Falls Church News-Press 4-13-2023

April 13 - 19, 2023

Quinn Mixed Use Plan Comes to F.C. Council

by Nicholas F. Benton Falls

An iconic Falls Church business leader has submitted a plan for a 10-story mixed use project in downtown Falls Church that finally got its first day before the City Council Monday night.

Quinn Enterprises, the City’s legendary family-owned and run auctionhouse that has been active here for over 50 years, is the applicant. It is driven by the vision of its founder Paul Quinn, who came before the Council to speak Monday, seeking to redevelop 1.86 acres of land on S. Washington down from the Annandale Road intersection. According to estimates, the net revenue to the City would be $937,753 annually, far above what is currently generated at the site.

While the plan received a favorable initial response from the Council at its work session following its official business meeting Monday, it will come

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F.C. Environmental Organization’s Impact

Hippity Hopping Their Way Along

F.C. Activists Pitch for More Community Services $

by Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press

In a passionate appeal by Debra Roth, chair of F.C. Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC), surrounded by a dozen citizen volunteers, to the F.C. City Council Monday night, the

Earth Day is coming up! The News-Press has a rundown of some groups and organizations in Falls Church advocating for a healthier, environmentally-friendly community for locals to live in.

See Page 8

discrepancy between $86,277 allotted in the Fiscal Year 2024 budget now being considered by the Council and basic needs adding up to $190,845 was underscored.

The Council is mulling action on a $114 million annual budget with no tax rate increase

and will make its final decision on May 8. No decision, nor discussion, was taken on the HSAC request. Roth’s appeal, in its conclusion, was to add only another $30,000 to the HSAC allotment.

Roth said, “Frankly, it is time to put more of our money where

Commonwealth’s Attorney race

heats

up

Two primary candidates for Arlington-Falls Church Commonwealth’s Attorney clash with each other in an April 6 debate that was held at George Mason University.See what each canidate stands for.

See Page 9

our mouth is.

“This ask is about turning problems into solutions, solutions that respond to needs clearly outlined in the City’s values and mission.”

She said that the Community

FALLS CHURCH AREA CHILDREN PARTICIPATED in this years

Easter Egg Hunt held at Cherry Hill Park. More than 500 children and parents attended this annual event. (Photo: Gary Mester)

Church News-Press

Falls Church NEWS BRIEFS

270 Petition Signatures Seek Action on Spring & Broad

Falls Church citizens seeking better safety measures at the intersection of West Broad and Spring Streets petitioned the F.C. City Council Monday, asserting that a petition signed by 270 nearby residents has been compiled urging the City to act. It was reported Sheriff Met Kaye observed with local residents the situation, considered unsafe by many, and during the period 50 persons sought to cross that intersection in one hour.

Citizens Urge More Transparency In Park Avenue Project

Following an open public discussion on plans for the redevelopment of Park Avenue between Virginia Avenue and N. Washington Streets for $11 million of federal “Great Streets” money to be spent on its upgrade, citizens testifying to the F.C. City Council Monday urged greater public transparency as the project moves ahead, citing the loss of 36 trees and other steps they consider problematic.

F.C. City Manager Wyatt Shields replied that every tree possible is being preserved in the effort, which will make the area more pedestrian friendly, among other things.

EDA Head Laments Lack of Marketing Specialist

Being sworn into another four year term Monday night, the head of the Falls Church Economic Development Authority said the inability to fill a position for a marketing specialist at City Hall has held development in the City back.

Bob Young outlined the formidable achievements of the EDA in the part year, including the highly successful holiday gift card program that deployed federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to provide major discounts for participants in the program that brought $450,000 of revenue into the City’s businesses.

Lincoln/Great Falls Signal Outage May See Action

F.C. City Manager Wyatt Shields reported Monday that parts for a permanent fix to the signal outage at the intersection of Great Falls and Lincoln Avenues may not be coming for up to three months, but because of the heavy traffic there, a temporary fix may come in the form of switching out a less busy intersection’s signals in the meantime. He did not indicate which less busy intersection might be chosen.

F.C. Council OK’s Change To City Voting Places

At the request of F.C. Voter Registrar David Bjerke at Monday night’s F.C. City Council meeting, the Council approved changes different than the more drastic ones discussed at its work session a week earlier, now adding a second of the City’s three wards’ polling locations at the Community Center (for Wards 2 and 3) and keeping Ward I at the Oak Street Elementary. The old polling site at the Falls Church Apartments will be shifted to the Community Center.

With a small shift in the boundaries between Wards 2 and 3 also, the three wards will now be more balanced in population size, as well.

Child Abuse Prevention Pinwheels at Cherry Hill Park

A ceremony marking April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month in F.C. was held Monday at the Park Avenue entrance to Cherry Hill Park with citizens planting symbolic pinwheels in the soil there that will remain through the month.

In a proclamation presented later at the F.C. City Council meeting it was noted that in 2020, nearly 3.1 million children were involved with Child Protective Services across the U.S. In 2022 53,000 children in Virginia and 3,600 in neighboring Fairfax County were reported as possible victims of child abuse or neglect, and the county’s Child Protective Service’s 24 hour hotline that also covers the City of Falls Church received 13,300 calls last year.

Proud Sponsor Falls Church Education Foundation Home & Garden Tour

Group Seeks for More $ for F.C.’s Vital Human Service Needs

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Services Fund (CSF), whose grants are reviewed and approved by HSAC, “has enabled worthy, outstanding non-profit organizations to provide critical help to the neediest in our City and others with special needs.”

The grants, she said, enable projects to be implemented that fill a number of gaps, such as 12-step programs for people with substance use disorders and addictions who are in recovery, peer-mentor relationships for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and, for those who are adults, assistance in landing jobs, handling everyday needs, and more, mental health services including interventions, daily assistance, and case work, free legal representation for low-income people, free radio and phone reading of news and key information to individuals who are sight impaired, lowcost dental care, conflict resolution that keeps people out of jail and brings parties together, free rides and other assistance for

those 50 or older to doctors and for important errands for those who cannot drive, a model state government program for high school students, housing and financial services and education for homeless individuals or those who can barely afford a home; and English skills and other help for our refugees.

These programs serve an estimated 1,000 in the City of 14,800, and more if included are organizations and the people they serve who give much to the community. For example, Roth suggested, many are customers of local businesses.

“There are organizations who augment our community by partnering with service providers we have in place. Many who receive help also volunteer and, therefore, help others. And many who are helped are learning, when applicable, to be more productive. They just need a leg up,” she said, adding, “HSAC’s outreach — connecting with other City boards and commissions, as Council has encouraged us all to do, and to the community and region at large

— has brought us more opportunities that are leading to connections which help these organizations multiply their efforts toward success. And it’s brought us more grant requests.”

The organizations that are currently allotted only $86,277 in the current proposed budget “rarely request much and don’t depend solely on us, but their needs run deep and they count on us. Now they are facing raging inflation,” she said.

“Our ask is for a drop in the bucket, especially for a City that last year was able to cut taxes by nine percent and is looking at a sharp increase in revenue due to new developments. As it is, out of the $112.6 million budget now being proposed, Community Services funds add up to only .00078 percent of what the City is spending.”

She added, “When you talk about expanding accessibility, healthcare, education, assuring that mental health crises don’t turn into disasters, easing the transition for refugees into the United States, and unifying our community, here’s your chance to take a solid step by grow

ing the Community Services Fund.”

She concluded, “Please accept our request to raise the CSF bud-

get by $30,000 from $86,277 for a total of $116,277 to be granted for FY2024.”

Baby Needs A New Pair Of Shoes

care, child benefits and a host of elder care needs of a population that is growing older are all predicates defined by our most fundamental inequality, the inequality of wealth as it impacts the common person.

Among the relevant factors contributing to the woes facing the nation now is the dramatic decline in the life expectancy of middle aged white males. Health data on this matter has been clouded by the ways in which data from the Covid-19 pandemic has obscured the situation.

White males in the U.S., in particular, are dying at an accelerating rate, so no wonder they’re freaking out.

Of course, notwithstanding all other factors, the single biggest factor is what is doing more than anything else to screw up American life overall, the fact that the top 1 percent of the population now controls more wealth than the other 99 percent, and the disparity continues to rise.

This monstrous inequality is allowed to eat us up while we debate any and all lesser things, even as this contributes to all those lesser things.

The main fix we need to make is that one. Compared to pre-1980 (Reagan revolution) days, what corporate greed in its many forms is getting away with now in America is downright absurd.

Yes, we are told there are many more Bernie Madoffs out there, flying under radars that are programmed to have a blind eye to them.

On the political side of this, dark money permitted by the Citizens United Supreme Court decision, has enabled those eager to perpetuate this system to buy with millions and put into their pockets decision makers at all levels. The corruption among the ranks of public officials is its own pandemic now.

.For many readers of this column, such realities are not a surprise, while staying focused on them requires an uncommon concentration of both thought and action that will be obfuscated by almost any ordinary newscast.

The issues of gun killings, drug overdoses, suicides, the impact of wars, fights over gender issues, lack of reproductive rights and resources for mental health, health

Most recently coming into this mess are two factors that will definitely exacerbate the problem for average Americans whose death rates are already on the rise.

The first is legalized gambling from the comfort of one’s home, and the second is legalized drug use and its impact on poorer, more compromised, households. There is one word that is forbidden to be used in the marketing for both of these things: addiction.

Take gambling. There is a reason the old phrase, “Baby needs a new pair of shoes” (as said by someone shaking and pitching dice) has survived so long for its association with gambling. It paints a sadly vivid picture of a desperate parent feeling compelled to gamble away whatever might be left of resources to pay for its child’s basic needs. The desperation is both for the child’s needs and the parent’s inability to shake an addiction to gambling.

We now live in a society, ruled by those stealing its wealth, in which a premium is placed on propagating a deadly myth of autonomy in matters of individual behavior and identity.

This myth has destroyed our national morality almost beyond recognition, allowing for every excess of self-destructive and antisocial behavior. It is propagated as the ruling class’ way of atomizing any impulse toward collective action among the general population, to undermine anything associated with a true revolt against them.

