Falls Church News-Press 3-31-2022

March 31 - April 6, 2022

Fa lls Chur c h, V i r g i ni a • ww w. fc np. c om • Fr ee

Fou n d e d 1991 • Vol. X X XII N o. 7

The City of Falls Church’s Independent, Locally-Owned Newspaper of Record, Serving N. Virginia

Huge 8.5¢ Tax Rate Cut Proposed by Shields

Play Ball, Kids!

Schools Fully Funded in Manager’s FY23 Budget

by Nicholas F. Benton

Falls Church News-Press

“Monday was a landmark night for Falls Church,” exclaimed F.C. City Councilman Phil Duncan exclaimed in a late night text message to the News-Press. The comment followed a lengthy Council meeting in which both City Manager Wyatt Shields’ recommended FY23 budget with an 8.5 cent real estate tax rate reduction was proposed followed by the Council’s final approval of Founders Row 2, another large scale mixed use project.

“Another step forward to a better future for Falls Church city, Founders Row 2 approved 5-2 combined with the news of the city manager’s proposed tax rate reduction of at least 8.5 cents to $1.235, lowest in more than a decade, Monday was a landmark night for Falls Church,” the full text of Duncan’s statement read.

At the meeting Shields proposed to City Council a Fiscal Year 2023 (FY2023) budget totalling $112.6 million Monday, which provides for

Continued on Page 3

IN ITS FIRST POST-PANDEMIC season, the Falls Church Kiwanis Little League kicked off this new season last weekend with a rally of all the teams at Westgate Park and a parade around the field led by mascots of the Washington Nationals major league team, including a 2022 version of Thomas Jefferson (shown here in the center). See story, page 2. (Photo: Fred Keel).

‘Founders Row 2’ Gets F.C. Council’s Final OK

by Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press

The Falls Church City Council didn’t get around to the matter until well after 10 p.m. Monday night, having to deal with the City Manager’s

unveiling of his recommended FY23 budget first, but when they did, matters went smoothly for its final vote of adoption to OK the next large scale mixed use project in the City, the 280 residences and more constituting what is now known

as Founder’s Row 2.

By contrast with the hair-thin 4-3 vote to preliminarily allow it to advance last September, this time the vote was 5-2, with only Mayor David Tarter and Councilman David Snyder voting “no.” A sustained effort

at major improvements to the look and content of the project on 2.09 acres at the southwest corner of W. Broad at West Street undertaken by its Mill Creek owners led to the relative

Continued on Page 4

Inside This Week Lots of Live Theater Events This Weekend in Falls Church

Little League Hosts Successful Opening Day

Bep Viet Offers A Taste of Vietnam in F.C.

See Stories, Pages 2 and 9

See Story, Page 2

See Restaurant Spotlight, Page 19

Live theater is back with three plays on stage this weekend. Shows will be taking place at Meridian High School, NOVA Nightsky Theater and Creative Cauldron, all located in the Little City.

After two years, “Opening Day” for Little League has returned and was back to normal. Almost 600 kids bewtween ages 4 and 13 will be playing this year on the 48 teams.

Looking for traditional Vietnamese food that is delicious at an affordable price?

Look no further than Bep Viet in Falls Church. Foods offered include a “golden pancake” and much more.

Index

Comment...................................... 5,7,8 Editorial................................................ 6 Letters.................................................. 6 Crime Report....................................... 8 Calendar...................................... 10,11 News & Notes..............................12,13 Business News.................................. 16 Classified Ads.................................... 17 Critter Corner..................................... 18 Restaurant Spotlight.......................... 19

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

‘The Adventures of Mr. Toad’ Is Fun for the Whole Family

BY AMANDA SNEAD

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

Based on the book “The Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Grahame, Creative Cauldron’s play “The Adventures of Mr. Toad” is an action-packed adventure put on for kids, by kids and perfect for the whole family.

Put on by Creative Cauldron’s Learning Theater with help from Gus Knapp as a fellow actor and mentor, this production begins with Mr. Toad telling stories of his youth to a group of young mice whom he asks to help transcribe his life story. Toad’s old friends later join him and help fill in the blanks and bring Toad back down to earth from his exaggerated tales.

The play includes an original script by Ellen Selby and P.J. Audenzia as well as incredibly catchy original songs by composer and Musical Director Matt Conner.

The Learning Theater ensemble is composed of both newcomers and veterans from previous Creative Cauldron productions. If you need any sign that the Little City loves the arts, this is the place to be.

This was a fast-paced and engaging show that kept both the youngest and oldest audience members entertained.

“When we first adapted ‘The Wind in the Willows’ for our Learning Theater Ensemble several years ago we focused more on the pastoral and poetic nature of the work, but this time around we have decided to bring you an action-packed adventure,” noted Creative Cauldron’s founder and Producing Director, Laura Connors Hull in the show’s Playbill. “In Ellen Selby and P.J. Audenzia’s fun and frantic script, we get just that. And we also get the wonderful musical creations of Matt Conner and Stephen Gregory Smith.”

As with all Learning Theater productions, the show ended with an audience question and answer segment. Seeing how engaged both the kids in the audience and the actors on stage were was a great thing to see. And maybe we’ll see some of the audience members on stage in future performances!

As usual, this was a great play

MR. TOAD is pictured here as he tells stories of his youth to a group of young mice. (P����: W������ G�������� P����������)

by Creative Cauldron filled with so many young and talented actors that are sure to go on and do great things with the skills they have learned at Creative Cauldron.

Margie Jervis and her team of volunteers did an amazing job with the costumes, masks and set

designs.

The play closes this Sunday so be sure to take your little ones out to see it before it ends!

Performances of “The Adventures of Mr. Toad” take place Friday, April 1 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, April 2 at 2 p.m. and

7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 2 at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at creativecauldron. org/toad.html. Tickets are $20 for adults and $18 for students.

Creative Cauldron is located at 410 South Maple Avenue #116 in Falls Church.

Falls Church Little League Returns for the Season

BY ALEX RUSSELL

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

This past Saturday, Mar. 26, saw the return of the Falls Church Kiwanis Little League (FCKLL) Opening Day parade. In attendance were F.C. Mayor David Tarter and Delegate Marcus Simon — both taking part in the ceremonial first pitch — as well as surprise guests the (Racing) Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt.

Bag piper Austin Middleton led the procession, with the festivities culminating in a series of first pitches from local High School seniors — all of whom “graduated” from F.C. Little League.

The celebration itself marks the comeback of regularly scheduled, in-person baseball in the Little City.

The Opening Day parade is typically an annual endeavor, but as with most things, Covid-19 forced Little League organizers to cancel the event in 2020 and replace the parade with an Opening Day video last year.

Little League President Kirsten Fatzinger and Communications & PR Lead Erika Toman explained how Covid “created numerous operational and logistical challenges,”

but following their hiatus in spring of 2020, the League’s been “fully operational.”

Fatzinger and Toman underscored that “safety is always the League’s number one priority, with or without a pandemic.” But since pandemic-related conditions have been gradually improving in recent months, this season “players and spectators” will not be “required to wear masks or socially distance,” and “umpires are back in position calling balls and strikes behind the plate.”

The 2022 Spring Season will feature 48 teams, totaling almost 600 boys and girls between the ages of 4 — 13, playing games across 10 fields in the Falls Church area — this includes the Challengers, “an adaptive baseball program for individuals with physical or intellectual challenges.”

Speaking about its operational logistics, Fatzinger explained that the City’s Little League “is 100 percent volunteer, not-for-profit.” The volunteers “coach, coordinate events, and maintain fields each season. All coaches and volunteers are local and unpaid, and some stay with the League even after their players graduate from the program because of

their love for the game and the community.” She added that “a Board of Directors oversees all activities.

Everyone who comes out for Little League makes a team. There are no ‘cuts.’ Falls Church Little League is for everyone who lives or goes to school within the League’s boundary.”

Fatzinger touched upon how sponsors are a major source of revenue for the FCKLL, adding that “Little League International permits one fundraiser throughout the year” that relies on participation from the players themselves, and historically this has been the two-day-long Player Hit-A-Thon. (The Hit-AThon returns this year in May, with the Adult Hit-A-Thon and Home Run Derby scheduled for May 14 at Westgate Field at 7500 Magarity Rd, Falls Church.)

This year’s Opening Day parade exemplified the ties that the Kiwanis Little League has to its local community. In addition to the Washington Nationals, who are a “multi-year partner” with the FCKLL — the Nats provided team jerseys and hats and have donated prizes to kids who raise the most money or hit the farthest ball during a Hit-A-Thon — the League has numerous sponsors right

LITTLE LEAGUE is back in the Little City. The season will feature almost 50 teams and hundreds of kids, many seen here celebrating Opening Day. (Photo: F��� K���) here in the area, including the Falls Church News-Press. (This season, the Triple-A team, consisting mostly of players ages 9 — 11, is coached

by David Izawa and is the official News-Press Little League team.)

The Falls Church Kiwanis Little League is the oldest Little League organization in the state, having been founded in 1948. Later, in the ‘50s, “the then-local Kiwanis Club became patrons of the League.”

Even after the hardships brought on by the pandemic, the FCKLL is still going strong.

Looking ahead, Toman shared that “a working group is already planning a 75th anniversary celebration” set for 2023, and that “League leaders are looking for photos and stories from ‘the good old days.’”

She adds that “anyone with vintage materials or stories to tell is invited” to email her directly at erika@fckll. org and add to the nostalgic collection.

To find out more about F.C. Little League, located at 2400 Hurst St, Falls Church, VA, visit fckll.org or email playeragent@fckll.org.

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

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MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2022 | PAGE 3

City Manager Proposes 8.5¢ Tax Rate Cut for New Budget

Continued from Page 1

a six percent ($2,451,107) increase in general government operating expenditures and a 6.3 percent ($2,750,000) increase in local funding for public schools, as requested by the School Board.

Shields was joined by School Board Chair Laura Downs and Superintendent Peter Noonan in the budget presentation.

Reducing the real estate tax rate by 8.5 cents to $1.235 per $100 of assessed value (down from $1.32) comes in the context of assessed values increasing by 11.4 percent overall, as reported recently.

“This budget proposal is intended to strengthen the core government and education services at the high level residents expect, while at the same time ensure that we manage well the transformative capital projects and new development currently underway,” said Shields Monday Key investments contained in the budget he said are the City public schools, core government services, the City’s work force, public safety, improved walkable neighborhoods and traffic calming, and flood mitigation.

“The tension between basic services and transformative things like all the new development coming in represent a tension,” Shields said Monday, calling this “our most dynamic budget environment ever, including coming out of the pandemic, the impact of the war overseas, the actions of the Virginia general assembly in Richmond, and cost inflation.”

With overall real estate assessments up by a whopping 12.1 percent, as reported earlier this month, the proposed 8.5 cent tax rate reduction proposed by Shields does not cover all the added cost to homeowners the assessment increase will represent.

To propose a tax rate reduction equal to the assessment growth would require lowering the rate all the way down to $1.19, he noted. Some on the Council have suggested in this context that lowering the rate below Shields’ proposed $1.23 level will be open for Council consideration.

The proposed budget includes an additional $2.2 million of new investment in City employee compensation, as the City struggles to recover from manpower shortages that led to an overall 15 percent vacancy rate, and 25 percent as of last September for the

police department. The department is now back to 100 percent, Shields reported.

The City’s tax rate reduction contrasts to what Shields reported was no rate reduction for the City’s two large neighbors, Fairfax and Arlington counties.

In Shields’ proposed budget, debt service will decrease by $1.3 million or 9 percent due to the cancellation of planned debt issuance in FY2021 and the refunding of prior bonds from 2013 and 2011 at lower interest rates.

The proposed budget includes the use of $4.03 million in capital reserves towards debt service, which is part of the long-term plan of finance for the new high school that was presented to voters during the bond referendum in 2017. Offsetting the use of capital reserves is the third payment of the ground lease ($4.5 million) for the impending 10-acre mixed use West Falls project.

