April 3 - 9, 2025
Falls
Hardi, Underhill Appear At S.F. ‘Abundance’ Confab
by Nicholas F.
Falls Church Mayor Letty Hardi and Council member Justine Underhill took a whirlwind trip to San Francisco last week to participate in an event featuring New York Times columnist Ezra Klein. It was about growing a new movement centered around themes in the new book Klein and Atlantic writer Derek Thompson authored entitled, “Abundance.”
The two Falls Church elected officials were invited by the organizers of the event who covered travel for a variety of office holders from across the U.S. The Abundance Agenda group, in its early stages of formation, was attracted to a documentary that Underhill has produced and aired on YouTube (and in a recent Falls Church showing) titled “Green Vs. Gray Environmentalism,” that
A FOND FAREWELL
led to the invitation.
In addition to the book event, there were roundtable discussions and a walking tour of the Tenderloin and other downtown areas of San Francisco.
Described as a new “center-left movement” by James Pethokoukis in a commentary in last Friday’s Washington Post headlined “Democrats’ Plan to Build Back Better – Better,” he calls it “Abundance-ism” that “championing deregulation and government efficiency, offers…an extraordinary political opportunity to solve big, persistent national problems.”
An important key, he wrote, lies in its ability to reach across the aisle to libertarian or center-right elements and advocate for policies that prodevelopment currents in both parties can agree on.
Continued on Page 4
Midsummer Night’s Dream Reality-ish at Meridian H.S.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream is arguably William Shakespeare’s most popular and inviting for creatively-variated presentation play. One such new and highly-anticipated variation lands in Falls Church and starts tonight, the Meridian High School drama department’s offering.
It is described by the school’s public information folks as involving “dream and see starcrossed lovers, grumpy old men, fairies, a hobgoblin, a donkeyheaded monster, and a playwithin-a-play spectacular. And if you’d really like to get caught up in the action (and maybe dragged onstage to join the cast), come in your pajamas.”
Productions led by instructor Shawn Northrip have outdone themselves in recent years, heightening anticipation of the novel elements audiences are coming to anticipate. This one will not disappoint given Northrip’s advance descriptions.
“We’ve leaned into the idea that the show is a dream,” he told the News-Press. “We’ve built a pillow world and pajamas and slumber parties, where our monsters look like stuffed animals and anything can happen.”
He added, “It’s a fast-paced
Continued on Page 7
The shows are tonight, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and $15 adult, $5 stidemt tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door. It will also be streamed live.
THIS WAS THE SCENE on the final day of Falls Church’s truly iconic Brown’s Hardware Store, which closed its doors Saturday, March 29, after 142 years of service since its establishment in 1883. Founded by James W. Brown, it persevered through three generations, and when Hugh Rose Brown died in 2018, it came to John Taylor who faced challenges from online and large chain competitors but maintained the unique personalized customer service and extensive product range that endeared it to the Falls Church community. See photos of a public event of gratitude held March 28 inside. (Photo: News-Press)
Benton Falls Church News-Press
by Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press
Hardi, Underhill Visit New ‘Abundance’ Movement Event in S.F.
fancy words on paper. In my opinion, it requires a different breed of electeds.”
A Washington Post editorial this Wednesday picked up on the idea. Entitled, “America Needs an Abundance Mindset,” citing the Klein-Thompson book and concluding, “the only viable path is to give Americans what they need and deserve: more instead of less, an endless frontier instead of interminable partisan bickering.”
Klein, who was on stage before a packed house at the Sidney Goldstein Theater in downtown San Francisco last Thursday, said his book is dedicated to “a simple idea: to have the future we want, we need to build and invent more of what we need.”
Mayor Hardi told the NewsPress after the event,“I am really heartened that there continues to be good people across the US who are all motivated to make government work better in a positive way – by holding each other accountable to the outcomes and getting stuff done, and not just voting for
She added, “It was a really good learning and networking experience meeting fellow local electeds across the US, with similar values and priorities as we do. From small cities like Falls Church to really big ones like San Francisco, we have way more in common than not.
“Hearing and seeing the challenges in other jurisdictions was good affirmation of what we’ve been doing right in Falls Church and cautionary tales of what not to do with “over-proceduralizing, burdening good policy with so many rules that we lose sight of the original goals,” Hardi said.
Underhill related to the News-Press , “It was great getting to meet elected officials from across the country, and see how their localities are similar to and different from Falls Church. We heard stories about everything from affordable housing projects, to the permitting process, to transpor-
tation to street murals.
“Seeing some of the struggles places like San Francisco face made me realize how good we have it here in many ways, but there’s always more we can do to improve our systems. I left feeling inspired and encouraged to reach out to other cities who are taking on topics like permitting— if another place is doing something well, we don’t have to reinvent the wheel here.”
The emerging movement is building on an earlier San Francisco-based so-called “YIMBY (Yes In My Back Yard) movement that organized to adopt the opposite tack to the well-known “NIMBY” (“Not in my backyard”) universal tendency to resist economic development, and especially housing.
In fact, advancing affordable housing is a very central component of this new current, coming none too soon, given the acute national housing shortage. Overall, solving housing, healthcare and transportation problems are among
the key elements this new movement is focused on.
Klein and Thompson have made it clear that “Abundance” is not just a white paper of policy prescriptions. The book is described as “a political manifesto aimed at transforming the Democratic Party in the face of incipient authoritarianism.”
Thompson called Trump a “tragic dark foil” to “Abundance” arguments “that has a scarcity outlook that pits one disadvantaged group (like blue collar workers) against another (immigrants).
Last year, the YIMBY Abundance Network was credited with spearheading a progrowth takeover of the San Francisco Democratic Party. It has similar efforts in Oakland and a chapter in Santa Monica. Zack Rosen, founder of the network, was in the audience last Thursday.
Central to the cause is an optimistic vision of what the future can hold. It is its essential element and the core message of the Klein-Thompson book.
In it, the authors envision the time in the near future where “the world has changed. Not just the virtual world, that dance of pixels on our screens. The physical world, too: its houses, its energy, its infrastructure, its medicines, its hard tech. How different this era is from the opening decades of the twenty-first century, which unspooled a string of braided crises. A housing crisis. A financial crisis. A pandemic. A climate crisis. Political crises. For years, we accepted homelessness and poverty and untreated disease and declining life expectancy. For years, we knew what we needed to build to alleviate the scarcities so many faced and create the opportunities so many wanted, and we simply didn’t build it.”
6 | APRIL 3 - 9, 2025
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Vol. XXXV, No. 8 April 3 - 9, 2025
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ditorial
Can “Abundance” Beat Trumpism?
We are proud of Mayor Letty Hardi and Councilmember Justine Underhill for their whirlwind trip to San Francisco last week to participate as elected officials in an event hosted by what we believe is called the “Abundance Alliance.” Readers can check out our Page One article about this to get the drift of what it was all about, and, from our point of view, what is definitely promising and necessary about it.
This time, we credit The Washington Post for beating us to the punch with an editorial lauding this new “Abundance Movement.” In theirs, published just yesterday, the headline is “America Needs an Abundance Mindset.” Waxing eloquently, it pronounces “The future can be better. But getting there requires a mindset of abundance, not scarcity: a bigger pie with bigger pieces for everyone, not a more pleasing distribution of what’s already in the pan. In fact, an abundance mindset is essential to tackling climate change and entitlements. Faster economic growth is the easiest way to manage high levels of debt and the rising cost of Medicare and Social Security.”
This way of thinking should be nothing new to citizens of Falls Church. In fact, this newspaper has been an undying advocate of this point of view since our inception 34 years ago and the City leadership has been generally all in on it consistently if not always unanimously for the last quarter century. We know and have directly experienced how economic growth leads to all good things, like the best schools and facilities of government and public use.
This is what is responsible for the fact that, contrary to all other jurisdictions in the region and national trends as well, revenue generated from Falls Church’s robust economic development has brought not only massive infrastructure improvements – a state of the art high school, renovated city hall and library, just to begin with – but a steady decline in the real estate tax rate, such as the City Council here is now addressing in its new budget deliberations. As affordable housing is a critical component of what the “Abundance Movement” argues is important, too. Falls Church is making steady gains in that arena, as well.
The “Abundance Movement” is growing out of a closely related effort called “YIMBY-ism,” as in “Yes in Our Back Yard,” as opposed to “Not in My Back Yard” NIMBY-ism. Also, Councilmember Underhill’s newest documentary film, “Green Vs. Grey Environmentalism,” that was screened at a Falls Church Forward event not too long ago, makes the compelling case that dense urban-like development is the best way to act against the climate change crisis by reducing travel time-related emissions and leaving more land to be green.
The San Francisco event drew some predictable San Francisco-style online leftist criticism. But, frankly, we now have an opportunity as a nation to forge a new bipartisan alliance to stop the extremist Trumpism that threatens to destroy us. This “Abundance Movement” may be the key for how to make that happen.