The myth is propagated through our popular mass culture. Don’t think for a moment that what we are led to watch on TV or in the movies or read in popular books or magazines is not carefully curated by malleable tools of these greed-driven people. They do it by circumscribing choices. It’s why only live theater, for example, or the self-publishing of books has a chance to be free from that subtle censorship, but are carefully monitored to escape narrow ranges of acceptable exposure levels.

This is literally killing America. Masters of our culture must relent and help define a new and refreshed morality modeled on the 1947 United Nations “Declaration of the International Rights of Man

Our Man in Arlington

By Charlie Clark

The cleverly named Haute Dog, a tasty-but-caloric meat emporium, just opened a branch near me in the Williamsburg Shopping Center.

I can vouch for its quality chili dogs, burgers, shakes and half-smokes (a regional original), though how about a few veggies? Manager Lionel Holmes says traffic has been “phenomenal, exceeding expectations” since it replaced a struggling barbecue eatery. His team also enters the annals of a shopping center favored by subdivision neighbors since the 1950s.

Today the strip is beloved for longtime businesses such as Peking Pavilion restaurant, Williamsburg Deli and Jin’s Cleaners and Tailor, a succession of banks, along with Twothe-Moon gift shop and another newcomer, Adil’s hair and body treatment salon.

But the past looms. On Facebook’s “I Grew Up in Arlington, Va.,” a spontaneous reunion of nostalgists played trivia one-upmanship on previous occupants that ranged from the Williamsburg Hardware to High’s (a precursor to the current 7-11 remembered for its baked beans), banks and pizza joints. The memories spilled directly across Sycamore Street, where the current CVS and Calico designs serve as descendants of a Williamsburg Pharmacy (famous for the chewed wads of gum that teens passed under

the soda counter), and an Acme SuperMarket.

I contributed by posting an early advertisement, for Acme’s Grand Opening in East Falls Church, from the mid-1950s, at which local music impresario Connie B. Gay (manager of locally based singer Jimmy Dean) provided entertainment below the store’s pink lights. “Grew up just down the street,” recalled one Facebooker. “Mom would send me up to Acme for bread or milk if we ran out before her regular weekly grocery run to Safeway.”

Williamsburg Pharmacy was beloved for its cherry cokes, chocolate shakes and fries.

In the shopping center proper (owned now by Nicholas Kalis Development Corp.), over the decades there was Hunt’s Barber Shop, a Clarendon Trust, a photocopy shop, Jolly Rogers comics and sports collectibles, dentist Dr. Todd and pediatrician Dr. Stallings, the nostalgists recalled. High’s was beloved for its banana popsicles, nickela-scoop ice cream cones (brickle!), 99 cent gallons of milk and atomic fireballs.

Williamsburg Hardware, owned by Frank Bruffey, which closed in 1983 when rents rose, had a pleasant smell and a 10-cent table.

By far the favorite eatery was Charlie’s Pizza, run by the Ayoub family and serving squares, steak sandwiches and shaved ice fountain drinks. One contributor recalls in middle school getting paid to hand out

Charlie’s fliers in the neighborhood; others were paid to fold boxes for pay or pizza. Another recalled that Yorktown High School auto shop teacher William Beals “would let us take up a collection amongst us students and one guy would pick up at Charlie’s pizza under one condition. As long as he got a piece of pepperoni!” (Charlie’s later moved and flourished in Falls Church).

Finally, a younger guy recalled that a Hollywood crew came in the 1980s and filmed an episode of “Scarecrow and Mrs. King” there. “We Tuckahoe kids thought that was the coolest.”

Special family reunion coming at Arlington House April 21-23. For the first time, the Syphax descendants of African Americans enslaved on the site under George Washington Parke Custis and Robert E. Lee will gather with white descendants of Lee. The “milestone celebration of togetherness, reconciliation and storytelling” was arranged by family historian Steve Hammond, working with the National Park Service, which over the past five years revamped the historic property’s exhibits to focus on the enslaved.

Sarah Fleming, whose fourthgreat grandfather, Richard Bland Lee, was Robert E.’s uncle, told Hammond, “I grew up knowing slavery was abhorrent and hearing of the pride my family took in being related to the Lees. We never talked about the space in between-about how the Lees themselves were enslavers. I am honored to have been invited to join the Arlington House Descendants’ Family Circle and to work towards healing the racial harms caused by slavery and by my ancestors.”

Nicholas F. Benton

Help Deter Criminal Vandalism Vs. N-P

A few years back, Falls Church’s Chief of Police Mary Gavin issued a public statement, she called it a “Police Warning,” stating, “The City of Falls Church Police need your help. Unidentified perpetrators are reportedly vandalizing newspaper distribution boxes in front of City businesses, including boxes belonging to the Falls Church News-Press. Taking a free paper isn’t a crime. Taking the stack, littering the streets, and damaging the boxes is a crime.”

She urged the public, “If you see something, say something by calling the Falls Church Police Department at 703-248-5050 or, in the case of an emergency, call 911.”

Her warning and call for the public’s help is still valid today. As the News-Press has begun installing new boxes at locations around town, there has been a resurgence of criminal vandalism against them. The public needs to know this is a criminal activity and to treat it as such.

The News-Press, on behalf of its readers and advertisers, will advocate aggressively for the full prosecution of anyone arrested for this crime. As this is a problem we’ve experienced over the years, we are hopeful that the public’s greater utilization of individual video technologies will help identify perpetrators and deter this criminal behavior.

The victims of these crimes are everyone in our community. Yes, You! Even if one finds there are items in a newspaper that one does not like, it is not an excuse for denying an entire community access to that publication. This is censorship on an individual basis, and should no more be tolerated than if it were the action of a hostile government or any domestic terrorist group.

Needless to say, a lot of effort goes into our production of a credible and informative newspaper every single week, especially in the context of a hostile environment for newspapers, overall, which are vanishing at an alarming rate nationally due to financial and related reasons.

The history of the United States as a democracy is inextricably linked to the rise of a free press, from Benjamin Franklin onward. It’s a proud and great history. Those who seek to suppress a free press, on grounds they don’t like some of its contents, for example, are sewing the seeds for the rise of authoritarian and totalitarian movements that would suppress everyone’s freedoms.

It is the benefit to the entire community that a free press represents, even for those who don’t pay attention to it, that is at stake here. In a small community like Falls Church, the opportunity for many small businesses to peddle their wares by having access to affordable, targeted advertising, can be absolutely key to their success. Criminal vandalism cuts them off from that opportunity by destroying, among other things, the ads they’d already paid for as well as important news about their businesses.

So we all have a stake in making sure a community can enjoy the benefits of its newspapers, and with Chief Gavin we ask its help to deter these crimes.

Platform

1. Keep the news clean and fair

2. Play no favorites, never mix business and editorial policy

3. Do not let the news columns reflect editorial content

4. Publish the news that is public property without fear or favor of friend or foe.

5. Accept no charity and ask no favors.

6. Give ‘value received’ for every dollar you take in.

7. Make the paper show a profit if you can, but above all keep it clean, fearless and fair.

Letter to E ditor

Recent Gun Violence Warrants Change

Editor,

It is barely conceivable that the traffic light “cabinet” which is controlling the signals at Lincoln and Great Falls streets would take 4 or 5 months to replace or repair. Drivers here deserve a more informative explanation.

There will be accidents as a result of the inability to fix this signal.

Now that this signal is on the blink, it flashes red in all directions rendering this intersection a four way stop. How are drivers to deal with this situation?

The rules are clear in this case, if not easily remembered or followed.

1. Common sense – First come, first served.

2. If you are sitting at a 4 way stop sign with other cars present, look to your right. If no one is there – you have right of way. If a car is there, then you must wait for it to go, and then you go.

3. A question often arises about what the rule is if two cars arrive at the intersection at the same time.

If that happens, the driver on the left must yield. If no one is on the left (the cars are facing each other) then they can go simultaneously. If one of them is turning left, of course, he must yield to the oncoming car, but if both of them are turning, they can go simultaneously.

Waving the other driver to ‘go ahead’ causes hesitation which is most often the cause of collisions.

I understand that a traffic signal control box contains a system of relays, switches, wires, and technology that is essential for the reliable, consistent operation of a set of traffic lights. I also get that supply chain issues could be causing delays in getting the needed repair parts. I’m really tired of that excuse, as are we all.

The public works department should have spare equipment in the event of a failure of one of these precious “cabinets” and their electrical components.

There are possible solutions.

Cooperation with other cities, counties, etc. for the purpose of sharing special equipment reserves.

There are hundreds of traffic signal in this part of the state. How can all of of those public works departments which maintain those signals not have a spare part/ parts to lend?

Can our city council and pubic works department please employ a

greater imagination when it comes to public safety?

Kevin March

Denied: Access to FDA Approved Alzheimer’s Treatments

Editor,

My Dad died of Alzheimer’s 14 years ago, and, at that time, no treatments for this devastating disease were available. Today, we have two Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved treatments for those in the early stages of the disease. On January 6, 2023, the FDA approved lecanemab, now known as Leqembi, using the accelerated approval pathway. Based upon clinical trials, leading Alzheimer’s experts agree this treatment delays the progression of the disease for people in the early stages.

The Centers for Medicaid & Medicare Services (CMS) has denied Medicare coverage for Leqembi. As each day passes, 2500 people progress beyond the early stages of Alzheimer’s and they are no longer eligible to receive this treatment. Leqembi costs $24,000 annually, so only those with adequate financial resources can afford to pay for it out of pocket. As a result, denied access to Leqembi is inevitable for underserved/low income populations.

CMS has never before imposed such drastic barriers to access of FDA approved drugs, especially for people facing a fatal disease. We need Congress to demand that Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra release Leqembi to all on Medicare who qualify for it.

Secretary Becerra testified in late March before several US House and Senate committees regarding the HHS FY2024 budget request. House and Senate members across all committees questioned Secretary Becerra about CMS’ disapproval of Leqembi for all and his responses were, at best, minimal and inadequate.

