Citing a revised projection downward of $1.2 million in upcoming fiscal year revenue due to draconian Trump administration federal worker and contractor layoffs, the Falls Church City Council voted unanimously Monday night to work with new budget numbers eliminating the 2.5 cent real estate tax reduction recommended earlier by City Manager Wyatt Shields and instead proceeding with one that has no tax rate cut.
The dramatic change, keeping the current rate of $1.21 per $100 of assessed valuation instead of Shields’ earlier proposal for a rate cut to $1.185, was adopted with no disputes among the Council’s seven members, and still leaves open the prospect that some changes could be introduced before its approval of the final budget for the coming year on May 12.
The Council also moved to increase the personal property tax rate, the so-called car tax, upward to $5 per $100 assessed valuation.
Shields told the Council Monday that budget numbers in the current fiscal year indicate that “we face a challenging economy” and that he is forecasting that $1.2 million less than originally calculated will come to City coffers in the coming fiscal year.
In a discussion with the Council’s Budget and Finance Committee last week, he said,
on
A CHEERY PROCESSIONAL
After a Year, Accessory Dwellings Get a Final OK
in all but one case (6-1), with one proposal that failed before its final approval.
After almost a year of town halls, public comments, surveys, petitions and governmental agency deliberations, recommendations and votes, the Falls Church City Council came together this Monday for a surprising unanimous vote adopting an ordinance permitting the construction of accessory dwelling units on residential properties.
A draft of the ordinance that was introduced at the meeting wound up being amended four times with unanimous 7-0 votes
The matter has to do with the wider, national effort to address a severe housing shortage in the U.S. and especially in terms of affordable housing in the case of this region and the City of Falls Church, where the value of the average single family home is in the range of $1 million.
Accessory dwellings, also called “granny flats,” offer as their intent a lower priced housing option and commonly are considered desirable options for housing inlaws, either young or older, by a single family home -
owner. But they can also be used for rentals, which would also help alleviate the housing problem by adding income for an economically-squeezed homeowner.
Mayor Letty Hardi wrapped up the discussion praising the outcome, noting that it will provide “more housing options,” taking less than a year to address a long-standing problem.”
The new law “allows for byright development, no restrictive parking requirements, and for mutli-generational living addressing the needs of children, parents and more,” she said.
She added that the new policy also sends a message that Falls Church is “a welcoming city, and we are serious about that.”
She hailed the “well-rounded discussions about the good we can bring” to the city, and against “the bad stuff that keeps good stuff from happening.”
Vice Mayor Deborah ShantzHiscott said she was “proud of the collaborative approach” exhibited by the Council since the matter was first introduced last May.
Councilmember Marybeth
Continued on Page 4
LAST SUNDAY WAS PALM SUNDAY and members, friends and clergy of the Falls Church Episcopal Church preceded their regular service with a palm-waving procession down beside the church on E. Fairfax Street on a sunny morning. (Photo: News-Press)
by Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press
by Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press
NOTICE OF PROPOSED REAL PROPERTY TAX INCREASE
(TO25-03) ORDINANCE SETTING THE RATE OF TAX LEVY ON REAL ESTATE FOR TAX YEAR 2026 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 2025
The City of Falls Church proposes to increase property tax levies.
• Assessment Increase. Total assessed value of real property, excluding additional assessments due to new construction or improvements to property, exceeds last year’s total assessed value of real property by 5.46 percent.
• Lowered Rate Necessary to Offset Increased Assessment. The tax rate which would levy the same amount of real estate tax as last year, when multiplied by the new total assessed value of real estate with the exclusions mentioned above would be $1.147 per $100 of assessed value. This rate will be known as the “lowered tax rate”.
• Effective Rate Increase. The City of Falls Church proposes to adopt a tax rate of $1.21 per $100 of assessed value. The difference between the lowered tax rate and the proposed rate would be $0.063 per $100, or 5.49 percent. This difference will be known as the “effective tax rate increase”. Individual property taxes may, however, increase at a percentage greater than or less than the above percentage.
• Proposed Total General Fund Budget Decrease. Based on the proposed real property tax rate and changes in other revenues, the total General Fund budget of the City of Falls Church will decrease by 2.9 percent.
Public hearings on the increase will be held on April 28, 2025 and May 12, 2025 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as they may be heard, in the Council Chambers, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia. The hearings shall be open to the public. The City Council will permit persons desiring to be heard an opportunity to present oral testimony within such reasonable time limits as shall be determined by the City Council.
For copies of legislation, contact the City Clerk's office at (703-248-5014) or cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov or visit www.fallschurchva.gov. 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
Delegate Marcus Simon’s Richmond Report
Most of what I know about legislating I learned from watching School House Rock’s “I’m Just a Bill” song, where I met an anthropomorphic “Bill” who was hoping to become a law someday. He sang the process to the young boy who found him sitting alone on the steps of the Capitol on Capitol Hill.
One of the reasons I’ve always loved state level politics and the Virginia General Assembly so much is that, unlike Congress, things still follow a pretty regular and predictable order in Richmond.
In 2025, 13 of my bills grew up to become laws, and they followed the School House Rock process almost exactly, with a few twists and turns thrown in.
This month I’d like to focus on just one of those.
Just like Bill explains to his new friend, bill ideas can come from a variety of places but often from a constituent who has had or is having a problem.
Last September, I met with a constituent who was being sued by the person who had sexually harassed her after she filed a complaint under Title IX and testified during the ensuing investigation. The law professor who was the subject of the complaint was ultimately dismissed from the university for reasons unrelated to this complaint.
He has since filed a defamation lawsuit against her using statements made during the investigation, seeking over $100 million in damages. She believes that the suit is retaliatory and unfounded, designed to inflict extreme economic hardship rather than to win a judgement.
In many states there are ways to dispose of frivolous lawsuits relatively quickly, and to recover attorney’s fees and have sanctions imposed if the court agrees that the suit was brought for improper purposes.
Virginia has what’s called an AntiSLAPP statute, (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Policy) but its application is extremely narrow and hard to invoke, making Virginia a “law tourism” destination for people looking to bring these kinds of defamation suits.
Initially, we expanded the scope of the existing law to include immunity for statements made in connection with all official proceedings and added a mandatory award of attorney’s fees and sanctions to deter people from bringing these suits in the first place.
The bill’s first stop after being drafted was in the Civil Law Subcommittee, which I happen to chair. My constituent drove down from Falls Church that morning and had about 10 minutes to testify and explain her particular situation.
While my fellow legislators were sympathetic, they were concerned with the mandatory award of sanctions, so we made that optional again, advancing the bill with only one NO vote. At full committee, an attorney who frequently worked for those bringing defamation suits surprised us with testimony that he thought the bill, even as trimmed by the subcommittee, went too far. We passed it over his objections on a narrow vote, but when the bill came to the House Floor, where we couldn’t afford to lose any votes, we took out the mandatory attorney’s fees as well.
So far, things were going just like the cartoon — we went to committee where it was argued and amended, then to the Floor, where it was amended some more, and voted on and passed. The next stop was the State Senate, to start all over again.
Bill had gotten a little thinner than when he started the process, but he was still alive.
In the Senate, I didn’t have the advantage of chairing the committee where the bill would be heard, so I spent a lot of one-on-one time talking with my Senate colleagues. My constituent returned to Richmond to have individual meetings with Senators and their staff, once again sharing her traumatic story with the hope that she could tip the scales.
Some wordsmithing later, the Senate Courts Committee and ultimately the Senate passed the amended version, 39-1. The House accepted the changes and the bill headed to the Governor.
One Virginia specific twist. While the President can only sign or veto a bill, the Governor can recommend amendments, which he did. His amendment narrowed the scope even further so that it only applies to Title IX processes.
While it’s not all we were hoping for, our bill makes it clear that someone who is suffering sexual harassment in an academic setting can file a Title IX complaint and feel safe to testify about their experience without living in fear of a 9 figure lawsuit being filed for the purpose of bringing about financial ruin and years of emotional distress. That bill will become law on July 1, 2025.
Trump Cuts Worry F.C. Council, Planned Tax Cut Is No Longer
from Page 1
his staff came to recommend a flat rate for the real estate tax instead of the 2.5 cent reduction that he had recommended just last month.
With relatively little discussion and virtually no dissent, the Council proceeded to adopt his recommendation. The City’s director of finance, Kiran Bawa, stood at the speakers podium throughout the deliberation, but was not called on by any Council member.
By law, the Council can now proceed in the budget deliberation process to lower that rate, but not increase it, in its final vote to adopt the new budget in May.
In a written report to the Council, Shields and City Director of Finance Kiran Bawa noted that for the third quarter of the current fiscal year (January through March 2025), “local taxes, excluding real estate, lag the budget projection by $1.18 million (3.7 percent). The softening of local tax receipts, including meals and
sales taxes, is a continuation of trends we observed in the midyear financial report.”
It continued, “Regional economic turbulence caused by federal job layoffs, spending cuts and the overall economic uncertainty from tariffs likely is contributing to reduced consumer spending and decreased business activity that drives these local tax receipts.”
Through the third quarter of the current fiscal year, sales tax receipts have come in below estimates by 4.7 percent and meals tax receipts by 12.9 percent, the two major indicators that the report referred to.
