Falls Church News-Press 3-11-2021 by Falls Church News-Press

March 11 – 17, 2021

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Founders Row Project Gives F.C. City Taxpayers a Break City Council to Debate Lowering Net Tax Raises Soon BY NICHOLAS F. BENTON

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

It’s about that massive construction project taking shape on 4.3 acres at the intersection of W. Broad and N. West Streets. City of Falls Church residents can thank it the next time they drive by for the fact they will be enjoying a reduction in their real estate taxes this coming year. “Thank you, Founders Row!” That single project, the largest in the City’s history to date (although one twice its size is advancing on the site of the soon-to-be-demolished old George Mason High School further to the west), is adding a big chunk of the $72.7 million in new taxable revenues that is making possible the astonishing news in F.C. City Manager Wyatt Shields’ proposed $106 million Fiscal Year 2022 City operating budget that he presented to the City Council on Monday night. The news is that for the first time since the salad days before the Great Recession in 2007, City taxpayers may enjoy a one-cent reduction in their real estate tax rate (from $1.355 to $1.345 per $100 in assessed valuation) starting in their next semi-annual bill. Some on the Council want an even steeper cut. Councilman Ross Litkenhous, for example, thinks

cutting the rate so that residents have no net tax increase can happen. Given the also bigger-thanexpected growth in residential real estate assessments announced last month, even with a small decrease in the tax rate, the tax on an average residential property here will go up (by $291 for the average $752,000 home). At any rate, the news of the tax rate cut is amazing given the adverse effects of the year-long pandemic on the local, regional and national economies and the cost of building a new $120 million high school. In addition, Shields’ proposed budget does not factor in any of the stimulus money that may be coming the City’s way with the signage into law this week of President Biden’s $1.9 trillion Covid Relief bill. That will be sending $100s of millions to state and local governments, and an equitable share of that even to tiny Falls Church could make a major difference. The Little City is also enjoying the benefit of a $3.75 million grant from the Amazon Reach program, a voluntary gift from the Amazon company targeting regional jurisdictions’ affordable housing needs in light of its plans for a massive Northern Virginia planned expan-

Continued on Page 5

THE FOUNDERS ROW project is intended to be a boon for the City’s tax base, with its revenues allowing for a lower real estate tax for residential property owners. (P��: N��-P��)

Full Elementary Reopening Coming to F.C. in April BY NICHOLAS F. BENTON

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

The last couple of weeks of students in the Falls Church City Public School System has witnessed a return to classrooms, if only on a partial hybrid basis and limited to lower grades, has combined with

unbridled enthusiasm for the highly-praised new high school, some warmer weather and the continued vaccinations of key populations here to create an upbeat environment of optimism around the City’s public schools. Notwithstanding ongoing and mostly valid laments by some

parents that the schools have not already been fully opened, a cautious and ordered transition process has led Superintendent Dr. Peter Noonan to announce this week that after spring break, (March 29-April 5) pre-kindergarten through fifth

Continued on Page 4

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Sandwiched between retailers in the Falls Plaza Shopping Center is a little takeout spot, Tasty Dumpling, a Chinese, Asian and AsianFusion restaurant where customers can get delicious pork, shrimp, beef and chicken onedish meals to-go.

SEE STORY, PAGE 14

SEE STORY, PAGE 15

The Johnsons Café is a homey, New York style deli that just opened at the corner of Annandale Road and South Washington Street with its no frills exterior appearance giving no hints about the delectable foods that await patrons on the inside.

Students are returning to school after nearly a year of virtual instruction since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, and teachers at all levels of Falls Church City schools are bringing some of the new tricks they’ve learned while away back into the classroom.

SEE STORY, PAGE 16

INDEX

Editorial............................................... 6 Letters................................................. 6 Comment ................................ 7,12,13 News & Notes.............................10-11 Crime Report .................................... 12 Business News ................................. 15 Calendar .....................................18-19 Classified Ads ................................... 20 Comics, Sudoku & Crossword ......... 21 Critter Corner.................................... 22

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CAMPERS AGES 4-14

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MARCH 11 – 17, 2021 | PAGE 3

Henderson Middle’s GIVE Day Might Be Diﬀerent, But It’s S�ll Meaningful BY ALLY CAMPBELL

SPECIAL TO THE NEWS-PRESS

For the past four years, Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School students have participated in GIVE Day. GIVE Day is an event at Henderson Middle where thousands of meals are packaged by students in partnership with Rise Against Hunger and sent to food insecure students all over the world. The GIVE Day Club, made up of students from MEHMS, makes this event happen by raising money, organizing the event, setting up for the event, and educating people in our community about world hunger. GIVE Day is a day where students and staff come together to pack meals for those less fortunate, and it is a way for the entire school to help other people in the world while having fun. This year has been noticeably different than past years, but despite the very unusual circumstances, GIVE Day will still take place this year at Henderson Middle. Due to the global pandemic, some changes will need to be made to GIVE Day to make it

A SCENE from Thomas Jefferson Elementary’s GIVE Day last January, where students and families put together 1600 “Powerpacks” for weekend food distribution through Food for Others for students and families in the region so they had food on weekends. (P��: FCCPS P��/C�� S��) safe for all students and staff participating, but it will still happen, and meals will still be packaged. On Monday, March 22, 300 students and staff will package 20,000 meals that will be sent to food insecure students all over the world. Even though GIVE Day

will be different this year, our school will still be helping many people who need it, and that is the only thing that matters to all of us. The pandemic has hurt so many people, and now more than ever, we need GIVE Day to happen to help starving people all over the

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world. Due to the spiraling unemployment numbers, and the impact on the world’s economy, the number of people starving in the world has only increased. As of October 2020 the amount of people going to bed on an empty stomach is 690 million, which means that over 10

percent of the world is food insecure. The world has the resources and the means to fix world hunger, and it starts right here, with you. This year, it is more crucial than ever that you donate, or contribute to one of GIVE Day’s fundraisers because more people are starving, and we can help. You can donate $34 for 100 meals on Henderson PTA’s website (mehpta.org/store/p54/100_ Meals_Donation_for_GIVE_ Day_2021.html), or dine out at Clare and Don’s Beach Shack on Saturday, March 13 from 5 – 8 p.m. to support the cause. World hunger is a huge problem that has lasted and affected our world since the beginning of time. It is our job as those who are more fortunate to help those who are less fortunate, so let’s join together and do what’s right. Slowly but surely, we as individuals and as a community can help to better our world and reduce the percentage of hungry people that live in it. Ally Campbell is an 8th grader at Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School and is also a member of the school’s GIVE Day Club.

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Plan Is For School System to Have Full Reopening By Fall 2021 Semester

Continued from Page 1

grade students will come into a fiveday per week full-day in-person instruction. He also stressed that the plan is to have all students whose families wish it to have full five-day in-person instruction with the beginning of the fall semester in late August. Noonan made the announcements in a written communique last Friday. “Access to vaccines brings hope as we move forward. Each day there is more positive news. As a division, over 94 percent of staff have received both doses of the vaccine. Health data in Falls Church City continues to move in the right direction for cases per 100,000 and percent of positivity,” he wrote. However, he told the School Board at its meeting Tuesday that the City’s rate of 68.41 per 100,000 virus transmission rate is slightly above the Virginia Department of Health’s recommended benchmark of 50 per 100,000. Even though the positivity rate (percentage of the total population infected by the virus) at 3.5 percent is far below the recommended rate of 8 percent or less, the rule of thumb is to go by the higher

of the two rates. By that standard, the City’s schools are not the highest level of preparation for full reopening yet, but getting close, Noonan said. After spring break, high school students will have daily access to the new high school and planning is beginning for senior class Prom and Graduation in June, Noonan reported. While there will be summer school, maybe limited to literacy and math, it may be challenged by a lack of available staffing. In the fall, there will be only in-classroom and home options, no hybrid ones. Noonan has stuck to his policy of six-foot social distancing for inclass instruction, even though some are arguing for three-foot distancing. He reiterated his justification at Tuesday’s board meeting, saying that by standards of the Virginia Department of Health, anyone testing positive for the virus must be subjected to a contact tracing that covers anyone up to six feet. Therefore, it isn’t prudent to sit students that close. “Some people don’t like that I call it a six-foot ‘mandate,’ but by extrapolation, it effectively is,” he said.

REOPENING SCHOOLS is discussed by the Falls Church School Board (S��: N��-P��) In comments to the City Council Monday, Noonan urged people “listen to the science,” contrasting the many who are supportive of his measured approach to reopening safely to those noisy parents who want a full reopening now. “A lot of folks are very pleased with what we are doing,” he said. Noonan wrote in his missive on March 5, “Through all the twists and turns, disappointments, and successes of the past year, our goal has never wavered. We want to welcome every student who desires to return

to in-person learning back into the buildings safely, as soon as possible, and as often as possible. The new routines resulting from Covid have complicated every step along the way for our collective community and individual families.” He added, “We unite around the goal of bringing students back to school buildings in-person full time. But there is much work to do to get there. School teams and central office support staff are working hard on that process. This is another step along a new path as we navigate

through instruction, operations and support services to make this happen.” Noonan stressed that the school system “is benefitting from abundant support from stakeholders in this community.” He’s formed a Reopening Advisory Group of parents, teachers, staff members and representatives from across the community “that will provide me with ideas, feedback and questions to help ensure we are on the right path to move forward and achieve our goals.”

