attempt at this which, because there were two bidders competing for the job, had to be cloaked in secrecy, which led to a lot of rumor, suspicion and acrimony from the public. Now, the public is fully engaged, and the shift in temperament has led to two public forums on the projects to date which drew large crowds, relatively speaking, and a lot of interesting questions that were constructive in nature. Rather than angry challenges to the fundamental premises of the effort, they’ve almost all been sincere inquiries about the project, and some helpful, constructive suggestions. We commend their participation and hope it will continue.
L������
Time For Organizations to Speak Out on Gun Control Editor, Other than society in general, what organization do guns most affect? Law Enforcement! I am a retired lieutenant of the Metropolitan Police Dept. in Washington, D.C. During the course of my police career I have had five of my police friends shot and killed. I like guns, always have and always will, but there is a limit to my affection for guns. When I retired, my guns got packed up
and put away. Back in the 60s as a young policeman I was a member of the NRA until they came out with new ammo — the teflon bullet. I renounced my membership in the NRA because they heartily endorsed the teflon bullet and refused to withdraw it. After public outroar became so great the NRA withdrew their endorsement. The teflon bullet was made for one thing — to penetrate bul-
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
P������� 1. Keep the news clean and fair.
2. Play no favorites, never mix business and editorial policy. 3. Do not let the news columns reflect editorial comment. 4. Publish the news that is public property without fear or favor of friend or foe. 5. Accept no charity and ask no favors.
6. Give “value received” for every dollar you take in. 7. Make the paper show profit if you can, but above all keep it clean, fearless and fair.
ADVERTISE IN THE
The News-Press is delivered to every household and many businesses in the City of Falls Church (22046), and to many homes and businesses (but not all) in the adjacent 22041, 22042, 22043, 22044 and 22205 zip codes. Its total circulation of 15,000 per issue is greater than any other newspaper in the distribution area, including dailies. For complete advertising information, call us or check out our web site.
Call 532-3267 x2274 or visit www.FCNP.com
All original and some syndicated content is accessible via the Falls Church News-Press online site, www.FCNP.com. FCNP.com also includes photos, stories, ads and more not appearing in the print edition.
For information on online advertising, please contact Nick Gatz at 703-532-3267 or ngatz@fcnp.com. ONLINE
let proof vests. Who wears bullet proof vests? Policemen. Right off the bat I can think of at least three organizations guns affect in everyday life: The Fraternal Order of Police, The National Police Chiefs Association and many local police and sheriffs organizations. Assault weapons, bump stocks and large capacity magazines belong in the hands of either the police or the military. It is time for these organizations take their head out of the sand and to weigh in on the gun control issue. If you want to shoot ducks or deer in Virginia you are limited to three rounds in your weapon which I’m sure is applicable in many other states. I guess
ducks and deer mean more to legislators than people. William J. Dunn, Jr. Falls Church
Congress Needs to Reinstate Assault Weapons Ban Editor, As mayor of Rockville, Maryland in 1994, I served on a U.S. Conference of Mayors ad hoc committee whose purpose was to lobby Congress for a law banning assault weapons.
Letters Continued on Page 9
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
CO MME NT
G � � � � C � � � � � �� ��
MARCH 1 – 7, 2018 | PAGE 7
Preserve Our Future & the Lives of Our Children B� D���� A�������
Two weeks ago, my 14- year-old niece was murdered by a lunatic who abused the right to possess “arms.” Since then, my family and I have experienced many emotions. Today, I can admit I’m still in shock. I’m numb and still do not have words to describe how I’m feeling. Alyssa Alhadeff was truly an innocent soul and happy young teenager. Her passion was to be among others and make others shine in her presence. I learned even more about my niece in these past 12 days from listening to her friends and members of the community speak of their experiences with her. In her youthful years, Alyssa would run to greet me with a hug and kiss, along with an excited smile to see me. She laughed when I said, “Uncle David doesn’t do diapers.” In fact, she would intentionally run up to me to when her brother’s diapers needed changing just to get a laugh. As she got older, she would take great pleasure in jumping on top of me to wake me up. She loved spending time with me. As a pre-teen and teen, Alyssa would call me “lame,” with a smile on her face, when I made an attempt at humor. She still managed to find time to say hi, occasionally respond to my text when I sent messages. What impressed me even more is that she would never take money from me when
offered out of the blue. Great memories and great times. However, I’m forced to fast-forward to today, 12 days later as I’m filled with a void and worry about her parents, brothers, and grandparents, and uncles, and cousins.
“Our children have become casualties of personal greed, rather than at the forefront of protection.” None of us will have the opportunity to watch Alyssa continually blossom throughout her teen years into her adult life. As we move forward, I’m saddened but encouraged by the great strength of her parents and all of the surviving youth who are proudly exercising their first amendment right to speak out and stand up for their future. Their protests and voices are nonviolent and potent. Their words are spoken eloquently and with such power. With their great resolve, the world is finally listening. One of the 10 commandments states, “Thou shall not kill.” No matter the faith,
the commandment is constant. When the U.S. constitution was written, the “right to bear arms” was not developed for acts of senseless murder. It was developed in a barbaric time when people needed to defend themselves. Key words, “Barbaric Times”. Even with these atrocities in today’s world, i.e. Columbine, Sandy Hook, Pulse Night Club, Marjory Stoneman Douglass High School, the “right to bear arms” was exploited and used as a sick method of destruction, not “defense.” Hatred and mental illness were at the core of the destruction. In each instance, our laws and government chose to fail our society rather than protect it. Our children have become casualties of personal greed, rather than at the forefront of protection. Rifles, machine guns, grenades, etc. serve no purpose other than to cause hurt. Shakespeare said it the best, “Words speak like daggers to thine own heart.” We do not need guns and weapons to defend ourselves. We have our words and mouths! That brings me to the next point. Metal detectors in schools is a bandaid to the problem and not a solution. So long as people have access to these weapons of mass destruction, there will always be ways to get past the detectors. The issue is the elimination of guns, not metal detectors. So let’s say we do put metal detectors in our schools, what message are we sending
our children? If Trump has it his way, we would have teachers receiving incentive pay to have a gun in their classrooms. So does that mean we, the teachers, are the armed guards and the students are our prisoners? Why not just say, let every psychopath have a free pass by not having to carry anything since we are making it more accessible for them to use our schools as a firing range. Do you think for one minute that if a student or teacher becomes frightened for any reason that they wouldn’t reach for the “power” of the gun to gain control over one another? That’s preposterous! Mr. Trump, you have a young son. Would you want people gaining access to a weapon that could endanger the survival of your flesh and blood? Think for a second and do not speak! The NRA is not a modernistic organization but rather, a prehistoric institution that fosters the notion of the “survival of the fittest.” In maintaining your principals, you are not even giving our children a chance to become “the fittest.” You are choosing to eradicate your own offspring’s survival and legacy. With all this said, I urge every person who wants to preserve our future and the lives of our children and our children’s children, to speak up, march at the rallies, and cut your financial ties with the NRA until change can be affected. Get up and vote out the ineffective leaders who are destroying the lives of our children!
Q������� �� ��� W��� Should Falls Church’s West End project allow for 15-story buildings? • Yes • No
Last Week’s Question:
Do you think added transparency will improve Falls Church’s West End project?
• Not sure
Log on to www.FCNP.com to cast your vote FCNP On-Line polls are surveys, not scientific polls.
[WRITE FOR THE PRESS] The News-Press welcomes readers to send in submissions in the form of Letters to the
Editor & Guest Commentaries. Letters to the Editor should be no more than 350 words and writers are limited to one appearance every four weeks. Guest Commentaries should be no more than 800 words and writers are limited to one appearance every four months. Because of space constraints, not all submissions will be published. All submissions to the News-Press should be original, unpublished content. We reserve the right to edit submissions for length, grammar and accuracy. All submissions should include writer’s name, address, phone and e-mail address if available.
Email: letters@fcnp.com | Mail: Letters to the Editor, Falls Church News-Press, 200 Little Falls St., #508, Falls Church 22046 | Fax: 703.340.0347
LO CA L
PAGE 8 | MARCH 1 – 7, 2018
the
presents
6th Annual
F� � � � C � � � � �
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
NEWS BRIEFS No Metal Detectors at Schools, Noonan Says In light of the latest mass killing at a high school in Florida on Feb. 14, Falls Church School Superintendent Peter Noonan issued a lengthy document on safety measures published in full by the Falls Church News-Press online, and at a public forum this Sunday, Noonan reiterated his opposition to the use of metal detectors at entrances to City schools on grounds that to the extent they make students uneasy about their security, the harder it is for them to learn. There is a trained school resources officer on site, video cameras and other safety measures he said he was not at liberty to talk about, he said.
F.C. Council OKs Moving on Route 7 Transit Plan
Little City. Big Eats. FCRestaurantWeek.com
The Falls Church City Council approved the allocation of $23,000 for the City’s participation in Phase 3 of the Northern Virginia Transportation Commission’s Envision Route 7 engineering study aimed at implementing a “Bus Rapid Transit” system along Route 7 from the Mark Center in Alexandria to the Spring Hill Metro station in Western Tysons. The plan is to implement a system of frequently-running buses along the route (with no dedicated lanes in F.C.) with station placing farther apart and only off-board fare collection to speed up the trips. F.C.’s $23,000 portion for this phase is part of $150,000 total dedicated from F.C., Arlington, Fairfax County and Alexandria. The plan is for the route to deviate off Route 7 to stop at the East Falls Church Metro, and Phase III will include a study of the feasibility of the route also deviating to stop at the West Falls Church Metro station.
Hit & Run Leaves F.C. Mother & Daughter Injured A Falls Church mother and her 12-year-old daughter were injured on Feb. 24 after being hit by a car that’s believed to be a dark blue newer model Mercedes as they crossed Columbia Pike near Tyler St. shortly before 10 p.m. The driver did not stop or return to the scene. Car parts found at the scene of the crash include a side view mirror from the passenger side of a Mercedes sedan and the lower front grille. After consultation with representatives from Mercedes, it was determined the vehicle is likely a dark blue C-class sedan manufactured between 2012 and 2015. Detectives are asking anyone with information about the crash, car or driver involved to call 703-280-0543. They are also asking staff at auto body shops to be on the lookout for any customers bringing in similar Mercedes sedans for repair.
20% Fund Balance Reserve Policy Approved
47 days to Tax Day! Do you own your home? Don’t forget you can still deduct your mortgage interest this year!
In the contest of the City of Falls Church’s decision to incur considerable new debt to pay for construction of a new high school and the renovation and expansion of its City Hall and Mary Riley Styles Public Library and more, the Falls Church City Council Monday night voted in unanimous agreement with the recommendation of its Davenport consultants to shift its fund balance reserve policy from a range of 12 to 17 percent of an annual operating budget to 15 to 20 percent. The move will better insulate the City from the impact of its borrowing for the work and will appease the concerns of the City’s New York bond rating agencies. City Manager Wyatt Shields said the shift will not require any tax rate increase, in itself.
Non-Profit Gets Funding for Miller House Project Community Residences, Inc., an Arlington non-profit that was conveyed the formerlyCity of Falls Church-owned Miller House on N. Washington St. to meet the needs of lowincome individuals with developmental difficulties, announced Tuesday that they’ve been chosen to receive a portion of $6.5 million in affordable and special housing needs loans authorized by Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam last week for its Miller House project.
7th Seat on F.C. Planning Commission Filled
Certified Public Accountants (703) 241-8807
125 Rowell Ct, Falls Church
Former Falls Church Planning Commissioner Rob Puentes, who was an active member of the commission until a decade ago when work commitments forced him to leave it, was appointed back onto the commission by the City Council Monday night, filling a single seat on the seven-member body that had remained vacant. Other appointments made Monday were Kim Hicks to the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board, Keith Bartlett to the Board of Zoning Appeals, Chris McCloud, Jon Ward and Cory Firestone Weiss to the Environmental Sustainability Council, William Ackerman to the Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation and Alisa Macht to the Human Services Advisory Council.