The sales tax shortfall, the report noted, “is in part due to a very strong sales tax growth forecast” for the year, even as the actual number is 2 percent above the previous year. Sales tax from groceries are up 1 percent while online sales are down by 5 percent.
Sales tax numbers are considered a key indicator of overall trends, the report noted.
As for meals tax revenue, it is almost 13 percent below
the earlier budget estimate and flat compared to a year ago. “Expectations of boosted receipts from new developments have lagged as some openings were delayed; but additionally, there are also indications of a change in consumer spending behavior sales as existing restaurants are flat or below last year.”
These trends are particularly worrisome as the completion of a number of new mixed use projects adding hundreds of new apartment units in the City have been expected to contribute to an uptick in both sales and meals tax revenues.
According to the report, scenarios for the coming fiscal year that the Council will mull as it prepares for a final vote in the next month range from ones showing deficits below current revenue projections that range widely from $0 to $3.6 million, being equivalent to 0 to 6 cents on the real estate tax rate. A 4 percent growth scenario is considered likely, the report stated, based on the 10-year average from pre-Covid years, with a
projected deficit of $1.2 million, or 2 cents on the tax rate. Thus the recommendation for adjusting the staff recommendation away from proposing a tax cut this year.
Shields noted to the Council that job fairs and resources are listed on the City’s website, including one on Wednesday, April 30 at 5:30 p.m. that offers resume crafting skills and more, and the May 3 event organized by U.S. Rep. Don Beyer in Alexandria (details in story on page 8).
F.C. CONDOMINIUM RESIDENTS whose trash is not picked up by the City, in all over 1,000 residents, appeared at this Monday’s City Council meeting to press for a change in the long-standing City policy. The Council indicated it will address the matter over the summer. (Photo: News-Press)
Connelly applauded the “heavy lift” that the matter represented for the City Hall staff, especially the key role played by the Planning Department’s Jack Trainor, who has been in charge of it since Planning Director Paul Stoddard left earlier this year.
She said, “This has been such a thorough process. There has been a lot of talking and listening and so many changes along the way.”
Councilmember Erin Flynn said, “I echo Marybeth’s remarks, we are all doing our best.”
Councilmember Laura Downs hailed the fact that the Council was able to work together to make concessions. “I am proud of us,” she said. “We’ve been reading all the emails, assessing survey results, having a lot of one-on-one conversations. My mind changed several times.”
Councilmember Dave Snyder said, “This should show that compromise is not a four-letter word.”
Perhaps the most contentious issue related to setbacks, that is, how far from a property line must an accessory unit be placed. A proposal
for five feet was counted by one for 10, and the compromise was eight feet (and 10 for more than a single level). It was pointed out that Alexandria has only a single foot setback requirement.
The Council decided that a property owner has to be living on site only up to the time the construction of an accessory dwelling begins.
It was stipulated that there be annual assessments on how the policy is working out for the next three years.
In public petitioning, citizens spoke on both sides of the issue, including Village Preservation and Improvement Society president Mark Gross who urged a 10 foot setback and an owner-occupancy requirement.
Others noted the investment opportunities that the units could provide, expressed worry about the impact on neighbors or denounced a collusion of “activists and builders.”
The language of the ordinance states that it is “to amend City Code chapter 48 ‘Zoning’ to allow accessory dwelling as permitted accessory use in the R-1a, R-1b and R-m districted and to allow detached accessory dwellings and to amend City
Code chapter 42 (Utilities) to regulate the water and sewer connections of accessory dwellings.”
The amendments included the following:
“Detached accessory dwellings up to 15 feet or 1 story in height must be set back 8 feet from rear and side lot lines unless the Board of Zoning Appeals grants a Special Use Permit.” All other accessory dwellings must be set back at least 10 feet from rear and side lot lines.”
“The owner of the property shall maintain the property as their primary residence at the time the permit and certificate required are issued except for new construction where the principal dwelling and accessory dwelling are built together at that time.”
“Any permitted use or accessory structure not over 1 ½ story or 12 feet in height and accessory dwellings, such buildings occupying in the aggregate not more than 30 percent of the minimum rear yard area or up to 50 percent where such buildings include an accessory dwelling, shall be located not less than five feet from the principal building, not less than ten feet from all street and alley lines and not
STEP INTO SPRING WITH SYLE
Did DOGE Help Moscow Hack Into NLRB Files?
Nicholas F. Benton
Tuesday’s whistleblower revelations are stunning concerning the raid by Elon Musk’s DOGE phalanx into sensitive files of the National Labor Relations Board, the evidence of a massive theft of data and the acknowledged attempt from a Russian IP address to extract it at the same time.
Two Virginia lawmakers, U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly of Fairfax County and U.S. Senator Mark Warner, are in the forefront of efforts to address the issue. Connolly, the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, has formally called for an investigation, asserting that DOGE “may be engaged in technological malfeasance and illegal activity,” as reported by National Public Radio.
“Individuals associated with DOGE have attempted to exfiltrate and alter data while also using highlevel systems access to remove sensitive information,” Connolly wrote in a letter to NLRB officials. The whistleblower, Daniel Berulis, an information technology staffer at the NLRB, filed a complaint with the Senate Intelligence Committee’s chair and ranking Democrat Sen. Warner.
Berulis appeared on MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow show Tuesday night to talk about his findings, including the reference to the identified effort by someone in Russia to hack into the data breach just as it was happening. No doubt, congressional investigations are coming.
But this is not all this week. This incredible story was compounded further by yesterday’s exclusive Washington Post report from Spencer S. Hsu and Aaron Schaffer that Ed Martin, Trump’s pick to be the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, appeared on Russian state TV no less than 150 times (or more) since 2016, and that Martin covered up all this in his application for the post.
The Post report documents an incredible and unmistakable pattern of pro-Moscow apologetics by Martin on the Russian RT and Sputnik networks, taking the Moscow propaganda side against the U.S. on matters from the Russian invasion of Ukraine
and the murderous pro-Russian regime of Bashar al-Assad in Syria to its interference in U.S. elections.
According to the Post account, Martin’s comments on Russian TV “appear to agree with Moscow’s geopolitical views and foreign policy aims, while embracing a worldview distrustful of U.S. institutions and experts, similar to disinformation pushed by the Kremlin.”
It cites former U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken’s statement that RT and Sputnik’s parent company “are engaged in covert influence activities aimed at undermining American elections and democracies, functioning like a de facto arm of Russia’s intelligence apparatus.”
At the same time as all the above, of course, Trump is continuing to wreak havoc with the U.S. economy, with his tariff wobbling severely undermining confidence in ways that will savage the U.S. bond market as the value of the dollar plummets and the stock market’s volatility index is at its highest level since the days of the Great Recession in 2007 and 2008. It was the severe wobble effect in the markets that preceded that crisis, and the U.S. is far less capable of either staving off or recovering from another situation like that one.
But Trump, Musk and the Trumpists that they, either through appointments on threats, are having installed in all levels of the government, are nowhere near relenting. Meanwhile, their assaults are deepening against the media and educational institutions such as Harvard.
These are all hallmarks of a classic cult. But this time, the effort to restrict access to information is extending not only to cult members, but to the American public as a whole.
At all levels, as in the cases of the cults that so widely proliferated in the 1970s, authoritarian pronouncements substitute for any contrary knowledge or information.
Comparisons with Trump are now being made to the Jonestown cult that suffered over 900 suicides and murders on one unholy night in November 1978. It is considered that Jonestown was a KGB operation.
The language and practices of cults are remarkably uniform. They are extensions of the kind of bullying skills that some children develop on playgrounds and that gang and organized crime figures hone to terrorize their victims.
Now, the victims are all of us. The only remedy is to conquer fear with rightly-justified resolve and strong, effective action.
COMMENT
A Penny for Your Thoughts
By Penny Gross Former Fairfax County Supervisor
Donald Trump finally told the truth! In one of his rambling “lectures” – you know, the kind where he starts out focused on the topic and ends up terming Joe Biden as the “worst president in the history of the United States” and repeating his contention that other countries have emptied their prisons and asylums to send the worst people to “invade” our country – Trump bragged that “No other president would have done it.” “It” was his decree that imposed exorbitant tariffs on every other country in the world and created a global upheaval of the economic order. He’s right: no other president would have done it; no other president would be crazy enough or callous enough to send markets crashing to subterranean depths. Finally recognizing the damage being done at his behest, Trump blinked and announced a 90-day pause in most tariffs, except for China. For that trading partner, he increased the tariff from 104 percent to 124 percent, and finally to 144 percent…for a couple of days. Last weekend, he blinked again and exempted certain electronic equipment, such as cell phones, laptops and certain chips, from the increased
tariffs. Apparently one or more of his billionaire buddies appealed to his sense of what? Money? Fair play? Common sense? Tit for tat? Whatever moved him, Trump used his “oh never mind” card, at least for now. If Trump’s Department of Justice was interested in investigating potential insider trading or market manipulation by Trump and his cronies, what would they find? In this Administration, we may never know, but it would be a tantalizing query. As Trump rewards his billionaire brethren, what’s happening to the other 99 percent of Americans?