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MARCH 11 – 17, 2021 | PAGE 5

Proposed Budget Features $200K for Virus Uncertainties, $100K to Affordable Housing

Continued from Page 1

sion. That money will go with $100,000 being allocated in Shields’ budget for affordable housing, the first time the City has made any such earmarked designation of funds to that purpose in over a decade. City Manager Shields’ proposed a Fiscal Year 2022 budget presented to the City Council Monday night provides for a 2.3 percent ($946,567) increase in general government operating expenditures and a 2.5 percent ($1,068,894) increase in local funding for public schools, as requested by the School Board. Shields presented the proposed operating budget and the Six-Year Capital Improvements Program (CIP) to the Council. F.C. Schools Superintendent Peter Noonan and School Board Chair Shannon Litton provided a briefing on the School Board budget component of Shields’ overall request. The Council has set forth a schedule of two budget town hall

meetings and three public hearings, prior to adopting a final budget on April 26. The first is a virtual forum at noon slated for today, March 11. The proposed FY2022 Budget proposes funding for body worn cameras for the City Police Department, and adds additional civilian positions to support the functions of the department, which is a first step in addressing recommendations of the recent Use of Force Review Committee. The FY2022 Budget funds the six major flood mitigation projects that were recommended by the Stormwater Task Force. A two percent increase in the stormwater fee is also recommended to pay for the series of smaller stormwater projects completed this year. A series of state grants for transportation improvements, including the Park Avenue “Great Streets” project, the Oak Street Bridge, and the Washington and Columbia intersection improvements are allocated through the Capital Improvements Program. The FY2022 Proposed Budget

also includes $200,000 in contingency funds to address uncertainties resulting from Covid-19. This is intended to address either revenue shortfalls or increased demand for services and assistance as the City recovers from the pandemic. Debt service will decrease by $500,000, or 3.8 percent, due to the cancellation of planned debt issuance in FY2021 and refunding prior bonds from 2011 and 2013 at lower interest rates. The budget uses $4.05 million in capital reserves towards the debt service, as planned. The budget allocates $4.5 million in FY2022 from the 10-acre land at the high school campus, under the Amended Comprehensive Agreement that was executed with the Falls Church Gateway Partnership to capital reserves, in accordance with the plan of finance for the new high school. Additionally, the City expects to receive voluntary concessions from the Founders Row project for $1.8 million in FY2022 which is also being placed into the capital

WHEN THE PROJECT is �inally completed, drivers in Falls Church will brief a sigh of relief given the congestion Founders Row’s development has caused. (P��: N��-P��) reserves in this budget. The complete text and charts included in the City Manager’s proposed FY2022 budget can be viewed at www.fallschurchva.gov/ Budget. The schedule of budget meetings and public hearings is also available on the website. Two virtual town hall meetings are scheduled today at noon and April 15 at 7:30 p.m. The City Manager and School Superintendent

will give presentations and answer questions on the proposed budget, the Capital Improvement Projects budget, the high school project, and more. These town halls can be viewed live through a link on the City’s website fallschurchva.gov, and available for viewing later on the City’s website, YouTube channel, and FCC-TV cable rebroadcasts (RCN 2, Verizon 35).

PAGE 6 | MARCH 11 – 17, 2021 

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E D I TO R I A L

The Vitally Important $1.9 Trillion

U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, who represents the 8th District of Virginia that includes the City of Falls Church and is expected to chair the U.S. Congress’ Joint Economic Committee beginning this year, voted for the sweeping $1.9 trillion Covid relief American Rescue Plan on Wednesday, contributing to the Democratic majority that cast all the votes for it. Shortly before casting his vote, Beyer told his colleagues during floor debate: “My vote today for the American Rescue Plan will be the most consequential vote I have ever cast as a member of the House.” Beyer said, “The American Rescue Plan is $1.9 trillion in pandemic relief legislation. Today we show that democracy works. Today we make available all the resources needed to end the pandemic that has killed 527,000 Americans. Today we lift millions of American children out of poverty. Today we make an investment to get our children back to school safely. Today we authorize economic impact payments to millions of our citizens behind on their rents and car payments and unable to buy groceries. Today we extend unemployment insurance for the ten percent of Americans still out of work because of the virus. Today we send national help to the state and local governments who employ the heroes who provide our quality of life: police, firefighters, teachers, child protective service workers, sanitation workers, and many others.” And, finally, most poignantly, he summarized, “Today we reject the social Darwinism of our Republican friends. We reject the ethic of every man, woman, and child for themselves.” Beyer’s colleague. Rep. Adam Schiff, added important remarks of his own, saying, “ I believe the act will set the stage for an economic revival, and one where the benefits will be shared by all Americans, not the wealthiest few.” He went on, “There is some bad news though. Despite polls showing that 60 percent or more of the American people supported this bill, not one Republican voted for it. And what a contrast; Republicans pushed a two trillion dollar tax cut for wealthy families and big corporations, and Democrats advanced a bill of the same size for working families. That should tell you a lot about the parties’ respective priorities.” “Not one Republican in the House. Not one Republican in the Senate. It goes to show that the Republican Party stands for one thing: Trying to foil Joe Biden and the Democratic agenda, even if it means standing against help that people desperately need,” he said. The contrast is between the stock portfolios of the tiny fraction of the wealthiest Americans and their international colleagues, and the kitchen tables of hundreds of millions of Americans. In the latter case, sadly there’s no way the 527,000 lives lost to Covid-19 can come back to those tables, but there will be food and opportunity on them for all the champions battling the pandemic and everyone else, too.

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Fairfax Co. Should Let F.C. City Have ‘Falls Church High’ Editor, I see that Alexandria is considering renaming T. C. Williams High School as Alexandria High School — simple, obvious and effective. There was a time when Falls Church had a Falls Church High School. It was located at the northwest corner of Hillwood Avenue and Cherry Street. But we lost it to Fairfax County when Falls Church became a city, forcing us to build George Mason

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Got Beef?

Jr./Sr. High School — outside our city limits. Throughout the ‘50s the county’s “Falls Church High” existed in the City and our high school was in the county, an ironic situation. Fairfax County moved its “Falls Church High” outside the city, to a location several miles away. It is not even the closest Fairfax County high school to the City. Fairfax County needs to rename its high school and relinquish its present name to us. The county’s use of our name is vestigial and inappropriate, since its high school has no actual connection to Falls Church. And “Falls Church High School” is the perfect new name for George Mason High. Ted White Falls Church

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MARCH 11 – 17, 2021 | PAGE 7

Tax Relief Programs Help Keep Aging Residents in F.C. City B� J�� A��

When I first moved here in 1993, I told all my friends that Falls Church City was the center of the universe. They would laugh, but then I’d explain; we have everything — we’re a small town in the middle of a big city, which is one of the world’s great power centers. We’re inside the beltway, bounded by Route 66 and Route 50, we’re sandwiched between two of Virginia’s largest counties, Fairfax and Arlington. Yet we are an independent city with control over our own destiny. We have a world class school system, our own police force and court system. We’re seven miles from downtown DC. Falls Church City is smack in the middle of everything; we live in a very unique place. There is a price however, to living in such a unique place. We have one of the highest incomes per capita of any locality in the United States. We also have some of the highest home prices in a region well known for its high real estate prices. Real estate assessments have grown steadily during my family’s time here. Our homes held their values better than any surrounding jurisdiction during the financial/mortgage crisis of 2008/09. During the current global pandemic, our real estate values have actually increased by 2.7 percent overall this year. When our citizens are ready to sell their home, they are thankful for our rock solid real estate values. It means they can reap

the benefits of those steadily increasing property values by obtaining a premium price when they sell. The real estate values

“[Seniors] want to continue to live here and ‘age in place,’ but some senior or disabled citizens find themselves on fixed incomes and struggling to pay their tax bills.”

remain strong due to a number of factors, such as maintaining excellent City services and an excellent school system, which is why many residents move here. The higher tax bill is a trade-off and most people believe that what they are getting for their tax dollar is worth it. Housing in Falls Church City is always in high demand and homeowners recoup their investment when they sell their home. But what happens to the homeowners who don’t sell their home and stay here through retirement and afterwards? As the elected Treasurer in Falls Church,

my office administers the City’s Tax Relief Program for the Elderly and Disabled and we work closely with the applicants. We see long-time residents who have raised families here and contributed to their community over many years. They want to continue to live here and “age in place,” but some senior or disabled citizens find themselves on fixed incomes and struggling to pay their tax bills. When the City Council asked for a review of the tax relief ordinance in 2019, we had an opportunity to revamp the program and offer a rewrite of the ordinance. I headed a review committee that included Housing & Human Services Director, Nancy Vincent, Vice Mayor and City Council member, Marybeth Connelly, citizen member Tina Earman, Human Services Advisory board member, Alisa Macht, and my Chief Deputy, Niki Wisemiller. After months of meetings, research, surveys and number crunching, we presented our findings to City Council. The Council voted unanimously to increase the scope of the program, adding $100,000 in program benefits. The new program went into effect beginning with the FY2020 tax year. The hallmarks of the new program are an increase in the maximum benefit from $4,000/year to 100 percent relief of their tax bill for those in the lowest income bracket, and a reduction in the interest rate on deferred taxes to zero percent, which encourages more seniors to take advantage of deferral. Deferred taxes will eventu-

ally be returned to the City coffers when the program participant moves, leaves the program and/or the home is sold. The investment in the tax relief program of an additional $100,000 annually helps keep seniors in their homes longer, and contributes to population diversity and the maintenance of affordable housing stock. That is a great return on investment! We are now in the second full year since the tax relief program changes were put in place. We have seen an increase of 10 percent in applications for tax relief and approximately 15 percent for deferred taxes. Several of our program participants have told us that the increase to 100 percent relief allowed them to stay in their homes when they would otherwise have been forced to sell and move out of the City. I am honored to work for and live in a City that invests so much in helping the citizens who need it the most. If you are a disabled or senior homeowner who might be eligible for tax relief, please call the Treasurer’s Office at 703-248-5046 (711 TTY). The deadline for applications this year is April 15. Let us all continue together to enjoy the benefits of living in the center of the universe, otherwise known as Falls Church City. For more information, visit fallschurchva.gov/taxrelief. Jody Acosta is the Treasurer for the City of Falls Church

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NEWS BRIEFS New FCNP Weekly Event Tonight at Clare & Don’s The Falls Church NewsPress’ new weekly tradition that hails its Thursday Delivery Day with ‘Spot of the Week’ informal gatherings at a local restaurant moves to the City’s popular Clare and Don’s Beach Shack today (March 11), followed by Falls Church Distillers next week (March 18). The free event is from 6 – 8 p.m. and offers all who attend a chance to get the new edition, to jawbone with members of the FCNP staff, to win a raffle, and to support a local restaurant in these tough times.

New Noise Ordinance Wins Preliminary OK The Falls Church City Council’s ongoing attempt to craft a noise ordinance that will not kill local businesses that rely on some outdoor live music to survive during the current pandemic and will also be sensitive to nearby residents landed on another temporary step Monday, with the 7-0 adoption for a preliminary OK of a measure that allows up to 75 decibels of sound (from the boundary of the business) up to 10:30 p.m. in business and industrial on Friday and Saturday nights. Dates for a public hearing and final approval will be determined by the City Attorney.

Women’s History Month: Daily Honorees in F.C. Women’s History Month this March is serving as the platform for an effort by two Falls Church City Council members to call attention on a daily basis to both entrepreneur and trailblazing women in the Little City, with daily profiles that are “broadcast” on a plethora of local websites. Vice Mayor Marybeth Connelly and Council member Debbie

Hiscott have spearheaded the effort that runs through the end of the month and culminates in a Sunday, May 2, annual women’s history march from City Hall to the Tinner Hill monument. The daily honorees are included in the daily announcements of the F.C. City Public Schools and numerous other locations. Among other things, a “100 Years of Suffrage” exhibit is being circulated about town, including at the public schools. The May 2 march, recognized in a Feb. 22 proclamation from the F.C. City Council, is being presented by the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation, the Falls Church Elected Women, and the Women’s History Group and grand marshals for this year’s parade will be Alma Amaker, Doris Newcomb, Sally Phillips, Mary Ellen Shaw, Ellen Salsbury and Marie Hirst Yochim.