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
N���-P����
TO LETTERS THE EDITOR Continued from Page 6 Fortunately, Congress passed a law to ban these weapons and the bill was signed by President Clinton in late 1994. Unfortunately, the bill contained a 10-year sunset clause that President Bush and the Republican Congress let expire. Congress needs to reinstate this assault weapons ban again without hesitation. The majority of U.S. citizens is demanding this action. Jim Coyle Falls Church
Teachers Should Be Honored, Not Armed Editor, The Washington Capitals, as is the custom these day at professional sports venues, honors at each home game a person on active duty in the military. While I appreciate the service of the individual being so honored, I also feel a tinge of regret that the extended standing ovation is what passes for patriotism these days. Given all the news and noise about school shootings, might I suggest to the Caps that every fifth game, or so, that a teacher from the local area be honored? Most teachers toil at low pay relative to other professions, and with nothing more expected in return than the satisfaction of helping to develop an educated and responsible citizenry. And it seems that increasingly they too are randomly put in harm’s way — far more often than they should be. Teachers should be honored, not armed. And yes, Bob Costas used his much bigger stage to recently suggest much the same — good idea Mr. Costas. Thomas Irvine Falls Church
Assault Weapons Not to Blame in School Shootings Editor, Regarding your editorial last week, the fact is that these are not assault weapons. This is a simple .223 caliber rifle with a clip. Assault weapons are already banned. If you preach the Gospel like you promote your political stanc-
es, then you are getting the Gospel wrong. Let me help you, one born again believer to another — these rifles look like something that G.I. Joe would carry. They are not. While we are at it, the Constitution promises us God given rights. When you decide that you are He, things will become blurry. I believe (and the Bible reinforces) that a practicing Christian cannot be a Democrat, due to the platform of open borders, abortion, same-sex marriage, socialist philosophy, gender stance, etc. When we start embracing any of those, we’ve crossed the line into the grey, the fog and it will be difficult to find our way back. My heart aches for all involved in Parkland, but Christians can’t cower to the leftist mentality. We have to preach the Gospel, use the Word, the Name and the blood, take authority over satan and His cohorts and reclaim our youth from the enemy. Thomas Usry Via the Internet
[ LETTERS ]
Talk To Us The News-Press wants to hear from you! Send us a letter or commentary and let us know what you think. The deadline for Letters to the Editor and Guest Commentaries is 5 p.m. Monday each week of publication. Letters to the Editor should be 350 words or less. Guest Commentaries should be limited to 800 words. All letters printed in the News-Press become property of the Falls Church NewsPress and may be edited for clarity and length.
Email letters@fcnp.com
Mail or drop off Letters to the Editor, c/o Falls Church News-Press, 200 Little Falls St. #508, Falls Church, VA 22046 Include full name, address and telephone number with each submission. Anonymous submissions will not be printed.
Editor,
LE TTE RS
MARCH 1 – 7, 2018 | PAGE 9
Visit us on Facebook for upcoming event details!
CAREGIVER CONNECT A Monthly Gathering for Caregivers at e Kensington
A
t e Kensington, we understand that caregiving for someone with
dementia is a demanding responsibility. We also believe it is one you should not undertake alone. at’s why we strive to preserve your well-being by helping you stay positive, manage fatigue and make the most of moments as your loved one’s memory changes.
Join us on the first Wednesday of each month to share time connecting with other caregivers and discussing common challenges. Guest facilitators offer information, advice and support in a welcoming, private setting. Dr. Aleksandra (Anya) Parpura, an expert in aging and dementia, leads our Caregiver Connect program and brings to us vast knowledge, helpful tips and a kind heart.
The first Wednesday of each month from 6:30-8:00pm March 7 & April 4 • Refreshments • RSVP to (703) 992-9868
(703) 992-9868 700 West Broad Street, Falls Church, VA 22046 www.TheKensingtonFallsChurch.com Kensington Park, another Kensington community located nearby in Kensington, MD
LO CA L
PAGE 10 | MARCH 1 - 7, 2018
News-Press
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Community News & Notes ‘American Pickers’ Returns To Falls Church this Spring Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz from the History Channel TV show, “American Pickers,” are returning to Virginia this spring to film for the show’s upcoming season. They plan to film episodes of the hit series throughout all parts of Virginia, including Falls Church. “American Pickers” is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique ‘picking’ on History. The show follows Wolfe and Fritz, two of the most skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable antiques. The pair are always eager to find sizeable, unique collections or accumulations and learn the interesting stories behind them.
As they hit the back roads from coast to coast, Wolfe and Fritz are on a mission to recycle and rescue forgotten relics. Along the way, the Pickers want to meet characters with remarkable and exceptional items. The pair hopes to give historically significant objects a new lease on life, while learning a thing or two about America’s past along the way. Wolfe and Fritz have seen a lot of rusty gold over the years and are always looking to discover something they’ve never seen before. They are ready to find extraordinary items and hear fascinating tales about them. “American Pickers” is looking for leads and would love to explore your hidden treasure. If you or someone you know has a large, private collection or accumulation of antiques that
the Pickers can spend the better part of the day looking through, send your name, phone number, location and description of the collection with photos to americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 855-OLD-RUST.
Swing Dance Group to Appear at FIRSTfriday Swing trio, Tradin’ Eights, will be performing at Art and Frame of Falls Church (205 W. Jefferson St., Falls Church) on Friday, March 2 from 6 – 8 p.m. as part of Falls Church’s FIRSTfriday celebration. The frame shop always provides a solid atmosphere for FIRSTfriday with free food, music, new art every month and even some dancing, so residents are encouraged to attend.
Charles Alexander “Charlie” Shapiro was born Feb.16 at 4:44p.m., weighing in at 7lbs.12oz. and taking the world by storm. Big brother Jacob, who just turned two, is thrilled with “my baby.” Mama Kristin Shapiro is doing great and is also glad that Charlie has already one-upped his bro by only causing 15 hours of labor rather than 21. (Photo: News-Press)
Holy Trinity Youth Bring Italian Cuisine to Church The youth of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (3022 Woodlawn Ave., Falls Church) invite interested residents to join the congregation from 4 – 7 p.m. on Saturday, March 10 as parishioners transform the church’s very own fellowship hall into the warmth of an Italian restaurant. Attendees can spend time with friends and family as Holy Trinity serves up a meal of spaghetti with meatballs, bread, salad, dessert and drinks. A freewill offering will be received with all proceeds supporting our service and learning trip to this summer’s National Youth Gathering in Houston, Texas. For more information, visit holytrinityfallsch-
urch.org or facebook.com/ HolyTrinityFallsChurch. Contact the church at 703-532-6617 or office@holytrinityfallschurch. org with any questions.
Spring Mah Jongg Lessons At Temple Rodef Shalom A three-session Mah Jongg class for beginners is now being offered by the Women of Temple Rodef Shalom (2100 Westmoreland St., Falls Church). Interested attendees are asked not to register unless you are prepared to play at least once a week during the first few months. Enrollment is limited, so register now and plan to attend all three sessions, which will take place on successive Mondays — March 5, 12 and 19 from 1 – 4 p.m. Cost for 9 hours of lessons with
THE ROAD RUNNERS from a local basketball recreation league of eighth and ninth graders went 17-0 en route to claiming top prize this season. Congratualtions to Daniel, Pat, Victor, Jayden, Ahmed, Kobe, Jason and Clayton for their hard work this season. (Photo: John McCowan)
Send Us Your News & Notes!
The News-Press is always on the lookout for photos & items for Community News & Notes, School News & Notes and other sections of the paper. If you graduate, get married, get engaged, get an award, start a club, eat a club, tie your shoes, have a birthday, have a party, host an event or anything else you think is worth being mentioned in the News-Press, write it up and send it to us! If you have a photo, even better! Because of the amount of submissions we receive, we cannot guarantee all submissions will be published, but we’ll try our best!
Community News & Notes: newsandnotes@fcnp.com | School News & Notes: schoolnews@fcnp.com Mail: News & Notes, Falls Church News-Press, 200 Little Falls St. #508, Falls Church, VA 22046
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
LO CA L
MEMBERS OF GIRL SCOUT TROOP 711 and Falls Church City Public Schools’ largest class ever, set to graduate in 2026, are current fourth graders from Thomas Jefferson Elementary that came together to work on the Musician Badge and unwittingly formed the Little City’s �irst ever youth symphonic orchestra. With guest conductor Keera Huron, fourth grade band director, they learned what it takes to compose music and keep rhythm. (P����: C������� R����� W������) your Mah Jongg card is $85. To register, send a check payable to Women of Temple Rodef Shalom to Marion Jacknow — 8110 Timber Valley Ct., Dunn Loring, VA 22027. Interested attendees are asked to include your e-mail address, home address and your telephone number. Your check is your registration. For more information, contact Marion Jacknow at 703-698-8702 or mjacknow@aol.com.
Teen Book Festival Comes to Arlington Next Weekend This year, 40 young adult authors will take part in the 5th Annual NoVa Teen Book Festival to be held at WashingtonLee High School (1301 N Stafford St., Arlington) on March 10 from 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Over 650 young adult readers attended last year’s festival which included author panels, games and break-out sessions. The festival is co-hosted with Arlington Public Library, Fairfax County Public Library, George Mason University’s Fall for the Book, Arlington County Public Schools, Loudoun County Public Library and other area public library and school systems. Admission is free and Washington-Lee High School is within walking distance of two Orange/Silver line metro stops. On the day before the event, authors fan out to visit 21 local high schools. Festival organizers
strive to have a diverse line up and are pleased to announce that Anna-Marie McLemore, author of William C. Morris Debut Award Finalist “The Weight of Feathers,” Stonewall Honor Book “When the Moon Was Ours” and most recently, “Wild Beauty,” is this year’s keynote speaker.
Women’s Association Holds Book Drive during March The Falls Church Area American Association of University Women, AAUW, is collecting books in March at the book collection bin at the Falls Church Community Center (223 Little Falls Street, Falls Church). Books are for the annual book sale to be held on April 13 and 14 at the Falls Church Community Center. The book sale benefits scholarship/grant programs for women, including local Falls Church high school girls. Interested donors can easily deposit your good, clean, saleable books in the book collection bin at the Falls Church Community Center any time in March or contact (703) 941-5643, gjewell@ cox.net for larger donations.
Speech Contest at Tonight’s F.C. Rotary Club Meeting Local high school students will compete in the annual Rotary speech contest at tonight’s Falls Church Rotary Club dinner
meeting at the Harvest Moon Restaurant (7260 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church) at 6:30 p.m. This year’s topic is “Rotary Making a Difference.” Dinner costs $15 and visitors are welcome. The Rotary Club of Falls Church is celebrating 66 years of community “Service Above Self” in 2018 and meets the first and third Thursday at the Harvest Moon Restaurant at its regularly scheduled time. For more information, visit FallsChurchRotary. org.
Memorial Day Parade Application Now Available Applications for participants in the City of Falls Church’s 37th Annual Memorial Day Parade & Festival are now available. Deadline for applications is Friday, March 16. Those able to apply include bands, floats, military groups, classic and antique vehicles as well as civic associations. The Falls Church Recreation and Parks Department reserves the right to decide on categories offered, limit the number of participants in each category, edit parade entries for content and length and prohibit groups that are not appropriate for a family audience. Submission of an application does not guarantee acceptance. To acquire an application, contact Chris Madison at cmadison@ fallschurchva.gov.
MARCH 1 - 7, 2018 | PAGE 11
You Own 20 Pairs Of Shoes And Only 1 Pair Of Glasses?