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Meridian H.S. ‘Midsummer’ Play is On Tonight &
farce that I’ve had so much fun rehearsing with the cast that I’ve managed to forget a lot of other more difficult responsibilities I have working on the show. We’re planning to be drawing a few people up onto stage. And we hope that people who wouldn’t mind joining us will come to the show in their pajamas. We won’t ask them to do anything crazy, just come watch the action from amongst the chaos.”
He told Meridian student Tessa Kassoff as she reported in an article for the school paper, The Lasso , ““Who wants [a play] to be the same? My goal is always to mix it up. Four years of not expecting the same thing for me is pretty challenging. And in my career, I also don’t want to expect the same thing for myself.”
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” has been presented in wildly different manners over the many years since it was first performed in the early 1600s in England. One of the more legendary versions was one of the
three U.S. film versions by Max Reinhardt in 1935 that starred James Cagney, Mickey Rooney as Puck in his first film at age 14, Olivia deHaviland, Dick Powell, Joe E. Brown and Ross Alexander.
It was the centerpiece of a later comedy romp, Ken Ludwig’s award winning “Shakespeare in Hollywood.”
The play has also been done, in addition to film, as ballet and opera.
As for what audiences can expect tonight and this weekend? “My vision is that the set is just a giant mountain of pillows that’s somehow the largest pillow fort that characters are coming from,” Northrip told The Lasso . And that’s just for starters.
The cast includes J.P. Tysse, Eliana Pizzirusso, Katrina Hardt, Abby Fred, Samantha Grooms, Eudora Neal, Hugo Ratheau, Abby Berg, Aggie Linforth, Jack Kreul, Sebastian Robertson, Katarina V, Alex Fugham, Marshall Virtual-Reality, Mia Schatz, Will Albaugh and Gundega Davidsone. Continued from Page 1
Painter Heads Panel Mulling ‘Exploring Arlington’s Next Chapter’
Falls Church Chamber of Commerce leader Andrew Painter moderated one of three panels on the economic prospects of Arlington County going forward held in Crystal City Tuesday.
Panelists at the conference produced by Bisnow, a New York-based business to business platform that generates scores of such events across the U.S. annually, generally engaged in painting lipstick on the calamity pig of Trump layoffs that are hitting the county with its 25,000 federal workers.
Already with a 26.7 percent office vacancy rate, the county is bracing as fully 20 percent of its cur rently occupied office space is leased to the federal General Services Administration. As Ryan Touhill, Arlington Economic Development director, said at the event, “Let’s face it, our regional economic develop ment model is under major disruption right now.”
County Board Chair Takis Karatonis, Arlington Chamber President and CEO Kate Bates, Orr Partners Founder David Orr, and National Landing BID President Tracy Gabriel.
The conference was called “Exploring Arlington County’s Next Chapter.” Painter’s panel was called “Transforming Neighborhoods: Site Selection, Infrastructure and Economic Growth.” Other panels were titled, “The Future of Office Development in Arlington” and “Innovating Arlington: A Placemaking & Redevelopment Story.”
But the up side for future development was otherwise emphasized on the panels.
Painter’s panel featured Arlington
The Painter panel discussion, Painter told the News-Press, covered wide-ranging topics such as Arlington’s response to federal government actions, affordable housing, predictability and transparency of Arlington County’s zoning and permitting review processes, and more. Painter summarized the discussion as follows:
It was noted that the County has a fairly transparent and predictable zoning approval process, which removes some of the guesswork in terms of capital outlays needed for investment and dollars spent pursuing zoning entitlements.
Also discussed was the impact of Arlington’s placemaking efforts (e.g., emphasis on pedestrian connectivity, environmental sustainability, and transit-oriented development) over the past several decades as part of its economic development approach. Namely, the fact that Arlington has focused on such efforts has resulted in communities which are more resilient and can better attract commercial uses (because mixed-use is the new paradigm in prime commercial real estate).
These advantages helped the County land Amazon’s second headquarters, and allow it to keep attracting talent. Young professionals (and professionals of all ages) are attracted to walkable, vibrant, transit adjacent/proximate mixeduse communities—which is one of Arlington’s advantages. To that end, the National Landing community is seeking to diversify away from federal government leases and focusing on high technology with Amazon and the new Virginia Tech campus.
All of this will allow Arlington to better withstand economic pressures created by federal government layoffs and budget cuts. The panel also discussed the County’s proactive actions to reduce its commer-
cial vacancy rate, including allowing additional uses under the zoning ordinance and fast-tracking adaptive reuse of obsolete or vacant commercial office buildings. It was also noted that the County
does not seek per-pupil contributions for schools with new development, because the County recognizes that the taxes generated by new projects more than offset the cost of providing services to the new residents.
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S Dream-ish by William Shakespeare (mostly) opens Thursday! (Photo: Carol Sly)
by Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press
Booker Gave Proof Our Flag Was Still There
Nicholas F. Benton
A phrase that I love was rolling around the Internet Wednesday, “Cory Booker gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.”
It was an extraordinary thing that Senator Booker did, a marvel of physical stamina to hold the floor for a record 25 hours and 5 minutes. He started at 7 p.m. Monday and ended at 8:045 p.m. Tuesday. Moreover, he then went on MSNBC and probably some other stations live to talk about it.
I watched for a couple hours Tuesday morning when, among the more than two dozen colleagues who stepped up to ask him questions as a way of giving him a breather, Senators Coons, Markey, Warner and Warren took their turns. I then had the audio on through my work day until I left at 6, confident that he would go for and beat the record, which by then he was only an hour away from.
Among the notable comments through it all were his own, when he said, “I confess that I have been imperfect. I confess that I’ve been inadequate to the moment. I’ve confessed that the Democratic Party has made terrible mistakes that gave a lane to this demagogue. I confess we all must look in the mirror and say ‘we will do better.’”
A commenter on Blue Sky noted, “It is extremely revealing that Corey Booker was able to stand for 25 hours and talk and make sense, and that every time the GOP open their mouths their utterances are insensible, incomprehensible, ungrounded in fact. Trust people who tell the truth. People who lie and fabricate are not trustworthy.”
It’s also been pointed out that Sen. Strom Thurmond of South Carolina, who previously held the record of 24 hours, and was engaged in an unsuccessful effort to defeat an element of civil rights law, was the same age as Booker when he set the record in 1957.
Thurmond was allowed a restroom break, unlike Booker who held the floor the whole time. Thurmond read from the ency-
clopedia while Booker spent his time in very long and surprisingly substantive history and political science lessons, quoting at length from the Federalist Papers and much more, aimed at calling out injustice.
His heroic effort came in the context of important, major electoral returns in Pennsylvania the week before and in Wisconsin and Florida reflecting a huge shift in the public sentiment away from Donald Trump and Elon Musk.
Stock market and Tesla cybertruck sales nosedives have also been indicative of this marked change coming only 70 days in the new Trump presidency as he was claiming his universal tariff day as “Liberation Day.”
“Liberation Day,” shall we consider as turning day, or revelation day, or expose day, liberating illusions, or any impairment of vision. We Can See Clearly Now Day.
But still, the ongoing Trump effort to rip apart the Western Alliance and to torpedo the U.S. economy, is achieving levels of damage in such short order that will take an enormous effort to eventually overcome.
The summary by Financial Times’ Edward Luce under the headline, “Ten Weeks That Shook the World,” on Wednesday is unsettling to be sure.
Among the more ominous observations in that report is the fact that, on top of everything else, Trump has already effectively wiped out, “vaporized” Luce puts it, the U.S.’s “soft power” assets, reducing for an immediate instance, the U.S.’s ability to help in the wake of the worst earthquake in decades in Myanmar.
“Chinese and even Russian aid teams were on the ground within days. Having dismantled USAID, American assistance has yet to arrive,” he writes. “America’s new guard are almost all white, all male, and mostly unqualified to lead the great departments they are vandalising. Should there be any doubt the U.S. has embraced brutalism?”
It goes to the heart of our problem: no one can expect that a person as clearly devoid of graces, who operates in such clearly-documented ways over many years as a cruel sociopath, will behave in any other way than to insure the actual realities he tries to hide behind egregious falsehoods will out.
A Penny for Your Thoughts
By Penny Gross Former Fairfax County Supervisor
Hypocrisy. Duplicity. Stupidity. Incompetence. Words that barely begin to describe the actions of so many appointees in the Trump Administration in recent days. Add chutzpah, gall, nerve, insolence, and effrontery to the list and you have a vocabulary of behaviors that every parent fears for their children. That’s appropriate since there doesn’t seem to be an adult in the bunch!
Dubbing it “Signalgate” may be an overreach, but the use of a nonsecure communications system app for Vice President Vance, Defense Secretary Hegseth, CIA Director Waltz, and others to discuss sensitive military information certainly demonstrated a lack of care for the nation’s security mission. It was exacerbated, of course, by the addition of a noted journalist to the chat; otherwise, the public probably would not be aware of such a potentially dangerous, and embarrassing, breach of security. Fortunately, that same journalist, Jeff Goldberg, is a serious reporter who understood the sensitivity of the issues discussed and left the chat before it ended. In any other administration, one or more of the people on the call would have resigned or been fired. The approach of the Trump Administration, however, was one of “nothing here to
see, folks; just move along.” But this wasn’t a traffic accident; it was an international incident, leading to our allies re-evaluating whether they can trust America with their shared intelligence. Looks like Messrs. Vance and Hegseth forgot their history classes about World War II that “loose lips sink ships.”