The budget proposal includes an appropriation of $3,789,331 of federal pandemic relief in the form of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds: almost $1.4 million for assistance to small businesses, households, and schools, and $2.4 million in the Capital Improvements Program for

sidewalks and HVAC replacement at the Community Center.

Last year, the City Council approved $7 million in ARPA funds to be used for the six major flood mitigation projects recommended by the Stormwater Task Force.

The budget proposes a new Commercial and Industrial (C and I) Tax of five cents per $100 of assessed value on commercial properties, which by law must be used exclusively to fund transportation improvements.

It was emphasized Monday that this tax will be levied solely against commercial property owners.

According to a statement from City Hall, while most counties and cities in Northern Virginia adopted a C and I tax of 12.5 cents in recent years to help pay for transit and road expansions, the City proposes to use the revenue to pay for its share of WMATA capital costs, bike share program, and other transportation needs.

Shields submitted the proposed operating budget to the City Council Monday along with a six-year Capital Improvements Program (CIP) that will be detailed in a Council work session this coming Monday.

The School portion of the overall budget proposal has come within

Council’s budget guidance for the third straight year, below the 8.4 percent expected annual growth in overall revenues.

As the lion’s share of the school system budget goes each year to personnel, this year it includes adding $1.6 million for a “step” salary increase and $890,000 for a 2.5 percent cost-ofliving (COL). This is set against neighboring Arlington County’s planned four-step, or 11 percent, increase to make up for the constraints of the pandemic era.

Still, since the new high school construction actually came in under budget, the schools are returning $100,000 to the City coffers.

Three major components of the schools’ funding involve the ongoing infusion of K-12 International Baccalaureate curricula, a “caring culture,” and equity considerations, Dr. Noonan said.

The Council is expected to adopt a final budget on May 2. The 2023 fiscal year runs from July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023. A virtual town hall is slated for today (March 31) at noon, and another Thursday, April 7, at 7 p.m. and City Council meetings every Monday night until the final budget is adopted May 2 is open to the public.

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PAGE 4 | MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2022

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Final OK Given by City Council For Founders Row 2 Development Continued from Page 1

ease of Monday’s vote.

The project will include 280 residential units, a height limit that ranges from 85 feet on the W. Broad frontage to 35 feet on the Ellison Street side, 22,278 square feet of ground floor retail, including 10,000 square feet for a restaurant, 409 parking spaces underneath, residential occupancy contingencies based on leases of retail spaces, and 12 percent of the residential spaces being dedicated for affordable housing, half of which will be available to those at the lowest end of the income scale.

The deal calls for 75 percent of the retail space to be under lease within six months of the first residential certificate of occupancy, along with some other technicalities. There will also be 5,000 square feet of “co-working space.”

All the appliances in the residential units will be electrical (though gas will be needed for a ground floor restaurant, Mill Creek’s Joe Muffler insisted).

The project can generally be expected to complement Mill Creek’s Founders Row 1 that is

already well along in construction across the W. Broad at West Street intersection. Numerous residents have already moved in over there, and the big issue is whether or not the promised multiscreen movie theater is actually going to come to pass at that site.

On that one, it was Mayor Tarter who put up the strongest resistance to going ahead with Founders Row 2 with no lease yet signed for the movie complex across the street.

But while Mill Creek has a “letter of intent” from a movie theater company, it is considered of little value without an actual lease. Mill Creek had such a lease until the pandemic knocked the movie-going industry for a loop and the company filed bankruptcy.

It remains to be seen how fully that industry will rebound postpandemic.

New deals to increase Mill Creek’s take from ticket sales at the theater have been agreed to by the City in an effort to boost its commitment, but a lot of the commercial revenues anticipated from restaurants, in particular, are considered contingent on getting the movie screens in there.

AT MONDAY’S CITY COUNCIL meeting, five members of the community took oaths of Office for City Board and Commission positions. Pictured here (l. to r.) are Alison Miller, Urban Forestry Commission; Allen Greenberg, Historic Architectural Review Board; Tatiana Eaves, Environmental Sustainability Council; Stuart Whitaker, Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation and Kristine Ward, Board of Zoning Appeals. Not pictured: Debra Z. Roth, Human Services Advisory Council. (P����: N���-P����) A motion by Snyder to hold the Founders Row 2 approval con-

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tingent on a signed lease for the movie complex failed, 5-2, how-

ever, with Tarter joining Snyder was the only “yes” votes.

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Commentary

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MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2022 | PAGE 5

F.C. EDA Works Hard to Improve the Little City

by Bob Young Falls Church’s Economic Development Authority (EDA) has for many years been responsible for working with City Council, City staff, the business community, the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce and many of our Boards and Commissions to maximize responsible economic development in the city. The most significant goal has been to greatly increase the commercial proportion of the tax base.

The City Council, the EDA, and other boards have worked together over the last decade to make great progress in this endeavor.

In addition to growing our commercial tax base, recent and ongoing EDA projects are several in number.

The EDA’s Wayfinding project is currently being completed and consists of 45 new signs around the city.

The goal of this project is to improve a situation which was at best confusing for visitors and instead create a coherent “wayfinding” signage design that would help visitors find their way around town to specific destinations. The majority of the signs are designed to guide people driving vehicles. This project also includes two specially designed Tinner Hill pedestrian walking signs that include a map and QR code.

Using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) national grant program, the EDA is in the process of providing up to $450,000 in small business grants to local businesses to help in their recovery from the Covid pandemic as well as a new Parklet program to support the creation of new outdoor dining and activity areas in the city. One of the new Parklet locations is likely to be adjacent to the already very popular Mr. Brown’s Park where some additional outdoor dining area could be created in our downtown area and which is adjacent to public parking.

Another major ARPA initiative for the continued Covid recovery of City businesses we will undertake this summer will be to engage a professional marketing firm/consultant to help us better market the city restaurants, local businesses, and historic landmarks. The EDA has been aware for some time that the marketing of the city, particularly from an economic development perspective, could be improved with adequate resources and effort. With assistance from our marketing consultants, we

hope to identify how best to cost effectively spend our ARPA funds to assist in Covid business recovery.

In addition, via both ARPA and City funds, we have also just on boarded a new staff member who will focus on marketing, including efforts such as increasing customer interest in the City via social media posting, updates to the choosefallschurch.org website, creating and updating a landing page with listings for city attractions on the Virginia Tourism Commission’s web site and many other new initiatives.

The EDA/EDO (Economic Development Office) team has worked hard in an effort to assist in both preserving and retaining affordable housing in the city. This work included the acquisition and preservation of affordable units in Virginia Village on South Maple Street, 1940’s vintage brick “quadplexes”, as well as through encouraging developer voluntary concessions to provide new affordable units in perpetuity. Eventually, we hope redevelopment of the Virginia Village’s approximately five-acre site will occur and will include new affordable housing units, market rate units and new public use areas.

We also currently are finishing work on an update of the city’s fiscal model which is used to assess the net value to the city of proposed new economic development projects.

The EDA also actively and regularly participates in reviews of new City development projects; the EDA then provides their recommendations and suggestions on those projects to the City Council. The recently approved Founders Row 2 project was reviewed twice in the last year by the EDA and we likewise anticipate continuing reviews of One City Center project as well. In the upcoming month we will also continue to work with city staff to complete the land transfer/lease of the 9.7 acres in the proposed new West End redevelopment project next to the new Meridian High School. This extremely exciting 1.5 million SF project includes new senior housing units, market rate apartments, condominium units, office space, civic/ public space, hotel rooms and over 100,000 SF of retail.

Suffice it to say that the EDA had a very busy and successful 2021 and looks forward to continuing to be involved in numerous important City initiatives in 2022!

Our Man in Arlington

By Charlie Clark

Our struggling Metro this March announced a post-pandemic plan to recover its needed ridership.

The coming new marketing push on social media, to which Arlington contributed $10,000, will stress the value of public transit at a time of rising gasoline prices.

Details, however, were scarce.

So I extracted some hints from Metro General Manager Paul Wiedefeld in an exclusive interview.

Metro, it seems, was impressed with a recent blogpost by SunGazette managing editor Scott McCaffrey. This friendly competitor of mine attacked the Arlington school board’s sartorial shortcomings. “Going commando, either without a jacket, without a tie, or without both,” read his description of the elected officials at a recent meeting. This “sloppiness reflects badly on the school board, the school system and the community.”

This got Metro to thinking: Perhaps the way to lure back the rush-hour standing-roomonly subway crowds is to class the transit system up a bit. That means implementing a dress code.

Planners believe that requiring sharper wardrobes would make a trip on Metro more of a special event. And it would create a certain solidarity of purpose for an incipient community of wellgroomed riders.

I asked skeptical questions.

Would this be fair to those who frequent the subway in Crocs, blue jeans purposefully tattered, or T-Shirts that shout ill-informed slogans?

Certainly Metro officials wouldn’t go so far as to require formal wear? Black tie, besides being unaffordable to many (unless they’re willing to rent), would be asking too much, the Metro chief acknowledged. (I personally have ridden the subway downtown wearing a tux, and it made me very self-conscious.)

I can report that the new Metro dress code will be a compromise: business casual.

How would the code be enforced? Do the kiosk guards— who don’t do much currently about passengers not wearing covid masks—possess sartorial tastes discerning enough to make snap judgments? Could they be trained?

I was assured that the station managers in tough cases would use their walkie-talkies to pool their thoughts. And they promise to rule quickly enough so that passengers with border-line outfits wouldn’t unnecessarily miss their trains.

Some kinks are still being worked out, I was told. What if one of the slobs who gets rejected at the turnstile is a long-distance commuter who parked a car at Metro before entering? Does getting sent home to change entitle them to a parking refund?

Metro’s only condition for granting my interview: that I wait to publish until April Fool’s Day.

*** Two key advisory bodies have implored the county board to preserve the Joyce Motors building facade now endangered by the pending Clarendon Sector Plan.

Built in 1949 and marked as historic in 2011, the now-empty building in N. 10th St. is the only remaining example of “porcelain-enameled, boxlike service stations” remaining in Arlington by the late-twentieth century, wrote the Historical Affairs and Landmark Review Board. It backed a recommendation by the Planning Commission that the frontage be preserved.

But the owner, eyeing a larger area re-development, sees the onetime Texaco station as run-down and its parking lot a hazardous waste site. The county prefers commercial buildings closer to the street. Board decision coming in April. *** I was moved on March 19 while attending the two-years, pandemic-postponed classical concert by the 56-year-old Arlington Chorale.

The theme heard in the packed pews at Westover Baptist Church was “Through Troubled Times,” made all more urgent by the crisis in Ukraine.

Artistic director Ingrid Lestrud took the orchestra, choir and four soloists through Ola Gjeilo’s “Song of the Universal” and Haydn’s “Lord Nelson Mass.” The finale was Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” conducted by a fund-raising auction winner—13-year-old Ava Yi, a student at H.B Woodlawn.

PAGE 6 | MARCH 31 - APRIL 6. 2022

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The Latest Budget Plan & Its Causal Element

The combination of the reveal of Falls Church City Manager Wyatt Shields’ proposed FY23 budget with its recommended 8.5 cent reduction in the real estate tax rate and the solid vote of final approval for Founders Row 2, the latest large scale mixed use project to get the green light in the Little City, marked this Monday’s meeting of the Falls Church City Council as perhaps one of the most consequential in many a moon.

The two are interrelated in the sense that the success of the City to do all the monumental things it has done in recent years – build a new state-of-the-art $120 million high school, prepare for the construction of virtually an entire new city on 10 acres adjacent it, renovate City Hall and the Mary Riley Styles public library, make major gains to protect everyone from the anticipated impacts of climate change, as with stormwater, and much more – has been due to the combination of strong and responsible local leadership, on the one hand, contributing to the region’s most robust mixed use development in its commercial corridors, on the other.

Nowhere was that more evident than in the events of Monday night. In presenting his latest annual budget, subject to modifications and formal adoption by the City Council on May 2, Shields noted that the 8.5 cent real estate tax reduction, down to $123.5 per $100 assessed valuation is unique for these parts, as the City’s two much larger neighbors, Arlington and Fairfax, are anticipating no tax rate reductions despite their growth trends.