WHAT DO PEOPLE LOOK AT FIRST, YOUR FEET OR
YOUR FACE?
Get expert vision care solutions, plus shop hundreds of fashion frames from your favorite designers! If it’s been a while since you updated your eyeglasses, you may be surprised by how much your vision needs have changed. Come in today for an exam, and see if it’s time for a new lens prescription. Fashionable Eyewear For All Budgets
Eye Exams By Independent Doctor of Optometry, Dr. Peter Ellis
701 W. Broad St. (Rte 7) Falls Church VA
703-237-6500
www.pointofvieweyewear.com
CO MME NT
PAGE 12 | MARCH 1 – 7, 2018
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
A Penny for Your Thoughts
Senator Dick Saslaw’s
News of Greater Falls Church By Supervisor Penny Gross
The release, last week, of Fairfax County’s proposed FY 2019 budget, provided a high level view of important priorities for the county – funding the School Board’s transfer request and fully funding employee compensation at the 2.25 percent Market Rate Adjustment (MRA), only the third time in 10 years that the compensation program has been fully funded. Looking beyond schools and employee pay, however, there is much more in the budget to consider. My columns during the next couple of months will drill down on where the revenue comes from, where it goes, and some of the lesser-known intricacies of the budget. Most will agree that Fairfax County is a great place to live, work, learn, play, and worship, but there are persistent disparities observed in many areas — employment, income, wealth, and education. High-paying defense contractor jobs, lost to federal cutbacks during the past few years, are being replaced by lower-paying hospitality sector jobs. While the county’s unemployment rate remains low, that loss of buying power is felt in reduced sales tax revenue, fewer automobile purchases, and home prices. In nearly all comparisons, Fairfax County is identified as one of the wealthiest counties in the nation, but that standing is based on household income, and Fairfax County does not access income. Fairfax County receives back in services and revenue less than a quarter (25 cents) for every dollar sent to Washington or Richmond. In fact, Fairfax County must fund a much larger portion of its school budget with local funds, because of the state’s methodology for allocating state funds to school divisions. In Virginia, local revenues are based on the value of real property, a tax structure essentially unchanged
Richmond Report
since Thomas Jefferson was Governor of Virginia. Without diversification of revenue streams, most county services are supported solely by real estate taxes. Federal and state revenues to the county amount to only 3.1 percent of the total budget, whereas real estate taxes are 65.3 percent of the total. Personal property taxes (car tax) contribute 14.5 percent of total revenues, and the remaining revenues (17 percent) come from sales and business taxes, fees, and court fines. Despite the County Executive’s recommendation for a 2.5-cent increase in the real property tax rate, several important items are not funded, and capital paydown (infrastructure replacements and upgrades) and county information technology projects are not recommended for an increase in this year’s budget. Reorganization of some county departments also will save money. The Board of Supervisors identify additional savings as we review the proposed budget and make adjustments before adopting a balanced budget on May 1. The Board’s budget committee meetings may be viewed live on cable Channel 16; check the county’s website (www.fairfaxcounty.gov) for the schedule of meetings. Public hearings about the proposed budget will be held on April 10, 11, and 12, at the Board Auditorium, 12000 Government Center Parkway in Fairfax. Hearings also are televised on Channel 16. The Mason District Budget Town Meeting will be held on Thursday, March 15, at 7 p.m. at the Mason District Governmental Center, 6507 Columbia Pike in Annandale. S:11.5”
Penny Gross is the Mason District Supervisor, in the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. She may be emailed at mason@fairfaxcounty.gov.
S:10.5”
Photo: Grant Delin
If you always store your firearm safely, no curious kids will put their fingers on it. And no gun will accidentally fire. Which means no screams of pain will be heard. And no 911 calls will be made. And no scars will be left. So please, always remember to keep your firearm stored safely. Visit ncpc.org to determine the best firearms safety solution for you.
NATIONAL CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL
200 Varick St. New York, NY 10014 : Phone 212-805-7500
ADC_SGS_731214_B
Client: AD COUNCIL
WO: Ad Council-Safe Firearm Storage scar face (1/2pg. Newspaper)
PATH: M.P_MECHANICALS:Volumes:M.P_MECHANICALS:Ad Council:ADC:SGS:731214:ADC_SGS_731214_B
SPECS L/S: None DOC SIZE: 11.5” x 10.5” B: None G: None
TEAM Creative: Andy Hirsch None Acct: None Prod/Traf: None Lynn Mathis Studio: Kevin Tinsley
MEDIA / PRINT INFO Pubs: None Media: Newsprint Line Screen: None Printed: 1-13-2014 5:37 PM @ None
COLORS Cyan Magenta Yellow Black
FONTS Helvetica Neue
IMAGES ADC_HalfPG_bkgd_Kn_300.tif (Gray; 100%; 300 ppi; SuperStudio:ART:MNH:AdCouncil:Lock Your Guns:ADC_HalfPG_bkgd_Kn_300.tif) ADC_LockGuns_Shot03_0848_Kn_200_EXT.tif (Gray; 58.97%; 339 ppi; SuperStudio:ART:MNH:AdCouncil:Lock Your Guns:ADC_LockGuns_Shot03_0848_Kn_200_EXT.tif) BJA2009_blue.eps (35.18%; SuperStudio:Logos:Ad Council:FirearmsSafety_Logos:BJA2009_blue.eps) NCPC_logo_horiz.eps (42.4%; SuperStudio:Logos:Ad Council:FirearmsSafety_Logos:NCPC_logo_horiz.eps) AClogo_blue.ai (19.39%; SuperStudio:Logos:Ad Council:FirearmsSafety_Logos:AClogo_blue.ai)
65 Medium, 45 Light
We are in the final stretch of the 2018 General Assembly Session. All attention has turned to Virginia’s next biennial spending plan. We have had an intense six weeks of prepping an amended budget, taking into consideration hundreds of hours of testimony to get here. The Senate Budget as presented has an approximately $650 million difference from the budget presented by the House of Delegates. The Senate Republicans call it a chasm with the House of Delegates — I call it a missed opportunity. “60 Minutes” has aired a segment on the lack of healthcare in rural America. It is not only a disgrace but also embarrassing that some Virginians’ sole means of healthcare is an annual trip to the Remote Area Medical clinic. This is not a complete picture of affordability and access to healthcare in the Commonwealth. There are other Virginians, maybe even friends or neighbors who are one catastrophic illness away from bankruptcy. Illness does not discriminate. Nor does the cost of a cancer diagnosis or a chronic disease such as diabetes. The House proposal would draw down approximately $2.5 billion per year over the biennium to expand coverage to over 300,000+ Virginians. These individuals earn no more than 138 percent of the federal poverty level — which equates to less than $17,000. Expanded coverage would provide some relief for emergency room care provided by our hospital systems. For example, a single parent, home-healthcare giver earning $11/hour would qualify for Medicaid coverage. These are working people — also known as the working poor. The novelty of a work requirement is not an insurmountable hurdle to overcome. The House proposal includes funding for Training, Education, Employment and Opportunity Program that eligible Medicaid recipients would qualify for. Exemptions include children under the age of 18 or individuals 19 years old but enrolled in secondary education; individuals age 55+; individuals qualifying for medical assistance due to blindness or disability; individuals residing in institutions as well as individuals determined to be medically frail. Pregnant and recently postpartum women are also exempt. Rejecting billions of federal
dollars is a simple act with collateral damage reverberating throughout the Commonwealth. In the absence of the federal funding to relieve stress on Virginia’s existing obligations for its elderly, indigent, and vulnerable citizens, other elements of the budget plan have taken their hit. Those include pay raises for public employees (including teachers). Insufficient funding for our public colleges and universities leaves them nowhere to go but towards tuition increases. It troubles me greatly that the Senate budget has called for cutting $32 million out of higher education, including cutting new funding for student financial aid by half. I voted for the Senate budget to get it in conference where the real work will begin before we close out the legislative session. The bottom line: the time has come for Virginia to come to grips with providing access to healthcare for our most vulnerable citizens, if not for humanitarian reasons, certainly it reflects on the philosophy as stewards of public funds. The 35th Senate District is a very engaged citizenry. For years it has sounded the call to action on gun violence prevention. I applaud the many who came out to the Moms Demand Action vigil in Falls Church recently. The response from the Republican majority both nationally and in the Commonwealth is “thoughts and prayers are with you” but no action to end the slaughter of American children. I also applaud those who have visited the Capitol for advocacy. Thanks to the chokehold of the NRA on Congress, military assault weapons can and are purchased by civilians every day. The U.S. is 4.6 percent of the world’s population but we are home to 43 percent of all guns not currently held by the military or police. With a slim Republican majority in both Chambers, SB 1 (a bill to ban the insidious bump stock) was defeated along party lines. The time is coming when Washington and Richmond must address this carnage in the country. I believe if we don’t hear the message of a nation in mourning on an all too routine basis, the voters will do something. And I would encourage that passion at the ballot box come 2019 in the Commonwealth. Senator Saslaw represents the 35th District in the Virginia State Senate. He may be emailed at district35@senate.virginia.gov.
CO MME NT
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
YO U DON T H AV E T O BE SO STRONG BUT IF I’M NOT, WHO WILL?
Being a caregiver takes a special kind of commitment. We know your strength is super, but you’re still human.
A A R P. O R G / C A R E G I V I N G 1 - 8 7 7 - 3 3 3 - 5 8 8 5
F I N D S U P P O R T F O R Y O U R S T R E N G T H.
Our Man in Arlington By Charlie Clark
Arlingtonions of a certain age spent their childhoods nickel and diming. Sucrose memories of Robertson’s 5 & 10 Cent store, which greeted kids aged 1-92 for decades near Lee Highway and N. Glebe Rd., came to me from scattered friends. Imprinted joys of wax lips, Lik-M-Aid, atomic fireballs, model cars and surly elderly sales ladies on the prowl for shoplifters in the grittier 1950s and ‘60s. Robertson’s at 2113 N. Buchanan St. (now Bill’s True Value Hardware) was part of a six-store empire launched in 1935 by Falls Church resident William Robertson. When he died in 1987, his obituary recalled his claim: “We always say to customers that if you can’t find it anywhere, you can find it at Robertson’s.” Today, you can spot the outline of his “5 and 10” sign on the chimney and its original aluminum lettering inside the hardware store run since 1988 by Bill Ploskina. Robertson’s in the 1950s was at 4447 Lee Highway (later a topless bar, now Hunan Village restaurant) before moving next door. Robertson owned several surrounding stores. “I remember the dazzling array of candy inside on the right and narrow isles crowded with goodies,” said Jane. “I still have a collection of china and pottery knick knacks” from Robertson’s.
Bob “had a pack-a-day candy cigarette habit at Robertson’s.” The store “was a gateway drug and led me down a path to lifelong sugar addiction,” said Chris, recalling her “first foray into pet ownership” at the store when she purchased “four goldfish, a bowl, blue gravel and a ceramic castle.” A future professional singer, Chris also bought her first 45 rpm record at Robertson’s – the Chiffons’ “One Fine Day” b/w “He’s So Fine.” Suze can still remember the store layout. “The mothballs were on the far right as you walked in.” Jean said she and her mom took sewing lessons in the basement. Dave gorged on “root beer barrels and candy dots on sheets,” while taking home lariats, balsa wood gliders and paper kites. The store with a wood floor had a “musty smell of things that had lingered on the shelves for years.” John came to Robertson’s for wax-pop-bottle candy, gum and “cap rolls for our guns. It was the first store I could go to on my own,” he said. “We couldn’t understand why some things cost more than 10 cents.” Linda, as an employee there in high school, recalls Lynda Bird Johnson buying Carter’s baby clothes. “I remember working with a woman who lived across Lee Highway. She barely had enough money to have lunch.” Nearby neighbor Mary, who went to Robertson’s for licorice
C i t y o f Fa l l s C h u r c h
CRIME REPORT Week of Feb. 19 – 25, 2018
20, an incident of identity theft was reported.