Applicants for School Board Vacancy Sought The Falls Church City School Board announced yesterday that it is seeking applications from qualified Falls Church residents to fulfill the term of former School Board member Shawna Russell, who resigned effective February 28, 2021. Applications may be submitted by qualified voters in the City of Falls Church who the School Board does not employ. Letters must be submitted to School Board Clerk Marty Gadell no later than Friday, March 19 at 5 p.m. Letters should indicate the applicant’s interest in the position, state why they are applying, and describe their qualifications. All letters received by the deadline will be posted publicly. The School Board will hold a public hearing on March 23 to hear from interested parties and consider applications received. The board anticipates a final vote on April 13, to appoint an applicant to fulfill the unexpired term through December 31, 2021.

Correction: Moderators of Feb. 28 Forum Named The News-Press incorrectly identified the moderator of the Feb. 28 virtual forum on affordable housing in F.C. in its edition last week. The moderator was Nancy Vincent, Director of the City’s Department of Housing and Human Services, and Hal Lippman of the Citizens for a Better City. Allison Brown, president of the League of Women Voters of F.C. and others organized the forum and panel discussion.

‘Smart Growth’ Calls for Action on WMATA Budget In a statement released yesterday, Stewart Schwartz, head of the regional Coalition for Smart Growth, sounded an alarm about the WMATA proposed budget for the coming year. “It is out for public comment and it’s sobering. The pandemic has devastated transit agencies across the nation, with plummeting ridership and revenue threatening the very existence of public transit as we know it,” he wrote. WMATA’s proposed Fiscal Year 22 budget (begins July 1) keeps current levels of service for the first six months, but due to a projected $209 million shortfall, initiates massive service cuts in January 2022. This includes: Closing 22 stations, Stopping Metrorail at 9 p.m. every day, Trains running every 30 minutes in most places (service at 30 percent of pre-pandemic levels), Bus service cut to 50 percent of pre-pandemic levels, and Reduction of over 2,500 staff. He added, on a brighter note, “The good news is that a third round ($30 billion) of emergency funding for the nation’s transit systems is about to be approved by Congress. But, WMATA’s budget is already out for comment, and they cannot include this funding in their budget until their share is confirmed.”

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

MARCH 11 - 17, 2021 | PAGE 9

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News-Press

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Community News & Notes College of William & Mary Dean’s List Announced

FOOD FOR NEIGHBORS received over 20,000 pounds of food during its Red Bag Program food collection on March 6. This is a record amount of food for the nonprofit, and the accomplishment highlights communities in Northern Virginia who step up to support students who struggle with food security. Among these communities are the neighborhoods surrounding Falls Church High School, which is the newest of 23 schools partnering with Food For Neighbors. (Photos: Courtesy of Paula Prettyman)

The following students were chosen as the Dean’s List at the College of William and Mary. All students are residents of Falls Church. Miguel Abradu-Otoo, Tasneem Tamanna Amin, Angellena Arquette-Overman, Alexander Berliner, Asher Berwick, Grace Bir, Elizabeth Brown, Temujin Bullock, Emma Bury, Holly Caboti-Jones, Anjuli Cerda, Jin Hwi Cho, Sarah Chopko, Suzanne Cole, Natalia Critchley, Ciara Curtin, Joanna Di Scipio, Jackson Dillard, Manon Diz, Elizabeth Do, Stephanie Do, Olivia EvenVaca, Katherine Fernandez Villalba, Victor Gedeck, Lydia Grund, Miles Heffernan, Selwyn Heminway, Emma Hill, Mikayla Huffman, Katherine Kelly, Aaron Klein, Derin Kokuuslu, Grace Kuai, Michael Li, Margaret Lister, Sonya Lu, Vanessa Ma, Alexandra Maceo, Neal Marshall, Caitlin McKee, Margaret McLaughlin, Lorena Meruvia, Isabella Miranda, Dulguun Myagmarsuren, Nira Nair, Emily O’Keefe, Kennan Okada, Kimberly Pham, Sophie Pittaluga, Alejandro Quiroga, Holitiana Raparaoelina, Alyson Reynolds, Ameer Rezazad, Kiana Rodriguez, Madeleine Scherer, Adriana Shi, Sydney Smith, Aaron Stone, Alana Thomas, Alexander Toyryla, Lydia Troup, Norsang Tseten, Avi Urbach, Nelson Villegas, Kathryn Webb and Annemarie Zheng.

Charity Sale for F.C.Annandale Lions March 20 THE SIGNATURE HUNTERS were out and about in Falls Church on Saturday, with (middle three, from left to right) Commissioner of Revenue Tom Clinton, City Treasurer Jody Acosta and Interim Sheriff Met Cay at Clare and Don’s Beach Shack to get their names on the ballot. They were joined by Delegate Marcus Simon (right) and Jay Jones, a candidate for Attorney General. (Courtesy Photo)

The Falls Church – Annandale Lions Club Charities announced their Premium Citrus Fruit Sale

for Charity, which will take place on Saturday, March 20 from 8:15 a.m. until all items are sold out. The charity will take place at the Annandale Swim and Tennis Club (7530 Little River Turnpike, Annandale). Those who are interested should look for the Craig Moving Van located between the Wendy’s and McDonald’s. The items for sale include Ruby Red Grapefruit, Navel Oranges, Florida Juice Oranges, Red Delicious Apples, D’Anjou Pears and Tangelos. There will also be the Lions Club’s Famous Bean Soup Mix, which comes in 1 pound packages, and White House Ornaments. Visit fc-alions.org for more information.

McLean Governing Board Filing Deadline is March 12 Friday, March 12, at 5 p.m. is the filing deadline for the McLean Community Center’s (MCC) 2021 Governing Board elections. Residents of Dranesville Small Tax District 1A who are interested in running for a seat on the board can still enter the race. The all-volunteer Board sets policy and provides general oversight for MCC facilities, which include the Robert Ames Alden Theatre and the Old Firehouse Center. All residents of the Center’s tax district are eligible to run for a seat on the 11-member board. Candidates are required to obtain the signatures of 10 (ten) tax district residents to have their names placed on the election ballot. Nominating petition forms are available at the Center, which is located at 1234 Ingleside Ave. Residents who would prefer to not enter the center can call 703744-9348, to arrange for an MCC staff member to deliver a candidate

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, 105 N. Virginia Ave #310, Falls Church, VA 22046

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

packet to them in the MCC parking lot. Three adult positions and two youth positions are open this year. Adult board members serve threeyear terms. Youth members serve one-year terms. Adult candidates must be at least 18 years old as of McLean Day on Saturday, May 15. Youth candidates must be 15 to 17 years old as of McLean Day. One youth member who lives within the McLean High School boundary area will be elected; one youth member who lives within the Langley High School boundary area will be elected. Youth candidates are not required to attend either school; however, they must reside within the boundary areas served by one of the schools as defined by Fairfax County Public Schools. For more information on the MCC Governing Board Elections, logon to the Governing Board Candidates’ webpage: bit. ly/2MYdJJN, or contact Executive Assistant Holly Novak at 703-7449348 or holly.novak@fairfaxcounty.gov.

McLean Republican Women’s Club Offering Scholarship The Greater McLean Republican Women’s Club (GMRWC) is accepting applications for a $1,000 scholarship awarded annually to a graduating high school senior who resides in the Dranesville District of Fairfax County. The three high schools within Dranesville District are Herndon, Langley and McLean high schools. The award is based on the student’s involvement in community activities, as well as academic and other achievements. The scholarship is named after Betty Greer, a life member and past president of the GMRWC. All interested students are welcome to apply.

The application deadline is May 1, 2021. The scholarship description and application can be found on the GMRWC website at gmrwc. net.

Registration Deadline for Golf Tourney on March 15 The registration deadline is coming up for Falls Church High School’s athletic boosters golf invitational at Penderbrook Golf Course (3700 Golf Trail Lane, Fairfax) in April. Interested participants can register for a day of golf, prizes and food. All proceeds will be used to improve the athletic programs and facilities at Falls Church High School. Registration closes on Monday, March 15. Registration costs $120 for adults and $105 for Fairfax County Public Schools students and faculty. The price includes green fees, cart, lunch and silent auction. The golf invitational itself will be held on Saturday, April 17. To reserve a spot, visit fchs-jaguarathletic-boosters-club.square.site/ golf.

Tom Dolan Swim School Merges with National Brand Big Blue Swim School, one of the nation’s fastest growing swim school franchises, announced today the acquisition of Tom Dolan Swim School, allowing the brand to expand its presence in Northern Virginia with schools in Dulles and Falls Church in the coming months. As part of the agreement, Dolan, who opened his first swim school in 2012 following an impressive career as a two-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer in the 400-meter individual medley where he also held the world record, will join the Big Blue team and maintain an integral role in the expansion and management of Big Blue Swim

TWENTY-FIVE “Thank you for what you do” gift bags full of snacks and skincare products from Avon were delivered to Falls Church’s Volunteer Fire Station by F.C. native Julie Stirling, an Avon representative, and were sponsored by Shelia Newman, the president of New Editions Consulting, Inc. in Falls Church. Businesses can sponsor gift bags for essential workers, and can plug their business while they’re at it. For more information, contact Stirling at ComeGetAvon@ gmail.com or visit her store at youravon.com/jstirling. (P��: C�� J�� S��) School in Northern Virginia. Big Blue Swim School was founded in 2009 and currently operates schools in the Chicago and Atlanta markets. The company is building a new school in Chantilly slated to open this summer, and another location was recently secured in Fairfax. Under the agreement with Tom Dolan Swim School, the Dulles and Falls Church pools will transition to Big Blue Swim School over the coming three months. Nationally, Big Blue Swim School has franchise agreements for 123 schools in 19 states and

twitter.com/fcnp

MARCH 11 – 17, 2021 | PAGE 11

facebook.com/fallschurchcity

plans to add another 50 schools in 2021.

Glen Forest Elementary Welcomes New Principal Diane (Dee Dee) HerndonWilson, who currently serves as assistant principal at Lowes Island Elementary School in Loudoun County, has been named the new principal of Glen Forest Elementary School, effective March 22. Herndon-Wilson has experience in analyzing school-wide data to create multi-tiered systems of support to ensure equitable outcomes

for all students. She has worked at a Title 1 eligible school, preparing her to lead a school where a large percentage of students are English language learners (ELL) and has experience implementing local level IV, special education programs, and ELL programs to meet the many needs of students, including those who live in poverty. Herndon-Wilson earned a bachelor of science degree in interdisciplinary studies from Radford University and a master of education degree in education leadership from George Mason University.