In the case of the Council’s adoption of the zoning and special exception changes needed for the Founders Row 2 project, with its 280 new residences, it passed with relative ease by a 5-2 margin, a far cry from the 4-3 vote it was barely able to achieve, with tons of caveats being expressed at the time, from the Council to move ahead last September. Enough creative changes to the look and content of the project by its Mill Creek developers were made in the interim to make the version approved this week seem far more palatable.

In that context, another component of the project is its commitment to affordable housing, as 12 percent of the housing units will come under the City’s affordable housing controls. The terms price half of them at the lowest end of the income scale for prospective residents. That 12 percent number is a sharp increase from the six percent goal of the Council in the recent past, something the Council has become more emboldened to demand lately.

It will involve yet another transformation in the area, replacing the long-idle Rite Aid store and its oversized parking lot, and the carpet store at the corner, with a handsome project that will complement the nearly completed Founders Row 1 across the street.

As Mill Creek’s Joe Muffler said to the Council Monday, the project represents a “win-win alignment.”

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Adpopt, Don’t Shop for Pets

Editor, I’m a student and devoted dog rescuer. I have been fostering and rescuing dogs for five years now. I have fostered around 30 dogs and worked to rescue many more than that. Dogs like the ones I have rescued come from all over. I have rescued some dogs from North and South Carolina and my organization has worked with some Puerto Rican street dogs. I want people to understand that there are many dogs out there that want homes but don’t get them because people are getting their dogs from breeders. People should always get dogs from rescues because they are the dogs that need your love, support and they will love you just as much, maybe even more than a dog you get from a breeder.

To begin I would like to explain that getting a dog from a breeder is the worst choice you can make when looking for a furry friend. Breeders are in it for the money and nothing else. They treat the dogs terribly for example with some breeders the dogs are living outside in the dirt or in barns. They are fed unhealthy foods and they aren’t given shots or preventatives such as flea and tick medicine. Breeders don’t give you the full truth, they will tell you that the dog you are getting is a purebred dog when the dog is actually a mix of many breeds. I have experience with that because I removed a few puppies from a breeder because they were being treated badly. They told us the puppies were Doodles. I fostered two of them. They were supposed to be purebred doodles, one boy and one girl. It turns out they were both girls and NOT purebred.

Those are a few reasons you should avoid breeders when looking for a dog.

You should always adopt through rescue organizations. They are great, they feed the dogs well, vet them, give them their preventatives and make sure they find good homes.

They train the dogs if needed and never hurt them. They socialize them, make sure they get exercise and they rescue them from bad situations. I can relate, my organization once rescued some puppies and three beagles from a house. What they had experienced is beyond pain; it is pure misery and suffering. They were chained to poles outside for six years with barely any food and no protection from sun, rain, or any weather/precipitation. They came to me and they ran for probably a few

hours outside but for the next week they couldn’t move. Today they have amazing loving homes and they are loved and happy. That is why you should rescue dogs.

As of today there are still so many dogs out there that need you to save them so when you are looking for a dog please go find a rescue organization because when you do you will be saving a life. Here are some rescue organizations to check out when you are looking for a dog: Bushman’s Legacy, Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, and Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation.

Delaney Quinn Falls Church

In Response to Alex Lu’s LTE Editor, Regarding Mr Lu’s letter (NP -— 3/24) and the amenities that school busses should be equipped with.

I hope that children who take school busses on very cold mornings are dressed for the weather as they go out their door. As for the Falls Church City school busses, the children do not ride the busses for very long to spend money on the items you mentioned. Question however, what is a “fuzzy floor”?

I cannot speak for other school districts, but those amenities you mentioned would be very expensive.

And as we read every school district has budget issues and I am guessing the amenities you mentioned are on bottom of the list of items they truly need. Raising teacher salaries are on the top of list.

Barb Molino Falls Church

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Editor’s Essay

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MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2022 | PAGE 7

Ukraine Invasion Has Triggered West’s Core Morality Nicholas F. Benton FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

“Everybody understands the obvious meaning of the world struggle in which we are engaged. We are defending freedom against tyranny and are trying to preserve justice against a system which has, demonically, distilled injustice and cruelty out of its original promise of a higher justice.”

These are the opening words of theologian Reinhold Neibuhr’s 1952 treatise, “The Irony of American History,” written as the Cold War between the Soviet Union (aka Russia) and the NATO-rooted West, including the U.S. was reaching its peak. Called

“the supreme American theologian of the 20th century,” Neibuhr (1892-1971) was a powerful influence in that era, insisting on something that was glossed over in subsequent periods, the existence of active evil that operates at all levels of human engagement.

Of course, for a number of reasons, his insight is spot on for dealing with the situation the world now faces. With Putin’s recent invasion of Ukraine two of its core elements are again at the forefront: the “world struggle,” on the one hand, and its basic challenge of “defending freedom against tyranny.”

How lulled by less definitive events, at least for those not paying attention, we’d become about what’s most basic to our nation’s and humanity’s mission, and so swiftly brought into stark relief by Putin’s invasion.

Indeed, if anything defines the egregious error of Putin’s action, it may be how quickly it caused the kind of reaction from the NATO-

rooted West we’ve seen in the last month. Yes, Putin has awakened not only the political and military zeal of the democratic West, but its most basic moral commitments, as well.

The personal courage demonstrated by Ukrainian president V. Zelenskiy (“I don’t need a ride, I need ammunition”) has not only stifferned the resolve of millions of his own countrymen, but of the entire Western world, as well.

As the images of the Russian assault, in all its ugly, cruel and utterly destructive manifestations, are broadcast around the world, the outrage and utter contempt engendered has penetrated everywhere, even deep into Russia itself.

Indeed, this is the first time a Cold War-like aggression by Russia has been so widely documented in real time by both media institutions and individuals with their smart phones, and this is having a profound anti-war effect.

It is something that we can be

confident Putin did not calculate, as with his failure to calculate the direct Ukrainian resistance.

With all the eyes and ears we now have out there in the world, maybe war as we’ve known it and as Putin is trying to execute it now will simply no longer be viable. Something, anything, has to be better than such egregious human carnage, especially when the whole world gets to see it.

Who knew there was a rocksolid moral streak so near to the surface in so many people once aroused? Putin’s worst miscalculation may be just that: No, Putin, the West has not become morally degenerate, as you suggest.

It had possibly become complacent, even allowing for the election as president in the U.S. of one of the most utterly degenerate sociopaths in its history, but the Ukrainian invasion has changed all that.

At least for now. President Biden has been outright brilliant catching the wave of the global

moral outrage, and as much as the media might be incited to protest (by whom, I’m not sure) his impromptu coda to his powerful speech in Poland last weekend, his instincts were correct in forcefully asserting that a man of Putin’s brutality should not be allowed to stay in power, anytime anywhere.

Who the hell could argue otherwise?

The question for all freedomloving people, of the kind that Niebuhr spoke to 70 years ago, is where do we go from here. If Putin is rebuffed in Ukraine, then what becomes of the new-found moral strength in the West, in each and every one of us?

Citing and praising Niebuhr, President Obama once wrote that while there’s serious evil in the world, and while “we should be humble and modest in striving to eliminate it,” nevertheless, “but we shouldn’t use the existence of evil, hardship and pain as an excuse for cynicism and inaction.”

Commentary

Putin and the Myths of Western Decadence Paul Krugman NEW YORK TIMES

Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine was, first and foremost, a crime — indeed, the war crimes continue as you read this. But it was also a blunder. In less than five weeks, Putin has destroyed Russia’s military reputation, battered his nation’s economy and strengthened the democratic alliances he hoped to undermine. How could he have made such a catastrophic mistake?

Part of the answer, surely, is strongman syndrome: Putin has surrounded himself with people who tell him what he wants to hear. All indications are that he went into this debacle believing his own propaganda about both his army’s martial prowess and the eagerness of Ukrainians to submit to Russian rule.

But there’s also reason to think Putin, like many of his admirers in the West, thought modern democracies were too decadent to offer effective resistance.

And here’s the thing: When I look at the United States, I worry

that the West is, in fact, being made weaker by decadence — but not the kind that obsesses Putin and those who think like him. Our vulnerability comes not from the decline of traditional family values but from the decline of traditional democratic values, such as a belief in the rule of law and a willingness to accept the results of elections that don’t go your way.

Of course, the idea that loose morals destroy great powers goes back centuries. In the Hollywood version of history, the Roman Empire fell because its elites were too busy with orgies to attend to the business of defeating barbarians. Actually, the timing is all wrong on that story, but I’ll get back to that in a minute.

Today’s right-wingers seem bothered less by weakness from sexual license than by weakness from gender equality: Tucker Carlson warned that China’s military was becoming “more masculine” while ours was becoming “more feminine, whatever feminine means anymore, since men and women no longer exist.”

Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, retweeted a video comparing a U.S. Army recruiting video with footage of a Russian paratrooper with a shaved

head and declared that a “woke, emasculated military” might not be a good idea.

It would be interesting to know what has happened to that paratrooper since Putin invaded Ukraine. In any case, the heavy casualties suffered by Russia’s anti-woke military as it failed to overrun vastly inferior Ukrainian forces have confirmed what anyone who has studied history knows: Modern wars aren’t won with swaggering machismo.

Courage and endurance, physical and moral, are as essential as ever, but so are more mundane things like logistics, vehicle maintenance and communications systems that actually work.

By the way, I can’t help mentioning that recent events have also confirmed the truism that many, perhaps most men who pose as tough guys … aren’t. Putin’s response to failure in Ukraine has been extremely Trumpian: insisting that his invasion is all going “according to plan,” refusing to admit having made any mistakes and whining about cancel culture. I’m half expecting him to release battle maps crudely modified with a Sharpie.

But back to the kind of decadence

that really matters.

As I said, the Hollywood version of Rome’s decline and fall doesn’t stand up under examination. True, the spoils of empire made it possible for a few people to live in great luxury, possibly including the occasional orgy; the closest modern counterpart to that elite would be … Russian oligarchs. But Rome retained its territorial integrity and military effectiveness for centuries after the emergence of that pampered, libertine elite.

So what did go wrong? Historians have many theories, but surely a big factor was the erosion of norms that had helped establish political legitimacy and the ever-growing willingness of some Romans, especially after around 180 A.D., to use violence against one another.

Obviously what’s going on in the U.S. today bears no detailed resemblance to the troubles of the ancient world. Yet these days not a month goes by without further revelations that a large part of America’s body politic, very much including members of the political elite, has contempt for democratic principles and will do whatever it takes to win.

It’s incredible how quickly we’ve

normalized the fact that the last president tried to retain power despite losing the election and that a mob he incited stormed the Capitol. Many people took part in the effort to overturn the election — among them, we recently learned, the wife of a sitting Supreme Court justice, who hasn’t even recused himself in cases about the attempted coup.

And while Donald Trump’s effort to stay in office failed, most of his party has, in effect, retroactively backed that effort.

Why is that relevant to Ukraine?

Putin effectively bet that an effete West would stand by as he carried out his conquest. Instead, President Joe Biden very effectively mobilized a democratic alliance that has rushed aid to Ukraine and helped humiliate the aggressor.

But the next time something like this happens, America might not lead an effective alliance of democracies, because we ourselves will have given up on democratic values.

And that, if you ask me, is what real decadence looks like.

By Paul Krugman © 2022 The New York Times

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PAGE 8 | MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2022

A Penny for Your Thoughts

News of Greater Falls Church

By Supervisor Penny Gross

For millennia, bamboo has been the stuff of poetry, paintings, and pandas. Building materials, textiles, human food, and household décor all are common uses for bamboo. It also is popular for landscape barriers along property lines, and that’s the rub. Some types of bamboo are characterized by their aggressive spreading behavior – “running bamboo” – which can end up, unwanted, in a neighbor’s yard. Multiple complaints about invasive running bamboo have resulted in a new ordinance adopted by the Board of Supervisors last week.