Now Mr. Vance has been tasked with eliminating “improper” information at the Smithsonian Institution and its museums and facilities, including the National Zoo! What in the world will he find “improper” about the pandas? That they’re visiting from China? The Trump Administration’s zeal to rewrite history and erase important aspects of our diverse culture smacks of censorship and propaganda that have been hallmarks of despotic rule for centuries. In his first term, Trump’s advisors relied on “alternative facts” to defend the many false claims emanating from the White House. Sounds like not much has changed. Falsehoods, misinformation, and disinformation worked for MAGA in the first Trump term, so why not just continue it in the second?
Another embarrassment last week was Homeland Secretary Kristi Noem’s visit to the El Salvador maximum security prison where
City of Falls Church CRIME REPORT
Week of March 24 - 30, 2025
Destruction of Property, W Broad St, Mar 24, 9:18 a.m., a report for graffiti was taken.
Domestic Assault and Battery, W Broad St, Mar 24, 2:13 p.m., a female, 20, of Washington, DC, was arrested for Domestic Assault and Battery.
Larceny from Building, Roosevelt Blvd, between February 28 and 5:30 p.m. on March 24, an unknown suspect cut a cable lock off the victim’s Lectric XP Step-Thru 2.0 electric bike and stole it.
Destruction of Property, Ellison St, Mar 24, between 11:20 p.m. and 11:55 p.m., an unknown suspect attempted to remove the cash box from inside a cash reloading machine, destroying it in the process. Investigation is ongoing.
Larceny from Building, Gundry Dr, Mar 25, 3:53 p.m., an unknown suspect stole a package off the victim’s porch. The
unknown suspect is described as an Asian female in her forties, approximately 5`2” to 5`5” in height, weighing roughly 150 to 170 pounds, with black hair, wearing a plaid flannel jacket, a dark colored shirt, blue pants, and carrying a gray sling bag.
Larceny from Vehicle, Gundry Dr, between 5:00 p.m. on Mar 25 and 7:00 a.m. on Mar 26, an unknown suspect stole a backpack from the victim’s unsecured vehicle.
Felony Shoplifting, W Broad St, Mar 27, 5:15 p.m., an unknown suspect stole merchandise without paying. The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 25 to 35 years old, 5`8” to 5`9” in height, weighing roughly 180 to 190 pounds, with black facial hair, wearing a blue beanie, neon yellow construction vest, an orange sweater, grey jeans, and tan construction boots.
Driving Under the Influence – 2nd Offense, W Broad St, Mar 29, 4:44 a.m,, a male, 37, of Triangle, was arrested for Driving Under the Influence – 2nd Offense.
two hundred Venezuelan men were deported as suspected gang members. Her carefully staged photo op had Noem, styled hair cascading down her white tee shirt, standing in front of a cell block crammed with shirtless prisoners as props for the set piece. Noem thought it signaled strength. No, it was pathetic and cruel, placing America on the international list of human rights abusers. The first hundred days of a new administration can provide an idea of what the next four years will be like. Will America and our democracy survive the next 46 months?
For a man lusting after the Nobel Peace Prize – remember he promised to end the war in Ukraine on his first day in office – Trump’s idea of peace is bizarre. Trade wars against our closest allies. Saber rattling about wresting Greenland from NATO ally Denmark. Cuddling ever closer to Putin. Injecting fear into millions of immigrants who now are afraid to venture even to church or the grocery store. A better word for it is despotism, especially if our institutional guardrails fail.
Eggs are still six dollars a dozen, an avocado at Whole Foods was $1.69 on Sunday, a gallon of gas increased by ten cents or more in the past few days, and what does Trump do about these kitchen table issues? He announces a scheme to win a third term in 2028! Megalomaniac. Oligarch. Despot. Narcissist. Those should be spelling bee words, not descriptions of the President of the United States.
Public Intoxication, Hillwood Ave, Mar 29, 2:05 p.m., a female, 43, of no fixed address, was arrested for Public Intoxication.
No Valid Operator’s License, W Annandale Rd, Mar 29, 6:21 p.m., a male, 29, of Alexandria, was arrested for No Valid Operator’s License.
Reckless Driving, E Broad St/N Washington St, Mar 30, 2:57 a.m., a male, 20, of Fairfax County, was arrested for Reckless Driving.
Pages 10 - 13
CAMPS & SCHOOLS Levine Music’s New Falls Church Campus Open for Discovery
by Courtney Musser
Jeffery Tribble, the President and CEO of Levine Music, which opened its newest campus in West Falls Church in mid-February, describes Levine as a “home for musical discovery.” Founded in 1976 by three women from New York City who decided Washington needed a music school, Levine’s mission was to welcome anyone with an interest in learning music, regardless of age, ability or means. Levine’s first home was in the basement of a church on Massachusetts Ave NW. Their flagship campus now sits on Upton Street in Northwest DC at the former Carnegie Geophysical Labs, which was bought in 1992 and subsequently transformed into a school, housing rooms for individual and group lessons, performance spaces and more. Levine also has a campus at the Music Center at Strathmore in Bethesda, MD, and another in downtown Silver Spring.
Its vision of, and commitment to, providing music education opportunities to all communities can be seen in its decision early on to establish a presence in Washington DC’s Wards 7 and 8. Levine has had a
presence there for the past 30 years.
Most recently, Levine was one of 13 founding partners of Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus (THEARC), where, in addition to music lessons, children can participate in programs at The Boys and Girls Club, The Washington Ballet and DC Central Kitchen. Levine’s campus at THEARC is now celebrating 20 years.
Levine’s offerings include private and group music instruction for all ages and abilities, including a music program called First Music, designed to engage young children beginning at 4 months and their families/caregivers. While private lessons are at the heart of its programming, learning at Levine means joining a community of music professionals and music lovers. Says Tribble, Levine is dedicated to meeting its students where they are, opening their ears to a world of music and cultivating a love of all things musical.
From the outset, Levine has sought to cultivate and develop partnerships with professional musicians, such as the National Symphony Orchestra. These relationships have evolved over time so that Levine is now in a position to offer its students
masterclasses and performances with professional musicians.
While the vast majority of lessons at Levine take place in person, online classes are available when they meet the needs of the student. Levine also runs a summer camp for beginning music students from ages 4-11, which will be offered at their new Falls Church location this summer. Camp Levine has been recognized by Washington’s City Paper’s annual Best of DC awards as one of the best summer camps in DC for the last six years, winning the title of Best Summer Camp for the past four years.
When I asked Tribble what distinguishes the Levine experience from the many other music schools from which parents and children may choose, he emphasized the breadth of experiences available to students and the quality of instruction offered by its expert faculty. Levine provides a robust performance and jury program that gives students a chance to perform and be reviewed by subject matter experts. Levine also facilitates a communal musical experience, whether through playing together with other students in an orchestra, string quartet, jazz combo, or rock
band, under the guidance of a faculty coach, hearing your teacher perform in a concert, seeing world-class guest artists in masterclasses, learning about music theory alongside your lessons, or borrowing material from
“It was time for me to change my life and the lives of my family, so I went back and got my high school diploma.”
- Darlene
the musical library. The entrance to Levine Music is situated directly across from the Falls Church City’s Meridian High School and is currently welcoming
CAMPS & SCHOOLS Planning Your Summer Around Camp Schedules How to Budget for School & Camp Without Going Broke
by
As we enter spring, parents across the region are turning their attention to a familiar question: how to keep kids engaged and active during the long summer break. For many families, the answer lies in summer camps — but finding the right balance between camp schedules and summer plans can be a juggling act.
From traditional day camps and sports clinics to STEM programs and art workshops, the options for kids are more diverse than ever. While this opens up exciting opportunities, it also means that planning needs to start early. Many popular camps fill up quickly, with registration deadlines as early as April.
Aligning overlapping camp weeks, vacation plans, and other commitments like sports leagues or family reunions requires a bit of strategy. A good first step is creating a calendar to map out all potential camps alongside family trips and work obligations. Some families stagger half-day camps with part-time childcare or combine multiple short camps to cover the full summer.
Cost is another key consideration. Weekly camp fees can vary significantly,
especially for specialty programs or overnight camps. It’s helpful to research earlybird discounts, multi-week savings, and scholarship opportunities, many of which are available to early planners.
Flexibility is important when building a summer schedule. Leaving one or two weeks unscheduled can provide muchneeded downtime and flexibility for spontaneous family outings or rest. Too many commitments can make summer feel as busy as the school year.
With thoughtful planning, it’s possible to strike a healthy balance between structure and freedom. The goal is to create a summer that’s enriching, enjoyable, and manageable for both kids and parents.