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

A Penny for Your Thoughts

News of Greater Falls Church By Supervisor Penny Gross

The condition of trees and the tree canopy are important indications of the health of the local environment, whether urban or rural. One of the responsibilities of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors is approval of the annual Forest Pest Management Program. Funding for the program is provided by a tiny portion ($0.0010 per $100 assessed value) of the real estate tax. That’s about $6 a year for the average homeowner, a miniscule amount to combat a potentially huge problem county-wide. Eleven forest pests or diseases are identified in the Calendar Year 2021 program, affecting trees from A (ash) to W (walnut); some of the pests have definitive, and creepy, names. The Asian Longhorn Beetle (ALB) is an invasive insect that infests many hardwood species and may threaten more than four million trees in Fairfax County. ALB larvae bore into the heartwood of a tree, and already may have caused non-recoverable damage before being discovered. Outreach to the public and updating the long-term ALB management plan are crucial to the battle against this invasive pest. The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) has distinctive and vivid green iridescent wings. It has killed thousands of ash trees in the county, including in the Bailey’s Crossroads area of Mason District. EAB was first documented at a school site in the Wolftrap area in 2003, and both the Commonwealth and the federal government ordered removal of all ash trees within a halfmile radius of that site. Although tree injections with an insecticide can be effective against EAB, dead or dying trees still must be removed. For many years, transport of firewood was not allowed in Northern Virginia because of the possibility of moving EAB throughout the region.

On Jan. 14, that quarantine was removed by the Trump Administration, but county and state experts still discourage transport of firewood, to prevent potential infestations. Fall cankerworm levels have fallen dramatically, so no areas will require treatment, but staff has been monitoring parasites and conducting defoliation surveys to combat the possibility of rising populations in the future. Gypsy moth populations also have remained low, with no areas requiring treatment. Two other pests — Hemlock Wooly Adelgid (HWA) and Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) — are newer to the management program. Native eastern hemlock is relatively rare in the county, but native stands in Dranesville and Springfield districts are being monitored closely. SLF is the newest, and very identifiable, pest, with white or light-colored wings, highlighted by bright red spots. SLF has not been identified in Fairfax County, but has been found in nearby Warren and Clarke Counties, and can be devastating to many crops and other flora. SLF has a preference for the Tree of Heaven, an extremely invasive and fairly common species here. Program funding will target removal and remediation of Tree of Heaven in 2021. According to county staff, most infestations found in the United States have been detected by tree care professionals or informed homeowners. With Spring approaching and yard work resuming, now is a good time to check your property for such pests, and report findings to the county’s Urban Forest Management Division.  Penny Gross is the Mason District Supervisor, in the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. She may be emailed at mason@ fairfaxcounty.gov.

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CRIME REPORT Week of March 1 – 7, 2021

Commercial Burglary, 100 blk Hillwood Ave, March 2, 3:30 AM, unknown suspects used a rock to shatter a glass door and took items of value. Investigation continues. Fraud, 200 blk E Fairfax St, March 4, 1:00 PM, an incident of fraud was reported.

WWW.FCNP.COM

Status Update on Monday, March 8 City of Falls Church Vaccine Data Date

Doses Administered

Fully Vaccinated

Monday, March 8

3,656

Monday, March 1

3,165

1,301 1,157

Monday, February 22

3,237

1,144

Tuesday, February 16

2,861

880

Monday, February 8

2,131

453

Monday, February 1

1,624

258

Monday, January 25 1

1,077

Monday, January 18

600

On average, 1 in 6 Americans will get a foodborne illness this year. You can’t see these microbes, but they might be there. Always use a food thermometer to check if meat has reached a safe internal temperature before eating.

*NOTE: This data point decreased as the Virginia Department of Health found that the individuals lived in the Fairfax County part of Falls Church, not the City of Falls Church.

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Harry and Meghan: Yes, It Does Matter

Here’s how the latest bombshell revelations from Harry and Meghan actually matter in our world: The enemies of western democracy, including its national adversaries like Russia and China and its domestic democracy-hating elites, have been engaging in endless efforts to undermine it through shaping public opinion in the West. It is not an easy undertaking as it requires clever tactics aimed at getting masses of people to adopt intellectual and moral postures in contradiction to their own self-interests. The cornerstone approach in this effort has been inciting division. But a critical element of this is also tearing down morality that often involves the demolition of personal values and charFALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS acter. Donald Trump is the epitome of the kind of moral reprobate they encourage, but the goal of using such a person is not to display his degraded sense of self as it is to thrust it against others they seek to degrade and whose moral character and leadership they would destroy. Our problem in the West is that we fail to appreciate this reality. In fact, since World War II, our intelligence community’s covert operations have cooked up and advanced this same cause, thinking that tearing down morality is a good way to engender a preference for individualism that prefers a free society to a dictatorship. Very wrong. This is a profound miscalculation that has grown to contribute enormously to the world’s current woes. I am referring to the kind of uncomplicated, simple morality that the vast majority of people adopt as an ordinary matter of living out their lives: the morality of honesty and fair play, that says someone is to be judged by their actions and nothing more, that naturally rejects racial and other prejudices. This is the people’s natural childhood playground morality before factors of ideological and man-made prejudices are added in to create hate and division. When the Russians or their Western elitist allies intervene in a society it is with an aim to invoke unnatural hatreds. Always. I have no doubt that a lot of the unbelievably hateful mail that erupted against Meghan since the Oprah Winfrey interview last weekend has come from Russian bots, the same as influenced the 2016 U.S. presidential election and the British Brexit vote: Flat out fake and counting on popular opinion to passively mimic what it perceives the dominant public view to be, augmented by vicious media sources. (Does anybody not now hate what the racist Piers Morgan has exposed himself to be in this latest incident? No doubt in my mind.) Am I arguing for the royal family here? Not in the slightest, except to argue that its institutional role in Western society has made it a target of enemies of western democracy. It is sorely in need of the reforms that its horrific treatment of Harry and Meghan have now revealed. On the other hand, Harry and Meghan and their down-to-earth morality are the epitome of what that royal family has produced. They are the true heirs to its legacy, not the terribly pathetic William and Kate, who’ve so sadly and totally bought into the monstrous myth of how they’ve been told their station in life is to be. The shortcomings of British royalty are legion, and in this latest case, could bring it down. But for all of it, for better or worse, it has retained a status in the minds of countless millions aligned with western democracy against its vicious enemies that won two world wars against continental tyrannies and fascists and now aligns solidly with the best of U.S. democratic traditions. Much needs to be cleaned up: The murder and subsequent character assassination of Prince Eddy that left Europe hopelessly exposed to the horrors of the Great War under his brutal younger brother, the pro-Nazi sentiments of Edward VIII who had to be forced from the throne in 1936, the assassination of Princess Diana and many more misdeeds and coverups. But the British crown has been nobly worn by Elizabeth II for more than a half-century and her role in supporting Harry and Meghan has been essential to this point, reflecting her constructive role in western history.

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MARCH 11 – 17, 2021 | PAGE 13

Nicholas F. Benton

 Nicholas Benton may be emailed at nfbenton@fcnp.com.

Our Man in Arlington By Charlie Clark

It’s elementary school dismissal time, Covid era, parochial edition. On a Tuesday afternoon in the parking lot/playground behind the St. Thomas More Cathedral School off Glebe Road at Arlington Boulevard, I’m observing a choreographed end-of-school day drill. Staff at the Catholic school (preK-8), one of 41 in the 71-parish regional Arlington Diocese, are practicing protocols that have allowed in-person instruction since the start of this school year while Arlington Public Schools have (until the partial reopening last week) stayed virtual. Beginning at 2:55, Principal Cathy Davis speaks through outdoor P.A. speakers to nudge the 400 students to stop all activity and “call to mind the blessings of God.” She recites an “Act of Attrition Prayer.” Outside, staffers masked with the school’s customized twoply blue gaiters move orange cones and traffic signs. Kids in uniforms and patrol belts take down the American flag. Dozens of parents in minivans are lined up according to assigned groups (blue-orange or purple cards on dashboards), spaced at 10-minute intervals. Some venture out of cars as staffers escort children with their backpacks and carryalls. “Six feet, my friend,” the principal reminded them. Students who walk, some escorted to Glebe Rd., for safety reasons exit last. The advantages parochial schools enjoy include the “amazing

supportive parent population,” Davis said. “We don’t depend on buses or small conference rooms.” They embrace anti-Covid mitigation, which includes multiple sanitizer wipe-downs of classroom surfaces. “You can’t see the smiles on faces because students are masked, but you can see the twinkle in their eyes,” she said. “The learning going on is astronomical, and safety is the part we’ve been able to capitalize on.” There’s a huge waiting list to transfer in. At St. Agnes School (460 students pre-K-8), the wait list has ballooned to 380, with parents “seeing the writing on the wall” that public school would be shuttered, said Principal Jen Kuzdzal. “Our advantage is that we have autonomy and are smaller and don’t rely on buses.” The pandemic “is a watershed moment for Catholic education. It’s all about the hustle, being scrappy,” she added. “We don’t have revenue sharing, just what the Parish can give us. We knew we had to open. Virtual wasn’t a choice.” The high school level differs, noted Bill Crittenberger, now in his second year as head of school at Bishop O’Connell (1,170 students grades 9-12). The normal movement through hallways between classes for seven periods isn’t safe during Covid. So O’Connell divided the students into blue and silver cohorts of 500 each, alternating days on campus with students at home for virtual “synchronous” lessons and working at their own

pace. “Families have a chance to go virtual if they choose, but many are excited about the hybrid,” he said, noting that applications are up. Sports teams “are carefully scheduled to limit and document their interactions, in case this becomes necessary. Covid protocols continue to be enforced on the sidelines and spectators are limited. Cautiously, we are thinking through the rollout of other in-person activities such as clubs and activities, retreats, and fine arts performances.” O’Connell has tested and documented narrow outbreaks, (particularly after holidays with family) requiring brief lockdowns “out of an abundance of caution,” Crittenberger said. No one — not students, parents or staff, public or private, liberal or conservative — prefers learning while locked down during a pandemic. But area Catholics are using the crisis forced on us all to innovate boldly. They feel blessed. *** Spring is expected to burst out soon enough for planners of a dazzling outsize flower display coming to Culpepper Garden, the senior housing community off Route 50 near George Mason Drive Bulbs destined to produce an explosion of 28,000 daffodils were planted to bloom in time for the nonprofit’s March and April garden walks. The public is invited for selfguided, socially distant tours by appointment on select dates. The retirement home’s residents and staff can enjoy the extravaganza in yellow fully vaccinated.