Please urge Rep. Don Beyer (VA-08) to contact Secretary Becerra and demand that CMS release Leqembi and other FDA approved Alzheimer’s treatments to all. Rep. Beyer can be reached at beyer.house.gov/contact .

Guy Mayer

Quinn Auctions Seeks Downtown Mixed Use Project OK

meeting Monday, it will come before the Planning Commission work session next week and then will navigate its way through many anticipated upcoming public hearings and governmental deliberations.

The plan is to consolidate three existing parcels, constituting two Quinn buildings and a third owned by Homestretch Inc., the long-effective Falls Church based non-profit that finds employment and homes for homeless families. In their stead would be construction of a mixeduse building of 10 stories, up to 115 feet and with a total of 129,320 square feet of floor area. The entire project would be built in a single phase.

The LEED Gold building would be composed of 226 senior housing and care units (140 independent living units, 55 assisted living units and 31 memory care units), 36,346 square feet of medical office space, 10,698 square feet of ground floor retail space, 5,670 square feet for a restaurant, and 1,659 square feet designated as a permanent office space for the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation, Falls Church’s premier civil rights advocacy organization.

The goal, according to the applicants, is to “build a place for people to live in a vertically-integrated mixeduse building that incorporates synergistic uses.”

Its aspects would include senior housing, a restaurant right in the building, medical service offices for both residents and the wider community, pedestrian mobility, including by connecting the site to the rest of downtown, park and open spaces immediately proximate to the building (including a green area with an amphitheater) and acknowledgments of the historic Tinner Hill community and the adjacent historic Rolling Road.

As presented this Monday, the project would have 292 parking spaces, mostly underground, which would be down 22 percent from current code, and the creation of a new public park, a green street and open public amenity space adding up to 65. 8 percent of the total site. The proposal is for a one time contribution toward affordable housing in the City of $1.75 million.

Attorney Andrew Painter of the Arlington firm of Walsh, Colucci, Lubley and Walsh, made the principal presentation on behalf of the

applicants Monday night, and the City’s Laura Arseneau presented it from the City staff perspective, with the help of Henry Zhang and Gary Fuller. In mid-March, the City assigned a Development Review Committee to provide input to the staff.

In his remarks to the Council Monday, Paul Quinn said that he and his wife Catherine spent 48 of their 52 years of married life in Falls Church, building a business starting in 1987 with their sons, David and Matthew, who also work for the family business and that he is elated to bring the project forward at last.

“We hope to be living in it ourselves and to enjoy having our grandchildren biking over to visit us there,” he said.

Quinn served as the chief fundraiser at numerous Falls Church Chamber of Commerce events over the last two decades, usually leading the auction portion of fundraising at annual galas.

He began his business in a single white house on W. Broad Street and said it was always his idea in acquiring buildings on S. Washington to eventually develop the kind of proj-

ect he’s now seeking to build there. “We want to invest in the City of Falls Church as a legacy for the

Quinn family,” he said. “There is no one more dedicated to the City than we are.”

PAUL QUINN, FOUNDER of his Falls Church family business, spoke on behalf of his proposed mixed use project at a F.C. City Council work session Monday night. An image of his project is shown above him to the right. (Photo: News-Press)

F.C. Environmental Organization’s Advocate for Locals to Be ‘Down to Earth’

by Kylee Toland Falls Church News-Press

As this year’s Earth Day approaches, it can be good to know that there are groups and organizations in Falls Church advocating for a healthier, environmentally-friendly community for locals to live in.

These organizations focus on numerous factors currently impacting the environment, such as climate change, greenhouse gas emissions, solid waste recycling and more. Whether it be educating the public on the negative impacts of global warming or actively improving the environment in various ways, these groups can help a person better understand how the smallest impact can benefit the community.

Since 1885, the Falls Church Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPIS) has been specializing in preserving the natural and built environment. Amy Crumpton, a board member for the volunteer organization, said VPIS was originally created to ensure there were “green spaces” in the city.

According to Crumpton, VPIS focuses on three major factors: the state of the trees in the city, pro-

moting the RainSmart Program that manages stormwater and creating several gardens throughout Falls Church. During Earth Day this year, Crumpton said VPIS will be at the Falls Church farmers market and will have a selection of native trees in need of homes, followed by an Arbor Day celebration at Madison Park.

The Center for Health, Environment & Justice (CHEJ) has provided organizing and science support nationally since 1981. Based in Falls Church, the organization’s main goal is to work and provide information for places dealing with toxic chemical problems.

CHEJ’s science director Stephen Lester began the organization with Lois Gibbs, who helped with the relocation of 800 neighbors in the Love Canal neighborhood in New York after toxic waste was found near her house.

“To this day, there is no organization whose only focus is to provide science and organizing support to groups on the ground,” Lester said.

Some of the organization’s national successes have been the formation of the “Superfund” law that provides funding for cleaning up the “worst, toxic” sites in the country.

CHEJ also helped 350 families in Florida relocate from a toxic waste site a few years back.

Recently, there has been talk at CHEJ of activities for this year’s Earth Day centered around the recent train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio that ultimately caused various chemical problems. Lester said this year’s Earth Day can be a reminder for locals that there is a “long way to go” to address the chemicals being transported and used throughout various communities.

This year, a new group in the city has formed to accelerate efforts in addressing climate change. The Falls Church Climate Action Network (FCCAN) was formed by city residents to monitor Falls Church’s Community Energy Action Plan (CEAP) and its key issues, as well as promote opportunities for public input and help build consensus among participants.

Tim Stevens and Jeff Peterson are a part of the group’s steering committee and joined the group after both became interested in climate change and what can be done about it. Although it seems that Falls Church has adopted “ambitious” goals for meeting the climate crisis,

Peterson said the group wanted to ensure that the city’s plan be “as strong and effective as possible” by informing local residents how the process was going.

“We felt there was a need for an independent group in the city that could serve as a place where our residents could get together and advocate for policies at the local level,” Stevens said.

FCCAN’s website — fccan.net — allows residents to send com-

ments and suggestions about ways Falls Church City Council can promote and endorse environmentally-friendly practices. The website also encourages locals to interact with each other by sharing ways they have adapted environmentallyfriendly decisions.

“We hope that we can help people with a sort of understanding of what their own individual decisions can do to help the climate,” Peterson said.

Art and Frame Of Falls Church

THE FALLS CHURCH CLIMATE Action Network was formed to monitor the city’s community energy plan. (Photo: Tim Stevens)

Two primary candidates for Arlington-Falls Church Commonwealth’s Attorney hit each other hard April 6 in a debate that contrasted the incumbent’s vision of restorative justice reforms against a challenger—her onetime deputy—who accuses her of lapses in nuts-and-bolts management.

The sometimes-testy exchanges during the event sponsored by the prison reform group OAR (Offender Aid and Restoration) at George Mason University’s Virginia campus allowed incumbent Parisa Dehghani-Tafti and challenger Josh Katcher to showcase their agendas in preparation for a June 20 Democratic primary vote.

Dehghani-Tafti, who upset incumbent Theo Stamos in a 2019 primary, said her key policy goal is to use the office as a “pulpit” to “build a more just, more equitable criminal justice system while keeping the community safe.” One of the “open secrets,” she said, is that Arlington was one of the most regressive jurisdictions in the Commonwealth.

Restorative justice is succeeding at the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office “despite a right-wing-funded recall,” and a right-wing state Attorney General James Miyares who has “sought to defeat reform at every turn.”

“We have delivered on our campaign’s central promises,” she said, citing a focus on serious crime, stopped asking for cash bail, established a restorative justice program, offered a behavioral health docket, created a conviction review unit, expanded drug treatment, halted certification of child defendants as adults, reduced the jail population, instituted open-file discovery, and stopped use of peremptory strikes in jury selection. She still seeks gun buy-backs and raised pay for public defenders (as does Katcher).

“No other jurisdiction has done reform better, faster or safer than us,” she stated, calling Arlington’s reforms a national model.

Katcher, who quit in disillusionment after 11 years in the CA’s office and leadership positions in the Arlington Bar Association and the Virginia State Bar Council, blasted his former boss for presiding over an office “in free fall.”

Fourteen staff attorneys have left in the past 18 months, he said, “all handpicked by my opponent. Such a loss of experience and talent brings obvious capacity issues resulting in legal errors occurring and victims not getting good treatment.”

Katcher pointed to recent numbers showing crimes against persons up 16 percent and property crimes up 23 percent over the past year, saying they show a lack of “real reform. I have the relationships and experience to deliver on 21st century reform prosecution,” he said. Unlike Dehghani-Tahti, a former public defender who has not personally prosecuted a case, “I was tried cases in every court in courthouse, from traffic up to and including murder.”

Citing the “incredible discretion” prosecutors use in good or bad ways, Dehghani-Tahti stressed a preference for “rehabilitation” over “retribution”.

Traditional prosecutors “can abuse power by stacking charges,” or making presumptive punishments so high the defendants “have feel no choice but to plead guilty. My opponent did that. We won’t use mandatory minimums

because of racial disparities; my opponent said he is colorblind.”

Arguing that blacks in Arlington are charged with crimes at a 50 percent higher rate, she accused the challenger of “helping create” the approach of predecessor Stamos, which, the incumbent said, emphasized the death penalty, charging kids with felonies and enforcing abortion bans. “My opponent described that as a shining example of how progressive prosecuting can work.”

Katcher took offense at her charge he had neglected formal training of staff in racial bias, pointing to the country’s progress in moving away from 1980s severe prosecutions for crack cocaine to the current approach of acknowledging substance abuse and mental health issues surrounding the opioid epidemic. His opponent, he said, has a “laser-like focus on the mission, but I have a laser-like focus on people trying to accomplishing the mission,” down “in the trenches working cases.”

Katcher faulted the incumbent for spending work time on social media debating national issues.

And criticized her office as a “black box for data,” promising a new public dashboard on prosecutions. She cited outside evaluations of her office productivity.

Katcher picked up endorsements from Democratic activists and county board member Libby Garvey, former school board chair Barbara Kanninen and former county board candidate Chanda Choun.