Crude oil prices are down, but gasoline at many Northern Virginia stations is up by 30 cents a gallon or more. On New Year’s Eve, before Biden left office, I paid $2.659 a gallon at a local Shell station; exactly three months later, on March 31, Trump is president, and the same station is charging $3.19. Egg prices have reduced a bit, but still are three to four times higher than they were last year. That’s almost 50 cents per egg; not long ago, an egg cost about 15 cents. No wonder some restaurants are putting a surcharge on each egg
City of Falls Church CRIME REPORT
Week of Apr 7 - 13, 2025
Larceny from Building/Credit Card Theft, W Broad St, between 1:06 p.m. on Apr 1 and 7:30 p.m. on Apr 3, an unknown suspect stole the victim’s mail from a mail room, which contained a credit card, and then made fraudulent charges to the card. (Delayed report)
No Valid Operator’s License, W Broad St/ Little Falls St, Apr 8, 6:33 a.m., a male, 41, of Washington, DC, was arrested for No Valid Operator’s License.
Credit Card Theft/Credit Card Fraud, Park Ave, Apr 8, 12:40 p.m., a male, 33, of Washington, DC, was arrested on out-
standing warrants for Credit Card Theft, Felony Credit Card Fraud, and two counts of Misdemeanor Credit Card Fraud.
Larceny from Building, Founders Ave, between 7:00 PM on April 3 and 6:45 a.m. on April 4, an unknown suspect cut a cable lock off the victim’s silver Trek 7300 Road bicycle and stole it.
Destruction of Property, W Broad St/S Washington St, Apr 11, 3:04 PM, a report for graffiti was taken.
No Valid Operator’s License, N Washington St, Apr 12, 10:41 a.m., a female, 26, of Alexandria, was arrested for No Valid Operator’s License.
Larceny from Building, Founders Ave,
they serve. A box of store brand facial tissues that formerly cost 99 cents now goes for $1.79, a 55 percent increase. Unknown, right now, is how much tariffs will cost the average American family. Estimates are as high as $5000 a year, a cost that a Trump official said really wasn’t that bad, estimating the cost at “only” $16 a week. That can be a lot of money for those whose household budget has to stretch from weekly paycheck to weekly paycheck.
It’s may be hard to stomach, but Trump was right about one thing. No other American president would have given a billionaire crony carte blanche to take a chain saw to the federal work force, firing thousands of public servants despite their protected civil service status. No other president would leave veterans and Social Security recipients bereft of benefits they spent their careers earning. No other president would advocate declaring thousands of immigrants dead when they are not. No other president would intimidate private companies and law firms, making “deals” for millions of dollars of free legal services for his pet causes. No other president would tolerate incompetence in his Cabinet appointees. And no other president would have deserted our allies and destroyed our global reputation on a whim. Donald Trump’s “America First” rapidly is becoming “America Alone.”
between 6:30 p.m. on April 11 and 11:00 a.m. on April 12, an unknown suspect cut a lock off the victim’s green Specialized Levo electric bicycle and stole it.
Domestic Assault and Battery, S Maple Ave, Apr 12, 10:15 p.m., a female, 36, of the City of Falls Church, was arrested for Domestic Assault and Battery.
Larceny from Vehicle, Hillwood Ave, Apr 13, between 12:30 a.m. and 2:33 a.m., an unknown suspect stole the rear tires and rims from the victim’s vehicle.
Other Jurisdiction Warrant Service, E Fairfax St, Apr 13, 11:40 p.m., a male, 32, of Fairfax County, was arrested on an outstanding warrant from another jurisdiction.
17 - 23, 2025
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The Falls Church City Council’s action to adopt a reasonable plan to allow and even incentivize affordable dwelling units, so-called “granny flats,” in the City by a unanimous 7-0 vote was a commendable and hopeful development. The process took almost a year, but with some singular exceptions, it was not as contentious and hostile as the years’ long tortured process that led to a transitional zone modifications which, as we are discovering, has not yet led to an armageddon.
With the assault on the very core of the Northern Virginia, or greater D.C., region through its vast federal and federal contractor cutbacks and firings, the Trump administration has generated a profound call to arms for local jurisdictions and the state to stiffen resolve and to move to creative and effective mitigation efforts. Area U.S. congressmen like Falls Church’s own Don Beyer and Fairfax’s Gerry Connolly have been champions in the as-yet frustrating effort to stir greater resistance in the U.S. Congress. All taken together, the sign of a more congenial effort at compromise and consensus in local governments like Falls Church’s is exemplary of this growing unity of resistance and constructive countermeasures.
In his address to the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce this week, Rep. Beyer conceded that he has been unable to identify any serious efforts toward a collaboration by Democrats and potentially anti- or non-Trump Republicans on Capital Hill. Yet to us, this has to be the pathway to a serious change from the highly perilous situation that now exists not only for this region, but for the nation as a whole and the world. Objective reality has to be combined with relentless persistence to begin to crack open the fearing souls of enough relatively reasonable Republicans to achieve this.
Regrettably, due to Trump, conditions can be expected to worsen for average citizens at all levels in the U.S. in the coming months. But this can create the opportunity for a new kind of cross–party alliance, as envisioned by the fledgling “Abundance” movement that Falls Church’s Mayor Letty Hardi and Council member Justine Underhill were invited to explore in San Francisco recently (as reported in the News-Press two weeks ago). By next year’s midterm elections, there could even be robust counter movement against Trumpism in the GOP that could, among other things, target the worst pro-Trumpers in Congress to be “primaried” by reasonable same-party foes. Such would be a much welcomed turning of the tables.
In the spirit of the Abundance effort, we suggest that a cross-party team work up a 10-point statement of shared principles that it can go out to the public with, offering hope in the midst of increasing chaos and misery not only in Virginia in its gubernatorial and state delegate elections this year, but in the all-important midterms across the nation next year. The impulse tendency of the American populace to rise up against Trump will be amplified and extended by such an approach.
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APRIL
Easter Brings Faith, Family, and Spring Joyful Traditions
by Falls Church News-Press
A Time of Reflection and Renewal: Easter Celebrations Across the Region:
As spring blossoms into full bloom, communities across the region are coming together to celebrate Easter—a holiday that carries deep religious significance for many and a joyful spirit of renewal for all.
Observed by Christians around the world, Easter Sunday commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is widely considered the most important event on the Christian calendar. Churches across Northern Virginia and the D.C. area are preparing for packed pews and sunrise services, with many offering hybrid options for both in-person and virtual worship. Local congregations such as Falls Church Episcopal and Columbia Baptist Church have announced family-friendly sermons aimed at connecting all ages with the Easter message.
But Easter is also a time for community connection and
festive traditions that reach far beyond the church walls.
In parks, backyards, and town squares, colorful eggs and baskets filled with goodies take center stage. Families are already signing up for egg hunts hosted by local organizations, including the City of Falls Church Recreation and Parks Department, which will hold its annual hunt on Easter weekend at Cherry Hill Park. Children will search for hidden eggs, meet the Easter Bunny, and enjoy crafts and games that bring the community together in the fresh spring air.
For many households, Easter is also a culinary affair. Tables are being set for traditional feasts that range from glazed ham and roast lamb to deviled eggs, hot cross buns, and carrot cake. Grocery stores and bakeries are offering Easter-themed treats, and farmers markets are bustling with early spring produce, perfect for family brunches.
Easter also marks a seasonal shift. For many, it’s a time to reconnect—with loved ones,
with faith, and with the rhythms of nature. Whether it’s through shared meals, acts of service, or simply taking a walk among blooming cherry blossoms,
the spirit of Easter encourages reflection, hope, and new beginnings.
As the holiday approaches, the message remains clear:
Easter is more than a single day—it’s a reminder of resilience, renewal, and the joy that can be found in life’s small but meaningful moments.
Beyer Warns of Trump Policy Impacts on Region, U.S. & World
by Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press
U.S. Rep. Donald S. Beyer Jr., came before the group that he was president of 45 years ago as a Falls Church businessman this Tuesday, cautioning the monthly meeting of the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce about the dire consequences of the Trump administration’s current tariff policy.
Beyer, who represents the 8th Congressional district of Virginia that includes the City of Falls Church, said Trump’s current tariff policy “is the dumbest thing since the Smoot-Hawley tariffs of 1930 that led to the Great Depression.”
Beyer addressed the tariffs, tax policy and federal budget proposals of the Trump administration, and then spoke about measures that are being developed at the local level to address these.
On the upbeat side, he spoke about the promise of controlled thermonuclear fusion energy as the head of the Congressional Fusion Caucus, noting that a contract for the first commercial fusion reactor ever has been signed between Commonwealth Fusion in Massachusetts and the Virginia Dominion Power. It is slated to be constructed on a site in Chesterfield County.
Fusion, Beyer said, which
requires only water as fuel and has no waste, is a veritably limitless source of energy that will end poverty and halt climate change in our lifetimes.
He also touted the positive promises of AI, noting how it could lead readily to information sharing that could prevent the current 10,000 deaths a year in the U.S. that are owing to misdiagnoses. Investing in research and development is the key to the future, he said.
Beyer said that the Trump tariff effort “is alienating our friends, will be paid for by U.S. importers and passed onto American consumers, are causing instability and consumer confidence that has been the lowest in decades.”