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F.C. Teachers Use Virtual Techniques To Bridge Return to In-Person Class by Matt Delaney

Falls Church News-Press

Students are returning to school after nearly a year of virtual instruction, and teachers at all levels of Falls Church City schools are bringing some of the new tricks they’ve learned while away back into the classroom. One major skill that’s come about is editing and distributing their own video content. Nicole Guimaraes teaches music at Mount Daniel Elementary, and has seen how much it helps her students when she compresses her lessons down into short videos. “There’s a lot of value in creating video lessons because [students] can go home and practice the song or do the lesson multiple times rather than just having to remember all of it from the classroom,” Guimaraes said. “Continuing to make video lessons for them is definitely something that I’m going to keep. It may not be as frequent, but definitely giving a video option I think is really important.” Her ability to navigate video editing and bring some ravelike energy to the blue screen even landed Guimaraes as the executive producer for a virtual assembly at Mount Daniel. Principal Tim Kasik was seeking someone to get people excited for the return to class late last month, so the talented music teacher put together a 30 minute video showcasing the school’s community and students. But it hasn’t been Guimaraes doing all the work herself. Another adaptation she tasked her students with is making their own music videos as a substitute for in-class performances. They could play their instruments to stuffed animals or toys, and then submit the recording to the class so everyone could watch it. That’s taken one step further with second graders finishing a group music video project that they did in collaboration with a professional singer. While Guimaraes wasn’t sure if these practices would become part of her curriculum once a full return to school does happen, it’s been a helpful tool

to have since specials teachers (such as art or music) haven’t been able to have in-person classes as of yet. Science teacher Kish Rafique at the City’s high school has also used video content in her own classroom work, albeit a bit differently than Guimaraes. While researching for parts of her virtual instruction she found various songs about biological processes and voiced over them during her class period. It acted as her “virtual whiteboard,” in her own words where she could give students a preview of the day’s work ahead. But that was when schooling was purely online and Rafique said she had to break the ice each day with her class. Now her biggest adaptation is finding ways for the students who’ve returned to class to interact with those who’ve opted to stay virtual. It’s a combination of using the school system’s software so classmates can share videos while talking over Zoom. “Rather than just having them partner up in the classroom, I would have them find someone in the classroom and someone virtual, and they would make their own little breakout Zoom Room,” Rafique said. “And they would talk to each other and you know, have the camera on and the mic on. And then I would show videos that were embedded into our software that we use.” Streamlining all of her classroom materials has been helpful for Kelsey Lietzen, who teaches English and is the adviser for the high school’s newspaper, The Lasso. Over the past year she’s mainly focused on having her students collaborate on Google’s software to complete quick activities at the start of class. So while she has them use Google Slides to see what their assignment is, they then hop over to Google Docs to do their work and share it with her. Lietzen admitted that what she’s doing isn’t “anything revolutionary,” but some familiarity with technology has made the progression of her lessons easier. Rafique echoed that when she said students would discuss how other teachers were having

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

trouble just getting the technology to do what they wanted, so her more cohesive classes were a welcome break. Despite all the nifty new techniques the teachers have learned, there really hasn’t been a replacement for seeing their students in the flesh again. Rafique, who was worried about how the hybrid model would play out at first, has said it’s been great to “feel like I finally have my superpower of teaching back.” Lietzen, meanwhile, mentioned that the transition back to the class has been overwhelming — since she’ll go from talking with students in class to chatting with others on three different platforms after that — and is taking some getting used to. But all in all, “being with students has been awesome. I forgot how energized I was being in a classroom with them.”

MIXING THE VIRTUAL learners with those who come to class at the high school itself (bottom picture) has been a central goal of science teacher Kish Rafique. And when it came time to reintroduce students for hybrid learning at Mount Daniel Elementary, music teacher Nicole Guimaraes (top) used her video editing skills over the past year to put together a virtual school assembly. (Photos: Top — Courtesy Kish Rafique/ Bottom — Screenshot: News-Press)

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

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B�� N�� N�� Tori McKinney & ROCK STAR Realty Group, Named Top Producer Tori McKinney, CEO, and ROCK STAR Realty Group, KW Metro Center, have been named an Arlington Magazine 2021 Top Producer and Northern Virginia Association of Realtors 2020 Diamond Top Producer. For more information, visit www.ROCKSTARRealtyGroup.com.

MARCH 11 – 17, 2021 | PAGE 15

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Falls Church Profile by Sanford is Closing Its Doors on March 15 Profile by Sanford in Falls Plaza at 1140 W. Broad Street in Falls Church is closing its doors on March 15. The Sanford Health backed weight loss and wellness program opened in November of 2019. This is the second business to close in this shopping center this year. Kids First Swim School closed previously, months after the corporation filed Chapter 11 in the fall. For more information, visit www.profileplan.com.

The Kensington Falls Church Discusses Benefits of Assisted Living No Repro Blue The Kensington Falls Church is offering Understanding the Benefits of Assisted Living: The Resources You Didn’t Realize You Needed as a Caregiver on Thursday, March 11 from 6 – 7:15 p.m. Experts will lead CLIENTS a virtual discussion on the benefits of moving into an assisted living community and127605 offer caregiver resources. For more information, visit the Events tab at www.theKensingtonFallsChurch.com.

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The Falls Church Chamber of Commerce Hosting Coping with Covid-19 The Falls Church Chamber of Commerce is hosting Coping with Covid-19, a networking luncheon to take place via Zoom on Tuesday, March 16 at noon. Several mental health professionals will share valuable tips and tools to help attendees struggling with various issues and challenges caused by the pandemic. The event is free for Chamber members and $5 for nonmembers. Attendees are encouraged to pick up lunch from a local restaurant prior to the event. Visit the calendar at www.FallsChurchChamber.org for more information or to register.

Powerlink Community Advisory Board Offering Discounted Rates Powerlink Community Advisory Board is offering a discounted rate for its Business Growth Group 2021 - Getting New Customers from your Website, Digital Marketing, and Online Strategies in Q2 on Tuesday, March 16 from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. via Zoom. This interactive session is for small business owners retooling from Covid and building a stronger, more resilient business in 2021. Go to internationalpurpose.com/businesses.html for more information. This session is led by Anita Brattina, CEO of Powerlink and an extremely experienced business owner who has run numerous million-dollar businesses. There will also be qualified advisors to assist. Patricia DiVecchio, CEO of Falls Church-based International Purpose will co-lead.

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MARTHA GRAHAM I S A S N A C K C R A C K E R.

Body Dynamics Inc. Hosting ACL Injury Prevention Webinar Body Dynamics Inc. is hosting ACL Injury Prevention Webinar for Youth Athletes & Coaches on Friday, March 19 at noon. The Lunch & Learn session is for parents, coaches, and young athletes to learn how to prevent one of the most common and negative impactors of performance an athlete of any age can experience. For more information, visit www.BodyDynamicsInc.com.

Leslie Hutchison Forming New Virtual BNI Chapter in F.C. Leslie Hutchison is forming a new Virtual BNI Chapter in Falls Church. BNI is the world’s leading business referral organization with more than 275,000 members in more than 10,000 Chapters worldwide. In 2020, BNI members shared more than 11.5 million new client referrals and generated more than $16 billion in revenue. Each Chapter includes one member per industry to build strong referral relationships. The new Falls Church Chapter will meet Wednesdays from noon to 1:30 p.m. via Zoom permanently. Seats are open for the following businesses: P&C Insurance, Handyman, Commercial Realtor, General Contractor, Mover, Painter and more. For more information about the Falls Church or other local Chapters, email leslie@bninovasouth.com.  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.

A R T.

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©Barbara Morgan, from “Martha Graham: Sixteen Dances in Photographs” by Barbara Morgan.

For more information about the importance of arts education, please contact

www.AmericansForTheArts.org.

(For Official Campaign Partner or Sponsor Use Only: Insert logo and/or organization name here.)

NOTE TO PUB: DO NOT PRINT INFO BELOW, FOR I.D. ONLY. NO ALTERING OF AD COUNCIL PSAS. Americans for the Arts - Newspaper 4 1/4 x 7 B&W AFAWV1-N-05217-K “Martha Graham” , localizable 85 line screen

(ad contains non-repro blue copy indicating where localization info can be placed) Film at Schawk: 212-689-8585 Reference #: 127605

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

DAVID JOHNSON (left picture) and his wife, Bobby, are New York City transplants who moved from the Big Apple to the Little City during the pandemic for a change of scenery. They’ve brought with them 22 years of restaurant experience, which guides creations like their BLAvocadoT and whole grain, organic pancakes. (Photos: Patricia Leslie)

Johnsons Café’s Humble Eatery Blends Indian Flare with American Classics by Patricia Leslie

Falls Church News-Press

A New York style deli has opened at the corner of Annandale Road and South Washington Street with an exterior appearance that gives no hints about the delectable foods inside. Step into the warm and homey Johnsons Café and sense a Pennsylvania Dutch house with light streaming in big glass windows upon light blue painted walls, wooden tables and chairs, potted plants, bookshelves and music by Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, the Eagles and more. New blue and yellow picnic tables with umbrellas sit outside waiting for warmer weather and customers. The restaurant bills itself online as Indian-American, but the Indian foods are almost hidden on the menu except for the “lassi,” a traditional Indian drink made with mango, rose, or strawberries and yogurt, and a few more items. Once Covid-19 bows its ugly head, the owners, David and Bobby Johnson, plan to expand offerings and extend hours.

Being a big breakfast eater, I could not resist the organic whole grain pancakes with a homemade berry compote and French toast, brioche, layered with jam and served with ricotta (each, $7). I ate both (!) without butter and syrup, neither necessary since these delicious treats melted right in my mouth. The pancakes were as light as angel food cake and overnight fruit soaked the three pieces of French toast (I could not eat everything in one sitting) turning it into a breakfast/dessert the next morning. David said the deli’s bestsellers are probably the crispy fried chicken sandwich with a “secret” sauce, lettuce, onion and slaw on a potato bun ($7.50), and the lunch bowls with rice pilaf or quinoa, lentil stew, chopped salad, sweet potatoes, and raita with a choice of chickpea masala, Indian butter chicken, chicken curry with herbs and spices or the Tandoori spiced chicken (which my editor wanted me to try), all for $9.50. I told Bobby that I had to try the Tandoori but she promised “spicy” could be adjusted for anyone, and my preferences were honored and

the chicken came out just right. It was a quarter of a small bird with a leg and thigh, perfectly roasted and tender. The piquant salad more than satisfied my daily “crunchy” need. Mixed with small-chopped pieces of radishes, parsley, red cabbage, onions, tomatoes and cucumbers in what tasted like a light dill dressing, I can think of no ways to improve it. The bowl’s lentil stew was scrumptious with a slight curry taste and the sweet potatoes were sweet, but not too sugary sweet. (As I luxuriated in this dish, I was certain that any nutritionist would give this meal an A+++!) Johnsons sells several sandwiches and the BLAT ($6.50) with everything you long for but should not eat, including all BLT ingredients plus avocado, scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, and onion on a roll. I also had a bagel (!) with three eggs and cheese and a bit of potato stuck inside ($4.50). For a bit more ($2-$3), bacon, pastrami and sausage may be added. The Johnsons are New York City transplants where they spent 22 years in the restaurant business.