The new language amended the county’s “grass ordinance” to establish regulations on running bamboo, as well as civil penalties. Bamboo actually is the largest grass species, and the enabling legislation passed by the Virginia General Assembly focuses on species in the genus Phyllostachus. Not all bamboo is running bamboo; there are clumping types that do not spread with the fast-growing rhizomes and culms that characterize running bamboo. The ordinance does not require owners to remove existing bamboo. It also does not prohibit new plantings of bamboo, although future problems could be curtailed if the Commonwealth banned nursery sales of the offending species.

The Department of Code Compliance (DCC) would be responsible for investigating complaints of uncontrolled running bamboo that has spread to adjacent property or the public right-of-way. The process is complaint-driven; upon receipt of a complaint about uncontrolled running bamboo onto a neighbor’s property, DCC staff would visit both properties, determine the type of bamboo, and work with the property owner who has the bamboo to abate or otherwise control the offending bamboo. A containment measure could include a barrier (thick plastic or metal) that is impenetrable to running bamboo, installed at sufficient depth to prevent the spread of the invasive species. If a trench is used as a containment measure, it must be installed at a sufficient depth to prevent the spread onto adjacent properties. Owners who fail to contain their running bamboo within 30 days after receiving a Notice of Violation (NOV) may be subject to civil penalties imposed by the court. Initial violations would be subject to a $50 pen-

alty; total penalties could be as high as $2000 (reduced from a high of $3000) per 12-month period.

For many property owners, bamboo existed prior to their purchase of the property, so they are questioning who has responsibility for its containment. DCC investigators often hear similar complaints about what might have happened – perhaps an addition that was not permitted, or a patio or deck that encroaches into the setback – on a property prior to the current ownership.

It’s an unwelcome complication, but when a property is purchased, the new owner also buys all of its amenities and shortcomings.

There are shortcomings, as well, in the new ordinance. Removing bamboo can take years, not 30 days, for success, so it will be very difficult to meet a 30-day time frame. Most DCC investigators will seek an indication of compliance, and work toward success. If a property owner ignores the NOV, or fails to file an appeal of same, a summons can be filed in the General District Court. Only the court can impose the civil penalties outlined in the ordinance. The Board of Supervisors delayed the effective date of the new ordinance to January 1, 2023.

Humanitarian efforts to help Ukraine and its residents are underway in Northern Virginia, under the auspices of the Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC). Each Board of Supervisors’ office is accepting donations of new or gently used coats, blankets, new gloves and new socks. The last day to donate is April 15; Paxton Van Lines is providing boxes and storage space for donations which will be shipped to humanitarian agencies in Europe for distribution to refugees.

Earlier this week, I visited the Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center and Family Store in Mason District, which donated nearly 2000 coats and jackets of all sizes, from infant to adult, for Ukraine relief. The need is so great. Please be generous via donations at Supervisor offices or your favorite charity.  Penny Gross is the Mason District Supervisor, in the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. She may be emailed at mason@fairfaxcounty.gov.

C i t y o f Fa l l s C h u r c h

CRIM E R EPO RT Week of March 21 - 27, 2022 Drunk in Public, S Washington St, Mar 21, 12:52 AM, a male, 34, of Hyattsville, MD, was arrested for drunk in public.

Larceny of Vehicle Parts, Seaton Cir, between 11 PM, Mar 20 and 6:30 AM, Mar 21, unknown suspect(s), took the catalytic converter from a Toyota Prius.

Fraud, Flagmaker Ct, Mar 21, 7:39 PM, an incident of fraud was reported.

Larceny from Vehicle, Hillwood Ave, Mar 22, between 2:30 AM and 7 AM, unknown suspect(s) removed a vehicle’s license plates.

Identity Theft, Grove Ave, Mar 24, 3:48 PM, an incident of identity theft was reported.

Driving Under the Influence, Lincoln Ave, Mar 26, 12:55 AM,

a male, 65, of Rockville, MD, was arrested for driving under the influence.

Trespass, W Broad St, Mar 27, 5:22 PM, a male, 30, of no fixed address, was issued a summons for trespass.

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Big Week for Mustang Athletics, Lax Takes Three

MUSTANG BOYS LACROSSE Goes 3-0 for the Week. (Photo: FCCPS/ Miles Pierre)

by Ryan McCafferty Falls Church News-Press

The Meridian Mustangs kicked off their spring sports season with mixed results, but the second week of action brought much more to write home about.

The boys’ varsity baseball team won both of its home matchups, first a 19-4 victory over Mount Vernon on Monday and then a 9-7 win against Sidwell Friends on Tuesday, while the JV team split a pair of Saturday home games to John Handley with a 13-3 win and then a 10-12 loss. Both varsity lacrosse teams also fared well, with the girls taking two of three contests this week, defeating Liberty 20-2 on Monday and Potomac Falls 12-0 on Wednesday (both at home) but losing 13-17 when they travelled to Washington-Liberty on Friday, while the boys swept, going on the road to beat Liberty 11-6 and Potomac Falls 16-3 before coming back home to take a 10-4 final score over Washington-Liberty.

But the big highlight came

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from the boys’ varsity soccer team, which travelled to Tennessee to compete in the Smoky Mountain Cup over the weekend. The tournament included teams from all over the Southeast United States, many of which were some of the premier programs in the country, and Meridian more than held its own. They first defeated Westminster of Georgia and then Tennessee’s Farragut, both in 2-0 decisions, to cap off a massive week for the team as they moved to 3-0 on the season.

Meridian’s other squads did not fare quite as well, unfortunately. Softball lost at home to Hayfield on Monday by a score of 4-20 and then lost again on Friday at Garfield, 5-15.

Girls’ varsity soccer tied 1-1 at Lightridge on Thursday, while the JV team won the prelude to said game 4-0. On the tennis courts, the girls lost at home 3-6 to Marshall on Monday, while the boys split a pair of 9-0 decisions, falling to Marshall on the road and then flipping the script on Tuscarora at home on Friday.

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LO CA L

MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2022 | PAGE 9

Meridian Opens New Spring Play Tonight, This Weekend

by Amanda Snead

Falls Church News-Press

Live theater has returned to Meridian High School with the first spring play since the grand opening of Meridian and the new school building. This year’s spring play is the “Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged).”

“We’re doing the complete works of Shakespeare, abridged and revised, which is not what you would think of as Shakespeare normally,” said Shawn Northrip, a film and theater teacher at Meridian and director of the play. “It was originally written by the Reduced Shakespeare Company where their premise was to condense all 37 plays down into 90 minutes. You can imagine 37 three hour plays condensed down to 90 minutes doesn’t necessarily give a lot of each play and there are some plays that get a little more time than others, such as Romeo and Juliet.

The whole show is predicated on the premise that these people are making it up as they’re going so it has a very off the cuff feel.”

Northrip has directed 20 plays on the “main stage” at MHS and around 100 class projects and theater

competitions during his time with the school.

According to their website, The Reduced Shakespeare Company is a “three-man comedy troupe that takes long, serious subjects and reduces them to short, sharp comedies.”

This production was originally set to come on stage in 2020 but due to the pandemic it had to be saved for a later date. In 2021, instead of a play, the theater made a movie and a socially distanced play on stage so this is one of the first times performing like “normal” again for the students.

“When we came back, we were all really excited to be in person again because theater is a live experience,” shared Northrip. “It’s about community, it’s about engaging with people in real life. It’s about hearing their tears and hearing them laugh, which you don’t get with a film.”

The year began with the musical “tick, tick… BOOM!” which Northrip described as a more emotional play, while Shakespere will bring more comedy to have some balance with the selections for the year.

“In the age of Covid, I think we all really want to get together and

STUDENTS FROM MHS will be bringing 37 abridged plays to the stage this weekend. Pictured here is a scene from Hamlet where more modern elements, such as Converse sneakers, can be seen. (Photo: Carol Sly). have a good laugh again,” he shared.

The inclusion of 37 plays will also allow for a large group of students to participate and have a chance to shine on stage.

Northrip promises the play won’t be like any Shakespeare the audience

has seen before from the shortened versions of the play, to modern pop culture references and more!

“The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)” takes place this weekend with performances Thursday, March 31, Friday,

April 1 and Saturday, April 2. All performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. The show is roughly 90 minutes.. Tickets are $5 for students and $10 for general admission.

Meridian High School is located at 121 Mustang Alley in Falls Church.

NOVA Nightsky Delights With New Play ‘The Feral Child’

by Amanda Snead

Falls Church News-Press

NOVA Nightsky’s newest play follows the story of a young girl named Mary who disappeared in India with her family at a young age. Ten years later, she’s discovered to be in the jungle being raised by tigers and believes she’s a cat.

Mary, played by Melody Dillon, is taken in by child psychologist Dr. James Hauser, played by Rob Gorman and his wife Irene, played by Carla Baechtle. Despite his years of experience, James finds himself out of his depths with this case.

However, his wife’s maternal instincts take over and she is able to help her husband acclimate Mary to life as a human.

This was NOVA Nightsky’s third play and the group has done a great job of having both plays that audiences may be familiar with, such as William Inge’s “Picnic,” as well as original plays and plays that audiences may not have heard of before.

“The Feral Child” was first performed in Alaska where it won “Best New Play” and “Best

Play, Non-professional” at the Broadway World Regional Awards in 2019. NOVA Nightsky director Ward Kay heard about the play and fell in love with the story, bringing it to a stage in the Little City.

This play is family-friendly, incredibly funny and has a great message. What is a girl who was raised by tigers meant to do for a living when she grows up?

Advocate for animal rights, of course! The play offers shocking statistics on the current state of wildlife and reminds the audience that once a species is gone, it is gone forever.

It also offers a sweet story of chosen family. Mary is brought to the Hauser family by Edith Butler, a woman who was previously taking care of her. She was meant to just stay a few days but James’ determination to help her and Irene’s immediate love for Mary keeps her around.

NOVA Nightsky Theater’s mission to offer entertainment in unconventional places does not in any way take away from the incredible performances but instead enhances them, seeing

MARY QUICKLY WARMS UP to life at home with her new guardian, enjoying time snuggling on the couch with Irene. (Photo Courtesy of NOVA Nightsky Theater) how the cast and crew transform the fitness studio into a fully functioning theater.

This is a great play for any age and I highly recommend seeing it before it closes this

weekend!

“The Feral Child” closes this weekend with performances on Friday, April 1 and Saturday, April 2 at 8 p.m., doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $12.30

each and can be purchased online novanightskytheater. com. Seats are limited. The performance takes place at 1057 West Broad St. #216 in Falls Church.

CA L E NDA R

PAGE 10 | MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2022

FALLS CHURCH CALENDAR LOCALEVENTS THURSDAY, MARCH 31 2022 F.C. Arts All Member Show (On-going). Running through Sunday, May 8, visitors will find a wide variety of artwork created by 119 Falls Church Arts Gallery artists. Visit fallschurcharts.org for more information. (700 W. Broad St, Falls Church, VA.) Wednesday — Saturday, 11 a.m. — 6 p.m., Sunday, 11 a.m. — 4 p.m.

Walk-in Tech Clinic. A tech tutor is available every Thursday at Thomas Jefferson Library to help visitors with issues and questions.

703-573-1060. (1545 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church). 10 — 11 a.m.

Falls Church Fiber Artists. Those interested in knitting and crocheting are invited to a weekly knitting group at Mary Riley Styles Public Library. 703-248-5030 (120 N. Virginia Ave.) 10 a.m. — 12 p.m.

Ukulele Thursday. Thomas Jefferson Library invites families for a morning of stories and music.

Geared towards children up to 5 years of age. (1545 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church). 10:30 — 11 a.m.

Toddler Storytime. Tysons-Pimmit Library has songs, rhymes, stories, and activities for toddlers and their parents/guardians. Limited to 20 children with one caregiver each.

First come, first serve basis. 703790-8088. (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church.) 10:30 — 11 a.m.

Woodrow Wilson Preschool Storytime. Attendees will learn Spanish and/or Sign Language words as they fit within the theme of the activity. For children ages 3 — 5 with an adult caregiver.