Dehghani-Tafti has backing from Reps. Don Beyer and Jennifer McClellan; county board members Takis Karantonis and Matt de Ferranti and former county board member Mary Hynes; former state Sen. Mary Margaret Whipple; state Sens. Barbara Favola, Scott Surovell, and Dick Saslaw; school board member Mary Kadera; former school board members Nancy Van Doren and Monique O’Grady; Dels. Alfonso Lopez and Marcus Simon; Clerk of the Circuit Court Paul Ferguson; and Revenue Commissioner Ingrid Morroy.

Because of scant Republican challengers, the winner of the June Democratic primary is the likely next officeholder.

1 An M&T CD account does not require a checking account or an existing M&T Bank relationship to open.

2 To open an M&T Select Time Deposit (CD), customer must have a MyChoice Premium Checking, M&T Select, M&T Select With Interest, Power Checking or Advantage Checking account or open a MyChoice Premium Checking account.

3 The minimum deposit required to open the CD account is $1,000. The maximum deposit is $1,000,000 per account. After the CD is opened, the minimum balance to obtain the advertised annual percentage yield "APY" is $1.00. Advertised APYs stated are accurate as of 3/20/2023 and these offers may change at any time. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Fees could reduce earnings on the account. Offer not available for non-personal accounts. Advertised APYs cannot be combined with any other offer. Rates are subject to change without notice and vary by state and county. A CD (Certificate of Deposit) is sometimes called a Time Deposit.

Unless otherwise specified, all advertised offers and terms and conditions of accounts and services are subject to

Community News & Notes

Memorial Day Grand Marshal Is Rebecca Tax

The City of Falls Church’s Recreation and Parks Advisory Board announced that Rebecca Tax has been named the Grand Marshal for the City’s 41st Annual Memorial Day Parade. She was selected for her extensive community involvement with Falls Church City Public Schools (FCCPS), the Falls Church Homeless Shelter, fundraising efforts for local organizations, and all-around community support.

Tax owns two businesses with her brother, Dave: the popular N. Washington Street hangout Clare and Don’s Beach Shack and Lazy Mike’s Deli, which is just outside the City near Meridian High School. “Everyone is connected in The Little City. We have a very strong sense of community, and it’s very homey,” a letter nominating her said.

The Memorial Day Parade and Festival is set for Monday, May 29, along Park Avenue and the grounds of City Hall, 300 Park Avenue.

FCCPS School Board to Host Office Hours

FCCPS School Board Chair Laura Downs and Vice-Chair Tate Gould will hold “office hours” at Ireland’s Four Provinces (105 W Broad St) on Wednesday, April 19th from 6:00-8:00 pm. Parents, students, teachers, staff, and community members may drop by

(no registration required) to ask questions and offer feedback in a casual environment. As this will not be a private setting, community members who prefer to have a private exchange with the School Board can locate members’ email addresses at: fccps. org/page/school-board.

Falls Church Home and Garden Tour

On Sunday, April 16, The Falls Church Education Foundation hosts the annual Falls Church Home and Garden Tour. Tickets are available until Friday, April 14 via fcedf.org/tour.

Last Week of TEXTURE Art Show

The TEXTURE exhibition features photographers who were invited to explore how visual or tactile surface characteristics of objects or scenes can be enhanced or downplayed through the manipulation of light and angle. Juror’s Choice and People’s Choice prizes will be awarded courtesy of a donation from DuBro Architects + Builders. It will be featured until April 16th.

Chi Psi at GMU Provides Scholarship for First-Gens

The men of Chi Psi Fraternity (Alpha Omega Delta) at George Mason University are fundrais-

Paper

ing for a unique philanthropy project – providing an incoming, first-generation George Mason student with a scholarship. They hope to raise $1,000 to offer as a scholarship to the yet to be determined student. The recipient of the scholarship will be from the George Mason Early Identification Program (EIP).

The fraternity men felt it important that a prospective college student have the significant financial barrier of college eased. They also treasure their own experiences at

George Mason and wanted to provide a first-generation student the opportunity to make the same life-changing memories. The student selected to receive the scholarship will receive the award at an event on campus in early May.

ArtsFairfax Recognize Local Efforts in Arts Accessibility

ArtsFairfax announced on Wednesday, April 5 that 29 nonprofit arts organizations as recipients of the ArtsFairfax

Pandemic Recovery Grant. A total of $250,000 was allocated by the County for grants distribution to the arts sector in response to the ongoing impact of the pandemic. To administer these funds, ArtsFairfax established three unique grant opportunities: Arts Access Project Support Grants, Pandemic Recovery Grants and Ticket Subsidy.

In the City of Falls Church, Falls Church Arts, the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation and Wartists, Inc all received grants.

the Paper

LED BY DEBRA ROTH (FAR LEFT) a large contingent of volunteer activist members and supporters of the City’s Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC) showed up at the F.C. City Council meeting Monday to appeal for additional funding. See story, Page 1. (Photo: News-Press)

50+ Employment Expo Offers Opportunities for Job Seekers

The upcoming free Virtual 50+ Employment Expos are for all age 50+ Jobseekers. The Expos run from 10:00 a.m. — 2:00 p.m. However, they will

extend the Expo until 3:00 p.m. if more employer time slots are needed. Each Expo starts with two-morning workshops created to help the age 50+ Jobseeker in their job search. In the afternoon, eight to 14 employers talk about their companies and open-

ings and answer questions from the Jobseeker.

The NOVA Virtual 50+ Employment Expo will be held on Friday, April 14. The MoCo Virtual 50+ Employment Expos are on the Tuesdays of May 16 and June 13.

THE MEN OF CHI PSI Fraternity at GMU are fundraising for a unique philanthropy project – providing an incoming, first-generation Mason student with a scholarship. (Photo: Jeremy Dorn)

Shepherd’s Center Hosts Former White House Butler

into his experiences working with the Reagan administration and serving the White House. DeValerio brought with him memorabilia from state dinners and White House holiday parties, as well as his new book entitled: A History of Entertainment in the Modern White House.

FORMER WHITE HOUSE BUTLER Alan DeValerio was the guest speaker for the Shepherd’s Center Lunch N Life event on March 27. Pictured next to him is Ambre Tomlinson (l) the marketing & events manager of the center and Executive Director Carolyn Pennington (r) (Photo: Ambre Tomlinson)

THIS WEEK IN THE LITTLE CITY

THURSDAY

Chamber Networking Breakfast

Stop by for an informal gathering to meet fellow F.C. Chamber of Commerce and community members. No agenda or cost other than your breakfast. The Original Pancake House (7395 Lee Hwy., Falls Church), 8:00 a.m. — 9:00 a.m.

Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting

Monthly Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) meeting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Council Chambers/Court Room, Falls Church), 7:30 p.m. — 11:00 p.m.

FRIDAY APRIL 14 Falls Church

Farmers Market

Weekly outdoor famers market , held year-round and featuring about 40 local vendors selling a variety of goods, including (but not limited to) produce, baked goods, flowers, jams and juices, pastas and oils, and fresh beef, pork, poultry and dairy products. City Hall Parking Lot (300 Park Ave., Falls Church), 8:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m.

Blood Drive

Give a lifesaving blood donation. Donors receive a $10 Amazon gift card. Appointment at redcrossblood.org, sponsor word: HEARTOFGOLD. Call 866-236-3276 with eligibility questions.

McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, VA), 9:00 a.m. — 2:00 p.m.

Columbia Pike

Recipes for Recovery

A new book celebrating how food brought a local community together during a time of need, keeping local restaurant owners in business during the pandemic and forging a path toward recovery. A collection of unique and diverse experiences from zip code 22204, known as the "world in a zip code," by Arlington artist Sushmita Mazumdar. Tickets at bit.ly/FCNP0423cp.

Columbia Pike Library (816

Walter Reed Dr., Arlington, VA), 5:30 p.m. — 7:30 p.m.

(A) Way Out of My Body

David Dorfman Dance’s “(A) Way Out of My Body” uses out-of-body experiences as a metaphor for our times and our body politic. It’s about “life and death, fragility and joy, trauma and resilience. This collective story of searching for personal “truths” among fantastical sensations is seen through breathtaking lighting and visual design and gripping choreography. The Alden Theatre (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, VA), 7:00 p.m.

West Side Story Singalong

Join Sig Theatre for a Merrily We Sing-Along to highlight Sondheim’s lyrical contributions to the score of West Side Story. Whether a Jet or a Shark, come sing-along with “Something’s Coming,” “Tonight,” “Maria” and, of course, “I Feel Pretty.” Leading the event will be favorites Kurt Boehm, Katie Mariko Murray and Adelina Mitchell. Signature Theatre (3200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, VA), 7:30 p.m.

Christian de Mesones

Christian de Mesones performs. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, VA), 7:30 p.m.

Amanda Kutcher

Amanda Kutcher performs. Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad St., Falls Church), 9:30 p.m.

SATURDAY

APRIL 15

Spring Community

Parking Lot Sale

Got stuff? Need stuff? Find bargains at this festive parking lot sale with up to 60 vendors! Lighten the load and join your friends and neighbors as a vendor at this fun community event. McLean Community Center

(1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, VA), 9:00 a.m. — 1:00 p.m.

Sing Books with Emily

Sing Books with Emily is a singing story time with picture books based on songs for children of all ages. Join Emily to sing songs from a wide range of musical styles accompanied by bespoke sing along tracks and Emily's fun Symphony of Silly Instruments including ukulele, glockenspiel, and kazoo. It's a musical adventure sure to delight everyone. Best for ages 4-7 years old. Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Lower Level Conf. Rm., Falls Church), 11:00 a.m. — 11:30 a.m.

Virginia Cider Festival: NOVA Edition

Enjoy an amazing showcase of hard cider at the Virginia Cider Festival (NOVA Edition), with over 30 different cider flavors available to sample from Virginia and beyond, with local live music all day. Free parking. Tickets available at bit.ly/FCNO0423vc.

Bull Run Special Events Center (7700 Bull Run Dr., Centreville, VA), 11:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m.