Tips for Summer Camp Planning:
• Register early to secure preferred dates
• Mix structured camps with free time
• Watch for early-bird rates and scholarships
• Use a visual calendar to avoid conflicts
• Leave space for family travel or downtime
With Summer coming soon, many families start preparing for the expenses of school and summer camp. From field trips and sports fees to camp registrations and supply lists, these costs can add up quickly. The good news? With a little planning, families can stay on budget and enjoy a stress-free season.
Start with a list. Write down all anticipated expenses for both school and camp. Include everything—supplies, uniforms, tuition, transportation, lunch money, and extra activities. Having a complete picture will help you understand the total cost and avoid surprise expenses later.
Set a spending limit. Once you have your list, decide how much you can realistically spend without dipping into emergency funds or taking on debt. Break that amount into categories so you know how much is available for each area.
Look for early bird discounts. Many camps offer lower rates if you register early. Some schools also provide payment plans or discounts for multiple children. The earlier you start looking, the more options you’ll have.
Buy used or swap supplies. School gear, sports equipment, and even camp essentials like sleeping bags and backpacks don’t always need to be brand new. Check out local thrift stores, neighborhood swap groups, or online marketplaces. You might be surprised what you can find for a fraction of the cost.
Pack smart. If your child’s camp requires packing meals or snacks, buying in bulk and prepping at home can save big money over time. The same goes for school lunches—skipping the cafeteria a few days a week can make a noticeable difference.
Involve your kids. Teaching children how to manage money early on is a bonus. Give older kids a say in how their activity money is spent—maybe they choose between a sports camp or an art class. Younger children can help compare prices and learn about saving.
Budgeting for school and camp may take a little time upfront, but the payoff is peace of mind all season long. With some smart planning and flexibility, families can keep finances on track while still giving their kids a memorable and enriching experience.
Falls Church News-Press
by Falls Church News-Press
CAMPS & SCHOOLS
The Benefits of Sports in Children’s Lives Tips for Navigating School Enrollment Deadlines
by
Sports play a vital role in the overall development of children. Whether it’s a casual game of tag at recess or organized team sports after school, physical activity offers much more than just fun. It contributes to a child’s physical, mental, and social well-being. Here are some of the key benefits of sports in children’s lives:
1. Physical Health and Fitness
Regular participation in sports helps children build strong bones and muscles, improve cardiovascular health, and maintain a healthy weight. It also encourages good habits like regular exercise and stretching, which can carry into adulthood. Active kids are less likely to suffer from chronic conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes.
2. Mental and Emotional Well-being
Exercise releases endorphins—natural mood boosters—that can help reduce stress and anxiety. Sports also provide a healthy outlet for managing emotions. Over time, kids who play sports often develop better self-esteem and a more positive outlook on life.
3. Discipline and Responsibility
Being part of a sports team teaches kids about rules, responsibility, and the importance of practice. They learn to set goals, stay com-
mitted, and manage their time. These habits are essential for success both in and out of the classroom.
4. Teamwork and Communication
Team sports help children understand the value of working together. They learn how to cooperate, communicate, and support one another to achieve a common goal. These social skills are useful not only on the field but in school, future workplaces, and relationships.
5. Resilience and Dealing with Challenges
Sports teach kids how to cope with wins and losses. Learning to handle defeat gracefully and bounce back with determination builds resilience—a trait that helps them face life’s many challenges with confidence.
6. Leadership Skills
Through sports, children often have the chance to take on leadership roles, whether it’s as a team captain or simply leading by example. These early experiences help shape confident and responsible individuals.
7. Lifelong Friendships
Sports often bring together children from diverse backgrounds, creating opportunities to form lasting friendships. The bond built through shared experiences, teamwork, and mutual support can last well beyond childhood.
It’s never too early to think about your child’s education next year. Whether you’re enrolling a child for kindergarten or transferring schools, navigating enrollment deadlines can be overwhelming. Missing key dates can mean losing a spot at your preferred school or facing delays in services. Here are some essential tips to stay ahead of the game.
1. Know Your District’s Timeline
Each school district sets its own enrollment period, often beginning as early as January and closing by late spring. Visit your district’s website or call the central office to get exact dates. Some schools, especially charter or magnet programs, may have earlier application deadlines.
2. Gather Necessary Documents Early
Enrollment typically requires proof of residency, immunization records, birth certificates, and possibly previous school records. Gathering these early helps avoid last-minute scrambling and ensures a smoother process.
3. Understand School Choice Options
Many districts now offer open enrollment, allowing students to attend schools outside their neighborhood. These pro-
grams usually have strict deadlines and may require a separate application process. Research your options well in advance to see if a different school might better suit your child’s needs.
4. Attend Information Sessions
Many schools offer virtual or in-person enrollment nights or open houses. These events provide a chance to ask questions, understand curriculum offerings, and meet staff. They also often include registration help.
5. Use Online Tools
Districts increasingly offer online enrollment systems, which can speed up the process and keep all documents in one place. Create an account early and explore the platform to avoid technical difficulties close to deadlines.
6. Plan for Special Services
If your child needs special education, ESL, or other services, notify the district as soon as possible. These programs may have additional paperwork or assessments.
In short, preparation and awareness are your best tools. Mark calendars, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to follow up with school offices. A little planning now can set the stage for a successful school year ahead. APRIL 3 - 9,
Falls Church News-Press
by Falls Church News-Press
Beyer Lashes Out at Trump Tariff Order
U.S. Congressman Don Beyer of Northern Virginia yesterday spoke during a press conference on Trump’s upcoming tariff announcement, held by Democrats on the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee after House Republicans abruptly cancelled votes for the week and left town.
Beyer remarked, “The last time we tried this tariff policy, we got ten years of the Great Depression. This is really stupid public policy and it’s no surprise that the Republicans are leaving this afternoon. I wouldn’t want to be here for ‘Liberation Day.’
“Trump is ‘liberating’ the American people from their savings. ‘Liberation Day,’ these 25 percent tariffs, are going to be the largest tax increase in American history.
News & Notes
“Trump likes tariffs because he’s a bully. He likes them because he’s authoritarian, because they make him feel important, because he doesn’t realize that it actually costs real people real money. But make no mistake – these tariffs are going to wreck our economy.
“I was a car dealer for 46 years. This is going to wreak havoc in the international auto place that we have, where cars and parts come from all over assembled here. They’re shipped from here to all over.
“i think Ronald Reagan may have said it best, not the first to say it, but: ‘no one wins a trade war.’
‘Hands Off’ Demonstrations Everywhere This Saturday
The Indivisible activist group has announced multiple rallies to be held around this region, and across the U.S., this Saturday. Opposing
the extreme policies of the Trump administration, events will be held at noon at the Washington monument in D.C., and also in the following DMV region locations: Baltimore, Frederick, Leisure World, Olney, Haymarket, Leesburg, Warrenton, Catonsville, Charlestown, Westminster, Culpepper, Winchester, Hagerstown, Bel Air, Chestertown, Woodstock and Louisa.
F.C. Fitness Challenge
Now Underway to April 30
The Falls Church Fitness Challenge kicks off April 1. The month-long event is designed for all ages and fitness levels, and participants are urged to make it easy and fun to get active, challenge selves, and win prizes along the way.
As of April 1, folks can pick up Fitness Challenge Passports at the Mary Riley Styles library, City Hall, or the Recreation and Parks office. Then, as they
complete different activities — walking, yoga, team sports, and workouts — they can check off challenges on a bingo board. The more challenges finished, the bigger the rewards, from decals to sports socks to duffel bags. At the end of April, boards can be turned in with a chance to win more prizes.
More information is available at https://visitfallschurch.com/ fallschurchfit/
LGBTQ+ Prism Opens New Community Space in McLean
A Northern Virginia nonprofit community center for LGBTQ+ individuals opened a new facility last weekend to expand opportunities serving the region.
NoVa Prism Center board president Sydney Mastrangelo led a ribbon cutting launching the expanded service center at 1340 Old Chain Bridge Road in McLean.
Relocated from a small office in
Oakton, the resource center’s new base is providing facilities for staff, a community library, an arts-andcrafts room, a gender-affirming clothes closet and a room designated as a future food pantry.
Prism Center Executive Director Leon van der Goetz commented. “It’s a space where people can come, hang out and access vital services.” The facility initially will be open to the public Saturday afternoons.
Brown’s Hardware Named F.C. Parade Marshals.
The Falls Church Recreation and Parks Advisory Board is proud to announce Brown’s Hardware as the Grand Marshal for the 43rd Annual City of Falls Church Memorial Day Parade. The Brown’s staff will lead the parade on May 26. Brown’s closed its doors last weekend after 142 years serving the Falls Church community.
LAST FRIDAY, FALLS CHURCH turned out for a celebration of the 142 year history of the beloved Brown’s Hardware store, which shut its doors for the last time the next day. Olivia Jeffers of Karma Yoga organized the event that featured music, food, speeches, a video and photos. (Photo: News-Press)
FALLS CHURCH MAYOR Letty Hardi (right) and Councilmember Justine Underhill are shown here upon their return from their trip to San Francisco to participate in an event hosted by the “Abundance Movement.” They came directly to the Brown’s Hardware celebration. (Photo: News-Press)
APRIL
F.C. Working Group Set to Evaluate Key Projects
A multi-department City staff working group has been created at City Hall to address a number of ongoing local issues, City Manager Wyatt Shields told the monthly meeting of the Economic Development Authority Tuesday night.