After living a fairly humdrum life last year (“there are only so many movies you can watch,” Bobby said), the couple turned their sights and talents south to Falls Church where friends and family reside. “I feel comfortable here,” David added. At the new restaurant the only problem is parking, which David forgot about, being from New York where “nobody parks!” and many people walk to eat. The Johnsons’ Falls Church neighbors have been generous (so far) permitting their customers to park nearby, and David hopes to work out a rental agreement with some of them. The couple is eager “to give back to the community,” David said, and start a “community fridge” where they’ll put out fresh food and drinks every day at 3 p.m. These won’t be leftovers and extras, he insisted, because “they deserve to eat fresh, too.” All food is made to order and fresh at Johnsons. Nothing is premade. David continued: “I have actually seen a lot of poverty in my life and a lot of people without

food to eat. My wife and I come from humble beginnings in India. America has done great for me. I love America and if there’s any way I can possibly give back, I want to do it.” I am eager to get back to Johnsons, too, for a refill. It will be hard for me to choose between the pancakes, the French toast, and the lunch bowl, but maybe I’ll just get them all again and walk off those calories like New Yorkers do. After all, we only live once. Breakfast is served at Johnsons from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; lunch, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. every day except Tuesday. Dine in, dine out or order online. Johnsons Café is located at 301 S. Washington Street, Falls Church. It’s phone number is 703534-3838. Visit thejohnsonscafe. com for more information. • This article is the part of the “Restaurant Spotlight” series, which will feature one local restaurant and its menu each month. To suggest that your restaurant be covered, contact Matt Delaney, News Editor at mdelaney@fcnp.com

SPO RTS

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

MASON JUNIOR Graham Felgar shakes off an arm tackle in the team’s 14-7 win over Skyline High School on Feb. 28 (Photo: Courtesy Tracy Roou)

F.C. Sports Round-Up: Mustang Football Stays Above .500, Volleyball Still Perfect Field Hockey On March 2, the Mustang Field Hockey team won their first game of the season vs. Fauquier 3-2, with Eleanor Gieser’s score with less than a minute on the clock. The girls traveled to Bealeton yesterday for a game against Liberty HS. They will play at home again on Tuesday against Kettle Run. And the Justice High School Field Hockey is now 3-0 heading in the early part of their regular season, following up on their 6-0 season opening win over Annandale High School with a close, 4-3 victory against Thomas

Jefferson High School for Science and Technology on March 3 during the Wolves’ senior night. On Monday, the team extended its win streak to four games after escaping with a 1-0 road win over Hayfield High School. Junior Maria Papas is the leading scorer with five goals, followed by River Rupert and Samantha Schrecker with two goals each.

Volleyball Out fast with a strong start, the Mustang Volleyball team is now 3-0 on the season. On Thursday, the Mustangs

took down Brentsville High School in three sets. On Monday the girls defeated William Monroe High School by a 3-1 margin in the largely empty new gym.

Football On Saturday, the Mustangs went 2-1 on the season with a 41-0 home-field win over Warren County Wildcats. The Mustangs pulled away early with a 55 yard touchdown run by Matt Teague, who later added two more touchdowns. Robert Silva scored another touchdown with a run, and two long passes from Evans Rice to Graham

MARCH 11 – 17, 2021 | PAGE 17

Faces of Falls Church

ROSE WARURI is a native of Kenya and has lived in the area for the last five years. When asked how she was dealing with the last year she replied, “we’re dealing.” As a Student Nurse, she feels a lot more confident to go out and start enjoying the weather due to the disbursement of the vaccine and dropping infection rates. (Photo: J. Michael Whalen/JMichaelWhalen. com)

Felgar accounted for the rest of the Mustangs’ scores. Martin Craft went 5-6 on extra points. Defensively, the Mustangs held strong with an overpowering effort led by Matt Teague on tackles. George Papadopoulos blocked a field goal attempt by Warren and Emmet Wood had a career first interception. The team has a bye next week and then travels to Central-Woodstock on March 19.

Notice for Game Attendance Restrictions on fan capacity at indoor and outdoor events impact the Virginia High School

League’s adapted “fall season.” Family members of athletes can fill out VHSL’s Fall Spectator Form at docs.google.com/ forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdBrFTVnhOG4SzQZkcOqqBfpZ62ODSGTZNZ4D7_AsgoWekrA/viewform to attend the games. For all others, check the Home of the Mustangs on YouTube at youtube.com/channelUCUwrHodUwBds4NZ2a9nAKeQ. Contributions in this article came courtesy of the Falls Church City Public School system and Stefanie Vestal, head coach of Justice High School’s field hockey team.

Join the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia for their free virtual event,

A Taste of Literacy presented by Anthem HealthKeepers Plus on Thursday, March 25, 2021 A Taste of Literacy is a whole-day, join-when-you-can, virtual celebration that will raise awareness and critical funds to open doors of opportunity to adult English language learners in Northern Virginia. This year's theme, "Look How Far I've Come", will feature stories from our learners whose hard work to learn English has helped them to overcome obstacles and reach their goals, even during a pandemic. Join our Special LIVE event at noon giving you a personal “TASTE” of what it is like to be in an LCNV class learning a new language. Interested? RSVP today at: https://lcnv.org/tol2021/

Sponsors:

Cell-Ed KIHOMAC Main Street Bank MarginEdge Play Squash Academy

RiskSpan RY Accounting Sikich LLP – Marco Fernandes and Andy Powell Amanda G’s Vacations Chain Bridge Bank

John and Eunice Thomas McLaughlin Ryder Investments RX-IT Wolcott Hill Group True Fitness Nutrition Massage Envy Falls Church

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

FALLS CHURCHCALENDAR LOCALEVENTS THURSDAY, MARCH 11 News-Press “Spot of the Week.” Interested readers and supporters of the Falls Church News-Press can join the staff at a restaurant in or around the City of Falls Church to celebrate the paper’s weekly publication. Learn how to become a member of the News-Press, get a chance to purchase one of the paper’s books, “The Front Page: The First Five Years: 1991 – 1996” or just get to know members of the staff better. This week the News-Press will be at Clare and Don’s Beach Shack (130 N. Washington Street, Falls Church) from 6 – 8 p.m.

SATURDAY, MARCH 13 Falls Church Farmers Market. The Falls Church Farmers Market runs every Saturday, where attend-

ees will find fresh, local produce, meat, dairy, flowers & plants, honey, music and more. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Falls Church) 9 a.m. – noon. For more information, visit the Calendar item’s page at fallschurchva.gov/547/ Farmers-Market-To-Go. Bird Walk for Beginners. Bird watching can be a family activity where children can learn the basics of binoculars, field guides, as well as the identification and how to find certain birds. Then the group will get some birding practice around the nature center by trying to spot the feathered residents. Loaner binoculars are available. Families ages 6 and up. Registration required children and adults; children must be accompanied by a registered adult. To register, contact 703228-4747. Long Branch Nature Center at Glencarlyn Park (625 S. Carlin Springs Rd., Arlington). 9 – 10 a.m.

SUNDAY, MARCH 14 Fabulous Frogs. Participants will learn about all the different kinds of frogs that hop around Northern Virginia. For ages 3 – 5 years. The theme for preschool programs is repeated during the month, so participants should register for only one session at each nature center per month. Caretakers must register and stay with their child during the program. To register, contact 703-228-4747. Long Branch Nature Center at Glencarlyn Park (625 S. Carlin Springs Rd., Arlington). 11 – 11:30 a.m.

VIRTUALEVENTS

Party’s Lieutenant Governor hopefuls. To watch, visit tinyurl. com/PeoplesDebateYouTube. Visit VirginiaPeoplesDebate.com for more information. 7p.m. Town Hall #1: Proposed FY22 Budget and CIP. Interested residents can join representatives from the City of Falls Church’s government and public schools for a presentation and Q&A about the proposed Fiscal Year 2022 Budget and Capital Improvements Program. Email questions in advance to publicinfo@fallschurchva.gov. Check out the Calendar item online at fallschurchva.gov/calendar.aspx to access the Microsoft Teams link. Noon – 1:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, MARCH 11

MONDAY, MARCH 15

The Virginia People’s Debate: Lieutenant Governor Debate. Those who are interested can attend a debate for the Democratic

ESOL Conversation Group (online). Interested participants can practice their English with a weekly ESOL conversation group.

This program meets online via Zoom. To request a Zoom invite, email Marshall Webster at mwebster@fallschurchva.gov. 7 – 8:30 p.m.

City Council Work Session (online). City Council work sessions are held the first and third Monday of the month, with the exception of August and December when only one meeting is held. These meetings are open to the public and are conducted to allow Council Members to discuss upcoming legislation and policy issues; the public is not generally invited to speak. All participating members of the City Council will be present at this meeting through electronic means. All members of the public may view this electronic meeting via www.fallschurchva.gov/ CouncilMeetings. The meeting may also be viewed on FCCTV (Cox 11, RCN 2, Verizon 35). Video will be available after the meeting both online and on FCCTV. The virtual meeting will be held pursuant to and in compliance with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, Section 2.2-3708.2 and state and local legislation adopted to allow for continued government

BECOME A MEMBER OF THE NEWS-PRESS

Get your news early! Since 1991, the News-Press has been on a mission to provide independent and honest journalism to the Falls Church community. We recognize and appreciate the support the City, its businesses and residents have shown us for the past 29 years.

Never before has the fight to ensure a free press been more important.

• Get the Front Page Early • Breaking Stories and more.. Visit our website for More perks!

Visit FCNP.com/members to become a member of the News-Press today

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operation during the COVID-19 declared emergency. 7:30 – 11 p.m.

TUESDAY, MARCH 16 Wellness Program: Cardiovascular Risk (online). Has anyone ever wondered what their level of cardiac risk is? Most risks are easily measured and reversible. Awareness now will be protection later. Staff from Northern Virginia Holistic Primary Care (here in Falls Church) will dive into what a heart attack actually means, how people become at risk for one, and what are the greatest risk factors and how to assess for them. Those interested in attending this discussion hosted by Mary Riley Styles Public Library should contact Marshall Webster at mwebster@fallschurchva.gov to request a Zoom invite to this program. 7 – 8 p.m.