Hit and Run, Hillwood Ave/S Washington St, Feb 19, 6:15 AM, a vehicle traveling through the intersection was struck by another vehicle which left the scene.
Smoking Violations, 6757 Wilson Blvd, #16 (Eden Center), Feb 21, 12:07 AM, a male, 35, of Centreville, VA, was issued a summons for smoking in a restaurant.
Identity Theft, 301 W Broad St (West Broad Residences), Feb
Celebrate the diversity that makes America, America. Add your photo to the true portrait of America at lovehasnolabels.com
Larceny from Vehicle, 100 blk
MARCH 1 – 7, 2018 | PAGE 13 mustaches, Pixie Sticks and Life Savers, recalled a woman in charge named Birdie. “She had dark hair and glasses and was built like a fire hydrant, and she had a pretty good eye on all us kids.” Mary and Judy confessed to childhood shoplifting. “I went there fully intending to spend my hard-earned allowance (25 whole cents!) on penny candy,” Judy wrote. “But I got so distracted trying to figure what to get, I somehow I came away with an extra piece of candy.” After agonizing, she returned and “discretely dropped a penny in one of the candy boxes, hoping I would not be taken to jail. It was a whole week until I had the nerve to go back again.” *** Seven years ago, the county blessed a vision of new “transitown” development of stores, greenery and new pedestrian access around the East Falls Church Metro. But that utilitarian commuter site is largely unchanged. The only projects in the works are two passels of new homes off Lee Highway at Underwood St., and another on Sycamore at I-66. “We are not currently reviewing any other development applications in East Falls Church,” I’m told by county planning staffer Jessica Margarit. But that plan and policy guidance are “still valid,” and its component of creating a western entrance to the Metro remains in the capital improvement plan.
E Columbia St, between 8 PM Feb 20 and 7:50 AM Feb 21, items of value were taken from an unlocked vehicle. Larceny from Vehicle, 1125 W Broad St (Beyer KIA), between Jan 21 and Feb 22, license plates were removed from a vehicle left for repair. Drug Offenses, 306 Hillwood Ave (Lesly’s Bar and Grill), Feb 23, 02:08 AM, a male, 35, of no fixed address, was arrested for Felony Possession of Cocaine, Defrauding an Innkeeper, and Drunk in Public. Destruction of Property, 308 S Washington St (Ramen Factory 42 parking lot), Feb 23, between 7:20 and 8:45 PM, a vehicle was keyed. OTHER INFORMATION Two of the three vehicles stolen last week have been recovered; one in the District of Columbia and one in Alexandria, VA. Investigation continues.
PAGE 14 | MARCH 1 – 7, 2018
NATI O NA L
Trump & Mueller Vie For America’s Soul
A singularly unique late night exchange occurred on Don Lemon’s watch on CNN Tuesday night, when Max Boot of the Council on Foreign Relations, author of a column in Sunday’s Washington Post entitled, “Trump Vs. Mueller is a Battle for America’s Soul,” squared off with Mike Shields, a Republican National Committee hack. CNN has had more than a few of these highly watchable late night moments recently, including one on the Anderson Cooper hour when author Tom Friedman went ballistic in his criticism of President Trump’s avoidance of the Russian election meddling issue. In addition to saying that Trump should be on national TV announcing a grave national crisis represented by what Russia did in 2016 and has underway for the 2018 U.S. midterm elections, FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS he said very aggressive retaliatory measures should be undertaken against the Russians, things akin to saying, “Hey, how do you like this fire, scarecrow? That very “Friends of Dorothy” moment, an allusion of course to the bad witch’s threat in The Wizard of Oz, raised more than a few eyebrows, perhaps in deference to a singe. But in the case of the Boot-Shields exchange, Boot juxtaposed the life, culture and personalities of Trump and Special Counsel Robert Mueller, with similar circumstances in their youths but who went in very different directions growing up. “The war between the two men is not just a struggle over the fate of this presidency. It is a battle for the soul of America,” he wrote. “Mueller embodies the ideals of probity, service and self-sacrifice that trace back to the Pilgrims,” he wrote, then went on, “Trump is Mueller’s opposite in every meaningful respect,” saying he “combines the hedonism of the 1970s with the bigotry and sexism of the 1950s, the worst of both worlds...a product of the ‘me decade,’ Trump is a ‘me first’ – not ‘America first’ – president.” “Mueller is the best of America; Trump the worst. All you need to know about the diseased state of today’s Republican Party is that it reviles Mueller and reveres Trump,” he concluded. He shared these views on Don Lemon’s show, to which Shields retorted with the current GOP position, defending Trump because, he said, he’s brought a tax reform that allegedly helps people, and all Americans care about is the size of their paycheck. (He might have clarified that he was referring to all the richest Americans). He ridiculed Boot for saying nothing of “substance,” nothing that speaks to practical policy. As such, he embodied the pathetic, soulless decay of principles that is what’s become of the tired, old, white, despicable Republican majority in Congress, the Republicans who will do nothing, once again, of substance on gun control in the wake of the latest mass slaughter of our nation’s youth at a Florida high school. His vapid shallowness was in stark contrast to the moral suasion brought by Boot, and was completely oblivious to the ground that is moving right under his feet. In his column this week entitled, “The Force of Decency Awakens,” Paul Krugman has been more perceptive, identifying “a powerful upwelling of decency” in the wake of the indecent Trump regime. Citing the mass women’s marches just after the Inauguration last year, the “MeToo” movement against the sexual abuse of women and most recently the unprecedented surge among American youth in the wake of the Parkland killings, as part of one and the same movement. “It’s not just about ideology, but that far too much power rests in the hands of men who are simply bad people,” he wrote. Back in school a week after the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting took the lives of 17, students remain strident and uncompromising in their opposition to the NRA, its defense of assault weapons and a president whose “solution” is more, not less, guns. On CNN, Junior Alfonso Calderon called the NRA “toxic, vile and not in support of the right to live.” The NRA has turned an entire generation against it, and the same goes for all in the GOP who remain beholden to the NRA. But, behold, three to five million youth will turn 18, old enough to vote, this year alone.
Nicholas F. Benton
Nicholas Benton may be emailed at nfbenton@fcnp.com.
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
The Force of Decency Has Awakened
A funny thing is happening on the American scene: a powerful upwelling of decency. Suddenly, it seems as if the worst lack all conviction, while the best are filled with a passionate intensity. We don’t yet know whether this will translate into political change. But we may be in the midst of a transformative moment. You can see the abrupt turn toward decency in the rise of the #MeToo movement; in a matter of months ground that had seemed immovable shifted, and powerful sexual predators started facing career-ending consequences. You can see it in the reactions to the Parkland school massacre. For now, at least, the usual reaction to mass killings — a day or two of headlines, then a sort of collective shrug by the political class and a return to its normal obeisance to the gun lobby — isn’t playing out. Instead, the story is staying at the top of NEW YORK TIMES NEWS SERVICE the news, and associating with the NRA is starting to look like the political and business poison it should have been all along. And I’d argue that you can see it at the ballot box, where hard-right politicians in usually reliable Republican districts keep being defeated thanks to surging activism by ordinary citizens. This isn’t what anyone, certainly not the political commentariat, expected. After the 2016 election many in the news media seemed all too ready to assume that Trumpism represented the real America, even though Hillary Clinton had won the popular vote and — Russian intervention and the Comey letter aside — would surely have won the electoral vote, too, but for the Big Sneer, the derisive tone adopted by countless reporters and pundits. There have been hundreds if not thousands of stories about grizzled Trump supporters sitting in diners, purportedly showing the out-of-touchness of our cultural elite. Even the huge anti-Trump demonstrations just after Inauguration Day didn’t seem to move the conventional wisdom. But those pink pussy hats may have represented the beginning of real social and political change. Political scientists have a term and a theory for what we’re seeing on #MeToo, guns and perhaps more: “regime change cascades.” Here’s how it works: When people see the status quo as immovable, they tend to be passive even if they are themselves dissatisfied. Indeed, they may be unwilling to reveal their discontent, or to fully admit it to themselves. But once they see others visibly taking a stand, they both gain more confidence in their dissent and become more willing to act on it — and
Paul Krugman
by their actions they may induce the same response in others, causing a kind of chain reaction. Such cascades explain how huge political upheavals can quickly emerge, seemingly out of nowhere. Examples include the revolutions that swept Europe in 1848, the sudden collapse of communism in 1989 and the Arab Spring of 2011. Now, nothing says that such cascades have to be positive either in their motivations or in their results. The period 2016-17 clearly represented a sort of Alt-Right Spring — springtime for fascists? — in which white supremacists and anti-Semites were emboldened not just by Donald Trump’s election but by the evidence that there were more like-minded people than anyone realized, both in the U.S. and Europe. Meanwhile, historians have described 1848 as a turning point where history somehow failed to turn: At the end of the day the old, corrupt regimes were still standing. I nevertheless find the surge of indignation now building in America hugely encouraging. And yes, I think it’s all one surge. The #MeToo movement, the refusal to shrug off the Parkland massacre, the new political activism of outraged citizens (many of them women) all stem from a common perception: namely, that it’s not just about ideology, but that far too much power rests in the hands of men who are simply bad people. And Exhibit A for that proposition is, of course, the tweeter in chief himself. At the same time, what strikes me about the reaction to this growing backlash is not just its vileness, but its lameness. Trump’s response to Parkland — let’s arm teachers! — wasn’t just stupid, it was cowardly, an attempt to duck the issue, and I think many people realized that. Or consider how the Missouri GOP has responded to the indictment of Gov. Eric Greitens, accused of trying to blackmail his lover with nude photos: by blaming ... George Soros. I am not making this up. Or consider the growing wildness of speeches by right-wing luminaries like Wayne LaPierre of the NRA. They’ve pretty much given up on making any substantive case for their ideas in favor of rants about socialists trying to take away your freedom. It’s scary stuff, but it’s also kind of whiny; it’s what people sound like when they know they’re losing the argument. Again, there’s no guarantee that the forces of decency will win. In particular, the U.S. electoral system is in effect rigged in favor of Republicans, so Democrats will need to win the popular vote by something like 7 percentage points to take the House. But we’re seeing a real uprising here, and there’s every reason to hope that change is coming.