The group will focus on issues surrounding utility pole planters, gateway median planters, Kaiser garage clean ups (related to the garage being made available for public parking), the two new “parklets” that have been formed, parklet signage including at Mr. Brown’s Park in the 100 block of W. Broad, public parking signage and banners.
F.C. Concert Saturday Free To Laid Off Fed Workers
Little City Concerts will offer a free ticket discount code to recently laid off federal workers at its concert this Saturday, April 5, at the Falls Church Episcopal Church featuring Keith Butler and Seysew. Jazz drummer/composer Keith Butler, Jr and his groundbreaking quintet Seysew will perform a new work commissioned by the Little City Concerts entitled, Rest/Imagine: Themes for a Bloodline.
The work being performed is described as “a rumination on literacy, black imagination, and the often unspoken history of families.” The concert is at 7:30.
Library Board OK’s Book
After 4,500 Complaints
The Board of Trustees of the Mary Riley Styles Library in Falls Church last week ruled to keep in its collection a children’s book about Palestine that drew 4,500 emails of protest.
A panel of three library staff professionals reviewed the book, “P is for Palestine: A Palestine Alphabet Book” by
Golbarg Bashi, in light of the objections and recommended to library director Megan Dotzler that the book does not violate library standards and should remain on shelves.
The board, however, determined to move the book from the picture book to the children’s nonfiction section.
Beyer Assails Firings at U.S. Institute of Peace
U.S. Congressman Don Beyer of Northern Virginia issued the following statement this week after the reported mass firings of workers at the United States Institute of Peace, the reported illegal “appointment” of a 28-year-old Elon Musk lackey to replace its president, and the reported “transfer” of its headquarters to the General Services Administration (GSA):
“The United States Institute of Peace is a private, independent, nonprofit organization, not an Executive Branch agency. Trump and Musk have no more authority to bypass the legal procedures Congress enacted to establish its headquarters and governance structure than they have to seize the assets of the American Red Cross or replace the leadership of
the U.S. United States Conference of Catholic Bishops with Elon Musk’s young stooges.”
“Congress established the Institute of Peace with support of Ronald Reagan to study and advance the use of diplomacy to prevent armed conflict. The American people have a vested interest in that goal, for both
national security and financial reasons in addition to the moral ones. Donald Trump’s attacks on diplomacy and soft power, his antagonization of key American allies, and his authoritarian tactics make our country and the world less safe. I will continue to advocate for the U.S. Institute of Peace and for the conscientious, commit-
ted people who work there.”
Beyer this week also posted a video on social media showing him calling a Social Security office and being placed on indeterminate hold and then being hung up on. It underscored the impact of Trump layoffs at the agency.
HOLDING THE Falls Church City Council proclamation hailing the 142 year history of Brown’s Hardware on the eve of its final day last weekend was owner John Taylor (center). Shown left to right are F.C. Councilmember Justine Underhill, former F.C. Mayor David Tarter, Revenue Commissioner Tom Clinton, Del. Marcus Simon, EDA chair Ross Litkenhous, Mayor Letty Hardi, Taylor, Councilmembers Debbie Shantz-Hiscott and Laura Downs, and City Manager Wyatt Shields. (Photo: Gary Mester)
LAST FRIDAY, March 28, was Falls Church News-Press Day in the City of Falls Church, as declared in an official City Council proclamation. A small group assembled at the Italian Cafe to mark the occasion. Around the table from the left: Former F.C. Vice Mayor Hal Lippman, State Sen. Saddam Salim, Debra Roth, News-Press founder, owner and editor Nicholas Benton, F.C. Treasurer Jody Acosta and Assistant Treasurer Nicki Wisemiller, State Del. Marcus Simon and his wife Rachael Goldstein and Sheriff Matt Cay. (Photo: Gary Mester)
16 | APRIL 3 - 9, 2025
THIS WEEK AROUND F.C.
Thursday, April 3
Light & Dark: Contrast – Falls Church Arts Exhibit Showcases Local Photographers
March 1, 2025 – April 6, 2025
Falls Church Arts Gallery
700-B W Broad St, Falls Church, VA
The creativity of forty-four local photographers will be presented at tthe exhibit Light & Dark: Contrast. The exhibit continues the organization’s long-standing support of arts in the community. The sixty-piece exhibit will open Saturday, March 1, with a meet-the-artists reception from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the gallery. The event is free and open to the public. The Juror’s Choice Award will be announced at the reception. Visitors are invited to vote for the People’s Choice Award at the gallery before March 21. The color and black and white images will be on display from March 1 to April 6, 2025. Admission to the gallery is free. The gallery is open Tuesdays–Fridays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
A Room in the Castle:
Presented by Folger Theatre
March 4, 2025 – April 6, 2025 Folger Theatre
201 E Capitol St SE, Washington, DC How does a woman survive the court of Denmark? How does anyone? A Room in the Castle finds Ophelia, her handmaid, and Queen Gertrude on the other end of a wild prince’s antics and realizing just how dangerous life in this castle has become. A universal thriller that explores how we help one another through harrowing times, what mothering a potential madman means, and what responsibilities generations have to each other, A Room in the Castle rebrands the stories of the women of Shakespeare’s Hamlet into a hilarious and heart-rending drama with music and defiant hope for the future. Tickets $20.00 – $84.00 at www.folger.edu
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.
Snow White/Blancanieves
March 21, 2025 – April 6, 2025
Creative Cauldron
127 E Broad St, Falls Church, VA 22046
The Learning Theater takes an irreverent look at one of the most popular Grimm tales of all time. In this bi-lingual adaptation featuring the music of Conner and Smith, Snow White meets all of your favorite characters: the Magic Mirror, the Evil Queen, the little miners who come to her aid and a few other zany members of the kingdom that will have you rolling in the aisles. Snow White/Blancanieves is sponsored by Halm Jenkins PLLC. Adults $20, Students $18. NOTE: For the comfort of everyone, all
children must have their own ticketed seat(s).
Family Four Pack $65 (Use code 4PK)* *Limited Availability Tickets at www.creativecauldron.org
On Stage: 2 Across March 21, 2025 – April 5, 2025
Providence Players 2855 Annandale Rd, Falls Church, VA
Two strangers, a man and a woman, board a San Francisco BART train at 4:30 a.m. They’re alone in the car, both are doing the New York Times crossword. She’s an organized, sensible psychologist. He’s a free-spirited, unemployed ad exec. This starts an eighty-minute ride filled with hilarious, witty, and romantic banter. Tickets $18.00 - $21.00 at www.providenceplayers.org.
Play World Premiere: #CHARLOTTESVILLE
March 22, 2025 – April 13, 2025 Keegan Theatre 1742 Church St NW, Washington, DC
The play #CHARLOTTESVILLE is an urgent and personal exploration of how a town and the nation grapple with white supremacy, #CHARLOTTESVILLE is constructed verbatim from interviews with over a hundred local residents, court transcripts, and news reports. Tickets at $44.00 - $54.00 at http://www.keegantheatre.com.
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 7:30AM - 8:45am; 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
Falls Church Home & Garden Tour
Tickets On Sale Now! March 27, 2025 – April 6, 2025 Falls Church, VA, USA Sunday, April 6, 1 to 5 p.m. This biennial event showcases the architectural diversity and beauty of the Little City. Take the self-guided tour, which features 11 distinctive stops, including historic residences, new builds, and curated gardens. Proceeds from the event benefit the Falls Church Education Foundation and Falls Church City Public Schools. Please note, the tour is intended for adults 18 and over. Tickets are available for $30 in advance or $35 on the day of the event. Purchase tickets at https://www.fcedf.org/garden.html.
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 14April 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 10am-6pm! 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 you 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.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream-ish April 3, 2025 – April 5, 2025
Meridian High School
121 Mustang Alley, Falls Church, VA 22043
A woman has a nightmare about a halfman-half-donkey monster. Yikes! Don’t miss the Meridian’s Theater production: A Midsummer Night's Dream-ish by William Shakespeare (mostly) Tickets: $15 general admission; $5 student rush
tickets--cast at the door. To purchase online: https://sites.google.com/fccps.org/ amidsummernightsdream/purchase-tickets
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 22046
Join our children’s librarians for songs, stories, and rhymes! For ages 18 months to 4 years with a caregiver, younger siblings are welcome. 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. Playtime with our Early Literacy toys will be available after Storytime. The room will remain open until 12pm.
New Yorker Discussion Group 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Mary Riley Styles Public Library
120 N Virginia Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046
Enjoy reading The New Yorker but wish you had someone to chat about it with?
Drop into the monthly New Yorker Discussion Group to share your thoughts on what you’ve read in a variety of articles. The discussion can also be accessed on Zoom; email psullivan@fallschurchva.gov for link.