SDE OysterFEST

Join Settle Down Easy Brewing for their 5th Annual OysterFEST, with raw/shucked and grilled oysters, crab cake sandwiches, and lobster rolls. After the event, enjoy live music from Born Cross Eyed (Grateful Dead Jam Tribute) for the evening. Settle Down Easy Brewing (2822 Fallfax Dr., Falls Church), 12:00 p.m. — 5:00 p.m.

Author Talk: Diana Parsell

Local author Diana P. Parsell will discuss her new book Eliza Scidmore: The Trailblazing Journalist Behind Washington's Cherry Trees. Published by Oxford University Press in March 2023, Eliza Scidmore is the first-ever biography of the women whose persistence over two decades led to the planting of the first cherry-blossom trees in Washington donated from Japan. Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Upper Floor Conf. Rm., Falls Church), 1:00 p.m.

OUT-OF-BODY EXPERIENCES ARE USED as a metaphor for our times and our body politic in (A) Way Out of My Body , this weekend at The Alden Theatre in McLean. (Courtesy Photo)

DC Emancipation Day Celebration

The DC Compensated Eman-

cipation Act of 1862 ended slavery in Washington, D.C., freeing 3,100 individuals and reimbursing those who had "legally" owned these individuals, and offered the newly freed women and men money to emigrate. This year's celebration begins with a 2:00 p.m. parade, followed by the DC Emancipation Day Concert, and concludes with fireworks at 8:30 p.m.. Freedom Plaza (1455 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC), 2:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.

Crooked Steeple Literary Festival

The next of three Crooked Steeple Literary Festival events welcoming a variety of authors and artists. At this installation of the event series meet A.M. Homes, author of The Unfolding, for a reading and reception. Tickets at amhomes.eventbrite. com. Falls Church Presbyterian Church (225 E. Broad St., Falls Church), 2:00 p.m. — 4:00 p.m.

Spring Fling Fest

Free event with a ton of surprises. Celebrate the spring and dance, dance, dance! Expect drink specials, outdoor yard games, a food truck, favors, live entertainment, and giveaways to keep your blossoms blooming! The Lot (3217 10th St. N, Arlington, VA), 3:00 p.m.

Poetry in the Parks

To celebrate National Poetry Month and Arab-American Heritage Month, hear the works of local poets Rayan Afif, Zeina Azzam, and Danielle Badra. A poetry writing workshop to learn and practice the Ghazal, an Arabic verse form with an intricate rhyme scheme, will follow the presentation. Ellanor C. Lawrence Park (5040 Walney Rd., Chantilly, VA), 3:00 p.m. — 5:00 p.m.

Sunrise Sunset Drag Bingo

EVENTS, MUSIC, ART & THEATRE

SUNDAY APRIL 16

Kids Spring Festival

Join Spiderman and characters from Frozenas they host a day the whole family can enjoy. Shipgarten (6579 Colshire Dr., Tysons, VA), 12:00 p.m. — 6:00 p.m.

Falls Church

Home & Garden Tour

A great community event highlighting a variety of beautiful and homes, including small and large, renovated, historic, and new builds across our beautiful and diverse "Little City". Register at bit.ly/FCNP0423hg.

Throughout Falls Church (see tickets for details, Falls Church), 1:00 p.m. — 5:00 p.m.

RiverRun

Environmental Films

Two short documentary films committed to awareness and innovative solutions to preserve our planet, ARiver Called Home and Upstream, Downriver, will be screened, followed by a panel. The Reach at the Kennedy Center (2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC), 3:00 p.m. — 5:00 p.m.

The Wilting Point

Audiences travel with Mina Melo, producer of award-winning podcast Clime, back to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in Southern Colorado to adapt the series for a streaming company, determined to tell a story about climate-related water shortages and drought. Keegan Theatre (1742 Church St. NW, Washington, DC), 3:00 p.m.

Robbie Fulks

Robbie Fulks performs. Jammin' Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna, VA), 7:30 p.m.

MONDAY

APRIL 17

Daytime Art Critique Group

Join creative artists in a Falls Church Arts monthly discussion and critique group. If de-

sired, bring a piece of art you'd like feedback on. Open to all, even if not bringing a piece to share. Email questions to info@ fallschurcharts.org. Falls Church

Arts (700-B W. Broad St., Falls Church), 12:00 p.m. — 2:00 p.m.

Envir. Sustainability

Education Task Group Mtg. Education Task Group of the Environmental Sustainability Council meeting. Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Lower Level Conf. Rm., Falls Church), 6:45 p.m. — 7:45 p.m.

TUESDAY

APRIL 18

Chamber Lunch with Fairfax Co. Board Chair

Meet other chamber and community members for an informal lunch. Fairfax County Board of Supervisor Chair Jeff McKay will discuss updates on projects surrounding and involving F.C. such as development, Metro plans, and congestion. Italian Café (7161 Langston Blvd., Falls Church), 11:30 a.m. — 1:15 p.m.

Hemlock Old Forest Network Induction

NOVA Parks celebrates the induction Hemlock Overlook Regional Park into the Old-Growth Forest Network. Several officials will unveil a permanent sign marking the forest’s location and importance. Expect a 20 minute walk on uneven terrain from the parking lot. Hemlock Overlook

Regional Park (13220 Yates Ford Rd. (park, then follow signs), Clifton, VA), 2:30 p.m.

DASER: DC Art Science Evening Rendezvous

In celebration of National Poetry Month, join a conversation about poetry, science, and society. DASER takes place in conjunction with the hosting of the Poets for Science traveling exhibition, on view through early September. Includes panelist presentations, audience discussion, and time to view the exhibit. National Academy of Sciences, East Gallery (2101 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC), 6:00 p.m. — 9:30 p.m.

GMU Symphonic Band Spring Concert

The Mason Symphonic Band presents "Landscapes," a musical adventure through the terrain of earth, sky, and score, with musical works that programmatically invoke images of the world around us! Tickets at bit. ly/FCNP0423ms. GMU Center for the Arts (4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, VA), 8:00 p.m.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 19

Library Board of Trustees Meeting

Library Board of Trustees meeting. Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Upper Floor Conf. Rm., Falls Church), 6:00 p.m. — 8:00 p.m.

Public Utility Commission Meeting

Public Utility Commission meeting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Laurel Room, Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.

Reflecting on the Iraq War

On the 20th anniversary of the U.S. invasion of Iraq, join former top officials from the CIA, NSA, and NIC to reflect on decisions, intelligence failures, lessons learned, and the war's lasting impact 20 years later. Followed by a reception. GMU Mason Square, Van Metre Hall Auditorium (3351 N. Fairfax Dr., Rm. 134, Arlington, VA), 7:00 p.m.

Planning Commission Meeting

Planning Commission meeting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Council Chambers/Court Room, Falls Church), 7:30 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.

Urban Forestry Commission Meeting

Urban Forestry Commission meeting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 7:30 p.m. — 9:30 p.m.

The Verve Pipe

The Verve Pipe performs. The Hamilton Live (600 14th St. NW, Washington, DC), 7:30 p.m.

HEMLOCK OVERLOOK Regional Park's induction into the Old-Growth Forest Network will be celebrated on Tuesday. (Photo: José Fernández )

The Weekly Diplomatic Reach

by Brian Reach Falls Church News-Press

Eileen Filler-Corn Reveals New Video, Technically Not A Governor’s Race Ad

On Tuesday, Eileen Filler-Corn (D-Fairfax), who served as Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates until the Republicans gained control last year (the first female or Jewish person in that role), released a really compelling video on Twitter. It’s just so wonderful to see everyone come together to produce such a heartfelt tribute as she departs... but if you didn’t expect to see “Filler-Corn for Governor” at the end... you’re lying.

Famously Silent Clarence Thomas’s Nondisclosure Backlash

Overuse of the word “unprecedented” aside, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, who is famous for maintaining nearly full silence in his time on the highest court in the Nation, is facing calls to resign after it was revealed he did not disclose decades of lavish worldwide trips with billionaire, GOP mega-donor, real estate tycoon... and enthusiastic Nazi memora-

deadly assault on the U.S. Capitol.

“Don’t Say Gay” Goes National

Three Wednesdays ago, Republican Governor of Arkansas Sarah HuckabeeSanders signed into law one of multiple bills making their way to the former Trump mouthpiece’s desk, this one banning all trans-affirming care for minors.

Two Wednesdays ago, Kentucky Republicans overrode Gov. Andy Beshear’s veto of a ban on youth gender-affirming care, part of a host of anti-gay legislation in the state modeled after Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill, which forces schools to “out” trans students and bans any discussion of LGBTQ+ existence, making the bill law.

Last Wednesday Rhode Island lawmakers heard a similar law in committee.

On Monday Indiana’s Senate passed a bill (which had already cleared the House) banning teachers from replying to questions from students about “certain topics” and requiring schools to notify parents if their student requests to be called anything but their legal name or birth-assigned gender.

Also on Monday the Texas Senate passed their own version of the bill, which goes further than the others by extending the ban through the end of High School and banning all forms

In North Carolina the Senate has passed tiple times. Though it has died in the House

in the past, a recent Democrat switching to Republican has LGBTQ+ citizens alarmed in the state, whose Democratic Governor will no longer be able to sustain a party-line veto.

The ACLU and other groups are tracking 494 bills introduced in 47 states aimed at harming LGBTQ+ people in a variety of ways.

All are founded on intentional misinformation and hatred; a thinly veiled resurgence of Puritanical body-control ideals. 363 are still active, 92 have failed, and 39 have passed.

Virginia saw twelve of these bills introduced this year, but a single-vote Democratic majority in the Senate barely prevented them from passing, leaving many LGBTQ+ Virginians feeling extremely vulnerable across the commonwealth.

Florida Don’t Say Gay Bill Sponsor Pleads

Guilty to Covid Relief Fraud

Former Republican Florida lawmaker Joe Harding, responsible for the aforementioned “Don’t Say Gay” bill, now law, in Florida — who resigned last December after being indicted — pleaded guilty on Tuesday to $150,000 worth of Covid-19 relief fraud.

Won’t Say Gay – But Seeking Your Vote

Last week Fairfax Senator Chap Petersen spoke to the City of Fairfax Democratic Comittee (CFDC) at Fairfax City Hall, about the upcoming Senate election, for which a new, more liberal district has resulted in the first primary challenge he’s faced in a local race.