He singled out Trump advisor Peter Navarro, saying, “99 out of 100 economists disagree with him.”
Current Trump moves, he said, are undermining the Bretton Woods system established in 1948 that has created the longest period of sustained growth ever, lifting billions of people out of poverty and, since NAFTA, creating 150 million jobs in the last 25 years.
He said Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) operation’s approach “has been the wrong way to address the federal deficit.” He argued that there are “no easy
solutions” and Musk’s promises have been lowered from finding $2 trillion in cuts to $150 billion.
There have been 125 lawsuits filed against the DOGE layoffs of federal workers and shutdown of the U.S. Agency for International Development while the chaotic policy that has resulted in some workers being hired back continues to prevail.
Beyer touted a May 3 Job Fair for Federal Workers and Contractors that will be held at the George Washington Middle
School in Alexandria from noon to 3 p.m.
The event, organized by Beyer in partnership with the cities of Alexandria and Falls Church and the counties of Arlington and Fairfax, is described as “a networking and hiring fair, with over 50 hiring companies participating.
There are over 10 thousand jobs available, Beyer said, and career counsellors will also be on hand.
While he acknowledged that Falls Church “might be in the
best shape” among Northern Virginia jurisdictions, “we need to be ready to adapt” as the effect of Trump’s layoffs begin to impact the region.
He said he’s met with representatives of the five big defense contractors in this region, as well as local leaders like Falls Church Mayor Letty Hardi and Fairfax Board of Supervisors Chair Jeff McKay.
He concluded by noting “how well governed the localities are in this region,” adding, “You can be very proud.”
Mustang Soccer, Lacrosse Riding Momentum Into Spring Break
by Ryan McCafferty
Spring sports season at Meridian High School has already reached the unofficial midway point, with all students on spring break and no sports in play during this third week of April. Prior to that, though, there was another week full of action – and a handful of victories – for our Mustangs. Let’s take a look. The boys’ soccer team defeated Fauquier 2-0 at home last Tuesday and then went on the road to destroy Skyline 6-0 last Thursday, capping off a perfect week against two Northwestern District rival opponents. Now 6-2 on the year, they’ll enjoy their rest before getting back on the field at home against Millbrook on the 22nd. The girls, meanwhile, took a hard-fought 2-1 loss at Fauquier last Tuesday but bounced back to beat Wakefield
2-0 at home the next night, snapping their three-game losing skid and bringing their overall record to 2-4. Their next game will be at Millbrook a week from Tuesday. On the lacrosse field, the boys picked up a pair of wins on back-to-back nights, beating Brentsville 9-3 on the road last Thursday and returning home to take down Western Albemarle in a 11-10 nailbiter on Friday. That’s four straight wins for the boys, who started 0-2 and are now 4-2. The girls on the other hand absolutely demolished Brentsville at home last Thursday in their only game of the week, winning 22-5 to improve to 3-3 on the year. Both teams will be off until Wednesday the 23rd, where the boys will face John Handley at home and the girls will travel to Annandale.
Baseball was the only team in action during the break week,
as they competed in two in-season tournament games against Thomas Jefferson on Saturday and host team Annandale on Monday. They won both, defeating Jefferson 10-8 and Annandale 16-1, completing a 3-1 week in which they additionally lost 16-0 to Brentsville last Monday but beat Manassas Park 12-0 on Wednesday, earning them their first “home” win of the season at Capital One Ballpark. Softball had a much less active week, losing 6-1 at home to Brentsville last Thursday in the team’s only contest and dropping to 3-6 on the year. The girls will now face a three-game road trip upon returning from the break, beginning at Mount Vernon next Wednesday, while the boys (5-6) will be off until Friday the 25th when they visit Skyline.
Finally, the co-ed track and field club competed in a
District meeting at Brentsville on Wednesday and saw some impressive individual results, with Maya Anderson winning the 100m hurdles for the girls and
event for the boys. The squad will now be off until Thursday the 24th, when they compete
Aaron Jacobson placing runnerup in the same
at Sherando.
U.S. REP. DON BEYER addressed the monthly luncheon of the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce Tuesday. (Photo: News-Press)
GIRLS VARSITY SOCCER Secures Home Win. (Photo: FCCPS/Art Binkowski)
News & Notes
Paragon Movie Theatres to Open in F.C. May 22
It’s official according to a spokesman that the seven-screen, 600 seat Paragon movie complex will open at Founders Row in Falls Church on Thursday, May 22. Blockbuster hits “Mission Impossible: Final Reckoning” and “Lilo and Stitch” will be first run features for that opening.
The official opening will be preceded by a limited “sneak peak” on May 17 and 18, and by an invitation-only F.C. Chamber of Commerce-led ribbon cutting featuring Falls Church City officials and Mill Creek (owners of Founders Row) and other dignitaries.
Prior to all that, the Florida-based boutique theater chain will host a job fair on Saturday, April 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. as it is looking to hire 20 to 30 people for the complex. Also, tickets will go on sale next week for the May 22 opening and subsequent dates.
F.C.’s The Falls Nominated for Casual Restaurant of the Year
The Falls, located at the iconic downtown Falls Church location in the Broaddale Shopping Center at W. Broad and N. Virginia Ave,. has been nominated as a finalist in the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington’s 43rd annual “RAMMY Awards.”
The popular restaurant opened in 2023 by the Liberty Tavern Restaurant Group and won the Best Taste Award at the Taste of Falls Church festival last September.
Also nominated for a RAMMY for Pastry Chef or Baker of the Year is Rachel Sherriffe of Falls Church’s Ellie Bird restaurant located at 125 Founders Avenue..
F.C.’s CBC & League of Women Voters Hosts May 1 ‘How to Run’
Citizens for a Better City (CBC) and the League of Women Voters of Falls Church (LWVFC) are jointly hosting a public forum on how to become a candidate and conducting a campaign in the City of Falls Church. The forum will consist of a panel discussion followed by Q&A between panelists and the audience.
The event will take place on Thursday, May 1st, 2025 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at the American Legion Hall. Anyone contemplating running for the City Council or School Board (the deadline for filing has passed for the other local offices to be voted on this year; Commissioner of the
Revenue, Treasurer, and Sheriff) or having an interest in simply learning about the election process and getting elected in our Little City is welcome.
Falls Church Episcopal to Host Gay Men’s Chorus Concert
The Falls Church will host the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington D.C. on Sunday, May 25 for their premiere performance of “A Peacock Among Pigeons,” originally scheduled for the same day at the Kennedy Center.
The Kennedy Center, upon a change of leadership to President Trump earlier this year, cancelled an appearance by the chorus. The Rev. Burl Salmon, rector of the Falls Church Episicopal, subsequently invited the chorus to perform its concert at the church’s main sanctuary here.
The concert will be one of many held in the D.C. Metro region in celebration of World Pride being held in the region during May and June this year.
Benton Voted ‘Candidate for Discernment’ by D.C. Church
The governing council of the First Congregational Church of Washington D.C. last week voted to recommend to the Central Atlantic Conference of the United Church of Christ that the status of “candidate in discernment” for ordination be assigned to its member Nicholas F. Benton, the founder, owner and editor of the Falls Church News-Press
Benton earned a Master of Divinity degree with honors from the Pacific School of Religion, Berkeley, Calif. and has served the community of Falls Church, Virginia, with his weekly general interest community newspaper for 34 years. Such service is deemed exemplary of a “calling” under the edicts of the United Church of Christ denomination, to which the First Congregational Church and Benton belong.
Frisch to Host MSNBC Analyst at May 1 Event
Fairfax County School Board chair Karl Frisch announced this week that he will be hosting a forum featuring MSNBC political analyst Glenn Kirschner to discuss the first three months of the new Trump administration. The event will be held Saturday, April 26, at noon in Vienna.
AT THE F.C. CHAMBER of Commerce lunch Tuesday, Chamber members met chatted with Rep. Don Beyer: (L to R) Attorney Mark Werblood, News-Press chief Nicholas Benton, Beyer, CPA Michael Diener and realtor Tori McKinney. (Photo: News-Press)
THE FALLS CHURCH SCHOOL Board held a reception and subsequently recognized military families with students in the system at its meeting earlier this month. (Photo: News-Press)
THIS WEEK AROUND F.C.
Thursday, April 17
On Stage: In The Heights
March 6, 2025 – May 4, 2025 Signature Theatre
4200 Campbell Ave, Arlington, VA Lights up on Washington Heights, NYC where the streets are full of music, and everybody’s got a dream. With the neighborhood on the brink of gentrification, and a life-changing winning lottery ticket somewhere in their midst, the vibrant inhabitants share hope, loss and love as they plan their futures while cherishing their home. Latin rhythms and hip-hop lyrics infuse “96,000,” “Paciencia y Fe,” “Carnaval del Barrio” and the title song as this breathtaking celebration of community and culture energetically bursts off the stage with Signature’s trademark immersive style. Tickets at www.sigtheatre.org.