Falls Church Chamber 2025 Gala 6:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. State Theatre
220 N Washington St, Falls Church, VA
The Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce celebrates the local business community with the Annual Business Awards Gala. The awards will recognize the Small Business of the Year, Large Business of the Year, Nonprofit of the Year, Company Culture of Excellence, and Pillar of the Community. The evening features dinner, live entertainment and as the chief fundraiser, a silent and live auction. This year, The Disco Ball celebrates the 70s and invites you to dress accordingly.
Folger Book Club: Twelfth Knight 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Virtual Twelfth Knight, a young adult romantic comedy inspired by Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. Free event. Registration required at www.folger.edu.
Solace Outpost Trivia Night 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Solace Outpost
444 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA
Join us for live trivia every Tuesday and Thursday presented by Pour House Trivia! Come drink, eat and win! First place teams $30 gift card. Second place teams $20 gift card.
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!
Witches & Quills: A Witchy Author Panel 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. One More Page Books
2200 N Westmoreland St, Arlington, VA
Join us for a very witchy panel featuring
Mystery authors Esme Addison and Stacie Murphy. Author and One More Page veteran Mindy Klasky will be participating as a moderator! Authors will be available to sign books at the end of the event. Register for free at www.onemorepagebooks.com. Jeff Daniels: Live in Concert 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Temple Isaiah 12200 Scaggsville Rd, Fulton, MD Singer/Songwriter/Actor Jeff Daniels will be performing.
Friday, April 4
auctions. For more information and bidding link go to https://www. quinnsauction.com/all-upcoming-auctions.
Houseplants 101 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Virtual Interested in bringing your gardening hobby indoors or looking to add a little green to your space? Join Extension Master Gardeners Evin Morrison and Rebecca Secula to learn about getting plants to thrive in your home. Evin and Rebecca cover a variety of topics including ideal lighting conditions, potting soil recipes, and how to deal with pests. This presentation is geared toward the beginner houseplant owner but will be a great refresher for anyone looking to make their houseplant ventures more successful. FREE. RSVP online at https://mgnv.org/rsvp-for-public-educationclasses/ to receive the link to participate
Storytime: Love the World/Ama el mundo 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
National Gallery of Art - East Building 4th St NW, Washington, DC 20565 Let’s play together while reading aloud the children’s book Love the World/Ama el mundo written and illustrated by Todd Parker in English and Spanish. We welcome all ages, especially our youngest visitors and nursing parents. Our playgroup will gather at the East Building entrance, and we’ll get settled in the Atrium with a special, rotating book and other creative play activities to enjoy. We’ll read the story twice. Storytime is free of charge and registration is not required. You’re welcome to park strollers at coat check. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Continued on Page 17
Live Music: Liberty Street
5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Clare & Don's Beach Shack
130 N Washington St, Falls Church, VA
Campfire Fridays
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Hidden Pond Nature Center
8511 Greeley Blvd, West Springfield, VA
Join us for an evening campfire the whole family can enjoy. Explore the wonders of our natural world through nature walks, interactive activities and animal presentations. Includes s’mores. Topics vary by date. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Ages 5 to Adult. Cost is $12.00. Register at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.
Symphony of Frogs
7:15 p.m. – 9:15 p.m.
Huntley Meadows Park
3701 Lockheed Blvd, Alexandria, VA
Join a naturalist for a discussion and a guided walk to listen for serenading frogs and toads. Learn the calls of a bull frog, southern leopard frog, green frog, tree frog and American toad. Ages 6 to Adult. Cost: $9.00. Register at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.
Live Music: James Stevens
9:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Dogwood Tavern
132 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA
Saturday, April 5
Art Blooms at Mosaic
April 5, 2025 – April 6, 2025
FRESHFARM Mosaic Market
2920 District Ave, Fairfax, VA Mosaic welcomes Spring with a two-day festival in partnership with the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Festival Highlights: A unique market of +110 handmade, artisan, and vintage goods vendors, over +60 local vendors showcasing fresh produce and delectable snacks, Live music: Performances will take center stage on Strawberry Lane, featuring local bands/artists. Tommy McFly returns to Mosaic as official Emcee. Spring-themed Selfie Stations presented by Merrifield Garden Center. Sip & Stroll: Sip on your favorite cocktail while shopping at Mosaic! Free and open to the public. Complimentary shuttle service is available from the Dunn Loring Metro Station.
Spring Native Plant Sale
9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Morven Park Grounds
17339 Southern Planter Ln, Leesburg, VA Native plants add beauty and interest to your garden year round and provide important habitat for wildlife. Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy’s Native Plant Sale is the place to buy spring-blooming flowers, vines, trees, shrubs and ferns. The sale takes place at Morven Park’s visitor parking lot (access via main entrance on Old Waterford Road) in Leesburg, VA. Each of the nursery owners are on hand to provide expert advice, along with knowledgeable volunteers from Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy. The sale runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you have boxes for carrying your plants, please bring them. If you have extra boxes, bring them for others to use. Want to learn more about native plants? We’ll have a series of free talks and Q&As with experts in the field, 10 am-1pm.
Forest Bathing and Story Weaving
9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Potomac Overlook Regional Park
2845 Marcey Rd, Arlington, VA 22207
Curious about discovering your creative voice in nature? Join us for a unique spring morning that combines the gentle practice of forest bathing with the joy of Story Weaving at Potomac Overlook Regional Park. No writing, storytelling, or other experience needed – just bring your openness to wonder! As the forest awakens with new stories
of its own – budding leaves, returning birdsong, and tender wildflowers – we'll discover how our own stories intertwine with nature's narratives. Ages 18 to Adult. Cost: $40.00. Register at www.novaparks.com.
Falls Church City Spring Clean Up 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Falls Church Community Center
223 Little Falls St, Falls Church, VA 22046
Volunteers needed. Meet at the Community Center are organized into teams, and assigned to work areas throughout the city. City staff distributes trash pickers, trash bags, recycling bags, gloves, and reflective vests. This event is perfect for community groups (Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, etc.), church groups, families, or individuals. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather of the day.
Ice Cream Social at the Farmhouse 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Cherry Hill Farmhouse
312 Park Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046
Celebrate the start of the Cherry Hill Farmhouse open house season with some family fun! Join us for yard games, tours, and ice cream! Make, taste, and learn all about how ice cream was made in the 1800s.
Spring Wreath Making Workshop
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Stylish Patina Home, Kelly Thompson Realtor
248 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA
Come and get your creativity flowing by learning how to make your own Spring Wreath! You will leave with a wreath for your front door! We will supply all the materials and some bubbles & treats to nosh on while you get creative! You will select from a variety of flowers to create you own unique wreath! Cost: $69.95. Register under Workshops at www.stylishpatinashop.com.
Garden Talk – Design a Deer Resistant Garden
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Green Spring Gardens
4603 Green Spring Rd, Alexandria, VA
Discover how to prevent uninvited deer from helping themselves to your garden by planting deer resistant trees, shrubs and perennials and by using a combination of fencing and repellents. Extension Master Gardeners will help you develop an effective strategy to protect your garden. For Adults. Cost: $12.00. Register at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.
Sing Books with Emily 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Mary Riley Styles Public Library
120 N Virginia Ave, Falls Church, VA
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. Space is limited; first come, first served.
Shop for a Cause: Supporting the ACLU 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
One More Page Books
2200 N Westmoreland St, Arlington, VA
Shop in store or online to support the ACLU! 15% of proceeds will be donated to the ACLU's fight to protect our democracy. www.onemorepagebooks.com.
Family Workshop at the Folger: Spring Has Sprung 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Folger Theatre
201 E Capitol St SE, Washington, DC Breathe in the spring air at the Folger! In-
CALENDAR
spired by the spring season, families will experience Shakespeare’s words and their connection to nature. Then, weather permitting, we will explore the Folger gardens to take Shakespeare’s words outdoors! There are two sessions available with these recommended ages: 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.: Recommended for ages 5-7, 1–2 p.m.: Recommended for ages 8-11. Sessions are free but registration required at www.folger.edu.
Health Fair at Alloy Personal Training
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Alloy Personal Training Falls Church
7395 US-29 i, Falls Church, VA
Discover the Best in Local Health & Wellness! Join us for our FREE Health Fair— bringing together some of the top local wellness professionals & businesses to help you live your strongest, healthiest life! Meet & connect with experts, explore local services in fitness, recovery, wellness & more, enter raffles, enjoy giveaways, and score exclusive offers, engage in demos, consultations & more fun activities.
Live Performance: Crooked Sparrow
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Mary Riley Styles Public Library
120 N Virginia Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046
Crooked Sparrow is the combination of award-winning singer songwriters Valeria Stewart and Kevin Dudley. They are joined by fiddler Jenny Smith. There is never a dull moment with the blend of Texas, Latin America, Folk and Americana roots in this trio’s music. Free. Register for a seat to attend at www.mrspl.org.
Spring EGG-stravaganza
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Lake Fairfax Park
1400 Lake Fairfax Dr, Reston, VA 20190
Come celebrate spring at Lake Fairfax Park. Play spring egg games and learn about the wonderful egg-laying friends in your own neighborhood. Ages 3 to Adult. Cost: $8.00. Register at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.