Masks required; limited to 15 attendees. (6101 Knollwood Dr., Falls Church). 10:30 — 11 a.m.

Pastel & Gouache: Mixed Media Painting. Those interested in mixed media painting are invit-

ed for an afternoon session with instructor Richard Levine at the F.C. Art Gallery. Visit fallschurcharts.org to register. (700 W. Broad St, Falls Church.) 1 — 3 p.m.

In-person English Practice. Those looking to improve their English are welcome to take part in an informal conversation group at Thomas Jefferson Library. 703573-1060. (1545 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church). 2 — 3 p.m.

F.C. Arts Academy Winter 2022 Session 2. Art instructor Sally Evans teaches a combination of guided and open-ended projects to students ages 7 — 6th grade.

Register at fallschurcharts.org/ fcarts-academy-winter-2022/. F.C. Art Gallery (700 B Broad St, Falls Church). 4:30 — 6 p.m.

District Trivia Thursdays. Trivia at Clare and Don’s. 703-532-9283.

(130 N. Washington St, Falls Church). 7 p.m.

Falls Church Writers Group. A group for local aspiring writers to share work and receive feedback. Meets the last Thursday of the month. Email Peter Sullivan (psullivan@fallschurchva.gov) for Zoom meeting invitation. 7 p.m.

Threads of Freedom: Stories Woven into African American Quilts (Online). This presentation highlights the art and history of quilting through the African American perspective. Presented

by Diane Macklin. Register at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/ event/8829395 to receive a Zoom invitation. 7 p.m.

Solace Outpost Trivia. Trivia every Tuesday and Thursday. First place and second place teams win gift cards. 571-378-1469. (444 W. Broad St, Falls Church). 7 — 9 p.m.

FRIDAY, APRIL 1 F.C. Community Center Open Gym. City Residents will be able to use the gym on a first-come, first-serve

basis. Max stay: 90 minutes; max capacity: 30. Children in grades 3 — 5 may only use the gym with parent/guardian permission. Users must sign in at the front desk.

Masks welcome but not required.

703-248-5077. F.C. Community Center, Kenneth R. Burnett Building (223 Little Falls St, Falls Church, VA 22046.) 8:30 a.m. — 2:30 p.m.

Davis Mansion Tours (On-going).

The Davis Mansion provides guests with a first-person glance at history. Registration required; tours offered weekly on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Tickets available for 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. Visit insidenovatix.com or call 703-777-2414 for information. (17269 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg, VA 20176.)

Thomas Jefferson Library Teen Advisory Board. Weekly meeting for high school students looking to get involved in library programming and services. (1545 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church.) 4:30 p.m. — 5:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, APRIL 2 Falls Church Farmers Market.

Visitors will find fresh, local produce, meat, dairy, flowers, honey, and more. Covid-19 guidelines observed. (300 Park Ave, Falls Church). 9 a.m. — 12 p.m.

Acton Children's Business Fair.

Free event for children to practice selling products or services to real customers. (312 Park Ave, Falls Church, VA). Visit actonfallschurch.org for more information. 9 a.m. — 12 p.m.

Cherry Hill Open House Tours. Free tours available at the farmhouse Saturday mornings, Apr. — Oct, provided by trained docents. Cherry Hill Farmhouse (312 Park Ave, Falls Church, VA). 10 a.m. — 12 p.m.

Family Storytime. Tysons-Pimmit Library invites families to a morning of music and movement.

Geared towards children 5 and

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

under. (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church.) 10:30 — 11 a.m.

Wine Tasting Saturdays. Dominion Wine & Beer hosts wine tasting every Saturday, conducted by an industry professional. Call 703533-3030 for information. Located in the back parking lot; no reservations required. (107 Rowell Ct, Falls Church.) 1 p.m. — 4 p.m.

Paws to Read With Lucy. Read aloud to Lucy, a trained therapy dog, at Thomas Jefferson Library. Walk-ins welcome. Ages 6 — 12. (1545 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church). 2 — 3 p.m.

Girl Scout Day: Playing the Past.

Junior Girl Scouts will learn about life at Cherry Hill farmhouse in the mid-19th century with activities like writing with quill pens, making butter and playing parlor games.

Fulfills all badge requirements; chaperones required. To register, call 703-248-5027 and use the POS #0471 or email cjannicelli@fallschurchva.gov. (312 Park Ave, Falls Church, VA.) 2 — 4 p.m.

SUNDAY, APRIL 3 NOVA Central Farm Markets. This year-round market features meat, fish, produce, dairy, baked goods, and other local finds. Visit nova. centralfarmmarkets.com for more information. (543 Beulah Road, Vienna, VA 22180.) 9 a.m. — 1 p.m.

MONDAY, APRIL 4 AARP Tax Assistance. Free tax help will provided at Mary Riley Styles Public Library, presented by the AARP and IRS. By appointment only; Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, 10:30 a.m. — 2:30 p.m. Program ends April 18. 703248-5031 (120 N. Virginia Ave.) FCA Artist Cafe and Critique.

Discussion and critique group.

Meetings take place the first Monday of every month through Zoom. Email Pamela Huffman (pamelahuffmanart@gmail.com) for invite. 12 — 2 p.m.

F.C. Parkinson's Foundation Communication Club. Hosted by the Kensington, the club meets online every Monday, led by Susan I. Wranik, Board Certified SpeechLanguage Pathologist. Attendees practice speaking louder and clearer in a group environment. Email Kayla Peters (kpeters@kensingtonsl.com) for information. 3 — 4 p.m.

DIY Bird Feeders. Participants will learn how to create their own

bird feeders. Geared towards children ages 8 – 12. Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). 4 — 5 p.m.

Read to the Dog. Visitors will be able to read aloud to Daisy, a trained therapy dog. Call 703-7908088 or sign up at librarycalendar. fairfaxcounty.gov for a 15-minute session. Walk-ins permitted depending on space. TysonsPimmit Regional Library (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). 4 p.m.

ESOL Conversation Group. Online group for those looking to practice their English. Email Marshall Webster (mwebster@fallschurchva.gov) for Zoom invite. Presented

by Mary Riley Styles Public Library.

7 — 8:30 p.m.

City Council Work Session. Work Sessions are held the first and third Monday of the month, with the exception of Aug. and Dec. when only one meeting is held. Sessions are open to the public and are conducted to allow Council Members to discuss upcoming legislation and policy issues; the public is not generally invited to speak. The meeting can be viewed at fallschurchva.gov/CouncilMeetings or on FCCTV (Cox 11, RCN 2, Verizon 35).

7:30 — 11 p.m.

TUESDAY, APRIL 5 Spanish Conversation Group.

Geared towards intermediateto-advanced level students who are looking for an opportunity to practice their Spanish with a native speaker. This conversation group meets Tuesday mornings at Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library.

Registration required; currently 3 seats available. Register online at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov.

(7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church).

10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Board Games. Visitors are invited to an afternoon of games and snacks. Attendees can bring their own board games or find new ones. Geared towards ages 13 — 18. Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church).

2 — 4 p.m.

Trivia Night. Weekly trivia at the Casual Pint. 703-286-0995. (6410 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 7 — 8 p.m.

Veterans and the Arts Initiative Spring 2022: Exploring Self & Social Identity with Women Veterans.

Andi Benge, George Mason University School of Art instructor, teaches participants how to artisti-

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

cally express their personal experiences. Free and open to women veterans. Space limited; registration required. Hylton Center for the Performing Arts (10960 George Mason Cir, Manassas, VA 20110.)

703-993-7550. Visit hylton.calendar.gmu.edu for information and to register. 7 — 8 p.m.

Trivia Tuesday at Audacious Aleworks. Weekly trivia. The winning team of 1 — 6 will receive a gift card as well as entry into online quarterly championships for $2,500. 571-303-0177. (110 E Fairfax St, Falls Church). 7 — 9 p.m.

Advice for First Time Homebuyers.

Attendees will learn how to prepare for and navigate the process of homebuying. Presented by Tom Hanton, Licensed Realtor with Keller Williams McLean, at TysonsPimmit Library (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). 7:30 — 8:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6 Crafting Circle. For those interested in hands-on crafts, the Thomas Jefferson Library hosts needlecraft lessons each Wednesday. Geared towards adults; supplies will be provided. (1545 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 1 – 2 p.m.

Assistance League Informational Event. Members will be able to showcase their programs and discuss the benefits of membership in the Assistance League of Northern Virginia. Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA). 1 — 2:30 p.m.

English for Pre-Beginners.

In-person group at Tysons-Pimmit Library for students with no or limited prior English language experience, focusing on basic vocabulary and every-day phrases. Limited up to 5 students. Register at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov. 703-7908088. (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church.) 6:30 — 8 p.m.

Caregiver Connect. Virtual event hosted by the Kensington for attendees to discuss common caregiver challenges, ask questions, and develop coping strategies. Email Kayla Peters (kpeters@kensingtonsl.com) or call 703-981-7883 for a link to the meeting. 6:30 — 8 p.m.

LIVEMUSIC THURSDAY, MARCH 31 Joan Osborne. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $45. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500.

Toubab Krewe with Bajah. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $20. 8 p.m. 703-255-1566.

Jamison Greene Band. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church). 8:30 p.m. 703-2419504.

FRIDAY, APRIL 1 The Sotê-Modell Trio featuring Fleur d’Elyse. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack (130 N Washington St., Falls Church). 5 p.m. 703-532-9283.

The Manhattans featuring Gerald Alston. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $55. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500.

Willem Dicke. Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad St., Falls Church).

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

SATURDAY, APRIL 2 Adam K Music. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack (130 N Washington St., Falls Church). 5 p.m. 703-532-9283.

Half Pint Harry. Settle Down Easy Brewing Co. (2822 Fallfax Drive, Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703-573-2011.

Bob Schneider with Lauren Calve.

The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $35. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500.

The Legwarmers: DC’s Biggests 80s Retro Dance Party. The State Theatre (220 N Washington St., Falls Church). $25. 9:30 p.m. 703237-0300.

Franklin Music. Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad St., Falls Church).

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

SUNDAY, APRIL 3 Sky Music Showcase. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $10.

12:30 p.m. 703-255-1566.

John Craigie with The Lowest Pair.

Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $25. 7:30 p.m. 703-2551566.

Burns Night with Sean Heely Trio.

Creative Cauldron (410 South Maple Ave, Retail 116, Falls Church, VA 22046). 7:30 p.m. 703-4369948.

MONDAY, APRIL 4 Walter Trout and Tommy Castro & the Painkillers with Deanna Bogart. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $39.50. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500.

CA L E NDA R TUESDAY, APRIL 5 Matthew Perryman Jones. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $15. 7:30 p.m. 703-255-1566.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6 Tab Benoit with Lightnin’ Malcolm.

The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $45. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500.

MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2022 | PAGE 11

FCNP Featured Event

National Librarian Day Apr. 5th

THEATER&ARTS THURSDAY, MARCH 31 The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged). Meridian High School Drama Students will present “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)” this weekend, starting Thursday, Mar. 31, running through Saturday, Apr. 2. Shakespeare’s 37 plays — some of the greatest fiction in the English language — will be brought to life; this production was created by Adam Long, Daniel Singer, and Jess Winfield. Shawn Northrip, Meridian HS theater teacher, directs the play. Student tickets are $5; general admission is $10. Tickets will be available at the door. 7:30 p.m. Meridian High School (121 Mustang Alley, Falls Church, VA). 703-248-5500.

FRIDAY, APRIL 1 The Adventures of Mr. Toad.

Creative Cauldron’s Learning Theater ensemble brings the tales of Mr. Toad and his friends to life with music by Matt Conner and lyrics by Stephen Gregory Smith.

Adapted from “The Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Grahame.

Last show: Apr. 3. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturdays, and 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Sundays.

Call 703-436-9948 or visit creativecauldron.org/toad.html for more information. Masks and social distancing required. Proof of vaccination or negative Covid test within 24 hours of performance is required for everyone age 5 and up. (410 South Maple Avenue, Retail 116, Falls Church, VA 22046.)