Let Me Run Club
March 24, 2025 – May 17, 2025
Let Me Run is a nonprofit program that empowers boys to be themselves, stay active, and build a sense of belonging. Through running and lessons on emotional, social, and physical health, trained coaches guide teams of runners twice a week for seven weeks. The season ends with a 5k race that celebrates their growth. The program kicks off week of March 24, and will culminate May 17 at a local 5K. Henderson MS Info: Tuesdays & Fridays 7:00am - 8:15am; Meridian HS Track Oak Street Info: Mondays & Wednesdays 7:30 a.m.8:45 a.m. ; Oak Street soccer field. Participants: All OSE and Henderson MS boys are welcome! Signups will be separated by school and grade. Note: Space is limited in each group based on the number of coaches. Fee: $135; need-based scholarships are available. Register at https:// northernva.letmerun.org/teams. Questions? david.newton.sr@gmail.com or jamescthompsonjr@gmail.com
Art Show: In the Absence of Nurture... Nature
March 27, 2025 – June 15, 2025 Rare Bird Coffee Roasters
230 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA
The Moonwalkers:
A Journey with Tom Hanks
March 28, 2025 – April 20, 2025 John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
2700 F St NW, Washington, DC Through voiceover, Tom Hanks narrates an immersive experience that offers a unique new perspective on humankind’s past and future voyages to the moon. Projected in 360 degrees on the walls and the floor, The Moonwalkers is full of space-age wonder, perfect for families and visitors of all ages. Tickets: $20.00 at https://www.kennedy-center.org/whats-on/ explore-by-genre/film/2024-2025/moonwalkers.
Much Ado About Nothing
March 29, 2025 – April 19, 2025 Little Theatre of Alexandria
600 Wolfe St, Alexandria, VA
Set against the jazzy streets and festive vibes of modern-day New Orleans, William Shakespeare’s timeless Rom-Com comes to life. With vibrant characters, clever plot twists, and a delightful mix of love and laughter, this romantic comedy promises an exhilarating ride from start to finish. Tickets: $26.00 at www.thelittletheatre.com.
Operation Smooth Streets
March 31, 2025 – May 2, 2025 Falls Church, VA
Get ready for smoother rides ahead! Starting Monday, March 31, the Department of Public Works is launching Operation Smooth Streets, a 5-week
initiative to address potholes and ensure safer roads for everyone. Schedule (weather permitting): Southside: March 31 - April 11, Northside: April 14 - April 25, Citywide: April 28 - May 2. How to Help: Report potholes! fallschurchva. gov/report or email to dpw@fallschurchva.gov.
Falls Church Fitness Challenge
April 1, 2025 – April 30, 2025 Falls Church, VA
The City of Falls Church is celebrating its title as the Healthiest Community in America as recognized by U.S. News & World Report. Get ready to move, because the Falls Church Fitness Challenge kicks off on April 1! This month-long event is designed for all ages and fitness levels, making it easy and fun to get active, challenge yourself, and even win prizes along the way. Here’s how it works: Starting April 1, you can pick up your Fitness Challenge Passport at the library, City Hall, or the Rec & Parks office. Then, complete different activities — like walking, yoga, team sports, and workouts — to check off challenges on your Bingo Board. The more challenges you finish, the bigger the rewards! Complete 6 challenges – Earn a Falls Church Fitness Challenge Decal. Complete 18 challenges – Get a pair of Fitness Challenge Sport Socks. Complete 32 challenges – Score a Fitness Challenge Duffel Bag. Plus, turn in your completed passport at the end of the month for a chance to win even more prizes in our raffle! Learn more at https://visitfallschurch.com/fallschurchfit
Spring Egg Hunt in the Gardens April 1, 2025 – April 30, 2025 Meadowlark Botanical Gardens 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct, Vienna, VA
Enjoy a delightful Spring Egg Hunt adventure available daily, April 1-30, 2025, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.! Embark on a self-guided hunt through the gardens as you search for treasures – giant eggs!
The fun is as easy as 1 – 2 – 3! Start your quest at the Visitor Center where you’ll receive your egg fun find sheet, your key to unlocking the fun. Hop along winding paths through the Spring gardens. When you find a giant egg, draw its design on your egg hunt sheet. Once you have found all of the eggs, show your completed egg fun find sheet to our staff and receive an EGGcellent prize! The Spring Egg Hunt is $8 per egg hunter which includes garden admission. Regular garden admission ($5-$8) or garden memberships apply to those accompanying the egg hunters. All fees are paid at the door. All ages are welcome.
Live Production: Annie April 11, 2025 – April 20, 2025 National Theatre DC 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC
Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical of all time is set to return in a new production – just as you remember it and just when we need it most. Tickets: www. https://www.thenationaldc.com
Spring Break Scholars April 12, 2025 – April 20, 2025
Upton Hill Regional Park 6060 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205
Climb UPton Vertical Adventure is a 3-level high ropes course nestled in Upton Hill Regional Park. With 90 unique elements, Climb Upton is where fun goes to have fun! The Climb UP Passport allows users access to all climbing features for 2 hours. Waiver must be completed prior to climb. Get outside and get UP for a Spring Break experience like no other! Participate in our Spring Break Scholars promotion by showing your report card at check in! All A's and B's receive 20% off all Youth and Adult (16+ students) tickets. Additionally receive a sticker, key chain and magnet while supplies last. Pricing adjusted at register after report card is shown. Bookings made online will receive a 20% refund. Offer valid for Climb UP
Passports and All Adventure Passes. https://www. novaparks.com/parks/upton-hill-regional-park
Spring Sasquatch Count
April 14, 2025 – April 20, 2025
Winkler Botanical Preserve
5400 Roanoke Ave, Alexandria, VA
Be a junior scientist at Winkler Botanical Preserve! Help conduct a Spring Sasquatch Count to see if the sasquatch population is healthy and thriving at the preserve! April 14 -20, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Roam the park and count sasquatch silhouettes, come to the lodge with your count, and enter to win a FREE weekend cabin stay at Pohick Bay Regional Park in Lorton, VA. This event is FREE to enter and FREE to win.
City of Falls Church Spring Break Camps
April 14, 2025 – April 18, 2025
Meridian High School
121 Mustang Alley, Falls Church, VA
Work on your free throw, shout checkmate, score a goal, or dance in a performance to remember. Join a spring break camp with the Recreation and Parks Department. All spring break camps are being held at Meridian High School. Afternoon extended day is available until 6 p.m. Register today at fallschurchva.gov/register or call 703-248-5027 (TTY 711)
Art Exhibits: Spring Solos
April 17, 2025 – June 14, 2025
McLean Project for the Arts
1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean, VA
Featuring work by Jackie Hoysted, Emon Surakitkoson and Heidi Fowler. Opening Exhibition Reception: Thursday, April 17, 7-9 p.m. For more information info@mpaart.org.
Live Performance: Akram Khan
April 17, 2025 – April 19, 2025
John F. Kennedy Center for t he Performing Arts
2700 F St NW, Washington, DC
Akram Khan is one of the most innovative choreographers in the world, drawing on the Indian classical dance form kathak along with contemporary movement. In his new work GIGENIS, The generation of the Earth, Khan boldly stages a story of a mother, her two sons, and the power, greed, and loss that brews in them. Tickets $29.90 at www.kennedy-center.org
Arlington Civitans Open Air Flea Market
7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
4001 15th St N, Arlington, VA
The Civitan Open Air Flea Market is now open! One of Northern Virginia’s largest and oldest public flea markets, is located in the I-66 garage in North Arlington adjacent to Washington-Liberty high school and the Arlington Planetarium at 15th and North Quincy Streets, in Arlington, Virginia. You’ll find over one hundred and fifty vendors selling a variety of goods ranging from books, clothes, furniture, garden tools, household goods, jewelry, shoes, toys, records, and so much more. Spread out over 5 levels of a 20,000 square foot parking garage, the flea market was originally conceived as a way for local people to sell goods in a central location. More details at https://arlington-fleamarket.com.
Falls Church Fiber Artists
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Mary Riley Styles Public Library
120 N Virginia Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046
Drop in for this informal weekly group to knit and crochet. Share what you're creating. Get advice from other knitters and crocheters. Or just chat while you work on your own project! All are welcome.
Spring Storytime
10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Mary Riley Styles Public Library
120 N Virginia Ave, Falls Church, VA Join our children’s librarians for songs, stories,
and rhymes! Please pick only one story time per week to attend. See children's desk for ticket upon arrival. We give out tickets starting at 10am. Limited space available, story time often fills before the 10:30am start. For ages 18 months to 4 years with a caregiver, younger siblings are welcome. Playtime with our Early Literacy toys will be available after story time. The room will remain open until 12pm.
The Spongebob Musical: Live On Stage! 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. McLean Community Center 1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean, VA 22101 SpongeBob fans young and old, join the spring break fun at Bikini Bottom! Catchy songs and fun characters create a theatrical party full of heart and humor, where the power of optimism really can save the world. Rated TV-G, runtime 114 minutes. Family friendly. Specially programmed for families with young children. www.mcleancenter.org.
Dispatched: The Photographic Summons of the Police Radio Antenna Tower 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. National Gallery of Art Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC Between the late 1920s and the 1950s, thousands of municipalities across the United States installed one- and two-way police radio systems, each with a dedicated police radio antenna tower, which radically reshaped policing and the American landscape. This talk will focus on news photography and how reliance on this technology created a new genre of documentary image-making. Free but must register at https://tickets.nga.gov/ events/0195d3f2-2cd3-655e-2450-e36b76e3dd92.