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
SPO RTS
MARCH 1 - 7, 2018 | PAGE 15
Mustangs Fall in Region Championship, 45-42 BY MATT DELANEY
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
George Mason High School’s girls basketball team came ohso-close, but couldn’t clinch the Region 2B Title in a 45-42 loss to Buffalo Gap High School on Saturday in Harrisonburg. Given the proximity to the Staunton-based Buffalo Gap, Mason (21-6) was playing as a road team despite wearing their home whites. And as the game wore down to the final tense minutes where both teams were trading blows with one another, the raucous Bison fans weighed on the Mustangs and affected their composure in the closing moments. “I really think their fans affected us,” senior point guard Nicole Bloomgarden said. “They were getting loud and messing with our pacing, so we just need to settle into our game when it gets tight and do what we need to win.” Mason entered the fourth quarter trailing 34-33 until junior guard Maddie Lacroix took a handoff from sophomore forward Daria Douglas and drove to the rack for two. A two minute
scoring freeze was lifted when a Bison player grabbed an offensive board and kicked it out for a trey to send them up 37-35 with 5:41 remaining. Douglas knocked in her free throws to tie it back up, but a quick two inside and a split trip to the line – created by another offensive rebound – nudged Buffalo Gap ahead by three once more. Bloomgarden responded with a deep three to even the tally. The following possession senior forward Jenna Short missed the first shot of her one-and-one, but senior guard Victoria Rund gathered the rebound and found Bloomgarden for a drive to the hoop to put the Mustangs up 42-40 with a little over minute left to play. However, Buffalo Gap hit a quick two and converted an and-one to go up for good. Mason launched two shots during their final possession to tie, but neither fell. Keeping Buffalo Gap off the offensive glass proved to be a struggle throughout. Mason head coach Michael Gilroy thinks the team needs to be better at marking a man while Bloomgarden believes the guards should be more involved in snatching
MASON’S GUARDS, such as senior Victoria Rund, helped keep Buffalo Gap High School’s guards in check throughout their Region 2B championship loss. (P����: C���� S��) rebounds, especially ones that aren’t in the basket’s immediate area. Creating scoring looks for the bigs was another rough spot for the Mustangs. Douglas and senior forward Kaylee Hirsch – who was named to the All-Region 1st team along with Bloomgarden – only combined for nine points with a bucket each from the field in what was a shootout between both squads’ backcourts, especially beyond the arc. Mason scored
half of their points (21 on seven three-pointers) from downtown against Buffalo Gap. Exploring ways to get Douglas and Hirsch involved is a must, even if its only at the line since both are reliable free throw shooters. Still, Mason ended February the same way they did January — with a loss. Their previous defeat catapulted them to a third straight Bull Run District title and a gutcheck trip through the Region 2B
tournament. Now the most recent loss is sure to keep the Mustangs hungry entering the Class 2 State tournament against Poquoson High School in the quarterfinal this Friday in Williamsburg. “They made a few more plays down the stretch, we had plenty of chances to make a layup down at the end,” Gilroy said. “It’s right there though, and if we win the next game we’ll get to face [Buffalo Gap] again which is all I want.”
Mason Boys’ Season Slips From their Grasp Against Central, 45-43 BY MATT DELANEY
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
One ill-fated possession spelled the end of George Mason High School boys basketball team’s season as they fell to Bull Run District rival Central High School, 45-43, in the Region 2B semifinal on last Friday. A steal and an and-one by senior guard Anish Chatterjee put Mason (15-12) ahead 43-38 with 2:50 remaining. However, the Mustangs wouldn’t score again. An iffy basket interference call brought Central within three, and after junior guard Connor Fletchall missed both his shots at the line the Falcons knotted the game up with a three-pointer. During Mason’s last gasp to break the tie, Chatterjee held the ball near mid-court and was scanning for a look, but lost control of the ball while he swung his arms up to re-adjust. “We inexplicably turned the ball over on the flukiest situation I have seen in my 30 years of coaching,” Mason head coach Chris Capannola said. “I was calling timeout at that exact second, but it was too late. I feel awful for [Chatterjee], he’s been a warrior all season for us, it was just a ter-
SENIOR GUARD Anish Chatterjee, seen here facing Clarke County High School in January, had a �lukey turnover during Mason’s last possession in their loss to Central. (P����: C���� S��) rible stroke of luck.” With 25 seconds remaining on the next possession, Central sunk a baseline 12-footer at the buzzer to clinch their state title berth. Mason had held strong throughout the game up until those final moments. They led 13-7 after the first quarter and were up 23-18 going into halftime after junior forward Hollman Smith hit a three before the horn sounded. Both teams
were hot in the third quarter, with the Mustangs barely edging out Central at 35-34 after being outscored in the period 16-12. Chatterjee and junior guard Max Ashton led the team with 13 points each, and Smith was right behind them with 10. Last Friday’s loss also completed Central’s season sweep of Mason, defeating the Mustangs in all three of their meetings this year by a combined seven points.
“Hats off to Central, they have 24 wins total and beat us three times — that’s not luck,” Capannola continued. “These underclassmen will be ready for Central next year. They are selfdriven as it is, but the memory of falling one bucket short of a state berth, losing a third time to a district rival, should fuel them all off season.” The Mustangs record may be appear middling, but it’s more
telling when you look at the opponents they faced in the early stretch. Notable losses came to teams such as Potomac Falls High School, Annandale High School, Chantilly High School and Washington-Lee High School, who qualified for the Region 5C, Region 6C and Region 6D tournaments, respectively (Chantilly and W-L both made the Region 6D tournament). Individual players also received recognition. Ashton made All Region 1st team and Chatterjee made 2nd team, while both Ashton and Chatterjee were All District 1st team and Smith made 2nd team. Even unsung heroes served as glue guys, such as team captain and senior guard Nicholas Robbin-Coker, who kept the team on track throughout season. Robbin-Coker and others will be missed, but Mason returns a good core next year as well. “Our seniors are all outstanding young men, they should be proud of what they’ve accomplished over their careers,” Capannola added. “We bring back eight guys, all hoops junkies, and that’s something you can’t teach or force.”
inner musician! STUDY WITH US! PRIVATE LESSONS•DEGREED TEACHERS ALL INSTRUMENTS•ALL STYLES•ALL AGES
416 SOUTH WASHINGTON ST., FALLS CHURCH
703-533-7393
LESSONS • SALES RENTALS • REPAIRS PRIVATE LESSONS•DEGREED TEACHERS
PAGE 16 | MARCH 1 – 7, 2018
LO CA L
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Foxes Music
Free your inner
musician!
PRIVATE LESSONS • DEGREED TEACHERS ALL INSTRUMENTS • ALL STYLES • ALL AGES
STUDY WITH US! 416 SOUTH WASHINGTON ST., FALLS CHURCH
703-533-7393 LESSONS • SALES • RENTALS • REPAIRS
Attention Invokana® Users
Our law firm is accepting claims nationwide for an Invokana® Injury Lawsuit. Invokana®, a SGLT2 inhibitor, is prescribed to patients with type 2 diabetes. The new Boxed Warning, the strongest label the FDA can place on a prescription medication, will now inform patients about the risk of amputation from canagliflozin, the active drug in Invokana. If you or a loved one has suffered an amputation after taking Invokana® or Invokamet®, please contact our law firm now as you may be entitled to financial compensation.
800-882-2525 MillerFirmLLC.com
ON MONDAY night the winners of the 2018-2019 Vehicle Decal Design Contest were announced at the City Council meeting. First place, with the honor of having the design on the decal and $750, went to George Mason High School’s Juliana Melton (second from right) for her entry, “My Pretty Little City,” featuring the front of the State Theatre. Out of 20 designs submitted by high schoolers, Mason students represented the top �ive selections city residents voted on. The second through �ifth place winners were William Ng – second; Tessa Boneau – third; Jack Sykes – fourth and Myra Zingg – �ifth place. (P����: N���-P����)
F� � � � C � � � � �
S����� N��� � N���� End of Course & SOL Tests Take Place Next Week Administration of the End of Course (EOC) and eighth grade Writing Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) assessments will be Monday, March 12 (Part 1) and Tuesday, March 13 (Part 2). You can find additional information concerning the Writing SOL on the Virginia Department of Education website.
annual National Catholic Forensic tournament in May. Also this past weekend, the Mason Speech Team traveled to the Regional Forensics Meet at Robert E. Lee HS in Staunton. Sequoia Wyckoff took third place in Original Oratory, while Hannah Whitlock took third place in Dramatic Interpretation. Both girls move on to the State competition on March 24 in Midlothian, just outside of Richmond.
Members of Mason Speech Team Show Out
Last Chance to Purchase Sadie Hawkins Dance Tickets
Grace Keenan, a George Mason High School junior, won two awards on Feb. 24 at the D.C. metro area’s annual Speech tournament, hosted by the Washington Arlington Catholic Forensic League. She placed fourth in Original Oratory for a speech she wrote and delivered to raise awareness about invisible illnesses such as POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), which she has. She placed third in Dramatic Interpretation for a piece about young women forced decades ago to place their babies for adoption. The awards qualify Keenan, the founder and captain of the Mason Speech team, to compete at the
This Saturday from 8 – 11 p.m. the George Mason High School Student Council is hosting the Spring Sadie’s dance in the Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School (7130 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church) cafetorium. As is tradition with Sadie Hawkins’ dances, girls ask the boys out as their date. Tickets are $10 and will be on sale at school today during Mustang Block.
Last Call for Jump Rope For Heart Volunteers The yearly jump rope excitement in Thomas Jefferson’s (603 S. Oak St., Falls Church) PE classes starts on Tuesday with activi-
ties for students at multiple stations connected with the annual Jump Rope For Heart. Parent help is needed to help things move smoothly. To volunteer, visit the school’s page at the Sign-up Genius at signupgenius.com/go.
Mason Athletic Boosters Kick Off Mulch Sale George Mason High School Athletic Boosters Association is sponsoring a mulch sale now through Wednesday, March 28, with delivery of mulch on Saturday, April 7. For the 25th year, student athletes, parents, and community members will donate their time on April 7 to load and deliver mulch to homes throughout the Falls Church area. This is the Athletic Boosters’ largest fundraiser and proceeds are used to provide student scholarships as well as big ticket items including the baseball/softball field lights, speakers in the gym and stadium, and equipment purchases for various sports teams. The mulch sell for $5 each and can be ordered at tinyurl.com/ MasonMulch. For mote infromation, contact Surbhi Ashton at ashton4x@yahoo.com
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
LO CA L
MARCH 1 – 7, 2018 | PAGE 17
Mason Robotics Team Ascends To Rival Some of Nation’s Best BY PATRICIA LESLIE
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
Fall Church’s George Mason High School may not be the biggest in the area, but when it comes to robotics, Mason’s size is no impediment. From their start in 2004, Mason’s robotics students have consistently won area and district contests in Northern Virginia, Maryland and the Chesapeake region, and last year, for the second consecutive year, qualified for the world championship in St. Louis where they lost a tiebreaker in the quarterfinals. This year they’re coming back stronger than ever with a determination to match any Olympic athlete’s. The Mason team, named 1418, is ranked in the top one percent of 3,647 teams with 91,000 students nationwide. About 30 students participate in the sport at Mason where all skill levels and talents are invited, and no one sits on the bench. On a recent afternoon, the energy and enthusiasm team members and their adult mentors exude were quickly palpable to a visitor at an after-school meeting. The team was finishing up work on its entry for this year’s district competitions, a robot named “Panthera” (Latin for “giraffe”), a slinky, sleek assembly of steel, wires and other materials which can extend about six feet. “We have a lot of connections to Latin around here,” said Erik Boesen, a junior and programming captain. Panthera must be built and assembled in six weeks before it is bagged, tagged and placed in a huge plastic bag to be carted to Haymarket for its first competi-
tion in March so every team starts on a level playing field, according to John Krotzer, a parent volunteer whose son, Dominik, is a freshman on the team. Krotzer described the competitive process: Mason is paired with two other teams they’ve never met who work together to beat three opposing teams which one student jokingly called “the enemy.” Triggered by student laptop commands, Panthera jetted from the station like a race car at NASCAR. It only has a few seconds to complete an assigned task list. “It’s so exciting, it’s like the Super Bowl, really it is,” Krotzer said twice over the course of the afternoon. “This application is important in life no matter what you do. Anything getting people to work together is very important.” Belly laughs erupted from team members when asked if they got their tech leanings from parents. As youngsters, Addison Rasmussen and Boesen liked to take computers apart, and Boesen was injured when he disassembled an old analog television. Only Anuragi Thapliya, a freshman who started her robotics training in middle school, identified her mother, a computer programmer, as an inspiration for the program. Cooper McGuire, team co-captain and senior, chuckled when he said, “My parents definitely are not engineers. They are economists who work for the U.S. government.” When he was a freshman, he took engineering drawing classes from John Ballou who whetted McGuire’s appetite for robots. Ballou, who retired last year after 36 years, started Mason’s pro-
gram in 2004 and still spends hours with the robotics students every week. “This is about making decisions and building something,” Ballou said after another afternoon tinkering with the robot. “It’s about testing it out, seeing what happens, breaking it, changing your mind, rebuilding it. It’s what most of what the real world experiences. In academics, you don’t get that kind of learning experience. This is real trial and error.” After Ballou’s official departure at Mason, Steven Knight took over the school’s robotic reins and he is “really happy to be part of [this]. It’s about building a community but we also are looking to get more teachers involved.” Students speak proudly of their association with the international youth organization, FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), founded by Dean Kamen (the inventor of the Segway) who wants to inspire young people to pursue science and technology, all in line with STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) goals. It’s the FIRST competition which students target. Rasmussen said he and his fellow students spend three hours every day after school on the project and from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays during “build season.” But “academics” always come first, said Boesen and McGuire slowly, amidst snickers and under their breaths as if to convince themselves they believe it. They get no class credit for robotics. The team and mentors are grateful to the City’s school board and Falls Church Education Foundation for their support, but
PERFECTING their robot “Panthera” before the competition season begins this month is Mason’s robotics team, 1418. Team members ensure their creation is both responsive from the control booth (top) and is built to endure the litany of challenges it will face against opponents. (P�����: P������� L�����) Krotzer writes the majority of funding and services comes from corporations and local businesses like Booz Allen, Leidos, Setty Construction, and the McGuire Group. He hopes an engineering firm that wants the construction contract for Mason sponsors the FIRST team which would make “a great fit!”