The Feral Child. Written by Rand Higbee, NOVA Nightsky Theater presents “The Feral Child,” a comedy in two acts that focuses on a girl who believes she is in fact a cat.

The production will run from Apr. 1 — 2, starting at 8 p.m. Directed

by Ward Kay. Visit novanightskytheater.com for more information and tickets. (Falls Church, 1057 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA 22046.)

NATIONAL LIBRARIAN DAY (NLD) is celebrated during National Library Week (NLW). Sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA), NLW was first celebrated in 1958, while NLD was first introduced in 2004. NLD continues to highlight the work done by librarians, honoring the contributions they make in their communities. In addition to organizing events, librarians help visitors find books and answer questions every day. The Little City’s own Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave, Falls Church) has long since been a facet of the community, with the recently-renovated space providing a safe, comfortable atmosphere for all. Eric, a librarian at Mary Riley Styles, is seen here helping a visitor pick a movie for her film club. (Photo: Alex Russell.)

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Community News & Notes Galleria Florist Stands Show Support for People of Ukraine Galleria Florist (248 W Broad St Falls Church), a full service flower shop with over twenty years of experience in the field, recently expressed support for the people of Ukraine on their Facebook page.

Their message read: “We stand with Ukraine. We stand with hope. We stand with love. We stand with spring.” The shop’s exterior is decorated with blue and yellow flowers, symbolizing Ukraine’s national flag. Galleria Florist is open weekdays 10 a.m.

— 3 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. — 2 p.m. For more information about Galleria Florist, call 703-536-0770 or visit them online at galleriaflorist.biz.

Cherry Hill Docent Training Finishes, Tours Commence Volunteers are an essential part of the Cherry Hill historic house and farm’s ability to offer tours and programming to visitors. The City has been recruiting volunteers ages 16 and older who have a passion for history to serve as docents. Once training is completed, docents provide free tours of the Cherry Hill farmhouse.

Starting Saturday, Apr. 2, these tours will focus on the Blaisdell family farm and life in the 1860s.

Tours will be provided weekly on Saturdays from 10 a.m. — 12 p.m until the month of Oct. (312 Park Ave, Falls Church.)

Donation Drive and Groups to Help People of Ukraine The City joins neighboring jurisdictions to collect donations for Ukrainian refugees in Europe.

Collection boxes in City Hall (300 Park Ave), the Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave), and the Community Center (223 Little Falls St) will accept all sizes of the following through Apr. 15: New/Gently Used Coats, New Blankets, New Pairs of Sweat Socks/Heavy Socks, New Pairs of Gloves. The items will be shipped to Poland and then make their way to those in need in both Poland and Ukraine. The pro-

gram is managed by the Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC). Visit novaregion.org for more information.

CBC Youth Reps Application Due Apr. 8 All High School students are invited to apply to become youth representatives to one of the Little City’s boards, commissions, or community organizations. The positions are organized through Citizens for a Better City (CBC) and will allow students to learn about and engage with City government while earning service hours.

Applications are due by Monday, Apr. 8. To find out more, visit youthrepsinitiative.net.

Spring Community Clean-Up Set for Apr. 9 Individuals and groups interested in participating in the Little City’s Spring Community Clean-Up can register by emailing recycling@fallschurchva. gov or calling 703-248-5466.

This event is suitable for volunteers of all ages, with adult supervision required for those under 18. Volunteers will meet at the Community Center (213 Little Falls St), get organized into teams, and will then be assigned to specific work areas throughout the City. City staff will distribute trash pickers, trash bags, recycling bags, gloves, and reflective vests.

The Spring Clean-Up is perfect for community groups such as the Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and church groups. Masks and distancing are required. The event will run from 10 a.m. — 12 p.m.

Environment for Everyone: An Earth Day Update The League of Women Voters of F.C. and Citizens for a Better City (CBC) will present a discussion regarding the topics of climate change, stormwater, tree canopies, and more as these subjects impact the Little City. Led

by Kate Walker, Environmental Programs Coordinator, City of

Falls Church and Tim Stevens, Member Falls Church City Planning Commission and Former Chairman of the Environmental Sustainability Council. Tuesday, Apr. 19, 2022, from 7 — 8 p.m. over Zoom.

AAUW Falls Church Book Donations The Falls Church Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is collecting gently used books now through Apr. 9 at the book collection bin in the Falls Church Community Center. The collected books will be featured in the Annual Used Book Sale, which will run from Apr. 28 – 30 at the Community Center.

The profits will fund scholarships for local high school girls and grants to local organizations helping educate girls. The book bin is inside the Center.

(223 Little Falls St.) For larger donations, contact fallschurcharea-va@aauw.net or call 703536-2235. All kinds of books are welcome: children’s books, hard covers, paperbacks, novels, non-fiction, cookbooks, etc. No damaged books, magazines, text books or encyclopedias.

Falls Church Arts All Member Show Open Until May 8 One hundred nineteen artists will be featured in the 2022 All Member Show at the Falls Church Arts gallery from Mar. 26 — May 8. The show features the work of emerging and established member artists from F.C. Arts and encompasses an extensive range of media from watercolor, acrylic, and oil to photography and sculpture to a wide variety of mixed media.

The Falls Church Arts gallery is located at 700 B West Broad St (Route 7), Falls Church.

Admission is free. The gallery is open Wednesdays — Saturdays from 11 a.m. — 6 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. — 2 p.m.

Masks and social distancing are required.

F.C. Arts focuses on the visual arts, bringing opportunities to exhibit, learn about, share, and

LAST THURSDAY, the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce hosted their 2022 Annual Awards Celebration with an event at the State Theatre. Pictured here are David and Rebecca Tax accepting the award for Large Business of the Year for Clare & Don’s and Lazy Mike’s. Rebecca Tax was also the recipient of the Pillar of the Community award. (Photo: Brenda Schrier) experience art to our community.

Since its inception in 2003, educating the community about the arts has been the core mission of the organization. Classes are offered throughout the year and cater to a wide range of ages and skill levels. Many of the classes focus on developing or enhancing core skills.

For more information, visit fallschurcharts.org. Falls Church Arts is supported by funding from its members, corporate donors, and the community at large.

Drug Take Back Day is Apr. 30 In the Little City The Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) fall Drug Take Back Day is on Saturday, Apr. 30 and the City of Falls Church Police Department will host a collection site near the Police Entrance outside City Hall (300 Park Ave) from 10 a.m. — 2

p.m. This is a great opportunity for people to properly dispose of tablets, capsules, patches, and other medications.

The public can safely and anonymously drop off potentially dangerous prescription drugs and/or unwanted or expired Over The Counter (OTC) medications; vaping devices and cartridges are accepted, provided lithium batteries are removed. Liquids (including intravenous solutions), syringes and other sharps, and illegal drugs will not be accepted.

According to the CDC, there were an estimated 93,000 drug overdose deaths in the United States in 2020, an increase of 29 percent from 2019. The increase in drug overdose deaths appeared to begin prior to the Covid-19 health emergency but accelerated significantly during the first months of the pandemic. Studies indicate a majority of abused prescription drugs come from family

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

and friends, including from home medicine cabinets, making the clearing out of unused medicine essential. At its last Take Back Day in Oct. 2021, DEA collected over 372 tons of expired, unwanted, and unused prescription medications at over 5,000 Take Back Day sites. Over the 10-year span of Take Back Day, DEA has brought in more than 7,634 tons of prescription drugs. For more information about Take Back Day and additional Collection Sites, visit takebackday.dea.gov.

MCC To Holds Parking Lot Sale, Apr. 10 The McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean, VA 22101) is holding a Spring Community Parking Lot Sale from 9 a.m. — 1 p.m. on Sunday, Apr. 10, in the parking lot area. The sale will feature up to 50 adult and youth sellers.

Admission to the sale is free.

Attendees will be able to find bargains on a variety of gently used household goods, electronics, furniture, clothes, appliances and other items. The Kids’ Row, a special area of the sale where children ages 3 — 15 can use their math and entrepreneurial skills while selling toys, clothes, games and other items, will be another part of the sale. To participate in the sale as a seller, register online at mcleancenter.org, in person, or by calling the MCC Registrar at 703-744-9365, TTY: 711. For general information, call 703-790-0123.

2nd Annual Mayors’ Fitness Challenge The Cities of Falls Church, Fairfax, and the Town of Vienna are hosting the second annual Mayors’ Fitness Challenge, from Mar. 19 — May 7, providing an opportunity for City residents

and employees to get involved in some healthy competition. During this eight-week period, participants will track their minutes spent doing physical exercise and log the information into a Google Doc file. At the end of the challenge, minutes will be tallied up and the “Most Fit Community” of 2022 will be determined once again. Registration required; register for free or contribute $5 to receive a 2022 Mayors’ Fitness Challenge t-shirt. Visit fallschurchva.gov/2140/MayorsFitness-Challenge for more information.

F.C. Easter Egg Hunt Set for April 16 This year’s Easter Egg Hunt will take place Saturday, Apr. 16.

Beginning promptly at 10 a.m., this free event is geared towards children ages 1 — 11. Following the hunt, there will be a Magic Show with Mike Perello, beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Visitors will also get the chance to have their picture taken with the Easter Bunny.

Participants will need to bring their own baskets. Cherry Hill Park (312 Park Avenue). The Rain Date is Monday, Apr. 18, at 4:30 p.m.

5 Cent Plastic Bag Tax To Begin Friday The 5 cent plastic bag tax starts Apr. 1. Neighboring jurisdictions started the tax on Jan. 1. Certain retailers will charge 5 cents at checkout per each plastic bag used. Skip the tax by using your own reusable bags, or choose paper.

There are about 20 stores in the City that will be affected: grocery stores, convenience stores, and drug stores. Some plastic bags — like those used for meat, seafood, and vegetables — will

LO CA L be exempt. For more information, contact Housing and Human Services at hhsinfo@fallschurchva.gov or 703-248-5005 (TTY 711). Revenue from the tax will go toward environmental cleanup programs, pollution and litter mitigation programs, educational programs on environmental waste reduction, and for providing reusable bags to neighbors in need.

Read more at www.fallschurchva. gov/PlasticBags.

Birding the Harriet Tubman Byway Join Harriet Tubman Tours and Delmarva Birding Weekends for a day of birdwatching, or birding, along the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway in Dorchester County, Maryland.

This tour will educate visitors about the life and times of famed freedom fighter and human rights activist Harriet Tubman, “The Moses of Her People,” who repeatedly risked her life along the Underground Railroad to rescue approximately 70 enslaved people, including family and friends. The route courses through the farms and Chesapeake Bay marshes of Dorchester County, home to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, featuring some of the best birding and bald eagle watching on the east coast.

Tour begins at the Brodess Farm Greenbrier Road, Bucktown, Maryland 21613, and runs from Thursday, Mar. 3 — Saturday, Apr. 9, from 1 — 5 p.m. For information, visit delmarvabirding. com/blackwater-nwr-dorchestercounty or call (443) 614 – 0261.

Falls Church Women’s History Walk The Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation, Falls Church Elected Women, and the Falls Church Women’s History Group will

Easter Advertise your Services and Events to our readership Distributed to over 10,000 people

Brunches, Lunches, Flowers, Gifts Contact: Sue Johnson sjohnson@fcnp.com • 703-587-1282

MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2022 | PAGE 13

LEMON LANE CONSIGNMENT was awarded the Small Business of the Year Award at the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Celebration. Josh Messner accepted the award on behalf of his late wife, Erin Messner, the owner of Lemon Lane. Additional awards include Nonprofit of the Year, won by NOVA ScriptsCentrak and Corporate Culture of Excellence, won by Love & Miller DDS. (Photo: Brenda Schrier).

host a Women’s History Walk on Sunday, May 2, from 11 a.m. — 2 p.m., for a loop through the City, starting at one of three locations: City Hall, the Tinner Hill Historic Site, or Big Chimneys Park, making your way on-foot through stations and signs that include historic markers, community group displays, “Her-Story” stations, and other points of interest.