National Chamber Ensemble presents Bach, Liebermann and Brahms
4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Marymount UniversityBallston Center
1000 N Glebe Rd, Arlington, VA 22201
The National Chamber Ensemble (NCE) celebrates Marymount University’s 75th Anniversary and brings the combined talents of two extraordinary musical artists in a program featuring works by Johann Sebastian Bach, Johannes Brahms and Lowell Liebermann. Tickets $40.00 at https://www. nationalchamberensemble.org/tickets.htm
Keith Butler and Seysew
7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
The Falls Church Episcopal
115 E Fairfax St, Falls Church, VA 22046
We are very excited to work with drummer and composer Keith Butler, Jr., on our first Little City Concerts Commission, tentatively titled Rest/Imagine: Themes for a Bloodline. Written for Seysew (flute, piano, bass, drums) with guest vocalist Jaquay Smith, this piece is a rumination on literacy, black imagination, and the often unspoken history of families. For this performance, Keith will be joined by flutist Alex Hamburger, pianist Drew Kid, bassist Stephen Arnold, and guest vocalist Jaquay Smith. Tickets $25.00 at https://m.bpt.me/event/6584400.
Live Music: Eric Zatz
9:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Dogwood Tavern
132 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA 22046
Continued on Page 18
Sunday, April 6
Falls Church Home & Garden Tour
Falls Church, VA, USA
Falls Church Home & Garden Tour is a great community event highlighting the beautiful and diverse "Little City". Proceeds from the event benefit the Falls Church Education Foundation and the Falls Church City Public Schools. There will be a variety of homes and gardens, including small and large homes, renovated, historic, and new builds. Advance tickets are available for $30/ticket. Tickets for day of the event are $35/ticket.
Please note that while funds raised help our students, the tour is for adults only (18 and over). Your guidebook is your ticket! Pick up your guidebook at Oak Street Elementary School (601 S. Oak Street, Falls Church, VA) on Saturday, April 5 from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. or Sunday, April 6 from 11am3pm. Purchase advance tickets at https:// fcedf.networkforgood.com/events/690972025-falls-church-home-garden-tour
Sunday Morning: Monthly Walking Club
9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Karma Yoga: Classes, Community & Retreats
246-A W Broad St, Falls Church, VA
Join us for monthly morning walks where conversation ranges from philosophy to yoga to the weather. If the weather is nice, some folks like to walk barefoot. All footwear welcome! Meet at the Karma Yoga entrance on the parking lot side.
Dinosaur Egg Hunt
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Hidden Oaks Nature Center
7701 Royce St, Annandale, VA 22003 Stomp over to Hidden Oaks Nature Center to enjoy a dinosaur-themed program and outdoor egg hunt while visiting Dinoland in Nature Playce. Canceled in case of inclement weather. One adult only per registered child preferred. Multiple sessions available throughout the day starting at 10:30 a.m. Cost: $10.00. Register at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.
Moon Mouse: A Space Odyssey
1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Center for the Arts/Concert Hall, 4373 Mason Pond Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA
Marvin the Mouse wants to be popular, but is constantly bullied by the “cool” rats. He retreats into his science books and a world of fantasy as respite, longing to have adventures and be the hero. Join Marvin on the space adventure of a lifetime: a trip to the surface of the moon on his homemade rocket where he meets a strange cast of misfit creatures and views awesome beauty in this cosmic adventure about celebrating differences. Recommended for ages 10 and under. The 4 p.m. performance will be sensory friendly, designed to create a welcoming and comfortable arts experience for people with autism, sensory sensitivities, or other social, learning, or cognitive disabilities. This performance will also offer audio description. Please note: the auditorium will be fully dark due to the nature of the performance. Tickets
$15.00 at https://cfa.calendar.gmu.edu/.
Board Game Sunday for Adults
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Mary Riley Styles Public Library
120 N Virginia Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046
Come check out the wonderful and varied world of modern board games. Play various tabletop games that are simple to learn and fun to master. This is a great way to meet new people. Experienced players will be on hand to offer instruction. For adults 18+. No registration required. Attendance is first-come, firstserved until seating capacity is reached.
Campus Recital 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Levine Music - VA Campus: West Falls 255 W Falls Station Blvd Suite 160, Falls Church, VA
An afternoon of performances from students at our VA Campus: West Falls. Performances are free. RSVP at www.levinemusic.org
Textile Treasures
1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Green Spring Gardens
4603 Green Spring Rd, Alexandria, VA
From flax and wool to silks and taffetas, textiles have figured in every society throughout history. Artist and collector
Caroline Hottenstein reveals laborious past methods of textile care and demonstrates the art and science of it today. Learn how proper cleaning, handling and storage will preserve your heirloom textile treasures. Cost: $23 (lecture only); $48 (lecture + tea)
A traditional British afternoon tea served in the Historic House follows each tea program. Full tea includes finger sandwiches, pastries, and scone with cream and jam. Register at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks
Traces and Tracks
2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Winkler Botanical Preserve
5400 Roanoke Ave, Alexandria, VA 22311
Join us as we learn about tracks and traces of the animals that call Winkler home!
We'll be talking about how all of our senses can be used to find animals throughout the Preserve. While exploring the hiking trails, we'll look for animals or signs that they've been there. We'll use BINGO cards to record our finds and make some tracks of our own!
Meet at Catherine's Lodge. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Cost: $8.00. Register at www.novaparks.com.
Mill in Motion
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Colvin Run Mill
10017 Colvin Run Rd, Great Falls, VA
Explore Colvin Run Mill to see how it operated in 1811. Hear and feel the Mill grinding grain. Learn about Oliver Evans and his first US patents that revolutionized food production. Try your hands at simple machines. Visit the 19th century Miller's House and stop by Colvin Run General Store to purchase our ground grain. Ages 4 to Adult. Cost: $10.00. Register at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.
Live Music: Ramon & Kamaka
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Clare & Don's Beach Shack 130 N Washington St, Falls Church, VA
Bella White performing/Red Rhododendron Tour
8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Pearl Street Warehouse 33 Pearl St SW, Washington, DC
Singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist
Bella White has announced her Spring 2025 Red Rhododendron headline tour. US and Canadian stops include New York, NY, Atlanta, GA, Washington DC, Montreal, QC, Toronto, ON, and more. Tickets $25.00$40.00 Go to www.bellawhitemusic.com
Monday, April 7
Corn Grinding & Clay Pottery
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Huntley Meadows Park 3701 Lockheed Blvd, Alexandria, VA 22306
Learn how the Powhatan Native Americans used the plants and animals you see every day for their medicine, grocery store and clothing. Immerse yourself in a way of life 400 years ago. Grind corn, make a clay pot,
CALENDAR
master corn darts and go on a guided tour to see the park from the perspective of a Virginia Indian. Ages 4 to Adult. Cost: $12.00. Register at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.
Buying a Home
(FREE, ONLINE Educational Seminar)
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Virtual Free, online educational seminar: Buying a Home! Every 1st Monday of The Month. Learn about the mistakes to avoid when buying a property and ask the experts your questions! To register contact www.kathypippinproperties.com or text 703.386.7896.
Crafty Café -Paper Quilling
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Mary Riley Styles Public Library
120 N Virginia Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046
Relax at Crafty Café on the first Monday of the month. We will enjoy snacks and a different artsy activity every meeting. Teens in grades 6-12 are welcome! This month we will be learning paper quilling. Paper quilling involves manipulating strips of paper into various shapes like coils, loops, and curls, and then arranging and gluing these shapes to create a decorative design. Register at www.mrspl.org.
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. 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. No registration required. Walk-ins are welcome.
Evening Art Critique Group
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Falls Church Arts Gallery
700-B W Broad St, Falls Church, VA 22046
Join creative artists in a Falls Church Arts monthly discussion and critique group. Bring a piece of art you’d like feedback on—something new or old, something in progress or complete—and our community of artists will share their thoughts. The meeting is open to all so invite your artist friends. Feel free to join even if you don’t have a piece to share this time. If you have questions, email our facilitator, John Valenti, at info@fallschurcharts.org.
Tuesday, April 8
Fine Writing Instruments Auction
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Quinn's Auction Galleries
360 S Washington St, Falls Church, VA Quinn's Auction Galleries is proud to present our Fine Writing Instruments Auction. Featuring a wide variety of ballpoint, rollerball, and fountain pens. Including a Parker Sterling Fountain, Ballpoint & Fineline Set, a Montblanc "Original" Reproduction Set, and a Pelikan SouveranFullhalter Fountain Ballpoint Set. 27% Buyer's Premium. Auction catalog can be viewed at www.quinnsauction.com.
Italian Conversation Group
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Mary Riley Styles Public Library
120 N Virginia Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046
This class is intended for people with an intermediate level of Italian but all are welcome! The group will be coordinated by an experienced Italian instructor and native speaker. Questo gruppo di conversazione si rivolge a chi conosce già bene
le basi della lingua italiana e vorrebbe mantenere viva la lingua e diventare più fluente conversando su argomenti più o meno complessi di livello intermedio e avanzato. Register at www.mrspl.org.