Petersen, who has been silent on LGBTQ+ issues since his days of voting for vitrioloc bills written by Bob Marshall (who said autism and other disabilities were God’s punishment for women who aborted their first pregnancies).

Pressed to make any personal statement of belief, Petersen refused to provide any competent detail on a single LGBTQ+ issue (including whether he personally believes in gay marriage, or homosexuality as a sin).

Petersen was also grilled by his eighth grade English teacher on his refusal to ban assault weapons, which he claimed was to prevent making people “retroactive criminals,” and by a community member concerned about the Senator refusing to support businesses providing sick leave to part-time workers. Petersen referred to part time work as 8-10 hours in his response, though part-time work is largely measured as 20-29 hours per week.

Transphobia Replacement Therapy

This writer feels it necessary, amidst the plethora of disinformation circulating about trans youth in particular, to provide some basic reliable facts to our readers. This is the first mini “dose” of what I’m calling “Transphobia Replacement Therapy,” a humanizing, honest, reality-oriented intervention to these attacks.

The bottom line is none of this is anybody’s business unless they are the parent of a trans kid, and the constant shifting of the burden of proof to the very people under attack is appaling, but this fight is at our doorstep, and it’s time to arm ourselves with knowledge, or at least make it available.

Trans youth go through extreme torment if and when they go through the puberty that conflicts with their identity, as it causes permanent changes to bone structure and beyond.

Trans men, obviously, do not want breasts. When puberty happens for them, if unable to access puberty blockers, and especially if without a supportive family or funds to purchase

chest binders (a garment that compresses and conceals breasts), they frequently find their own ways to self-bind, wraping their chests in rope or duct tape, under their clothes. This can cause severe changes in bone structure, posture, breathing, and myriad other dangerous health issues.

Dueling Courts Tee Up Supreme Court Showdown On Birth Control

A Texas court and a Washington court offered opposing rulings within moments of one another on Friday regarding the medication mifepristone, known as the “abortion pill,” though it is actually a contraceptive, not an abortion.

The Texas ruling that sought to ban the drug using a law from the 1800s threatening fines and up to five years imprisonment for the use of the postal service to mail “Every obscene, lewd, lascivious, indecent, filthy or vile article, matter, thing, device, or substance; and every article or thing designed, adapted, or intended for producing abortion, or for any indecent or immoral use; and every article, instrument, substance, drug, medicine, or thing which is advertised or described in a manner calculated to lead another to use or apply it for producing abortion, or for any indecent or immoral purpose... and every written or printed card, letter, curcular, book, pamphlet, advertisement, or notice of any kind giving information, directly or indirectly [about abortion]... whether sealed or unsealed...” The law goes on like that.

The bottom line: this is the exact same movement as the anti-trans movement. This is not a coincidence at all. This is about body autonomy, stigma, and a Republican party trying to use one to control the other. And, historically, some Democrats.

Cramming In The Rest

With weeks like this piling on the news, it’s hard to cover everything, so here’s a brief overview of the big other news in politics:

A debate has been scheduled between candidates seeking the Democratic Party nomination to represent the new State Senate District 37, which includes Falls Church. It will be held on April 20 at 6:30 p.m. at the American Legion Post 130 (400 N. Oak St., Falls Church).

The Falls Church City Democrats announced their annual Potluck Dinner, to be held Sunday, April 23rd at Falls Church Community Center (223 Little Falls St., Falls Church). This will include the organization’s first Straw Poll, and candidates will be available to meet!

Tennessee expelled all black Democrats from the body, but skipping over the other Democrat in the body, a white woman.

Every reader should look up Vice President Kamala Harris’s fiery speech about the issue. The Republican running for VA Senate 37, Ken Reid, issued a message claiming the TN Democrats should receive the same punishment as the January 6, 2022 rioters that stormed the U.S. Capitol (smearing feces, looting, and ultimately resulting in five deaths). This after a campaign announcement last week that, though not in all-caps, read very much like it was. This is Northern Virginia, right?

The Virginia Legislature reconvened for its scheduled session to consider any vetoes or recommendations from Governor Greg Abbott. Nothing of note is expected to happen after the gridlock early this year prevented much from passing.

A Penny for Your Thoughts News of Greater Falls Church

By Supervisor Penny Gross

Is democracy failing us, or are we failing democracy? The answers probably are as varied as the people considering the question, but recent events reveal that, most likely, we are failing democracy, not the other way around. Democracy is not a sport. Democracy is not just for the elite and the well-educated. Democracy is not a winner take all. Democracy is not survival of the fittest. It also is not necessarily a popularity contest. Democracy can be messy. More than 200 years of the American experiment has proven it. There is something innate in human nature to want one’s own way, but the concept of fairness also is innate, at least in most of us. Perhaps that’s why the actions to expel three elected members of the Tennessee House of Representatives last week was such a blow to one’s democratic gut. Yes, the three members had protested, rather noisily on the floor of the House, in support of gun control after a horrific attack that killed three children and three teachers at a Nashville elementary school. Republican members of the House responded immediately, not to the shootings but to the protest, by introducing expulsion resolutions against two young Black male delegates and an older female White delegate. No consideration of other options –censure, reprimand, admonishment, letter of reproval, loss of seniority or loss of certain privileges. No, the

House simply proceeded to the stiffest penalty – expulsion of a member elected by his/her constituents.

Ultimately, both young Black representatives were expelled by the required two-thirds vote; the White female representative was not expelled; a single vote “saved” her, but the vote total of 65 to 30 scarcely was a victory. Rather, it was a statement that dissension, or even a difference of opinion, will not be tolerated, and that common ground is not something being sought in Tennessee’s deliberative body. It must be a pretty dismal workplace for some elected officials these days.

In a democracy, the power and authority of governance are conferred upon elected officials when they take the oath of office. However, that is “some” power and “some” authority, not complete and absolute. Or so it should be. Power and authority are potent tools that should be exercised sparingly, and always with an eye to fairness and understanding. It never ceases to amaze me when constituents want to confer more authority on me to accomplish their ends, legal or not. I don’t have that authority, and if I did, they probably would realize quickly that I shouldn’t have it. It’s too easy to misuse.

When you are elected to public office, you represent all of your constituents, not just some of them, or just those who voted for you. That

means the infinite varieties of hopes, dreams, thoughts, desires, and needs of hundreds or thousands of people. Many, if not most, times, those will be multiple interests competing for limited resources. That’s when the real work of democracy is tested –how to prioritize and provide the best outcomes for those who need help the most, and how to help others understand why their priorities were not addressed as they hoped. In a society that truly believes in democratic principles, we listen to all points of view, ensuring there is room for discussion and differences of opinion (not every difference of opinion is a difference of principle) and then, when a decision is made, usually by the elected official or body, everyone understands how and why the decision was made. Mind you, many might not agree, but fairness and a light hand on the reins of power and authority can pay dividends to the community, and the decision-making process. I’m not so sure about the trust factor, which appears to be in very short supply these days. If we truly want democracy to succeed, for all of us, we need to revel in and respect the American experiment. After all, we are a democracy.

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

Reckless Speeding, E Broad St, April 3, 7:51 am, a male, 20, of McLean, Virginia, was issued a summons for Reckless Driving-Speeding.

Fraud - Identity Theft, N Sycamore St, April 3, 11:56 am, a victim reported two unauthorized banking accounts opened in her name.

Aggravated Assault, Ellison St, April 4, 10:48 pm, a male victim reported an assault. The male suspect, known to the victim, reportedly struck the victim in the face with a golf club and left the scene. The victim was transported to the hospital with nonlife threatening injuries.

Reckless Speeding, E Broad St, April 6, 7:23 am, a male, 54, of McLean Virginia, was issued a summons for Reckless Driving-Speeding..

Larceny - Theft from Building, W Broad St, April 6, 5:01

pm, two unknown suspects stole a wallet, containing $120 in cash and credit cards, from a shopping cart and attempted to use a stolen credit card at another place of business. Both suspects were described as females, approximately 30 years of age, wearing black leggings, dark colored tops, and face masks.

Simple Assault, E Fairfax St, April 6, 10:02 pm, an unknown suspect slapped a customer at a place of business. The suspect was described as a male with a shaved head, wearing khaki pants, an orange and white striped shirt, maroon vest, and a large hoop earring in one ear lobe

Larceny - Theft from Building, W Broad St, April 7, 7:02 pm, an Apple Watch valued at $750 was reported stolen.

Larceny - Theft from Building. Hillwood Ave, April 8, 10:17 am, unknown suspect(s) stole a wallet and its contents from a shopping cart and attempted to use a stolen credit card at another place of business.

 FORECLOSURE 

Thursday, May 4 at 12:30PM at Barns of Rose Hill, 101 Chalmers Court, Berryville, VA

Notable 168 Acre Estate w/ Grand Antebellum Mansion

Property Address: 136

Falls Church Business News & Notes

Avedesian to Manage West Falls

Hoffman and Associates has named Mary Beth Avedesian senior vice president of development and tapped her to manage its West Falls project. She has over thirty years’ experience, largely focused on the Northern Virginia market. West Falls is the largest development project with over 1 million square feet of development over nearly 10 acres. This is part of a 40-acre plan with public art, apartments, condominiums, senior living, retail, a hotel, medical office building and outdoor space. Avedesian was previously senior vice president of acquisitions and development at B.F. Saul Co.

PNC Announces Closures

PNC Financial Services Group Inc. has announced another round of bank closures with 11 in the Northern Virginia area. The three closures in Falls Church are within the Giant Food stores located at the Seven Corners Center, on Arlington Boulevard, and the West Broad. PNC determined that declining foot traffic and the increase of digital banking led to the decision to close all grocery branches nationwide.

Ellie Bird to Open Tuesday

Owners Carey and Yuan Tang began their restaurant career in Falls Church and will open their own restaurant, Ellie Bird, Tuesday, April 18 in Founders Row. It is described as contemporary and will feature ricotta gnudi, kimchi bouillabaisse and classic chicken dinner. As owners of the Michelin-starred Rooster & Owl in D.C., they are bringing the popular pineapple buns to Falls Church.