Parkinson’s in Perspective: Voices of Strength and Awareness 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
The Kensington Falls Church
700 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA
Join us this April in honor of Parkinson’s Awareness Month for an insightful discussion highlighting the unique and personal experiences of individuals living with Parkinson’s. Through heartfelt testimonials, speakers will share their journeys, challenges, and triumphs, offering a deeper understanding of how Parkinson’s impacts daily living and ways to manage it. Matt McKeon, Speech-Language Pathologist from the Parkinson’s Foundation of the National Capital Area, will provide expert insights, helping to shed light on key aspects of Parkinson’s care and management. No fee to attend and open to all!
Live Music: Brad Tursi of Old Dominion 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
The Barns at Wolf Trap 1635 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA Brad Tursi, the award-winning songwriter and guitarist of multi-platinum-selling country band Old Dominion, steps into the spotlight for a special solo performance at The Barns. Tickets: $40.00 at www.wolftrap.org.
Thursday Night District Trivia 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Clare & Don's Beach Shack 130 N Washington St, Falls Church, VA Bring your friends and show off your trivia chops!
9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct, Vienna, VA Stop by to meet Squeakers the Red-Shouldered Hawk and Smoke the Screech Owl. Roving naturalist and raptor handler Matt Felperin will be on-hand to share information on these fascinating raptors. Regular garden admissions/memberships apply. Contact www.novaparks.com.
Live Music: Duane Betts & Palmetto Motel 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Barns at Wolf Trap 1635 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA 22182 Duane Betts, son of legendary Allman Brothers Band member Dickey Betts, keeps the spirit of his father and his namesake Duane Allman’s music alive with his own timeless, story-driven rock ’n’ roll. Tickets: $28.00 at www.wolftrap.org.
Saturday, April 19
Adopt a Tree, Celebrate Arbor Day
8:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Falls Church Farmers Market
300 Park Ave, Falls Church, VA
Swing by the VPIS Farmers Market booth to adopt a native tree for your yard and join the City’s celebration of Arbor Day. VPIS will have numerous bare root saplings and a limited selection of potted locally grown rescued trees. Swamp Chestnut Oak saplings, the 2025 Tree of the Year for the City of Falls Church, will be available for adoption. Other species will include Black Cherry, Eastern Redbud, Swamp White Oak, Sweet Bay Magnolia, and White Dogwood. For small spaces, we will have Black Chokeberry, a native shrub.
City of Falls Church Easter Egg Hunt
9:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Cherry Hill Park
312 Park Ave, Falls Church, VA
Children aged 1 to 11 will love hunting for eggs and getting their photo taken with Mr. and Mrs. Bunny!
Activities begin at 9:15 a.m. Hunt begins promptly at 10 a.m. Magic show with Drew Blue Shoes at the barn at 10:30 a.m. Arrive early! Egg hunters are separated by age: ages zero to three, four to six, and ages seven to eleven. Children should bring a bag or basket to collect goodies. Before and after the hunt, families can enjoy free arts & crafts, games, face painting, and live music. After the hunt, Mr. and Mrs. Bunny will be in attendance for pictures. Free and no registration required.
Azalea Sale and Plant Clinic
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct, Vienna, VA
Join the Northern Virginia Chapter of the Azalea Society of America’s Sale and Plant Clinics in front of the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens Visitor Center! Shop from an outstanding collection of azaleas and find the perfect addition to your garden. Members of the Azalea Society will be on-hand to answer your questions, bring photos of any azalea issues and get expert advice. Whether you're looking to expand your garden or need tips on azalea care, this is a fantastic opportunity to learn from the experts and take home exceptional plants.
Glencarlyn Spring Celebration and Plant Sale
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
300 S Kensington St, Arlington, VA
Get ready for Earth Day and Arbor Day at the annual Spring Celebration and Plant Sale at the Glencarlyn Library Garden. An abundance of nature-related activities and products will be available. An educational tree walk will start at 1 p.m. and the Small Trees make Big Canopies program will be giving away saplings during the event. Other event offerings include native plants from Hill House Nursery, locally grown vegetable and fruit starts, and plants propagated from the Library Garden. Other items for sale include handmade pottery, jewelry, recycled bags, decorated boxes, pre-loved gardening books and items, T-shirts, and used books from the Friends of Arlington Libraries. The oldest house in Arlington, the Ball-Sellers House, will be open to visitors. All proceeds will support the Library Garden and Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia. For more information email: glencarlynlibrarygarden@gmail. com.
Celebrate Shakespeare’s big day with fun, family-friendly activities and, of course, birthday cake for all! - Make an Elizabethan ruff, watch thrilling sword-fighting demos, try your hand at sonnet writing, see our historic printing press in action, join an Elizabethan dance contest, have a slice of birthday cake. Festivities kick off when the Folger opens at 11am, with outdoor activities on the front lawn from 1–3pm. Free, $15 donation is recommended.
Walk for a Cause 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Minnie H. Peyton Community Center
5920-A Summers Ln, Falls Church, VA
Lace up your shoes and step out for a meaningful journey! Gather your friends, family, or colleagues and come out for Bailey’s Inaugural Walk for a Cause. This event is for community members to work and bring awareness to issues that face youth and families. For more information call 703.931.7027.
Signing Storytime with Kathy MacMillan 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Mary Riley Styles Public Library
120 N Virginia Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046
Little Hands Signing: Food Signs. Sing, sign, dance, and play with Kathy MacMillan, author of the Little Hands Signing series. Gather the whole family for the fun as we learn American Sign Language vocabulary through stories, songs, and more! Best for ages 3 and up. Space is limited; first come, first serve.
Monthly Free Kettlebell Intro Class 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Functional Fitness VA
2840 Graham Rd, Falls Church, VA
Come learn the basics for free! Join us for our monthly, free introduction to kettlebell fundamentals. We'll teach you how to "Move Better" and "Get Stronger" using the kettlebell swing, deadlift, squat and press. There's no experience necessary and the class is scalable to suit individual ability levels. Information: functionalfitnessva@gmail.com
Hop Into Spring 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Mosaic District
2910 District Ave, Fairfax, VA 22031
Visit with the Easter Bunny & Peter Rabbit! Celebrate the season with a fun-filled day the whole family will love! Meet and take photos with the Easter Bunny, and then cozy up for a special screening of Peter Rabbit — the mischievous and charming tale that’s sure to delight kids and grown-ups alike. Easter Bunny at Mosaic at 1:00 p.m. Movie starts at 3:00pm.
Birth Art with Amoula the Doula 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Mary Riley Styles Public Library
120 N Virginia Ave, Falls Church, VA
Join Amoula the Doula at the library! Whether you are trying to conceive, expectant parents, parents, or have had experience with infant or pregnancy loss, you are invited to participate in some birth art. Register at www.mrspl.org.
Live Music: The Breakdown 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Clare & Don's Beach Shack
130 N Washington St, Falls Church, VA
Live Music: Woodford Reserve
8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Solace Outpost
444 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA
Live Music: Will Sevy 9:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
Dogwood Tavern
132 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA
Sunday, April 20
Easter Brunch at Ireland's Four Provinces 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Ireland's Four Provinces
105 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA
Gather at Ireland's Four Provinces for your Easter Sunday Brunch Celebration! Reservations are available from 9am until 3pm. We've got all your favorite 4Ps brunch classics. Please call for reservations: 703.534.8999.
Animal Encounters - Spring 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Potomac Overlook Regional Park
2845 Marcey Rd, Arlington, VA 22207
Come meet our animals up close this Spring!
During Animal Encounters, you’ll get to learn about and interact with the wildlife that call Potomac Overlook home. Stop by the nature center auditorium anytime between 1:30 and 3:30 p.m, our Roving Naturalist and critters look forward to meeting you! Event is FREE and all ages welcome. No reservations needed. For any questions, please contact Roving Naturalist Whitney Gilliland at 202-253-1557 or wgilliland@nvrpa.org.
Native Wildflower Walk
2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct, Vienna, VA
Experience the beauty of spring woodlands on a guided walk through Meadowlark Botanical Gardens' Potomac Valley Collection. This walk is designed for adults and children ages 10 and up who are interested in native plants, conservation, and the natural history of our region. An hour-long guided walk along hilly, mulched trails. Enjoy the serene beauty of spring woodlands adorned with native blooms. Insights into spring native plants and their roles in the ecosystem. Learn how native plants can enhance your own yard, providing improved habitat for wildlife. Engaging storytelling from a seasoned nature interpreter. $8 per person. Online registration required at www.novaparks.com.
Art Class: Semi-Abstract Watercolor and Collage
2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Falls Church Arts Gallery
700-B W Broad St, Falls Church, VA
Take a hands-on artistic journey exploring a variety of techniques to express your creativity! In this workshop, you will work with semiabstract painting, watercolor, and collage, combining different mediums to create unique pieces of art. No prior experience is needed— whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, these classes offer a fun and relaxing way to explore your creative side! Cost: $100.00. Register at https://greenscap.wufoo.com/forms/ semiabstract-watercolor-and-collage-apr-2025
Monday, April 21
In-Home Online Auction
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Virtual This auction features furniture, vintage items, art, home goods, and more from home in Reston, VA. Address for pickup and appointment signup provided to winners via auction invoice. More information at info@quinnsauction.com.