Said Boesen, “Education is the key to the future. We should be investing a lot in these areas.” He got hooked on robotics at the Farmer’s Market when he was about eight years old. “I actually saw member of the team do a demonstration and I said ‘whoa! This is so cool. When I grow up I want to be just like them!’” And so he is.
CA L E NDA R
PAGE 18 | MARCH 1 – 7, 2018
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
FALLS CHURCHCALENDAR COMMUNITYEVENTS THURSDAY, MARCH 1 Financial Coaching. Do you want to get your spending in order, pay down debt, save for retirement, or buy a new car? These are just a few examples of goals financial coaching can help you achieve after receiving some assistance with this free service. Once this workshop is over, you will have a blueprint to begin the process of achieving your desired financial goals. Must be 16 years of age or older to attend. Arlington Employment Center (2100 Washington Blvd., First Floor, Arlington). 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 703-228-1406.Mary Riley Styles Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Falls Church). 2 – 4 p.m. Interviewing II. This workshop will provide hands-on interviewing practice for interested attendees. Arlington Employment Center counselors will simulate an inter-
view tailored to each attendants occupation of interest. The entire process will be recorded and reviewed with you in order to provide suggestions and feedback. Must be 16 years of age or older to attend. Arlington Employment Center (2100 Washington Blvd., First Floor, Arlington). 1 – 3 p.m. 703-228-1406.
FRIDAY, MARCH 2 Quarterly Book Sale. TysonsPimmit Regional Library is holding their quarterly book sale with a large selection of books and media for all ages and interests next weekend, March 2 – 4. On March 2, the book sale will run from 11 a.m – 5 p.m; on March 3, it will run from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and on March 4 it will run from 1 – 4 p.m. All books and media are half off on Sunday and a special sale where customers can fill up a bag of as many books as they can fit for $10. Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). For more infor-
mation, call 703-790-4031, 703338-3307 or e-mail tysonslibraryfriends@gmail.com.
MONDAY, MARCH 5 Preschool Storytime. Stories and fun for ages 0-5, or infants through kindergarten. Drop-in, no registration required. All storytimes are immediately followed by playtime with the Early Literacy Center toys. Mary Riley Styles Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Falls Church). 10:30 – 11 a.m. 703-2485034. Playtime with the Early Literacy Center. Explore educational and manipulative items (aka toys) to teach early literacy and social skills through play with other children. Ages birth to 5 years. No registration required. Mary Riley Styles Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Falls Church). 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 703-248-5034. ESL Conversation Group. A general conversation group (for adults)
learning English as their second language. Meets every Monday at regularly scheduled time. No registration required. Mary Riley Styles Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Falls Church). 7 – 8 p.m. 703-248-5034.
TUESDAY, MARCH 6 Senior Book Discussion Series. The Senior Book Discussion Series is a general book discussion geared toward seniors held roughly every six weeks from September – June. Focuses on a variety of fiction and nonfiction titles selected in advance (over the previous summer) by the group. This week’s book is Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City by Matthew Desmond. In the book, Desmond follows eight families in Milwaukee as they struggle to keep a roof over their heads and highlight a country-wide problem. Open to all and no registration required. Mary Riley Styles Library (120 N Virginia Ave., Falls Church). 10:30 a.m. 703-248-5034.
THEATER&ARTS
FRIDAY, MARCH 2 “The Wolves.” Winter indoor soccer. Saturdays. Over quad stretches and squats, a team of young women prepares to defend the Wolves’ undefeated record, their banter spilling from tampons to genocide to the pressures of preparing for their adult lives. With an ear for the bravado and empathy of the teenage years, “The Wolves” explores the violence and teamwork of sports and adolescence, following a pack of 16-year-old girls who turn into warriors on the field. Studio Theatre (1501 14th St., NW, Washington, D.C.). $20. 8 p.m. studiotheatre.org.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY SATURDAY, MARCH 32 “Lady Day.” Helen Hayes Awardwinning actress, Iyona Blake (“Caroline or Change”) returns to the Cauldron to portray one of America’s most iconic jazz legends. In 1959, Billie Holiday, or “Lady Day” as she was called, performed one of her final shows in a run-down bar in South Philly. In Robertson’s award-winning play, Holiday engages the audience
DENTAL Insurance
FREE Information Kit
Physicians Mutual Insurance Company
A less expensive way to help get the dental care you deserve If you’re over 50, you can get coverage for about $1 a day* Keep your own dentist! You can go to any dentist you want No wait for preventive care and no deductibles – you could get a checkup tomorrow
Coverage for over 350 procedures – including cleanings, exams, fillings, crowns…even dentures
1-855-738-7132 www.dental50plus.com/268
NO annual or lifetime cap on the cash benefits you can receive *Individual plan. Product not available in MN, MT, NH, NM, RI, VT, WA. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN) 6096E-0917 MB17-NM008Ec
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
with salty, often humorous reminiscences of her troubled life as a travelling performer in a segregated south. With the help of her piano man, Jimmy Powers (played by Award-winning composer, actor Mark Meadows) she lets music tell her story, sharing soulful, heart-wrenching and bawdy songs from her most memorable canon. Creative Cauldron(410 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church) $30. 8 p.m. mosaictheater.org. “The Farnsworth Invention.” It’s 1929. Two ambitious visionaries race against each other to invent a device called “television.” Separated by two thousand miles, each knows that if he stops working, even for a moment, the other will gain the edge. Who will unlock the key to the greatest innovation of the 20th century: the ruthless media mogul, or the self-taught Idaho farm boy? The answer comes to compelling life in the regional premiere of this “firecracker of a play” (Chicago Sun-Times) by Aaron Sorkin. 1st Stage Theatre (1524 Spring Hill Rd., McLean). $33. 8 p.m. 1ststagetysons.org.
SUNDAY, MARCH 4 ”light years.” Acclaimed folk/ rock/indie band Eddie From Ohio’s Robbie Schaefer crafts a touching and funny world premiere musical portrait featuring Bobby Smith. A master storyteller, Robbie journeys from his childhood in India to the joys and struggles of growing up, pursuing his passion and raising a family. Entwined throughout is his cherished relationship with his father — and his father’s haunted past. Enriched with beautiful folkrock music, inventive lyrics and Robbie’s disarming humor, Light Years is a deeply personal tale of immigration, musical gifts and the steadfast bond between father and son.. Signature Theatre (4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington). $77. 2 p.m. sigtheatre.org.
LIVEMUSIC THURSDAY, MARCH 1 Aaron Lee Tasjan + Dylan LeBlanc. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $15 – $18. 7:30 p.m. 703-255-1566.
CA L E NDA R
MARCH 1 – 7, 2018 | PAGE 19
Cherish the Ladies. Wolf Trap (1645 Trap Rd. Vienna). $25 – $30. 8 p.m. 703-255-1900. David Kitchen Band. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8:30 p.m. 703-2419504. Britton James. Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad St., Falls Church). 9:30 p.m. 703-237-8333.
FRIDAY, MARCH 2 Haley Fahey Band. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack. (130 North Washington St., Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703-532-9283. Happy Hour: Jess & Steve Duo. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703241-9504. Marc-André Hamelin, piano. Wolf Trap (1645 Trap Rd. Vienna). $40. 7:30 p.m. 703-255-1900. The Band Battle – Finals. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $10 – $20. 8 p.m. 703-255-1566. Shartel and Hume. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 9:15 p.m. 703-241-9504. Matt Kazam: Back to the Jokes. The State Theatre (220 N Washington St., Falls Church). $25 – $30. 9 p.m. 703-237-0300. Shag. Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad St., Falls Church). 10 p.m. 703-237-8333.
SATURDAY, MARCH 3 DC Rockers Winter Blues Event. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $5 – $10. 11:30 a.m. 703255-1566. Snake Farmers. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 4 p.m. 703-241-9504. The Big Cheese. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack. (130 North Washington St., Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703-532-9283. Nora Jane Struthers. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $15 – $25. 7 p.m. 703-255-1566. Superfly Disco: The Ultimate 70s Disco Funk. The State Theatre
MATT KAZAM will be at The State Theatre in Falls Church this Friday. (Photo: MattKazamComedy.com)
(220 N Washington St., Falls Church). $12 – $15. 9 p.m. 703237-0300.
Nighthawks. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 4 p.m. 703-241-9504.
Boardwalk Karaoke. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack. (130 North Washington St., Falls Church). 9:30 p.m. 703-532-9283.
Elliot Root with Kid Brother. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $12 – $20. 7:30 p.m. 703255-1566.
Cargo & the Heavy Lifters. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 9 p.m. 703-2419504.
Linwood Taylor Band. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8:30 p.m. 703-2419504.
Chris Brunn. Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad St., Falls Church). 10 p.m. 703-237-8333.
Karaoke. Galaxy Hut (2711 Wilson Blvd., Arlington). $5. 9 p.m.
The Allman Others Band: DC’s Tribute to The Allman Brothers. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $12 – $20. 10 p.m. 703255-1566.
SUNDAY, MARCH 4 Dave Chappell & Patty Reese Show. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 1 p.m. 703-241-9504.
MONDAY, MARCH 5
TUESDAY, MARCH 6 Open Mic with Crazy After Midnight. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 7 p.m. 703-241-9504. Velveteen: An Evening of Theatre and Live Music Exploring What It Means To Be Loved (encore performance the following night at the same time). Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $15. 7:30 p.m. 703-255-1566.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7
The Bachelor Boys. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). 7:30 p.m. 703-255-1566.
Enter the Haggis with the Pigeon Kings Live and In Concert at the Barns. Wolf Trap (1645 Trap Rd. Vienna). $28 – $34. 8 p.m. 703255-1900.
Wolf Blues Jam. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8:30 p.m. 703-241-9504.
Vern Santmyer. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Arlington) 8 p.m. 703-522-8340.
Caleb Flood. Galaxy Hut (2711 Wilson Blvd., Arlington). $5. 9 p.m.
Pat Green. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $39.50. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500.
Calendar Submissions Email: calendar@fcnp.com | Mail: Falls Church News-Press, Attn: Calendar, 200 Little Falls St., #508, Falls Church, VA 22046 Be sure to include time, location, cost of admission, contact person and any other pertinent information. Event listings will be edited for content and space limitations. Please include any photos or artwork with submissions. Deadline is Monday at noon for the current week’s edition.