THEATER&ARTS FRIDAY, MARCH 12 “Passport to the World of Music” Live Streaming Series. Creative Cauldron returns with two performances this weekend as a part of its virtual “Passport to the World of Music’’ series. On Friday, March 12, fiddle champion, vocalist, multi-instrumentalist Seán Heely will perform with the finest Celtic musicians in the region. And on Saturday, March 13, actor, singer and perennial villain-player Wyn Delano and master pianist (and wife) Leigh Delano will host an evening of diabolical fun as they take you through some of the most deliciously evil and cathartic songs in the Broadway cannon. All Tickets are $15; both concerts will be live-streamed 7:30 p.m. on their respective show dates. Visit creativecauldron.org for tickets and information.

SATURDAY, MARCH 13 “Simply Sondheim.” Created specifically for Signature Theatre with special permission from Sondheim himself, this jampacked revue features over 30 songs from the composer’s canon. The quintessential “Finishing the

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MARCH 11 – 17, 2021 | PAGE 19

Hat,” “Another Hundred People,” “Losing My Mind” and “The Worst Pies in London” meet lesser known gems including “Country House,” “Saturday Night” and “Goodbye for Now” and are fused with new orchestrations by longtime Sondheim collaborator Jonathan Tunick. Presented by Signature Theater via On Demand Streaming. $35. sigtheatre.org.

LIVEMUSIC THURSDAY, MARCH 11 Back to the 90s presents: “311 Day” with Evolution — A Tribute Band to 311. The State Theatre (220 N Washington St., Falls Church). 5 p.m. 703-237-0300. Michelle Swan Solo Showcase. Falls Church Distillers (442 S. Washington Street, Ste A Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703-858-9186. Bad Influence Band. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 7:30 p.m. 703-2419504. The English Channel — America’s Premier British Invasion Band. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $25. 8 p.m. 703-549-7500. A Song & A Slice: Bachelor Boys Band Presents Battle of The Decades — 80’s vs 90’s Hits (Indoors + Distanced). Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $15. 7:30 p.m. 703-255-1566.

FRIDAY, MARCH 12 Shartel & Hume Duo. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 4:30 p.m. 703-2419504.

THE FIFTH BEAT will be at Falls Church Distllers on Friday. (Photo: Facebook.com/TheFifthbeat) The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $39.50. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500.

State Theatre (220 N Washington St., Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703237-0300.

(442 S. Washington Street, Ste A Falls Church). 1 p.m. 703-8589186.

A Song & A Slice: Top 40 Reggae Jukebox feat. Bongo District (Indoors + Distanced). Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). 7:30 p.m. 703-255-1566.

Rock Creek Band. Falls Church Distillers (442 S. Washington Street, Ste A Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703-858-9186.

All-Star Country Show. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 3:30 p.m. 703-2419504.

DECADES Rewind Party — 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s w/ DJ D (Indoors + Distanced). Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $15. 7 p.m. 703-255-1566.

Bongo District. The State Theatre (220 N Washington St., Falls Church). 5 p.m. 703-2370300.

Groovequest. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 7:45 p.m. 703-2419504.

SATURDAY, MARCH 13

The Fifth Beat. Falls Church Distillers (442 S. Washington Street, Ste A Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703-858-9186.

Jacob Bennet Solo. Falls Church Distillers (442 S. Washington Street, Ste A Falls Church). 1 p.m. 703-858-9186.

The Chris Timbers Band. The State Theatre (220 N Washington St., Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703237-0300.

Will Gravatt & Steve Wolf Show. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 3:30 p.m. 703-241-9504.

Eaglemania — The World’s Greatest Eagles Tribute Band.

St. Patrickpalooza — The Free Flowing Musical Experience. The

Josh Allen All-Star Show. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 7:30 p.m. 703-2419504. The Nighthawks. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $25. 7:30 p.m. 703549-7500.

SUNDAY, MARCH 14 Bobby Thompson solo — Live at the Still. Falls Church Distillers

Grateful Jams — Open Mic. Falls Church Distillers (442 S. Washington Street, Ste A Falls Church). 5 p.m. 703-858-9186. A Song & A Slice: Chris Timbers Band (Indoors + Distanced). Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $15. 7 p.m. 703-2551566. The Barry White Experience. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $35. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500.

Calendar Submissions Email: calendar@fcnp.com | Mail: Falls Church News-Press, Attn: Calendar, 105 N. Virginia Ave., #310, 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 11 - 17, 2021

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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Planning Commission CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA

HOME IMPROVEMENT Vinyl Replacement Windows Starting at $235* Installed w/Free Trim Wrap Call 804-739-8207 Siding, Roofing, Gutters and More! GENERAC Standby Generators provide backup power during utility power outages, so your home and family stay safe and comfortable. Prepare now. Free 7-year extended warranty ($695 value!). Request a free quote today! Call for additional terms and conditions. 1-877-636-0738 Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-877-614-6667 Thinking about installing a new shower? American Standard makes it easy. FREE design consultation. Enjoy your shower again! Call 1-866-854-7620 today to see how you can save $1,000 on installation, or visit www.newshowerdeal.com/vapress ATTN. CONTRACTORS: Advertise your business statewide and in other states. Affordable Print and Digital Solutions to reach Homeowners. Call Landon Clark at Virginia Press Services 804-521-7576, landonc@vpa.net

REAL ESTATE ATTN. REALTORS: Advertise your listings regionally or statewide. Affordable Print and Digital Solutions that get results! Call Landon Clark at Virginia Press Services 804-521-7576, landonc@vpa.net

SERVICES DIVORCE-Uncontested, $395+$86 court cost. WILLS $195.00. No court appearance. Estimated completion time twenty-one days. Hilton Oliver, Attorney (Facebook). 757-490-0126. Se Habla Espanol. BBB Member. https://hiltonoliverattorneyva.com. Up to $15,000.00 of GUARANTEED Life Insurance! No medical exam or health questions. Cash to help pay funeral and other final expenses. Call Physicians Life Insurance Company- 844-509-1697 or visit www.Life55plus.info/vapress

CEMETERY PLOTS Cemetery Plots: King David Memorial, Section 289, double plot, new $13,000, sale price, $10,000. Section 939, two separate plots, new $9000 apiece, sale $6000 apiece. Call 540.347.2497.

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On March 17, 2021, at 7:30 p.m., the City of Falls Church Planning Commission will hold a virtual public hearing to consider the following items and recommendations to City Council: (TR21-05) RESOLUTION TO AMEND CHAPTER 3 OF THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH’S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO ADD: “ENRICHING FALLS C H U R C H : P U B L I C A RT S E C T I O N OF THE COMMUNITY CHARACTER, APPEARANCE, AND DESIGN CHAPTER OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN” (TO21-03) ORDINANCE TO ESTABLISH AN ARTS AND CULTURAL DISTRICT IN THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH IN THE AREA SHOWN ON THE MAP ENTITLED ARTS AND CULTURAL DISTRICT. THE PROPOSED ARTS AND CULTURAL DISTRICT INCLUDES THE ADOPTED REVITALIZATION AREAS, PUBLIC LAND, AND HOUSES OF WORSHIP. The public hearing will be held electronically. Meeting agenda and materials will be available on the following page prior to the public meeting: http://www.fallschurchva. gov/PC. Public comments will be accepted electronically only until the end of the public hearing. Please submit comments to plan@ fallschurchva.gov. All participating members of Planning Commission will be present at this meeting through electronic means; and all members of the public are welcome to view the meeting at www.fallschurchva.gov/ PC and on FCCTV (Cox 11, RCN 2, Verizon 35). The City of Falls Church is committed to the letter and spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, call 703-248-5040 (TTY 711).

PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA FALLS CHURCH CITY SCHOOL BOARD PUBLIC HEARING The Falls Church City School Board will hold a virtual Public Hearing on Tuesday, March 23, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. to consider the following: 1. The appointment of an individual to fulfill the remaining term of former School Board member Shawna Russell. Any member of the public who would like to comment during the Public Hearing must register with School Board Clerk Marty Gadell at gadellm@fccps.org by Friday, March 19, 2021, at 5:00 p.m. Mrs. Gadell will send each registered speaker a speaker number and a personal link to access the public hearing via Zoom. The meeting will be streamed live on the FCCPS YouTube Channel: www.YouTube.com/fccpsorg.

ABC NOTICE Preservation One LLC , Trading as: Preservation Biscuit Company , 102 E Fairfax St Falls Church, 22041. The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) for a Wine and Beer On Premises. Patricia Barba , Owner, Authorized Signatory Preservation One LLC, the Operating Member of Preservation Biscuit Company. 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.

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

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

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KIDS LOVE SCALLIWAG By Eileen Levy Lovely walk in the rain Sun is put again. Dog’s been fed, She was nodding her head

Week of 3/8/21 - 3/14/21

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Crossword

A RTS&E NTE RTA I NME NT

MARCH 11 - 17, 2021 | PAGE 21

by Margie E. Burke

The Weekly Crossword ACROSS 1 Chorus member 5 Rotating parts 9 "Let's Make a ____" 13 Unwanted look 14 Final words? 15 Baggins in "The Hobbit" 16 Pressing 18 Campfire leftover 19 Lauper's "She ___" 20 Become associated 22 Motionless 24 War-ending pact 25 Right-hand page 27 Barn bird 28 Draft source 31 Box-office winner 34 Roadwork bypass 36 First-rate 37 Eat away at 39 Ancient Germanic letter 40 Part of SPF 42 Noted Boston protest 44 U-turn from WSW 45 What proposers want to hear 47 Pennywise, for one 48 Bronchial woe 50 Peruvian beast 53 Herbicide used in Vietnam 57 NY opera house 58 Solid-stemmed grass 59 Cross each other 61 The Hulk's catalyst 62 Bearing 63 Ancient Andean 64 Drink garnish

by Margie E. Burke

41 46

43 47

48 54

65 Hair line 66 Marquee name DOWN 1 Suspect's out 2 Donut filling 3 Part of W.C.T.U. 4 Miner's load 5 Collector's item 6 Slaughterhouse 7 Angled joint 8 Audiophile's purchase 9 How nightclubs are lit 10 Island near Corsica 11 Aid and ___ 12 Folk stories 15 Classic VW 17 Abandon 21 Unfair treatment 23 Bowler's button 26 Legalese adverb 28 Sporting competition 29 Bee, to Andy

30 Mice, to owls 31 Baseball call 32 Haunted house sound 33 Daycare charge 35 Fishing net 38 Wine server 41 Tasty mollusk 43 Raft pilot 46 Seafood staple

48 One of Charlie's trio 49 Fan frenzy 51 Center of activity 52 ___ of roses 53 "By yesterday!" 54 Trait carrier 55 Sidle 56 Mannerly sort 60 “___ boom bah!”