Meridian Jazz Combo and Rock Bands
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Solace Outpost
444 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA 22046
English Conversation Class
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Mary Riley Styles Public Library
120 N Virginia Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046
Join us for a Free English Conversation class for adults to practice your language skills with other learners, and improve your listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. No registration required. Walk-ins are welcome. The mission of the English Empowerment Center is to teach adults the basic skills of reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English so they can access employment and educational opportunities and more fully and equitably participate in the community.
Tuesday, April 22
FC Chamber Event: Networking Mixer
5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Chesterbrook Residences
2030 Westmoreland St, Falls Church, VA
This month, Chesterbrook Residences hosts the April Networking Mixer. Meet Brenda Riggs and her team and learn about their site and services. Take a springtime tour and enjoy the chef's refreshments while networking. Guests and prospective members are welcome.
Great Books Discussion Series 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Virtual
A "Great Books" discussion concentrating on literary classics (both traditional and modern) This week the group will discuss: “Life from Scum,” from The Symbiotic Planet, by Lynn Margulis (1998). In the Great Books volume, The Nature of Life: Readings in Biology. (Moderator to distribute text via e-mail.) This program will be held virtually on Zoom unless otherwise noted. Please email Amy Azzam (the group's volunteer coordinator) for a Zoom invite or more information. amyazzam@gmail.com.
Great Big Beautiful Life - Emily Henry Release Party! 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
One More Page Books
2200 N Westmoreland St, Arlington, VA
Do you love Emily Henry as much as we do?
Join us to celebrate the release of GREAT BIG BEAUTIFUL LIFE! Two writers compete for the chance to tell the larger-thanlife story of a woman with more than a couple of plot twists up her sleeve in this dazzling and sweeping novel from Emily Henry. Be among the first readers to grab a copy of the book and enjoy an evening of themed games, giveaways and prizes. Register for free at www.onemorepagebooks.com.
Chamber Music: Oliver Neubauer, violin Janice Carissa, piano 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC
Tickets: $20.00 - $45.00 at www.kennedy-center.org.
Traditional Irish Music Session 8:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Ireland's Four Provinces 105 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA 22046
Wednesday, April 23
Body Dynamics Class: Dance Fitness 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Body Dynamics Inc
410 S Maple Ave #106, Falls Church, VA
A 55-minute dance class for all levels. No previous experience necessary. Dynamic warm-up, mobility and stability challenges, aerobic challenges, all through the lens of a lively dance class. Emphasis will be placed on use of proper body mechanics to facilitate increased body awareness. Each class will devote time to learning a dance combination which challenges the dancer to develop their own style of movement! For more information: ghegyi@bodydynamicsinc.com.
Mindfulness Meditation for Everyday Life 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Mary Riley Styles Public Library
120 N Virginia Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046
Most of us are always on the go in some capacity, tasking ourselves to keep things running smoothly or remedying situations that aren’t going as we hoped. The practice of mindfulness meditation gives us the skills to step out of our habitual mode of doing, and
allows us to have mindful recognition of what is present here and now. In our group setting we investigate the practical application of bringing mindfulness into our daily lives. Open to beginners and experienced meditators. Register at www.mrspl.org. Family Coloring Club 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Mary Riley Styles Public Library 120 N Virginia Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046 Do
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE PLANNING COMMISSION
NOTICE: On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 7:30 p.m., the City of Falls Church Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and meeting, located in the City Council Chambers, 300 Park Avenue Falls Church, VA. 22046, on proposed amendments to the West Falls Church Economic Development (West Falls) Project Special Exception Entitlement (SEE), focusing on grocery store-related Voluntary Concessions VC#2. Public comments can be submitted in advance to the lead planner via email hzhang@fallschurchva.gov. The Planning Commission will review the following item and provide a recommendation to the City Council:
(TR25-09) RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE VOLUNTARY CONCESSIONS, COMMUNITY BENEFITS, TERMS AND CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE WEST FALLS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT SPECIAL EXCEPTION ENTITLEMENT (SEE) APPROVED BY RESOLUTION 2021-23, DATED AUGUST 9, 2021, TO REDUCE THE MINIMUM SIZE OF THE GROCERY STORE COMPONENT FROM 39,200 SQUARE FEET TO 32,900 SQUARE FEET
The agenda and materials for the public hearing meeting will be available on the following page ahead of the meeting date: http://www. fallschurchva.gov/PC. More information about the West Falls Project can be found on the project webpage: West Falls Development Project | Falls Church, VA - Official Website
This location is fully accessible to individuals with physical disabilities. Special services or assistance can be requested in advance.
(TTY: 711)
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA
City Council will hold a public hearing on the following on Monday, April 28, 2025 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard:
(TO25-07) ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY CODE OF THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH CHAPTER 26, “MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC” TO ADD AND ENACT ARTICLE VIII, “PEDESTRIAN PROTECTION”
Key provisions of the proposed City Code update include: a requirement that motorists stop (not just yield) for pedestrians within marked crosswalks and at street intersections; a provision that police may not stop pedestrians for crossing the street outside a marked crossing; and the authority to install stop signs at marked crosswalks and to assess special fines for violation of those signs.
All public hearings will be held in the Council Chambers, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia. All persons desiring to present their views on the items will be heard. Comments may also be sent to cityclerk@fallschurchva. gov. Remote participation information at www. fallschurchva.gov/publiccomment. For copies of legislation and other information, 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) or e-mail cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov.
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 14, 2025. Public hearings are scheduled for Monday, April 28, 2025 and Monday, May 12, 2025, with second reading and Council action scheduled for Monday, May 12, 2025. All meetings begin at 7:30 p.m.; public hearings will be held as soon thereafter as the matters may be heard.
(TO25-02) ORDINANCE FIXING AND DETERMINING THE BUDGET OF EXPENDITURES AND REVENUES, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR EXPENDITURE, IN THE FISCAL YEAR 2026, ACROSS THE FOLLOWING FUNDS: GENERAL FUND; SEWER FUND; STORMWATER FUND; CABLE ACCESS FUND; AFFORDABLE HOUSING FUND; SCHOOL OPERATING FUND; SCHOOL COMMUNITY SERVICE FUND; SCHOOL FOOD SERVICE FUND; COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY; AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM FUNDS; AND TO ADOPT THE FY2026-FY2031 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM
The FY2025 proposed budget and Capital Improvements Program (CIP) includes:
$133,871,318 for the General Fund revenues and expenditures.
$7,636,765 for the Sewer Fund revenues and expenditures.
$2,337,000 for the Stormwater Fund revenues and expenditures.
$290,185 for the Cable Access Fund revenues and expenditures.
$7,539,412 for the Affordable Housing Fund revenues and expenditures.
$69,547,486 for the School Operating Fund revenues and expenditures.
$2,663,200 for the School Community Service Fund revenues and expenditures.
$1,621,448 for the School Food Service Fund revenues and expenditures.
The proposed FY2026 budget and appropriation for the CIP includes $2,684,000 for the General Government and Schools, $8,998,424 for the Special Transportation Fund, $14,047,765 for the Sewer Fund, and $640,000 for the Stormwater Fund. The FY2026 CIP is funded with $6,066,424 in grants, $2,172,000 of General Fund revenues, $2,410,000 of General Fund Capital Reserves, and $2,642,765 of Sewer Fund revenues and fund balance;$320,000 of Stormwater fund balance; $11,405,000 of debt proceeds and $1,354,000 is unfunded.
The proposed FY2026-2031 CIP includes $51,442,236 for the General Government and Schools, $59,202,892 for the Special Transportation Fund, $34,525,344 for the Sewer Fund, and $3,010,000 for the Stormwater Fund for a total of $148,180,472 to be funded with $46,159,892 in grants, $13,993,000 of General Fund revenues, $9,925,000 of General Fund Capital Reserves, $11,918,633 of Sewer Fund revenues and fund balance, $1,030,000 of Stormwater fund balance, and $57,606,711 of debt proceeds; $7,547,235 is unfunded.
The FY2026 budget and appropriation for the West Falls Community Development Authority Fund includes $866,429 in expenditures and revenues from prior year surplus of $233,286 and special assessments of $633,143 which will be levied and collected by the City in accordance with the request from the West Falls Community Development Authority (CDA) at its meeting of April 17, 2025, pursuant to the Memorandum of Understanding dated July 1, 2022 between the City, CDA, and other parties.
(TO25-03) ORDINANCE SETTING THE
RATE OF TAX LEVY ON REAL ESTATE FOR TAX YEAR 2026, 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 2025
The proposed real estate tax rate for the tax year beginning July 1, 2025 is:
$1.21 upon each $100.00 of assessed value of real estate in the City of Falls Church, which is no change from the current 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, 2025 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, which is no change from the current rate;
$5.00 upon each $100 of assessed value for vehicles classified under § 58.1-3506.A.48.a through 58.1-3506.A.48.d, which is an increase of $0.20 (4.2%) from the current rate; 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.