Creative Cauldron Wins Grant

Creative Cauldron has received an ArtsFairfax Ticket/Transportation Subsidy Grant supporting “Artes Para Todos,” an initiative that provides young people attending Fairfax County Title One schools year-round after school drama and arts workshops. Creative Cauldron received an ArtsFairfax Project grant earlier this year. This program specifically reaches English learners and young people in homes where Spanish is the first language. Participating students and their families will receive complimentary tickets to Creative Cauldron’s family-friendly productions throughout the year and students are eligible for free or reduced tuition during spring break and summer camps. Lenny Mendez, Creative Cauldron’s bi-lingual Artistic Associate, leads the project.

Prestigious Award for Northrop Grumman

Falls Church-based Northrop Grumman won the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) Robert J. Collier Trophy for revolutionizing the astrophysics field with its team’s pioneering design and exceptional performance of NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope.

Cybersecurity for Small Business

Details, photos, & terms online AUCTIONS TRF

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434.847.7741 | TRFAuctions.com

The Virginia SBDC is hosting a session for small businesses to learn tips to protest their businesses. Todd Mitchell, owner of Cybersecurity4biz, LLC will walk participants through simple steps and key takeaways. This includes configuring routers properly, updating security patches, properly configuring firewalls and detection software, and more. This free session is online and facilitated by the University of Mary Washington SBDC. Mitchell has over 30 years’ experience and has made it his mission to help small businesses and families. More information is available at (540) 654-1383 and https://clients.virginiasbdc.org/workshop.aspx?ekey=140430023

Business License Renewal Forms

Oops! The 2023 Falls Church City Business License Renewal Forms were due back by March 1, 2023. Two reminder letters have also been sent out. The 2023 Business License Renewal Form (the counter version without your business’s data on it) is available on the City’s website at: http://www.fallschurchva.gov/442/Business-License-Tax-Forms or it can be quickly sent to you by e-mail, if you forgot to renew your business license. It is against Falls Church City Code to be operating a business in the City without a business license. You can drop your 2023 Business License Renewal Form in the US Mail, or in the yellow City Hall 24/7 Drop Box located next to the West Wing Door entrance, or in person at the Commissioner of the Revenue’s Office, in suite 202W of the West Wing of City Hall, located at 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, VA 22046. Any questions? Please call (703) 248-5450, or e-mail us at: commissioner@ fallschurchva.gov.

 Business News & Notes is compiled by Elise Neil Bengtson, Executive Director of the Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. She may be emailed at elise@fallschurchchamber.org.

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) of the City of Falls Church, Virginia will hold a public hearing on April 13, 2023 at 7:30 PM in the Council Chambers, located at 300 Park Avenue, for consideration of the following item:

Variance application V1637-23 by Andra Popa, applicant and owner, for a variance to Section 48-238(4)c. to allow a detached garage with a height of 13.8 feet instead of 12 feet maximum at premises known as 806 Ridge Place, RPC #53-215-004 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned R-1A, Low Density

Residential.

Public comment and questions may be submitted to zoning@fallschurchva.gov until 4:30 pm on April 13, 2023. Agenda and application materials will be available the week prior to the scheduled hearing at: http://www.fallschurchva.gov/BZA

Information on the above application is also available for review upon request to staff at zoning@fallschurchva.gov.

Invitation For Bids (IFB)

IFB 0427-23-WODT

W&OD Trail Crossings Project City of Falls Church

PASSWORD PROTECTED ELECTRONIC

BIDS (SEALED) will be accepted by the City of Falls Church by electronic submission to the Purchasing Agent, James Wise, jwise@ fallschurchva.gov (email) for the provision of W&OD Trail Crossings Project.

Due date for the electronic submission of Bids is Thursday, April 27, 2023 @ 11:00 A.M. A Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held virtually via Microsoft Teams on April 13, 2023 (see the IFB for details). A copy of the IFB which includes all details and requirements may be downloaded from the City of Falls Church’s procurement website: www.fallschurchva.gov/ Bids. Notice of the IFB may also be accessed via eVA, the Commonwealth of Virginia’s electronic procurement portal for registered suppliers, www.eva.virginia.gov.

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

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE PLANNING COMMISSION

NOTICE: On Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at 7:30 p.m., the City of Falls Church Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and meeting. Public comments can be submitted ahead of time to jtrainor@fallschurchva.gov and pstoddard@fallschurchva.gov. The Planning Commission will consider the following item and recommendation to City Council: (TR23-06) RESOLUTION TO AMEND SPECIAL EXCEPTION SE04-0162, AS PREVIOUSLY AMENDED THROUGH RESOLUTION 2012-01, TO FURTHER AMEND CERTAIN COMMERCIAL USE RESTRICTIONS ON THE GROUND FLOOR SPACES AT 400-412 SOUTH MAPLE AVENUE (PEARSON SQUARE)

The Planning Commission will consider an action on an application to amend the previously submitted and accepted resolution and Voluntary Concessions for the Pearson Square Building (400-412 S Maple Avenue). The Applicant is seeking to lease approximately 1,635 of currently vacant space to an architectural firm. Under the current commercial programming restrictions (established by condition 3 in Resolution 2012-01, attached), the allowable square footage for office uses has been reached. The Applicant has applied to amend the commercial programming of the Pearson Square ground floor commercial space (as included in the Applicant’s materials,

attached), as follows:

1. To increase the overall retail service uses and/or business and professional uses limit from 11,000 square feet to 14,000 square feet for the total 19,000 square feet of commercial space.

2. To increase the business or professional office uses limit from 2,400 square feet to 4,000 square feet, with the limitation that it is within the proposed 14,000 square feet limit for retail service, and/or business, professional offices uses.

3. To increase the existing maximum lease term from 10 to 20 years for business, professional, medical, or dental office uses.

Meeting agenda and materials will be available prior to the public meeting on the Planning Commission webpage: http://www.fallschurchva.gov/PC. More information about the proposed amendments to Pearson Square’s Voluntary Concessions, Community Benefits, Terms and Conditions are available within the Planning Commission’s April 19, 2023 meeting agenda, also accessible on the Planning Commission webpage. This location is fully accessible to persons with physical disabilities and special services or assistance may be requested in advance.

(TTY 711)

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY COUNCIL CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA

The ordinances referenced below were given first reading on April 10, 2023. Public hearings are scheduled for Monday, April 24, 2023 and Monday, May 8, 2023, with second reading and final Council action scheduled for Monday, May 8, 2023 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matters may be heard.

(TO23-03) ORDINANCE FIXING AND DETERMINING THE BUDGET OF EXPENDITURES AND REVENUES AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2024: GENERAL FUND; SCHOOL OPERATING FUND; SCHOOL COMMUNITY SERVICE FUND; SCHOOL FOOD SERVICE FUND; CABLE ACCESS FUND; SEWER FUND; STORMWATER FUND; AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM FUNDS; AND ADOPTING THE FY2024-FY2029 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

The FY2024 proposed budget and Capital Improvements Program (CIP) includes:

• $118,362,643 for the General Fund revenues and expenditures.

• $6,770,979 for the Sewer Fund revenues and expenditures.

• $1,845,000 for the Stormwater Fund revenues and expenditures.

• $247,938 for the Cable Access Fund revenues and expenditures.

• $120,000 for the Affordable Housing Fund revenues and expenditures.

• $61,442,261 for the School Operating Fund revenues and expenditures.

• $2,310,700 for the School Community Service Fund revenues and expenditures.

• $1,382,794 for the School Food Service Fund revenues and expenditures.

• The proposed FY2024 appropriation for the CIP includes $8,151,251 for the General Government and Schools, $23,898,716 for the Special Transportation Fund, $11,527,084 for the Sewer Fund, and $4,400,000 for the Stormwater Fund for a total of $47,977,051. The CIP is funded with $31,866,166 in grants, $1,827,550 of General Fund revenues, $860,000 of General Fund Capital Reserves, $2,234,584 of Sewer Fund revenues and fund balance, and $9,292,500 of debt proceeds; $1,896,251 is unfunded.

• The proposed FY2024-FY2029 CIP includes $24,935,501 for the General Government and Schools, $92,763,818 for the Special Transportation Fund, $23,828,340 for the Sewer Fund, and $11,850,000 for the Stormwater Fund for a total of $153,377,659 to be funded with $81,162,935 of grants, $11,071,550 of General Fund revenues, $11,467,223 of General Fund Capital Reserves, $9,480,366 of Sewer Fund revenues and fund balance, and $26,315,084 of debt proceeds; $13,880,501 is unfunded.

(TO23-04) ORDINANCE SETTING THE RATE OF TAX LEVY ON REAL ESTATE FOR TAX YEAR 2024 AND ON PERSONAL PROPERTY, MACHINERY AND TOOLS AND ALL OTHER PROPERTY SEGREGATED BY

LAW FOR LOCAL TAXATION IN THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH VIRGINIA FOR TAX

YEAR 2023

The proposed real estate tax rate for the tax year beginning July 1, 2023 is:

• $1.23 upon each $100.00 of assessed value of real estate in the City of Falls Church, which is a $0 (0%) change in the current tax rate.

The proposed tax rate for tangible personal property, and machinery and tools, and all other property segregated by law for the tax year beginning January 1, 2023 are:

• $5.00 upon each $100.00 of assessed value on tangible personal property, and machinery and tools, and all other property segregated by law for local taxation within the City, including the property separately classified by § 58.13500 et seq. of the Code of Virginia;

• $4.80 upon each $100 of assessed value for vehicles classified under § 58.1-3506.A.48.a through 58.1-3506.A.48.d shall be levied at a rate of $4.80 upon each $100 of assessed value (increased from $4.30 current rate, an increase of $0.50 cents or 12%);

• and pursuant to § 58.1-2606 of the Code of Virginia, a portion of assessed value of tangible personal property of public service corporations shall be taxed at the real estate rate.