Sudoku

Level 1 2 3 4

Answers to Last Week's Crossword: S E A L A S S A Y A L G A

L U R E

I R I S

P O T S H S S O U E T E A D S E O M N O C A D O B E A L L X E S

H E A R S T A V E

L A M E N T T E N E M E N T

A B O R R I S E E T I C S E R G R E E D A T A S T U T T E P E E D I S L N E I C C V A L U E V E R R A D E

B O U E N A C G E E R E C R A R R A A T U M

I N S A T I A B L E

A C E D

S E R E

S H A M E

T A R O T

F I N E

T O D O

S N O W

Solution to last Sunday’s puzzle

NICK KNACK

STRANGE BREW

By The Mepham Group

2/28/21

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 sudoku.org.uk. © 2021 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.

JOHN DEERING

LO CA L

PAGE 22 | MARCH 11 – 17, 2021

BACK IN THE DAY

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

C�� C��

25 � 10 Y�� A�� N��-P�� Falls Church News-Press Vol. V, No. 51 • March 7, 1996

Falls Church News-Press Vol. XXI, No.2 • March 10 , 2011

Council Begins Work On New Budget Monday With Lasso’s Report

F.C. Manager to Unveil His Plan Monday Night

Although its broad outlines have already been made made public, the full contents of the coming fiscal year budget proposed by Falls Church City Manager David Lasso will be unveiled for the first time at the City Council meeting this Monday at 7:30 p.m., the News-Press has learned.

The “rubber begins to hit the road” for the Falls Church City Council this Monday night, when it receives the recommended Fiscal Year 2012 budget crafted by City Manager Wyatt Shields. From that moment, it will be the task of the Council to decide what it wants to keep or change among Shields’ recommendations.

UNLIKELY FRIENDS, Hami and Mr. Chuckles have become good friends, supporting each other through the pandemic. Submitted by Ely Tarrant, 2nd grader at Mt. Daniel.

MAKE SURE THEY’RE IN THE RIGHT CAR SEAT NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat

Share Curiosity. Read Together. w w w. r e a d . g o v

Just because you’re not famous doesn’t mean your pet can’t be! Send in your Critter Corner submissions to crittercorner@fcnp.com.

MARCH 11 - 17, 2021 | PAGE 23

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC OF A PETITION BY VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY FOR REVISION OF RATE ADJUSTMENT CLAUSE: RIDER E, FOR RECOVERY OF COSTS INCURRED TO COMPLY WITH STATE AND FEDERAL ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS CASE NO. PUR-2021-00013 •Virginia Electric and Power Company d/b/a Dominion Energy Virginia (“Dominion”) has applied for revision of a rate adjustment clause, designated Rider E, for recovery of costs incurred to comply with state and federal environmental regulations. •Dominion requests approval of a total revenue requirement of approximately $67,451,000 for its 2021 Rider E. According to Dominion, this amount would decrease the bill of a typical residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours per month by $0.42. •Due to the ongoing public health emergency related to the spread of the coronavirus, or COVID-19, a Hearing Examiner appointed by the State Corporation Commission will hold a telephonic hearing in this case on June 9, 2021, at 10 a.m., for the receipt of public witness testimony. •A Hearing Examiner will hold an evidentiary hearing in this case on June 9, 2021, after the receipt of public witness testimony. •Further information about this case is available on the SCC website at: scc.virginia.gov/pages/Case-Information. On January 19, 2021, pursuant to § 56-585.1 A 5 e of the Code of Virginia, Virginia Electric and Power Company d/b/a Dominion Energy Virginia (“Dominion” or “Company”) filed a petition (“Petition”) with the State Corporation Commission (“Commission”) for an annual update of its rate adjustment clause, designated Rider E, for the recovery of costs incurred to comply with state and federal environmental regulations at the Company’s Chesterfield, Bremo, Clover and Mt. Storm Power Stations. Dominion states that it is filing this annual update to inform the Commission of the status of the environmental projects located at the Chesterfield Power Station, referred to as the Chesterfield Integrated Ash Project, as well as the environmental projects at the Bremo, Clover and Mt. Storm Power Stations, and their projected expenditures. The Company seeks recovery of three general categories of costs incurred to comply with state and federal environmental laws and regulations: (i) asset retirement obligation (“ARO’’) expenses associated with existing assets that must be closed, (ii) newly constructed assets and associated expenses; and (iii) ARO expenses associated with the newly constructed assets. In this proceeding, Dominion asks the Commission to approve Rider E for the rate year beginning November 1, 2021, and ending October 31, 2022 (“2021 Rate Year”). The Company states that the two components of the revenue requirement are the Projected Cost Recovery Factor and the Actual Cost True-Up Factor. The Company requests a Projected Cost Recovery Factor revenue requirement of $68,561,000, and an Actual Cost True-Up Factor revenue requirement credit of $1,110,000. Thus, the Company proposes a total revenue requirement of $67,451,000 for service rendered during the 2021 Rate Year. For purposes of calculating the revenue requirement in this case, Dominion states that it utilized a rate of return on common equity of 9.2%, which was approved by the Commission in its Final Order in Case No. PUR-2019-00050. Dominion asserts that it will utilize the same methodology to calculate Rider E rates in the instant proceeding as was approved in its last Rider E filing, with the exception that in this case the Company did not remove federal customers’ and retail choice customers’ load and usage for the purpose of designing rates. Dominion proposes that revised Rider E be effective for usage on and after November 1, 2021. If the revised Rider E for the 2021 Rate Year is approved, the impact on customer bills would depend on the customer’s rate schedule and usage. According to Dominion, implementation of its revised Rider E on November 1, 2021, would decrease the monthly bill of a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours per month by approximately $0.42. Interested persons are encouraged to review the Petition and supporting documents for the details of these and other proposals. TAKE NOTICE that the Commission may apportion revenues among customer classes and/or design rates in a manner differing from that shown in the Petition and supporting documents and thus may adopt rates that differ from those appearing in the Company’s Petition and supporting documents. The Commission entered an Order for Notice and Hearing in this proceeding that, among other things, scheduled a public hearing on Dominion’s Petition. On June 9, 2021, at 10 a.m., the Commission will hold a telephonic hearing for the purpose of receiving the testimony of public witnesses, with no public witness present in the Commission’s courtroom. On or before June 7, 2021, any person desiring to offer testimony as a public witness shall provide to the Commission (a) your name, and (b) the telephone number that you wish the Commission to call during the hearing to receive your testimony. This information may be provided to the Commission in three ways: (i) by filling out a form on the Commission’s website at scc.virginia.gov/pages/Webcasting; (ii) by completing and emailing the PDF version of this form to SCCInfo@scc.virginia.gov; or (iii) by calling (804) 371-9141. This public witness hearing will be webcast at scc.virginia.gov/pages/Webcasting. On June 9, 2021, after the receipt of public witness testimony, either in the Commission’s second floor courtroom located in the Tyler Building, 1300 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, or by electronic means, the Commission will convene a hearing to receive testimony and evidence related to the Petition from the Company, any respondents, and the Commission’s Staff. Further details on this hearing will be provided by subsequent Commission Order or Hearing Examiner’s Ruling. The Commission has taken judicial notice of the ongoing public health emergency related to the spread of the coronavirus, or COVID-19, and the declarations of emergency issued at both the state and federal levels. In accordance therewith, all pleadings, briefs, or other documents required to be served in this matter should be submitted electronically to the extent authorized by 5 VAC 5-20-150, Copies and format, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure (“Rules of Practice”). Confidential and Extraordinarily Sensitive information shall not be submitted electronically and should comply with 5 VAC 5-20-170, Confidential information, of the Rules of Practice. For the duration of the COVID-19 emergency, any person seeking to hand deliver and physically file or submit any pleading or other document shall contact the Clerk’s Office Document Control Center at (804) 3719838 to arrange the delivery. Pursuant to 5 VAC 5-20-140, Filing and service, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice, the Commission has directed that service on parties and the Commission’s Staff in this matter shall be accomplished by electronic means. Please refer to the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing for further instructions concerning Confidential or Extraordinarily Sensitive Information. An electronic copy of the Company’s Petition may be obtained by submitting a written request to counsel for the Company, Timothy D. Patterson, Esquire, McGuireWoods LLP, Gateway Plaza, 800 East Canal Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, or tpatterson@mcguirewoods.com. Interested persons also may download unofficial copies from the Commission’s website: scc.virginia.gov/pages/Case-Information. On or before June 9, 2021, any interested person may file comments on the Petition by following the instructions found on the Commission’s website: scc.virginia.gov/casecomments/Submit-Public-Comments. All comments shall refer to Case No. PUR-2021-00013. On or before April 16, 2021, any person or entity wishing to participate as a respondent in this proceeding may do so by filing a notice of participation. Such notice of participation shall include the email addresses of such parties or their counsel. The respondent simultaneously shall serve a copy of the notice of participation on counsel to the Company. Pursuant to Rule 5 VAC 5-20-80 B, Participation as a respondent, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice, any notice of participation shall set forth: (i) a precise statement of the interest of the respondent; (ii) a statement of the specific action sought to the extent then known; and (iii) the factual and legal basis for the action. Any organization, corporation, or government body participating as a respondent must be represented by counsel as required by Rule 5 VAC 5-20-30, Counsel, of the Rules of Practice. All filings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2021-00013. On or before April 30, 2021, each respondent may file with the Clerk of the Commission and serve on the Commission’s Staff, the Company, and all other respondents, any testimony and exhibits by which the respondent expects to establish its case, and each witness’s testimony shall include a summary not to exceed one page. In all filings, respondents shall comply with the Commission’s Rules of Practice, including 5 VAC 5-20-140, Filing and service; and 5 VAC 5-20-240, Prepared testimony and exhibits. All filings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2021-00013. Any documents filed in paper form with the Office of the Clerk of the Commission in this docket may use both sides of the paper. In all other respects, except as modified by the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, all filings shall comply fully with the requirements of 5 VAC 5-20-150, Copies and format, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice. The Company’s Petition, the Commission’s Rules of Practice and the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing may be viewed at: scc.virginia.gov/pages/Case-Information. VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

PAGE 24 | MARCH 11 - 17, 2021

2021 VOLVO

XC60 449

/MO

36 MONTHS | 10,000 MILES *Stock #8988D. First payment, taxes and fees due at signing plus, tax, title, acquisition and dealer processing fee of $799. On approved credit only. Pricing includes all available incentives including loyalty. No Security Deposit required. Expires 3/31/21.

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Falls Church News-Press 3-11-2021

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