Mulch Madness Pick Up/ Delivery Date Mulch

Madness

returns

Saturday, Apr. 2, sponsored by the Mustang Athletic Boosters Association, in support of the athletic programs offered at Meridian High School. Doubleshredded hardwood mulch will be available in individual bags (3 cubic feet) at $5.50 per bag.

For orders of 20 bags or more, mulch will be delivered free to local addresses in the City of Falls Church. Orders will be available for pick-up at Meridian High School, in the back parking lot (121 Mustang Alley, Falls Church, VA).

PAGE 14 | MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2022

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

School News & Notes MHS Awarded LEED Certification Falls Church City Public Schools announced today that its new Meridian High School building has been awarded LEED Gold. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), is the most widely used green building rating system in the world and an international symbol of excellence. Through design, construction, and operations practices that improve environmental and human health, LEED-certified buildings are helping to make the world more sustainable.

Meridian High School achieved LEED certification for implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions in areas including sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality. Green buildings allow companies to operate more sustainably and give the people inside them a healthier, more comfortable space to work.

“So many of the items that are now a part of our new high school were put in place specifically to reach the LEED Gold threshold,” Falls Church City Public Schools Superintendent Peter J. Noonan said. “Meridian soon will have a 65,000 square foot solar array to power the building. It has sustainable lighting that turns off at night when no one is in the building and a geothermal heating system. All contribute to a healthier building and planet.”

Strategies used to achieve LEED Gold: Access to quality transportation Green vehicles (access to charge stations and parking) Designing a compact building means density and being part of a larger development is diverse use High-performance envelope Reduced heat island effect by having many green spaces and a light-colored roof Joint use facility (school as a community center) Water Metering coupled with

both outdoor and indoor water use reduction such as low flow fixtures and limiting the amount of landscape that needs to be irrigated and no cooling tower (because of geothermal) Use of geothermal and highefficiency VFR units for HVAC Using responsible products and materials that have low VOC or have recycled contents Having a responsible contractor that separates construction waste material for recycling Same as above except for building owners separating waste and recycling Enhanced indoor air quality Use of LED lights throughout Innovative stormwater management best practices such as planted bio-retention and green roofs that can be used for educational purposes as well as porous paving Green building education (signage and tours) Net Zero Ready Integrated Design Process and Community Outreach Certification is proof that buildings are going above and beyond to ensure the space is constructed and operated to the highest level of sustainability.

Henderson and MHS Choir Assessments FCCPS wishes congratulations to the MEHMS Advanced Choir, Meridian Chamber Singers, and Meridian Concert Choir on their participation in Choir Assessment this past weekend.

District X Choral Assessments were held at Sandburg Middle School and Alexandria City High School, where each group performs two adjudicated pieces during the choral assessment and one warmup selection. Three adjudicators assess the Choir in tone, intonation, diction, rhythm, artistry, balance/blend, and general effect as they perform. Each category is also assigned a score, and the scores are averaged for a final rating. In addition to performance, choirs are also assessed on their sight-reading abilities. The judges praised the concert choir for their energy and stage presence, beautiful balance and blend, and diction.

The chamber singers were com-

MEHMS ADVANCED CHOIR, Meridian Chamber Singers and Meridian Concert Choir all participated in the District X Choral Assessments two weekends ago where they recieved praise for stage presence, vocal technique and many more skills. (Photo: FCCPS) mended for their crisp rhythms and appropriate tempos, the maturity of their vocal technique and tone, the blend in the treble voice, and their artistry and dynamics. The judges praised the advanced Choir for their diction, tone, musical expression, and dynamics.

MHS Track Start the Season Strong The Mustangs battled the elements this weekend, as they faced strong winds, rain, snow, and sleet throughout the day, but came away with four school records and a silver medal!

Against many larger classification schools, it was a great start to the season, and everyone enjoyed the fun relay atmosphere.

Next up, the Mustangs travel to William Monroe on 4/13.

Huskies Fundraise for Ukraine Learning about the devastating impact of the war on innocent people in their Civics & Economics classes and news stories, a group of MEH 7th graders were inspired to action. The friends banned together to organize a bake sale to raise money to support organizations working to provide relief to Ukrainians in need. Determined to make a difference, they popped up a table to sell various treats in Cherry Hill Park last weekend.

The generosity of people buying their goods and donating to the cause and families matching

their fundraising resulted in a $650 to the World Central Kitchen. This organization has served one million meals to families across Ukraine, Poland, Romania, Moldova, and Hungary. Additional pledges from families moved by the kids’ efforts resulted in a $900 contribution to Hope for Ukraine, which serves individuals and families of the poorest communities in Ukraine, and rehabilitation for wounded soldiers that return home from the Eastern Ukraine conflict zone.

This caring group is so uplifted by the outpouring of support that planning for future fundraising events is underway.

Community Notice of IB Evaluation Every five years, the International Baccalaureate Organization asks IB World Schools to undergo a self-study to examine the implementation of the IB programmes that are offered. From Monday through Wednesday of this week, FCCPS’s Middle Years Programme (Mary Ellen Henderson and Meridian) and Diploma Programme (Meridian) were reviewed by IB evaluators (via the Zoom platform). After meeting with multiple stakeholders, the evaluators were highly impressed with the IB education the schools are providing to students. In the concluding meeting with the school leaders, the evaluators highlighted multiple examples of the excellent education that they are providing. IB writers will generate the final re-

port in the coming weeks.

This extremely successful visit is a testament to the efforts of the parents, the students, teachers and staff, IB coordinators, the School Board, and the school leaders that, collectively, make the International Baccalaureate education so authentic in Falls Church City.

This IB review process will be repeated next week with the Primary Years Programme in the elementary schools.

Sixth Graders Making Websites Students in Dr. Susan Jinks’ Computer Science class have the opportunity to express themselves confidently and creatively through a new language — HTML and CSS. These brave young coders are building their website highlighting a topic of interest to them.

Many of these risk-takers are coding for the first time.

Topics that these communicators have chosen include Professional Baseball, The History of Ice Hockey, 90s Pop Culture, How to train and care for a puppy, and video games. “I like this class because it is creative -— when you design a website, you can make it how you want it to be, and you have the freedom and flexibility to pick your own topic,” said one sixth-grader.

The class is offered to 6th graders as part of the language wheel. They are also introduced to Spanish, French, and American Sign Language in the language wheel.

MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2022 | PAGE 15

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The Falls Church City Council approved the appointments of the following citizens for its boards and commission advisory groups Monday: Mary Sellers, Arts and Humanities Council atlarge; Nikki Henderson, Tinner Hill Foundation representative on the Arts and Humanities Council; Tim Roche to the Urban Forestry Commission; Martha Haynes, Marcellus Davis, Daniel Kirk, Julianne Hamilton and Michael Doctor to the Public Utilities Commission Sworn in at Monday’s meeting to their posts on F.C. advisory boards and commissions were Allison Miller to the Urban Forestry Commission, Allen Greenberg to the Historical Architectural Review Board, Kristine Ward for the Board of Zoning Appeals, Debra Z. Roth to the Human Services Advisory Council, Stuart Whitaker to the Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation, and Tatiana Eaves to the Environmental Sustainability Council.

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About 100 people who live and work in Falls Church City, including a number of elected officials, as well as City councilors, educators and students, attended the F.C. Human Services Advisory Council’s “Tough Talks Can Bring Us Closer Diverse Perspectives on Race and Equity in the City of Falls Church.” last Saturday at the Meridian High School.

They heard panelists, Dong Bui, a Winter Hill coordinator and Vietnamese immigrant, Valerie Hardy, head of secondary schools, Ed Henderson, founder of the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation, and Julio Idrobo, former City resident, Falls Church

Northern Virginia’s three U.S. Representatives Jennifer Wexton, Don Beyer, and Gerry Connolly announced they wrote to the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) this week emphasizing their concerns over delays of the completion of the Silver Line Phase 2 extension and requesting an update on outstanding issues that are impeding the declaration of operational readiness.

“We understand that several punch list items remain for both the rail line and rail yard projects that must be resolved before operational readiness can be declared. Many of these items have been known about for months, and we therefore urge you to work diligently to address them in a timely manner and to ensure that there is accountability for any unnecessary delays. To that end, we request that you share with us what expectations for timely resolution of these items you have conveyed to your contractors and how those expectations are being enforced,” they wrote.

During a board meeting last week, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) General Manager and CEO Paul Wiedefeld revealed that operational readiness would not be achieved before the end of Metro’s fiscal year, as was the previously declared goal, due to several unresolved punch list items. The letter from the three congressmen requests that MWAA share what actions are being taken to ensure these pending issues are addressed in a timely fashion.

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100 F.C. Citizens Attend Anti-Racism Workshop

Local Congressmen Seek Info On Metro Silver Line Delays

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Falls Church native David Meredith, recently named CEO and Board Director of Boomi, described as a “global leader for intelligent connectivity and automation,” was named the 40th recipient (in 114 years) of the Ronald E. Carrier Alumni Achievement Award, the highest recognition bestowed by James Madison University (JMU).

The award recognizes “an alum who has demonstrated significant achievements of enduring value to society.” Past recipients include other CEOs, philanthropists, media personalities and even an NFL Hall of Famer.

It is only the latest honor bestowed upon Meredith. Last November, Meredith received the 2021 Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award from Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington, the highest recognition bestowed by O’Connell.

The award is granted to O’Connell graduates “for significant accomplishments in business or professional life or for distinguished human service to their community, state, or nation.” On the same evening, other notable O’Connell alumni were recognized for the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame including three-time NFL Pro Bowler Eric Metcalf.

Meredith has been hosted, recognized, and quoted in the media from CNBC’s Mad Money with Jim Cramer, NBC’s Last Call with Carson Daly, PBS’s Nightly Business Report, CNBC’s Squawk Alley, UK-Based Sky News Live to Nasdaq Trade Talk and NPR’s Morning Edition, among others.

He earned his master’s degree from the University of Virginia, previously graduating with honors from James Madison University (JMU) with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Corporate Finance.

Meredith is a member of Bishop O’Connell’s class of 1989, where he lettered in varsity wrestling and was a semi-finalist in the Virginia State (VISAA) Wrestling Championships.

He stopped by O’Connell before the evening award ceremony to guest lecture to junior and senior students studying AP Economics. He shared more about his professional journey and answered questions and offered tips for the students preparing for the next step in their journeys.

The O’Connell Alumni Achievement Awards take place each fall to honor the exceptional accomplishments of outstanding alumni.

News-Press circulation manager and immigrant from Columbia.

During small groups sessions, attendees discussed personal experiences with diversity and how they’d like the City to grow in understanding people who are different from themselves, according to event organizer Debra Z Roth.

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F.C. Native David Meredith Feted as JMU, O’Connell Alum

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PAGE 16 | MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2022

Fa l l s C h u r c h Business News & Notes

BU SI NE SS

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

In Memoriam: Deborah J. Smyth

Local Immigrant Entrepreneurs Highlighted The Washington Business Journal recently interviewed several successful entrepreneurs in the region, two of which are from Falls Church. Moe Jafari, CEO of Executive 1 Holding Co, owns McLean-based HumanTouch LLC. An immigrant from Palestine, he spoke of working hard at age 7 and taking risks, eventually entering federal contracting where he specializes in artificial intelligence tech. Tania Hossain, originally from Bangladesh, built her Falls Church studio for her business with Small Business Administration loans. She did this during the pandemic and now operates Tania Hossain Photography.

Nominations Now Accepted for Best Places to Work Arlington Magazine’s Best Places to Work is a research-driven program from Best Companies Group that examines company’s practices, programs and benefits and surveys employees for their perspective. Companies located in Arlington, McLean, and Falls Church, VA, that meet certain criteria will be considered Arlington Magazine’s Best Places to Work. Registration Deadline is May 6, 2022. Visit https://bestcompaniesgroup.com/arlington-magazine-best-places-to-work/ for the criteria and for the free registration.