PAGE 20 | MARCH 1 – 7, 2018
CLEANING SERVICES
House Cleaning Service Available 7 days a week Weekly - By Weekly - Monthly or by Time Move Out - Move In • 14 years Experience Good References • Senior Discount For Further Information: Call Susy • Cell (703) 901-0596
A Cleaning Service since 1985
Insured, Bonded and Licensed Independently owned Commercial & Residential
703-892-8648
www.acleaningserviceinc.com
HOME IMPROVEMENT
OTHER SERVICES
JOSEPH HOME IMPROVEMENT
The Law Firm Of Janine S. Benton
Drywall • Paint Exterior / Interior, Bath & Kitchen Remodeling, Basements, Ceramic Tile, Deck, Fences. Patios, Electric, Plumbing, Clean Garage, All Kinds of Hauling. Joseph www.josephhomeimprovements.com Joselozada27@yahoo.com Licensed & Cell 703-507-5005 Insured Work Tel 703-507-8300
Janine S. Benton, Esq jb@jbentonlaw.com
All repairs, plumbing, drywall, doors, windows, rotted wood, siding, gutters, lighting + more FREE estimates, insured Call Doug (703)556-4276
www.novahandyman.com
R
Couselors & Attorneys At Law
Handyman Service
YOUR HANDYMAN LLC Carpentry, Painting, Drywall Repairs, Back Splashes, Tile, Minor Plumbing/Electrical Bathroom/Kitchen Upgrades, Finish Basements
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Robert Beatson II
Tel: 703.217.2632
Attorney/Accountant, Former IRS Attorney All Federal, State, Local & Foreign Taxes Admitted to DC, MD, VA & NY Bars 703-798-3590 or 301-340-2951
Fax: 703.832.3236 400 Maple Ave., So., Suite 210, Falls Church, Virginia 22046
Get 10% off labor with this ad
PRO SERVICES
We Assist: government contractors small & large businesses
www.beatsonlaw.com
[must be presented at first consultation]
rbeatsonatty@netscape.com
classads@fcnp.com
classads@fcnp.com
fcnp.com
Visit: www.yourhandlymanllc.com Call Pete:571-243-6726
C L AS S I F I E DS For Sale HOUSE FOR SALE 5729 Norton Road Alexandria VA 22303 $508,440 Phone: 202-742-7290 Senate Realty Corporation 909 U Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 FAIR HOUSING & EQUAL OPPORTUNITY REALTOR
Help Wanted COACHING POSITION at Curves Falls Church. Please apply by email at curvesfallschurch@yahoo.com or bring your information in to our fitness club. 246-A West Broad Street 703-536-0140.
SERVER and ASSISTANT MANAGER
Positions available at Sfizi Café. Full or part-time. Please apply in person. 800 W. Broad St. Falls Church
Public Notice SOHO Arlington TRS LLC trading
as Hyatt Centric Arlington, 1325 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22209. The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) for a Beer and Wine and Mixed Beverage on Premises license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages. Anthony Domalski, Manager. NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200.
classads@fcnp.com
ABSOLUTE FORECLOSURE
PUBLIC NOTICE VOLUNTEERS CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA Volunteers who live in the City of Falls Church are needed to serve on the boards and commissions listed below. Contact the City Clerk’s Office (703-248-5014, cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov, or www.fallschurchva.gov/BC) for an application form or more information. Positions advertised for more than one month may be filled during each subsequent month. Architectural Advisory Board Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church Board of Building Code and Fire Prevention Code Appeals Environmental Sustainability Council Historical Commission Human Services Advisory Board Retirement Board Regional Boards/Commissions: Fairfax Area Disability Services Board
PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) of the City of Falls Church, Virginia will hold a public hearing on March 15, 2018 at 7:30 PM in the Laurel Conference room located on the first floor in 400 North Washington, Falls Church, Virginia, for consideration of the following items: New Business Variance application V1599-18 by Pearson Square, LLC, for a variance to Section 48-1265(1)(b) to allow placement of two (2) wall signs above the bottom of the third floor windows, on premises known as 410 South Maple Avenue, RPC #52-312-100 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned B-3, General Business. Information on the above applications is available for review at: Zoning Office 400 N. Washington, Suite 101 Falls Church, VA. 703-248-5015 (option 1) zoning@fallschurchva.gov This location is fully accessible to persons with physical disabilities and special services or assistance may be requested in advance. (TTY 711)
Absolute Trust e e
AUCTION
Fri, Mar.23, 10AM • 22031 Milky Way, Elkwood, VA 8mi east of Culpeper between US-15 & VA-3
We are pledged to the letter andspirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap. All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-8530. Toll free call (888) 551-3247. For the hearing impaired call (804) 367-9753.
242 Acre Dairy Farm & Equipment TRF
Open & productive farm w/ home & facilities. Also selling tractors & equipment!
AUCTIONS
Torrence, Read, & Forehand VAAF501
Details at TRFAuctions.com
434.847.7741 | info@trfauctions.com
MAKE YOUR PET A STAR! Snap a pic of your critter and email it to:
CRITTERCORNER@FCNP.COM or mail it to Critter Corner c/o Falls Church News-Press 200 Little Falls St. #508 Falls Church, Va 22046
Critter
Corner Gay Studies Best Seller
Nicholas Benton Extraordinary Hearts Reclaiming Gay Sensibility's Central Role in the Progress of Civilization .
Larry Kramer wrote, "A vital moral book about who we are and who we should be. I admire it and its author enormously"
Order it from Amazon www.nfbenton.com
A RTS&E NTE RTA I NME NT
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Crossword
ACROSS
By David Levinson Wilk 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
9
10
15
14 17
18
29
30
34
24
25
38
13
22
26
27
31
32 36
35
12
19 21
23
11
16
20
28
8
33
37
39
40 42
41
43
45
44 48
46
47
49
50
51
52
53
57
58
62
63
64
65
66
67
59
60
54
55
56
61
© 2017 David Levinson Wilk
1. Deutsche Bank rival 5. Italian apology 10. Vivaldi's "____ Dominus" 14. "Here comes trouble!" 15. Babe and Baby 16. "I get it" cries 17. A 1950-'60s titular sitcom character seen on a present-day TV screen? 19. Equal 20. Do a shepherd's task 21. Late, as a library book 23. Typewriter feature 27. Daly of "Cagney & Lacey" 28. When many celebs tweet baby pictures of themselves, for short 31. Asian capital's ladies' man? 34. "Whose woods these ____ think ...": Frost 36. "To Kill a Mockingbird" author 37. Fortify with vitamins, e.g. 38. Retiring group? 40. Leading 41. One nodding his head 42. Midpoint: Abbr. 43. NBA star Anthony, to fans 44. Pretty obvious direction on a bottle of Prell? 47. From ____ Z 48. "____ she blows!" 49. Watched a season of "Stranger Things" in one sitting, say 51. Look through blinds, say 53. Prove suitable for 57. "The Neverending Story" author Michael 58. Evidenced by its name, what a
Across
STRANGE BREW
1. Deutsche Bank rival
MARCH 1 – 7, 2018 | PAGE 21 leaders 33. Granny's "Darn it!" 35. Source of some cubes 39. Not an original 40. ____ impasse 42. Home of the Cubs, for short 45. Slow to catch on 46. Country's McEntire 50. Winger of "Urban Cowboy" 51. Fires (up) 52. Lyft competitor 54. Bank charges 55. McEwan and McKellen 56. Jeff Bridges sci-fi classic 59. "Give ____ whirl!" 60. Pass on a track 61. OBs, e.g.
national toy retailer offers customers a chance to do ... or what you do in 17-, 31- and 44-Across 62. Run smoothly 63. Spanish 101 verb 64. Nevada's so-called "Biggest Little City in the World" 65. Restful resorts 66. Harvests 67. LPGA part: Abbr.
DOWN
1. Confused responses 2. ____ Tzu (toy dog) 3. Portend 4. Have an affair 5. Above capacity, for short 6. Slangy response to "Why?" 7. Big name in chips and pretzels 8. UPS label phrase 9. On the briny 10. Hurtful email, e.g. 11. "That's news to me!" 12. The U.S. Army bought 1,000 of his revolvers during the Mexican-American War 13. "That makes sense" 18. ____ party 22. Children's writer R. L. ____ 24. "10" music 25. Distort 26. CBS logo 28. ____ bar 29. "Don't look so glum!" 30. Pyramids with four equal sides 32. He's second to Jeter among the New York Yankees' all-time hit
JOHN DEERING
5. Italian apology
1
2
3
L A R K S
I V I E S
F A C T O
U R B A N
N I E L S
D U K A P E M S G
Sudoku Level:
10. Vivaldi's "____ Dominus"
Last Thursday’s Solution E R A S E
T E E L D E T C U R A N Y/VI E S R U A L C R E I C H
S M O H C U K G O R E B E R L E A C T O H A E L
C A N O E
A T E M
D E P E C D H D I E E L L L Y/VI X S S E K I N U T L K L A
S O L E D Y/VI A L S G M R L A I N T G W M O A O J D
A H A V A T A S E I S U Z U
C R A I G
O O M P H
V I O L A
A S S E T
D E E R E
By The Mepham Group 4
14. "Here comes trouble!" 15. Babe and Baby 16. "I get it" cries 17. A 1950-'60s titular sitcom character seen on a present-day TV screen? 19. Equal 20. Do a shepherd's task 1
21. Late, as a library book 23. Typewriter feature 27. Daly of "Cagney & Lacey" 28. When many celebs tweet baby pictures of themselves, for short
LOOSE PARTS
DAVE BLAZEK
31. Asian capital's ladies' man? 34. "Whose woods these ____ think ...": Frost
Solution to last Sunday’s puzzle
NICK KNACK
1
© 2018 N.F. Benton
3/4/18
Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudoku.org.uk.
© 2018 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.
LO CA L
PAGE 22 | MARCH 1 – 7, 2018
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
C������ C�����
BACK IN THE DAY
dog. lazy ick qu The fox sly p e d j u m the over dog. lazy is the Now for all time cows good co me to aid to the the ir of t u r e . pas
20 s Yearo Ag
is the Now for all time cows good co me to aid to the the ir of t u r e . p a s is the Now for all time cows good me to to coaid of the their.
20 � 10 Y���� A�� �� ��� N���-P����
Falls Church News-Press Vol. VII, No. 52 • March 12, 1998
Falls Church News-Press Vol. XVIII, No. 1 • March 6, 2008
It is now the time fo r all good to go cows to aid of the p a s their ture . * * * Throw * * Pour it up. it up
10 Year s Ago
It is now the time fo r all good to go cows to aid of the the ir pas ture . * * * Throw * * Pour it up. it up
Holmes: City is ‘Getting a Bum Rap From Untrue Rumors of High Taxes
Groundbreaking Due by Summer On $317 Million F.C. City Center
The City of Falls Church “is being given a bum rap on business taxes,” and when “the truth comes out,” the City may be able to offer newcomers a lower net tax than surrounding jurisdictions, CIty of Economic Development Authority (EDA) executive director David Holmes reported to the City Council here Monday night. Holmes cited the case of one business seriously considering 7,500 square feet of office space in the City, which was initially called off due to the rumors, is back on the table.
The biggest development project ever seen, much less enabled by government re-zoning and special exceptions, in the City of Falls Church was approved unanimously by its City Council last Thursday night after paving the way for the Atlantic Realty Company to spend $317 million building a new hotel, Class A office building, supermarket, blocks of retail, sixlevel parking deck, street, sidewalk and parkland improvements and hundreds of residential condos and rental units.