(TO25-04) 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, 2025
Under the legal authority granted by VA § 15.22114, an increase to the City stormwater utility unit billing rate from $20.77 per 200 square feet of impervious surface (billing unit) to $21.33 per billing unit annually is proposed, effective July 1, 2025, which would constitute an increase of 2.7% per billing unit.
(TO25-05) ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CODE OF THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, CHAPTER 42, “UTILITIES,” ARTICLE III, “SEWERS,” SECTION 42-172, “AVAILABILITY CHARGE,” TO INCREASE SEWER SERVICE AND AVAILABILITY CHARGES, AND TO CLARIFY THE TITLE OF SECTION 42-172
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 $10.86 per thousand gallons of water billed (billing unit) to $11.15 is proposed, effective July 1, 2025, which would constitute an increase of 2.7% per billing unit. an increase to sewer availability charges from $9,746 to $10,009 for single-family dwellings and detached and semi-detached duplexes or townhouses; from $7,797 to $8,008 for apartment or condominium buildings; from $2,437 to $2,503 for motel, hotel units; and from $487 to $500 for each drainage fixture unit for commercial, industrial, and other uses.
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
ATTN. AUCTIONEERS: Promote your upcoming auctions statewide! Affordable Print and Digital Solutions reaching your target audience. Call this paper or Landon Clark at Virginia Press Services 804-521-7576, landonc@vpa.net
HEALTH/PERSONALS/ MISCELLANEOUS
IF YOU HAD KNEE OR HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY and suffered an infection due to use of a Bair Hugger (Blue Blanket), between 2020 and the present time, you may be entitled to compensation. Call attorney Charles H. Johnson 800/535-5727
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In Memoriam: Thomas Smolinski
Thomas “Tom” Edward Smolinski passed away peacefully on March 22, 2025, at Goodwin House Bailey’s Crossroads at the age of 87. Born April 22, 1937, in Syracuse, NY, he was a graduate of Solvay High School, SUNY Oswego and Canisius College in Buffalo, where he earned a master’s degree.
He is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Edie (Fiske) Smolinski, his much-loved children, Scott Smolinski (Valerie), Tim Smolinski (Vicky), Mary Smolinski McInerney (Kenny), and Sarah Smolinski; his seven grandchildren whom he adored, Kelly Thorsen (John), Heather Brock (James), Clare McInerney, Tommy McInerney,
Grant Kassen, Chad Kassan and Ava Smolinski; his sisters, Sandra Grecco (Paul, deceased), Linda Romano, Kathy Donegan (Michael), and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
After marrying Edie in 1962, they lived outside Rochester, NY, where Tom served as a counselor at The Board of Cooperative Education Services (BOCES) in Cheektowaga, and later, at the age of 29, as principal. In 1972, Tom was hired by Arlington County Public Schools in Virginia tro serve as the first Principal/Director of the Arlington Career Center. He and Edie would raise their family in Falls Church City, VA.
He retired in 1999 after 39 years
in education and serving 27 years at the Arlington Career Center. Tom continued his passion for education by remaining active in a variety of organizations including the Arlington Community Foundation, where he served on the scholarship committee, the Kiwanis Club of Arlington and the Falls Church City Education Foundation. In 2015, Tom and Edie moved to Goodwyn House Bailey’s Crossroads where they enjoyed many treasured friendships with its residents. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Homestretch www.homestretchva.org. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Falls Church Business News &
Notes
Perspire Sauna Studio Ribbon Cutting Today!
The chamber will celebrate a great addition to the West Falls development, Perspire Sauna Studio, with a ribbon cutting ceremony today at 5:00 p.m. The public is invited to join City Council members, Del. Marcus Simon, and Sen. Saddam Salim for this occasion followed by a reception and tours of the site and services. Ask about their special promotion! The address is 7140 Leesburg Pike and is located in West Falls.
OAR Zumba Gold Party
Elizabeth Jones Valderrama, Executive Director of OAR and certified Zumba instructor is hosting a Zumba Gold Party tomorrow, Friday, April 18 at 8:00 p.m. This workout is fun for all ages and abilities. All proceeds will support OAR of Arlington, Alexandria, and Falls Church and its efforts to create a safe and thriving community where those impacted by the legal system may enjoy equal civil and human rights. Register via the link.
The Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) announced the finalists among DC’s restaurant industry for the RAMMY Awards. The Falls is a finalist in the Casual Restaurant of the Year category. Rooster & Owl, owned by Ellie Bird’s Chef Yuan Tang, is a finalist in the Formal Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year category. The winners will be announced at the 2025 RAMMYS Awards and Gala on Aug. 3 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. WEBINAR – HR Essentials for Start-ups
Wednesday, April 23, 12:00 — 1:00 p.m. – George Mason’s Women’s Business Center of Northern Virginia is hosting a session on Human Resource essentials for start-ups on Wednesday, April 23, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Learn the basics of defining who you need, where to find them, and how to ensure they’re the perfect fit for your business. Fern Hernberg a Human Resources executive, leads this webinar. Register via the link: https://wbcnova.centerdynamics.com/workshop. aspx?ekey=10450025.
Virginia Dream Remains Undefeated
Virginia Dream FC continued its undefeated season with a 2-2 tie against VA Revolution Pro. This was the season home opener in Falls Church. Virginia Dream FC’s next match is away on April 19th versus Alexandria Reds Pro. Kickoff is 7 p.m. The Dream’s next home match at The Cloud is on April 27 against Alexandria United FC. For updated Virginia Dream FC team information go to: https://www.instagram. com/VirginiaDreamFC/?hl=en
Shepherd’s Center Coffee & Donuts
The Shepherd’s Center of Falls Church, McLean and Arlington is hosting a Coffee & Donuts on Thursday, April 24, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Lewinsville Presbyterian Church in McLean. The casual drop in is for those interested in volunteering. Parking is available in the large back parking lot and questions may be directed to carol Edelstein (carol.edelstein@verizon.net).
Mediumship Workshops for 2025
The Center for Spiritual Enlightenment scheduled the Introduction to Mediumship workshops for 2025. Each scheduled workshop will consist of four sessions held at the Center on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Registration for the session, April 29 – May 20, has opened. Visit www.thecse.org to register.
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.
Our Man In Arlington
Bill Fogarty
National Volunteer Week runs from April 20 to April 26 this year, which provides an opportunity to celebrate the importance of the role of volunteers in our community. Let me highlight one story, which seems simple on its face: it starts with a high school student who volunteered with a reading program for children, but it reveals a thread of connections over many decades, within the local community, and beyond.
Aliyah Majeed-Hall is a high school student who began her volunteering journey based on her love of reading. This journey highlights a connection to numerous organizations — Affordable Homes & Communities (AHC), Volunteer Arlington, and the Points of Light Foundation — and to numerous individuals, from Ellen Bozman to President George H.W. Bush to Jenna Bush Hager.
Aliyah started by volunteering with an afterschool reading program at one of the affordablehousing communities owned by AHC. This effort inspired her to then create an organization in 2023 called the One Word Reading Initiative. Aliyah had noticed a need for t he children to have access to more books at home, and she found a way to help. Her efforts started with gathering books from friends and family, and it blossomed into a volunteer organization that has provided over 1,400 families with over 3,500 books.
How many other organizations in Arlington rely on volunteer assistance? That is an unanswerable question, though the short answer might be “all of them,” both public and private organizations. The County government relies on volunteers for all types of endeavors, from A to Z (from the Arlington Commission for the Arts, to the Zoning Appeals Board). Private groups often are completely volunteer-driven, with no paid staff.
How can one figure out how to even get started with volunteering? That takes us back to the 1970s, and the influence of Ellen Bozman, a County Board member for a record 24 years. Bozman helped to create a volunteer office
within the Department of Human Resources, with a simple title of Volunteer Arlington, and with a goal of connecting individuals with civic groups and organizations.
By 2016, Volunteer Arlington became a program of the Leadership Center of Arlington, based on an innovative public-private partnership model. Volunteer Arlington connects interested volunteers with a range of opportunities. It also is a go-to resource to help the County respond to emergencies, supporting volunteer and donation management. Among other projects, Volunteer Arlington has established the MLK Day of Service, providing volunteer service opportunities and training each year. Another event is called “Arlington Cares,” honoring local volunteers each year.
Aliyah has been honored with the “Arlington Cares” Youth Service Award for her work with the One Word Reading Initiative. This led to her being selected as a “Daily Point of Light” by the Points of Light Foundation. This nowglobal organization was created in response to President George H.W Bush’s Points of Light initiative back in 1989.
Aliyah went to New York in March to be interviewed on the Today Show, hosted by Jenna Bush Hager. At the end of an engaging interview about the Points of Light award, the hosts announced a wonderful surprise for Aliyah: Scholastic Books was donating $10,000 worth of books to her One Word Reading Initiative!
The reading guide for her Initiative includes a book-mark with simple “one-word” questions that families can discuss. I especially love the following question, which I hope to use in reading books with my grandchildren: “What ONE WORD did you learn while reading?”
As we honor all the volunteers in our community this week, my one word to highlight is “gratitude.” We are fortunate to have a strong volunteer base in Arlington. It is fitting to end this column with some words from Aliyah: “I encourage both high school students and adults to go out, find something they’re passionate about and come up with one little way they can make a difference.”