Northrop Grumman Sets Net Zero Goal Northrop Grumman Corporation has committed to the goal of achieving Net Zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in its operations by 2035, a step to decarbonize. Northrop Grumman has taken meaningful action in the past decade, based on scientific data, to reduce the carbon footprint of its operations by 30 percent. The company will push this reduction further through other means such as expanding on site solar opportunities and incentivizing operations-related emissions reductions through the company’s non-financial metrics. The Net Zero goal is one component of the environmental, social and governance (ESG) efforts addressed in Northrop Grumman’s newly released Sustainability Report, which includes data and information about GHG goals, initiatives and progress.

GDIT Wins Biomedical Research Support Contract General Dynamics Information Technology has received a five-year $171 million contract to support the Army’s biomedical research grant applications. The Research Application Evaluation and Support contract supports the Army’s Medical Research Development Command and the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), according to a news release.

GDIT will provide scientific, software development and program management services to assist in receipt and peer review of biomedical research grant applications. GDIT will also handle evaluation of thousands of applications annually and work with scientists, clinicians and patient advocates to service on in-person and virtual peer review panels.

BAE Systems Contract with the Air Force Falls Church-based BAE Systems Inc. has won a $176 million contract to provide softwaredefined radios to the Air Force. The radios will support the Air Force’s Airborne High Frequency Radio Modernization program and provide a secure alternative to satellite communications. The five-year contract is for development of the long-range communications while also jamming threats using a drop-in compatible radio design using commercial off-the-shelf technology from FlexRadio. Development will take place at a BAE Systems facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

City Collects Donations for Ukraine The City of Falls Church is collecting donations of clothing and blankets that will be sent to Ukrainian refugees in Europe. Donations can be dropped off in collection boxes at any of three locations: City Hall at 300 Park Ave., the Mary Riley Styles Public Library at 120 N. Virginia Ave. and the Community Center at 223 Little Falls St. Donations will be accepted until April 15.

The Northern Virginia Regional Commission is managing the donation drive and requests new or gently used coats, new blankets, new pairs of sweat socks and heavy socks, and new pairs of gloves. The items will be shipped to Poland and provided to Ukrainians in Poland and Ukraine.  Business News & Notes is compiled by Elise Neil Bengtson, Executive Director of the Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. She may be emailed at elise@fallschcurchchamber.org.

Deborah J. Smyth, Debby to friends and neighbors, died in the early morning hours Wednesday,16 March 2022 in the ICU at INOVA Fairfax Hospital. Deborah just turned 72 years of age two weeks earlier.

Debby was transported to Fairfax Hospital ED Monday morning, 7 March from her home in Winter Hill. She was diagnosed with SCC of the soft palate in December 2021 and began aggressive chemotherapy and radiation at INOVA Schar Cancer Institute in mid-January. Complications during the course of treatment ultimately led to her death.

Smythie, as she was affectionately called by her beloved students, was a gentle, generous, artistic soul. She was a poet, FCPS Master Teacher, editor, and tutor among other things. She loved to read, write stories and poetry (a true “WordSmyth”), cook, bake, refinish furniture, garden, play guitar, hike, and most importantly share all her talents and gifts with others. If Debby found a particularly interesting book, she would buy multiple copies and gift those whom she knew would enjoy reading it. Her triple chocolate walnut brownies were always a hit. Debby would often bake and deliver her treats to her dentist, and his staff!

Italian Wedding soup was also a favorite of many of our neighbors. Deb would head out to Harris Teeter early in the morning to pick up all the necessary ingredients and spend the whole day cooking. After carefully doling out individual containers, we would drive around Winter Hill to deliver her homemade soup.

Born in Washington, DC, Deborah was raised in Arlington, Virginia. Her father passed away when Debby was only five years old. A WWII veteran, he spent more than his last year at the VA Hospital in Martinsburg, West Virginia. Debby and her younger brother were raised by their single mom with help from their maternal grandmother and aunt. She graduated from St. Thomas More elementary school and Bishop O’Connell high school, then went on to JMU majoring in Journalism and English. In 1987 she earned a master’s

degree in English at GMU. She began her three decade teaching career in 1972 at Broad Run High School in Loudon County.

Debby’s summers were spent teaching journalism workshops at University of Ohio, Amherst, Gettysburg, and Columbia University for high school student editors across the country.

Debby was involved in Girl Scouting for much of her life. Her summers as a camper, then CIT, and eventually counselor, introduced her to camping, backpacking, canoeing, playing the guitar, and singing, singing, singing and singing. In those days backpacking meant the Appalachian Trail.

As one lifelong friend explained, Debby’s tent was a rope between two trees with a Tube Tent strung between (imagine a plastic bag with both ends open)! If the thunderstorms didn’t leak into your tent, Debby’s was the one where the rope came loose and left her and her tent-mate in a puddle of water by morning. To this day the “ladies in green” kept in touch through reunions, emails, Facebook, and funerals.

Her Girl Scout experiences helped Debby become the talented, compassionate leader and teacher that she was to so many.

From an early age Debby often shared deep and very profound thoughts with her friends. In one moment she would be so very serious, then she would do something silly or goofy in the next! She was known to pout and then laugh at herself, characteristics which lasted throughout her life.

Debby moved to the City of Falls Church in 1978 while continuing at Broad Run HS. In 1980 she began her career with FCPS and taught at McLean HS. She was tapped to be one of the pioneer teachers at TJSST, worked in FCPS administration (editor of The Red Apple), went back to teach a second stint at McLean, and finally ended her career with FCPS at Herndon Middle School. She was also a part-time instructor at Marymount University in journalism and taught writing at GMU. Debby absolutely loved teaching. Once retired from FCPS, and before continuing in education by tutoring Chinese and Korean students, she briefly worked at The Falls Church NewsPress. Her last endeavor was working as editor on a memoir for a neighbor and friend. Unfortunately, she did not get to see this to its completion.

After her wake at Murphy’s Funeral Home (Falls Church) on Wednesday, 22 March, a Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at the Cathedral of Saint Thomas More. Debby will be greatly missed by friends and neighbors in Winter Hill, the children in our cul-de-sac, and the dogs and cats she “parented” with her partner of 32 years.

Winnie the Pooh was Debby’s favorite character. She lived by and passed on to others one of Pooh’s life’s lessons… ”You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”

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BACK IN THE DAY

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

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25 � 10 Y���� A�� �� ��� N���-P���� Falls Church News-Press Vol. VI, No. 2 • March 27, 1997

Falls Church News-Press Vol. XXII, No. 5 • March 29, 2012

Eminent Domain Delayed, Governor Allen Puts Matter Over to Next Year

F.C. City Employees Jam Council Chambers, Press for Salary Hike

Virginia Governor George Allen provided the Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce with a victory Tuesday, removing the section of a City of Falls Church charter change bill that pertained to new powers of eminent domain and putting consideration of that section to the next legislative year.

After one of the most tumultuous, if still civil, City Council meetings in Falls Church history Monday night, work scheduled at City Hall tonight will press the Council still further on the issue of providing a meaningful salary increase for City employees in the upcoming City budget.

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MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2022 | PAGE 19

TAKE A TRIP to Vietnam without the jetlag by visiting Bep Viet here in the Little City. Pictured on the left is the “golden pancake”with dessert of coconut cream rice, taro and green topping. Pictured on the right is a painting of the Vietnam countryside painted by the chef’s father, giving guests a look into the country as they enjoy an authentic meal. (Photo: Patricia Leslie)

Take A Trip to Vietnam With Traditional Food at Bep Viet

by Patricia Leslie

Falls Church is blessed with many fine ethnic restaurants like Bep Viet where customers can take a “trip” to Vietnam and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese meal right here near Little City.

The interior of this hidden gem at a small strip center behind Bill Page Honda on Arlington Boulevard was a shock to me whose restaurant stereotype with tile floors, tabletops and fluorescent lighting could not have been more misguided.

Step inside Bep Viet (whose name means “Viet kitchen”) to elegant surroundings with a menu to please vegetarians and meat eaters, both.

Decorative arts from Vietnam combine with living plants, wooden floors, tables, and chairs to impart a warm, intimate environment where soft piano music plays in the background, and a handsome bar in a corner awaits guests.

“We want customers to enjoy their meal and not be hurried,” said chef and owner Michael Phan in an interview at the eatery.

Paintings by Phan’s father of countryside scenes of the nation hang on the right wall to whisk guests briefly to Vietnam. Look

on the left and see the capital, Saigon, in large, framed photographs of yesteryear’s scenes, which are unrecognizable today, Phan said.

After working with family members at a restaurant for several years in Eden Center, Phan said he wanted to create something nicer, to make for a fine dining experience and so he has, with the help of his wife, Elaine.

“We are a team who tried to create something we love to do with traditional and authentic Vietnamese food. I do the cooking and she makes the desserts,” he said.

The most popular dishes are from the pho family, made several different ways, including beef noodle soup ($13.95) with chicken ($12.95) or seafood ($15.95).

Another top choice is the “golden pancake” ($12.95) or “golden crepe,” a combination of mung bean, onion, turmeric, bean sprouts and shrimp or vegetables (tofu), blended, sauteed and rolled like an omelet.

It’s served with mixed greens and fish sauce, and the chef provided eating instructions: “You fold it in half, tear off a bit and dip it in the sauce.” I, who is not fond of anything “crepe” or omelet, had to try one and learn

the mystery.

It was large, covering half the plate. The shell was crunchy and light, with a sweet taste, but not too sweet, garnished by sprouts, cilantro and greens which help keep the calorie count low, despite the fried shell.

In a word: scrumptious, which I managed to eat at one sitting and wished for more.

On my first visit to Bep Viet I was joined by my friends Marisa and Nora who offered opinions of their dinner selections.

Marisa, a frequent Bep Viet customer, described her veggie spring rolls ($5.50) as “a refreshing meal starter with strips of pleasantly chewy baked tofu and a nice, not overwhelming complement of delicious peanut sauce.”

Her husband, Sean, found his takeout meal of sauteed tofu and broccoli ($14.95), “fresh and flavorful’’ while Nora labeled her tofu and vegetables on a bed of soft noodles ($14.95), “quite tasty; a perfect option for vegetarians.”

On that visit I ordered the grilled lemongrass chicken with lettuce, carrots, cucumber, and bean sprouts ($13.95) which came with perfectly cooked steamed rice, light and fluffy.

The chicken was tender and moist. I also ate shrimp garden rolls ($6.95) with rice vermicelli and mixed greens wrapped in rice paper and served with peanut sauce, that taste so appealing I could have eaten the sauce solo without the garden rolls!

The foods all seemed lowcalorie and once I hit my brain’s “refresh” tab, I realized that overweight Vietnamese people are uncommon. Their foods help to explain why!

As for a dessert, it took me several minutes of staring at the refrigerated case of of colors and choices ($4.95-$7.95) before I settled on the crowning of a liquid green “something” (looking like melting green jello which it was not!) atop a creamy white base of taro, sweet rice and coconut cream which Phan told me was Bep Viet’s bestselling dessert.

Rather than saving the best for last (carpe diem!), I began my meal with this tasty treat which was unlike any other dessert I’ve consumed and worth twice its cost ($5.95).

Taro is a root vegetable with antioxidants, nutrients, and vitamins, and believed to slow down the aging process and contribute to a healthy weight loss, so it’s okay to order several servings as I longed to do.

(Eat up your taro!)

The Phans live in Falls Church which is why the restaurant is based here. They came to the U.S. from Vietnam as children in the 1970s and, after working with family for many years in the restaurant business, opened Bep Viet in 2019, about six months before Covid-19 hit.

It wasn’t until last June that the restaurant re-opened.

Things are slowly getting better, Phan said, and they are grateful.

He quotes his father-in-law who gave Phan some good tips: “Cook well for the customer.

Don’t think about the money, but make sure the customer has a fine dining experience so the customer will come back.”

And I shall. www.bepvietrestaurant.com 3000 Annandale Rd, Falls Church 22042, ph. 703-3451103, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Closed on Sunday.

• This article is 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 Amanda Snead, News Editor at asnead@fcnp.com

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

PAGE 20 | MARCH 31 - APRIL 6, 2022

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