(TO23-05) ORDINANCE TO AMEND, REENACT AND RECODIFY CHAPTER 42, “UTILITIES” OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH TO REVISE SEWER RATES AND FEES AS OF JULY 1, 2023

Under the legal authority granted by VA §15.22119, Sewer rates and fees are proposed as follows:

• an increase to the sewer commodity rate from $10.17 per thousand gallons of water billed (billing unit) to $10.48 is proposed, effective July 1, 2023, which would constitute an increase of 3% per billing unit.

• an increase to sewer availability charges from $7,680 to $8,860 for single-family dwellings and detached and semi-detached duplexes or townhouses; from $6,140 to $7,088 for apartment or condominium buildings; from $1,920 to $2,215 for motel, hotel units; and from $320 to $443 for each drainage fixture unit for commercial, industrial, and other uses.

(TO23-06) ORDINANCE TO SET THE STORMWATER UTILITY BILLING UNIT

RATE IN ACCORDANCE WITH CHAPTER

42, ARTICLE VII OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA AS OF JULY 1, 2023

Under the legal authority granted by VA § 15.22114, an increase to the City stormwater utility unit billing rate from $19.28 per 200 square feet of impervious surface (billing unit) to $20.05 per billing unit annually is proposed, effective July 1, 2023, which would constitute an increase of 4% per billing unit. All public hearings will be held in the Council Chambers, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia. Remote participation information at www.fallschurchva.gov/publiccomment. Comments may also be sent to cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov. For copies of legislation, contact the City Clerk’s office at (703-248-5014) or cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov or visit www. fallschurchva.gov/councilmeetings. The City of Falls Church is committed to the letter and spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, call 703-248-5014 (TTY 711).

CELESTE HEATH, CITY CLERK

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY COUNCIL

CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA

The ordinances referenced below were given first reading on April 10, 2023. Public hearing, second reading, and final Council consideration are scheduled for Monday, April 24, 2023 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matters may be heard.

(TO23-07) ORDINANCE TO AMEND, REENACT, AND RECODIFY CHAPTER 2, “ADMINISTRATION,” ARTICLE II, “ELECTIONS,” OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH TO ADJUST THE BOUNDARIES OF THE CITY VOTING WARDS IN ORDER TO REBALANCE THE POPULATION OF REGISTERED VOTERS

Phone : 571-999-2931

fcnp.com

WITHIN THE WARDS

The Falls Church Electoral Board (Electoral Board) and the Director of Elections and General Registrar of Voters (Registrar) recommend moving the boundaries of the City’s three voting wards in order to rebalance populations in each ward.

(TO23-08) ORDINANCE AMENDING AND ESTABLISHING POLLING PLACES IN THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH

The Electoral Board and Registrar recommend the following polling places: Oak Street Elementary School for Ward I, and the Falls Church Community Center for Wards II and III. The public hearing referenced below was continued to Monday, April 24, 2023 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard:

(TR23-06) RESOLUTION TO AMEND SPECIAL EXCEPTION SE04-0162, AS PREVIOUSLY AMENDED THROUGH RESOLUTION 2012-01, TO FURTHER AMEND CERTAIN COMMERCIAL USE RESTRICTIONS ON THE GROUND FLOOR SPACES AT 400-412 SOUTH MAPLE AVENUE (PEARSON SQUARE)

All public hearings will be held in the Council Chambers, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia. Remote participation information at www.fallschurchva.gov/publiccomment. Comments may also be sent to cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov. For copies of legislation, contact the City Clerk’s office at (703-248-5014) or cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov or visit www. fallschurchva.gov/councilmeetings. The City of Falls Church is committed to the letter and spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, call 703-248-5014 (TTY 711).

CELESTE HEATH, CITY CLERK

AUCTIONS

Real Estate Auction Fri April 28th@ 12pm. 4 bedroom 2.5 bath house 937 Rothowood Rd Lynchburg VA. Call Danny 561-262-7180. Counts Auction VAAF93

Doug's

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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BACK IN THE DAY

25 & 10 Years Ago in the News-Press

Falls Church News-Press Vol. VIII, No. 4 • April 9, 1998

City Council Campaigns Heat Up As First of 3 Debates is Tuesday

The campaigns of eight candidates running to fill four seats on the Falls Church City Council next month move into high gear this coming week with the first of three very public debates.

C ritter C orner

Falls Church News-Press

Vol. XXIII, No. 7 • April 11, 2013

F.C. Chamber Chairman Weights in, Calls For Delaying StormWater Utility Fund

Following on major concerns of churches, the business community weighed in with misgivings about the current rush by City Council to institute a new StormWater Utility Fund that will cost $1.7 million to operate.

In Memoram: Nancy Hoffman McCray

Nancy Hoffmann McCray was born on February 21, 1937 and passed away peacefully on April 2, 2023.

Loving wife of the late Robert McCray; proud mother of Kathleen McCray and Jeanne McCrayYon; beloved sister of Suzanne Marold and William Hoffmann; cherished grandmother of Lu, Blaise and Jo Sevier and Michael and Natalie Yon; and cherished great grandmother of puppies Jack, Max and Buddy.

In the care of Murphy Funeral Homes, Nancy’s Memorial Service will be held on Saturday,April 29th, 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at St. James Catholic Church 905 Park Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the International Rescue Committee (IRC).

CLASSIFIEDS

Continued from Page 17

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Make

Critter Corner

THIS IS ELLIE, she is a Black Lab rescue from Wolf Trap Animal Rescue. She loves walking around the Eden Center and playing with her friends at Falls Green apartment complex. Here is Ellie enjoying the cherry blossoms at the Wharf.

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

Faces of Falls Church

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fcnp.com

Long time Little City resident, Dianne Bullock’s. She arrived here in Falls Church 1959 and grew up/was educated here. Bullock says, “I enjoy meeting and helping other people, which I do frequently at my job at the library. I like the small town feel here, the shops, the restaurants, and the friendliness of my fellow City of Falls Church citizens. I’ve been known to be tardy at times because I stop to pet all the dogs I come across.”

Let us know who in the community makes you smile or makes The Little City feel more like a home by emailing ktoland@fcnp.com. The News-Press reserves the right to use its discretion on who to feature.

Just because you’re

(Photo: Diann Bullock)

Putin’s Energy Offensive Has Failed

eventually retreated after suffering huge losses.

Europe would replace Russian gas if the supply were cut off.

Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022. Since then, Russia has launched four great offensives. Three were military; the fourth was economic. And while you don’t hear much about that last offensive, its failure offers some very important lessons.

Everyone knows about the first military offensive: the attempted blitzkrieg that was supposed to seize Kyiv and other major Ukrainian cities in a matter of days. Many observers — especially, but not only, Western right-wingers who fetishized the perceived prowess of Russia’s un-woke military — expected this blitzkrieg to succeed. Instead, it turned into an epic defeat: Stalled by a dogged Ukrainian defense, the Russians

The second offensive was more limited in scope: a spring attack on eastern Ukraine. Here again, many observers expected a decisive Russian victory, perhaps the encirclement of much of Ukraine’s army. And the Russians did make some advances thanks to overwhelming artillery superiority. But this offensive stalled once Ukraine acquired Western precision weapons, especially the now famous HIMARS, which wreaked havoc on Russian rear areas. And Ukraine was eventually able to launch counterattacks that regained significant ground, notably retaking Kherson.

The third Russian offensive, a winter attack in the Donbas region, is still underway, and it’s possible that Ukraine may choose to pull out of the embattled city of Bakhmut, a place of little strategic importance that has nonetheless become the

scene of incredibly bloody fighting. But most observers I read view the enterprise as a whole as yet another strategic failure.

In some ways, though, Russia’s most important defeat has come not on the battlefield but on the economic front. I said that Russia has launched four great offensives; the fourth was the attempt to blackmail European democracies into dropping their support for Ukraine by cutting off their supplies of natural gas.

There were reasons to be concerned about this attempt to weaponize energy supplies. While the Russian invasion of Ukraine initially disrupted markets for several commodities — Russia is a major oil producer, and both Russia and Ukraine were major agricultural exporters before the war — natural gas seemed like an especially serious pressure point. Why? Because it isn’t really traded on a global market. The cheapest way to ship gas is via pipelines, and it wasn’t obvious how

So many people, myself included, worried about the effects of a de facto Russian gas embargo. Would it cause a European recession? Would hard times in Europe undermine willingness to keep aiding Ukraine?

Well, the big story — a story that hasn’t received much play in the news media, because it’s hard to report on things that didn’t happen — is that Europe has weathered the loss of Russian supplies remarkably well. Euro-area unemployment hasn’t gone up at all; inflation did surge, but European governments have managed, through a combination of price controls and financial aid, to limit (but not eliminate) the amount of personal hardship created by high gas prices.

And Europe has managed to keep functioning despite the cutoff of most Russian gas. Partly this reflects a turn to other sources of gas, including liquefied natural gas shipped from the United States; partly it reflects conservation efforts that have reduced demand. Some of it reflects a temporary return to coal-fired electricity generation; much of it reflects the fact that Europe already gets a large share of its energy from renewables.

And yes, it was an unusually warm winter, which also helped. But the bottom line, as a report from the European Council on Foreign Relations puts it, is that “Moscow failed in its effort to

blackmail EU member states through withholding gas.” Indeed, Europe has stepped up its military aid to Ukraine, notably by sending main battle tanks that may help the coming Ukrainian counteroffensive.

So what can we learn from the failure of Russia’s energy offensive?

First, Russia looks more than ever like a Potemkin superpower, with little behind its impressive facade. Its much vaunted military is far less effective than advertised; now its role as an energy supplier is proving much harder to weaponize than many imagined.

Second, democracies are showing, as they have many times in the past, that they are much tougher, much harder to intimidate, than they look.

Finally, modern economies are far more flexible, far more able to cope with change, than some vested interests would have us believe.

For as long as I can remember, fossil-fuel lobbyists and their political supporters have insisted that any attempt to reduce greenhouse gas emissions would be disastrous for jobs and economic growth. But what we’re seeing now is Europe making an energy transition under the worst possible circumstances — sudden, unexpected and drastic — and handling it pretty well. This suggests that a gradual, planned green energy transition would be far easier than pessimists imagine.

Paul Krugman © The New York Times