Call for RFP Continued from Page 5
test-tube case that should be of interest to students of such processes, which are normally kept much more secretive, everywhere. In the early morning hours of last Friday, Feb. 23, the first meeting of the project’s overarching Campus Coordinating Committee, was jammed into the School Board offices for an intense discussion where a lot of the issues associated with the coordination of the high school and economic development components of the overall project were aired. Little things like the need for a pump station to handle storm water on the site came up, as well as ingress and egress matters for traffic centering the site off Route 7 and Haycock Road, the height difference between the end of the site where the economic development will go (much higher) and the new high school, and the prospect for shared infrastructure were all broached, and the need for the final choices for the school and economic development teams to meet and coordinate as much as necessary. The most tension will arise in the February-April 2019 time frame when major decisions on both projects will be in full swing, City Manager Wyatt Shields predicted. “But we’re confident everything will work well. We’ve got a really good process underway,” he added. Falls Church Schools Superintendent Peter Noonan stressed it will be important that the high school get built on time such that the transition to the economic development part can be “beautiful.” On the Campus Coordinating
Committee were Mayor David Tarter, Shields, Noonan, the School Board’s Lawrence Webb and Justin Castillo, the City Council’s Letty Hardi, the Planning Commission’s Russ Wodiska, and the Economic Development Authority’s Mike and Mollie Novotny and Kristen Sherard of the Falls Church Education Association, Greenberg and the Schools’ consultant Robert Jones. Among others sitting in on the meeting were Vice Mayor Marybeth Connelly, Council members Phil Duncan and Ross Litkenhous and Planning Commissioner Tim Stevens. At the Sunday public forum, one of a series that will become monthly Sunday public forums on the issue led by Shields and Noonan (the next set for March 18), centered on financing issues, as Shields pointed out that the expected yield of the economic development component, will be limited to four cents on the real estate tax rate, compared to 15
cents if the economic component were absent. At Monday’s Council meeting, a final Council scrub of the RFP document included praise for what City staff had developed with Council input to date. “This is a masterful job,” said Councilman Dan Sze. “It is well written and inspiring,” Letty Hardi said. “Reading it makes me want to live here.” “It is rare for the public sector to take this kind of product to the market,” Shields said. “We’ve kept it simple, and we’ll learn from what comes in from this.” Finally, just as a marriage is not official with the mailing of invitations but the sharing of vows, such that there’s always time to flee from the altar, so in this process, there are plenty of required assurances, including for the cost of the work and the City’s and Schools’ right to terminate the process at any point they may decide it’s just not going to work out with their chosen developers.
Make Your Pet a Star! Critter
Corner
Just because you’re not famous doesn’t mean your pet can’t be! Snap a pic of your critter and email it to: CRITTERCORNER@FCNP.COM OR mail it to Critter Corner c/o Falls Church News-Press 200 Little Falls Street #508 Falls Church, Va 22046
HERE’S “Lucy Liu, the cat who knows Kung Fu,” better known by her stage name “Furburglar.” When she was three years old, Lucy was rescued from the Dane County Humane Society in Madison, Wisconsin. In December 2000, Lucy’s current owner and her brother visited the shelter and heard one cat in particular meowing loudly. She wasn’t the most beautiful cat in the shelter, but when her brother reached the lonely cage in the back corner, Lucy locked eyes with them and reached out to shake their hands. It was love at first sight and Lucy was soon to go with owner to her forever home. Just because you’re not famous doesn’t mean your pet can’t be! Send in your Critter Corner submissions to crittercorner@fcnp.com.
The “It’s Only Another Beer” Black and Tan 8 oz. pilsner lager 8 oz. stout lager 1 frosty mug 1 icy road 1 pick-up truck 1 10-hour day 1 tired worker A few rounds with the guys Mix ingredients. Add 1 totalled vehicle.
Never underestimate ‘just a few.’ Buzzed driving is drunk driving.
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
LO CA L
F� � � � C � � � � �
B������� N��� � N���� Local Businesses Sponsoring F.C. Chamber’s 2018 Gala Several local businesses are sponsoring the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce’s Fire & Ice Awards Gala scheduled for Saturday, March 10. ROCK STAR Realty Group is serving as the event’s entertainment sponsor while the Eden Center, Diener & Associates, Falls Church Housing Corporation, Falls Church News-Press, The Kensington Falls Church, Kiddar Capital, New Editions Consulting and The Young Group are sponsoring tables. The event includes a reception, a silent auction (available online at www.32auctions. com/FCCC2018,) dinner, an awards program, a live auction with David Quinn of Quinn’s Auction Galleries, and live music by Sudden M Pac. As previously announced, honorees include Pillar of the Community Gary LaPorta, Carrol V. Shreve Award for Meritorious Community Service winner Joe Wetzel, James S. Elkin Award for Humanitarianism winner The Falls Church Episcopal and Commander Hap Day Chamber Appreciation Award winner The Hilton Garden Inn Falls Church. Business leaders, elected officials, local decision makers, and residents are all invited to help celebrate the business community’s support of Falls Church. Tickets are available at www.FallsChurchChamber.org.
Kiddar Capital Announces Personnel Changes Falls Church-based Kiddar Capital has elevated current staff and added personnel to help manage its more than $1 billion in assets and investments. Abbey Slitor, who previously served as Kiddar Capital’s director of marketing, has been elevated to chief of staff. Carlos Merizalde has been brought on to oversee investor relations. William Akridge will bring his background in startup enterprises and early-stage investing to Kiddar Capital as managing director of its Venture Group. Kathryn Darling and Aidan Hitt will serve as codirectors of marketing. Kiddar Capital is a global alternative asset management firm with offices in London and Houston as well as Falls Church. Launched in 2007 by Todd Hitt, the firm manages $1.25 billion across established and emerging asset classes including real estate, homebuilding, venture, credit, traditional private equity, energy and hospitality. For more information, visit Kiddar Capital’s new website kiddar.com.
MARCH 1 - 7, 2018 | PAGE 23
Voted #1 Again Family, Cosmetic, and Implant Dentistry Federal Employees: We work with your benefits
703.532.3300
www.DoughertyDDS.com 200 Little Falls Street, Suite 506, Falls Church, VA 22046 We are located across the street from city hall
Follow Us Online
twitter.com/fcnp
facebook.com/fallschurchcity 4
Tysons Chamber Hosting Networking Breakfast March 7 The Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce is hosting Regional Women’s Circle of Influence speed networking breakfast event on March 7 from 8 – 10 a.m. at Metro Place’s first floor conference room at 8609 Westwood Center Drive in Vienna. The event has been designed to help business leaders expand their professional network and find new business opportunities. Attendees are advised to bring at least 30 business cards. The Regional Women’s Circle of Influence is a breakfast series co-sponsored by the Asian American, Falls Church, Greater McLean, and Tysons Regional Chambers of Commerce and the Merrifield and Vienna Business Associations. For more information, visit the calendar at www.FallsChurchChamber.org. Business News & Notes is compiled by Sally Cole, Executive Director of Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. She may be emailed at sally@fallschurchchamber.org.
There’s a time to check whether your kid’s in the right car seat. This isn’t it.
APPLE TARTLETS
4
POTATOES AU GRATIN
Give a little
TENDERNESS
®
and SAVE 75%* on Omaha Steaks®
2
PORK CHOPS
2
FILET MIGNONS
The Family Gourmet Buffet 2 (5 oz.) Filet Mignons 2 (5 oz.) Top Sirloins 2 (4 oz.) Boneless Pork Chops 4 Boneless Chicken Breasts (1 lb. pkg.) 4 (3 oz.) Kielbasa Sausages 4 (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers 4 (3 oz.) Potatoes au Gratin 4 (4 oz.) Caramel Apple Tartlets Omaha Steaks Seasoning Packet (.33 oz.)
- 34 -
51689LPX $199.90* separately
Combo Price ORDER NOW &
2
TOP SIRLOINS
4999
$
GOURMET ITEMS!
4
KIELBASA SAUSAGES
SAVE 75% Plus get 4 more Burgers & 4 more Kielbasa
Car crashes are a leading killer of children 1 to 13. Is your child in the right car seat? Don’t think you know. Know you know.
4
BONELESS CHICKEN BREASTS
4
OMAHA STEAKS BURGERS
FREE
1-877-649-6485 ask for 51689LPX | www.OmahaSteaks.com/cook20 safercar.gov/TheRightSeat
*Savings shown over aggregated single item base price. Limit 2 Family Gourmet Buffet packages. Your 4 free burgers and 4 free kielbasa will be sent to each shipping address that includes the Family Gourmet Buffet (51689). Standard S&H will be added per address. Flat rate shipping and reward cards and codes cannot be used with this offer. Not valid with other offers. Expires 2/28/18. All purchases acknowledge acceptance of Omaha Steaks, Inc. Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Visit omahasteaks.com/terms-of-useOSI and omahasteaks.com/info/privacy-policy or call 1-800-228-9872 for a copy. ©2017 OCG | Omaha Steaks, Inc. | 17M1957
PAGE 24 | MARCH 1 - 7, 2018
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Open Sunday 2-4pm
Coming Soon
New Price!
Under Contract
SOLD
le Multip s r Offe !
525 N Fayette St # 401 | Alexandria
Stunning 2 BD/2 BA corner unit in The Henry in Old Town Alexandria, two blocks from Metro. Completely updated (over 100K in upgrades) with 2 parking spaces & additional storage. Offered at $659,000
2177 Harithy Drive, Dunn Loring
Spectacular townhome that feels more like a detached house just minutes from Tysons Corner. Over 3500 sq feet on 3 finished levels-completely stunning! Offered in the Upper $900’s
416 Hampton Court | Falls Church City
Lovely renovated 2 BD/1.5 BA townhouse in the heart of the City. Come and experience urban living in the wonderful Winter Hill community. Offered at $380,000
Zillow Review
Stop by our Falls Church City office
Louise Molton Phone: 703 244-1992 louise@moltonrealestate.com
8216 Holland Rd | Alexandria
Beautiful colonial on over 1 acre of land featuring 5 BD/3.5 BA, large dome shaped addition perfect for family room or dance studio! Walk to the Potomac River from this fantastic location. Offered at $750,000
Highly Likely to Recommend “Louise recently helped us sell our house and purchase a condo. We went through the whole process with little stress and worry thanks to Louise and her team. They provided a seamless process from getting the house ready for sale, closing dates, and moving to our new place. … Louise is knowledgeable, professional, efficient and personal.
(conveniently located next to the Hilton),
and let us know how we can help you with your real estate needs.
~ T. Davis
710 W Broad St, Falls Church VA 22046 ~ 703-596-5303 Each Office Independently Owned and Operated
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
®
REALTOR
R C ST R R ealty™ Group
2BR/2BA Condo in Clarendon! ROCK STAR Realty ... ROCK STAR Service
TM
Call ROCK STAR Realty when buying or selling your home ~ 703-867-8674
JUST LISTED!
JUST LISTED!
Open Sun 1-4
Open Sun 1-4
1511 N Buchanan St, Arlington $ $1,549,900 4 Bedrooms
Exceptional 2BR/2BA Condo in Clarendon. Gorgeous finishes and urban setting! 10' ceilings, high-end cabinetry, Wolf counters, Asko appliances. Recessed lights and wide plank walnut floors. Owner's suite with luxury bath and walk-in closet. Direct elevator entry into unit. 2 garage parking spaces and storage room. Short blocks to Courthouse & Rosslyn Metros. Priced at $1,033,000.
8432 Briar Creek Dr, Annandale
4,251 sq ft
$ $759,000
4.5 Bathrooms
5 Bedrooms
NEW PRICE!! Open Sun 1-4
103 E Linden St, Alexandria $ $1,225,000 4 Bedrooms
1007 Kennedy St, Falls Church City $ $899,000
3,243 sq ft 4.5 Bathrooms
4 Bedrooms
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
2101 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201
Lifetime Top Producer
Housing Commission, Vice Chair
2,888 sq ft 3 Bathrooms
703-867-8674
Proud Supporter of ®
3.5 Bathrooms
FOR SALE
Open Sun 1-4
REALTOR
3,134 sq ft
Tori@ToriRocksRealEstate.com ToriRocksRealEstate.com 2012–2017
© 2018 Tori McKinney, LLC