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. The group will discuss “Philosophy and Its Critics,” in Some Problems of Philosophy, by William James (1911). Chapter 1. For Zoom link email Amy Azzam at amyazzam@gmail.com.
Mustangs Baseball Battle in Home Opener 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Capital One Park 1600 Scotts Crossing Rd, Tysons, VA
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 9
Carlyle House Book Club-Braddock’s Defeat 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Carlyle House Historic Park
121 N Fairfax St, Alexandria, VA
Join the Carlyle House Book Club as we discuss David Preston’s Braddock's Defeat as part of our commemoration of the 270th anniversary of General Braddock’s Grandest Congress. Admission is free but we ask all participants to register so we know which space we will be using. $5 suggested donation at the door. Register at www.novaparks.com.
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 information contact ghegyi@bodydynamicsinc.com
LEGO Club
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Mary Riley Styles Public Library 120 N Virginia Ave, Falls Church, VA 22046
Calling all Master Builders to come and create at the library! This drop-in program is open to students in Grades K-5. No registration is required. Preschoolers are welcome if always supervised by an adult.
Drafts & Dragons: Boozy Adult Book Fair
5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Audacious Aleworks Brewery
110 E Fairfax St, Falls Church, VA 22046 Join us for Dragons & Drafts Boozy Book Faire at Audacious Aleworks in Falls Church! While there probably won't be any actual dragons (you never know), there will books, games, stickers, and other assorted goodies for your perusal while you enjoy some locally brewed beer! (Don't
via Venmo @karmayoga welcome Magnificent Mushrooms 8:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Potomac Overlook Regional Park 2845 Marcey Rd, Arlington, VA 22207 Learn about the fascinating world of the fungi kingdom and how it plays an essential role in the ecosystems of the world. Under the very ground we step on is an intricate mycelium network dubbed the "wood-wide web" that connects our forests together. This night hike is intended to help us find and view bioluminescent and bioflourescent species; you will be provided a special UV light that will help us locate them. Get ready to open your eyes to the magic of mushrooms! Cost: $7. Ages 10 – Adult. Please contact Matt Felperin at mfelperin@ nvrpa.org or 703.268.6064 for more information. Register at www.novaparks.com.
Senator Saddam Salim Richmond Report
Last week, the House and Senate adjourned sine die, which means that the 2025 regular legislative session is over. However, that does not mean our work is over for the year. Later this spring, we will meet again for the annual “reconvene session” where we will deal with bills vetoed by the Governor and any amendments he proposes to legislation or the budget. Last year, Governor Youngkin vetoed a record number of bills, and we expect that there will be more vetoes coming. Additionally, there is always the possibility of a special session to deal with pressing matters. Given the chaos in Washington, and its potential effects on Virginia, I am not ruling anything out on what we may do. Virginia is home to approximately 150,000 federal workers, and our leadership is paying particularly close attention to Trump’s reckless actions in regards to these workers and our Federal Government. If you are affected by these actions, my office has assembled a list of resources that can be found at salimforsenate. com/trump
My Bills: I am excited to report that 11 of my bills, over half that were introduced, made it out of the House & Senate and will be going to the Governor’s desk this year. Here are my bills that made it out of the General Assembly:
SB848: Raises the age to purchase an assault firearm to 21 years old. The age to purchase handguns is already 21, and multiple recent high-profile mass shootings have been committed by individuals under 21.
SB891: Requires a five-day waiting period before purchasing a firearm. This measure will particularly help prevent impulsive acts of gun violence and suicide. Research suggests that waiting periods could reduce gun homicide by up to 17 percent and gun suicide by up to 11 percent.
SB919: Increases protections for public transit employees and ensures that private contractors can’t be brought in to hire employees at lower wages or with fewer benefits.
SB920: Ensures that the families of first responders who succumb to
occupational throat cancer are eligible for benefits. While Virginia’s worker’s compensation laws cover throat cancer, they lack specific definition, leading to the denial or delay of claims by grieving families.
SB939: Increases the penalty for mail theft in Virginia, bringing our code up to Federal standards and providing new protections against porch pirates and check fraud.
SB1009: Expands the ranked choice voting pilot program by enabling local governments to voluntarily adopt RCV for additional local elections.
SB1011: Adds the City of Falls Church to the Affordable Dwelling Unit Program, aligning it with other Northern Virginia localities. This amendment enhances the city’s resources to address the ongoing affordable housing crisis.
SB1165: Prohibits local governments from exploiting procurement loopholes to prohibit certain solar power within their jurisdictions.
SB1166: Requires signage at retail establishments that sell invasive plants, educating consumers about the potential harm these plants pose to the environment. Invasive plants annually cost the Virginia economy over one billion dollars and cause significant ecological damage. This legislation aims to empower consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.
SB1169: (Requested by Commission) Adjusts certain monetary values for the Marine Resources Commission and indexes the values to the Consumer Price Index.
SB1406: Enhances awareness about the Children’s Ombudsman by requiring annual notification to foster children about the Ombudsman. Many foster children remain unaware of this resource, which empowers them to report instances of abuse, neglect, and other problems. The Ombudsman plays a crucial role in investigating these cases and providing support to the affected children. Additionally, the bill grants the Ombudsman the authority to contact or receive information from a child without the consent of the foster parents, foster agency, or social services department, provided that the child is the complainant.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY COUNCIL CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA Monday, April 14, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.
City Council will hold a public hearing on the following on Monday, April 14, 2025 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard:
(TO24-17) ORDINANCE TO AMEND CITY CODE CHAPTER 48 “ZONING” TO ALLOW ACCESSORY DWELLINGS AS A PERMITTED ACCESSORY USE IN THE R-1A, R-1B, AND R-M DISTRICTS AND TO ALLOW DETACHED ACCESSORY DWELLINGS AND TO AMEND CITY CODE CHAPTERS 42 (UTILITIES) TO REGULATE THE WATER AND SEWER CONNECTIONS OF ACCESSORY DWELLINGS
The proposed amendments address the City’s accessory dwelling regulations, including establishing specific regulations for accessory dwellings housed in detached buildings in R-1A and R-1B districts. More information may be found at www.fallschurchva.gov/2279/ Accessory-Dwellings-Update.
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 PUBLIC NOTICE
The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) of the City of Falls Church, Virginia will hold a public hearing on April 10th, 2025 at 7:30 PM in the Council Chambers, located at 300 Park Avenue, for consideration of the following item:
-Variance application V1659-25 by Miguel Nogales (Applicant), on behalf of Gillian and Mike Economou (Owners), for a variance to Section 48-263(3)(1) to allow a side yard setback of 7 feet 1 inch instead of the 8 feet minimum allowed for a screened porch at 1203A Lincoln Avenue, RPC# 51-215-101 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned R-1B, Medium Density Residential District.
Public comment and questions may be submitted to zoning@fallschurchva.gov until 4:30 pm on April 10th, 2025. 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.
Volunteers who live in the City of Falls Church are needed to serve on the boards and commissions listed below. Contact the City Clerk’s Office (703-248-5014, cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov, or www.fallschurchva.gov/BC) for an application form or more information. Positions advertised for more than one month may be filled during each subsequent month.
Architectural Advisory Board
Board of Equalization
City Employee Review Board
Environmental Sustainability Council
Housing Commission
Human Services Advisory Council
Library Board of Trustees
Public Utilities Commission
Urban Forestry Commission
Regional Boards/Commissions
Continuum of Care Board
Coordinating Council for the Aging and Adults with Disabilities
Fairfax Area Commission on Aging
Fairfax Area Disability Services Board
Health Systems Agency of Northern Virginia Virginia Career Works Northern Region
LOST TITLE APPLICATION NO. 2608165 OFFICE OF TITLES
26 February, 2025
NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 82 OF THE REGISTRATION OF TITLES ACT (RTA)
WHEREAS the applicants) in the above stated application has/have declared that the following duplicate Certi cate of Title has been lost, I HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that I intend to cancel the said Certi cate of Title and issue a new one in duplicate fourteen days after the last publication of this advertisement.
Volume: 943
Folio: 158 Lot: 180 Block “D” Place: Blue Castle Parish: St. Andrew
Registered proprietor(s): Ruby May Priscilla Gri ths, Percival Andre Gordon Gri ths, Richard Atherton Gordon Gri ths and Curl Lizeth Gri ths
The following transactions lodged with this application will be registered pursuant to section 81 of the RTA:
Application to Note Death 2608162 Application to Note Death 2608164
L. Dubar
Deputy Registrar of Titles
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for
preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-8530. Toll free call (888) 551-3247. For the hearing impaired call (804) 367-9753.
Falls Church Business News & Notes
Disco Ball Tonight
The Falls Church Chamber of Commerce is holding the Annual Business Awards Gala at the State Theatre tonight, 6:30 – 10:00 p.m. This is a community celebration for the business community and the public is welcome. The winners of Small Business of the Year, Nonprofit of the Year, Company Culture of Excellence, and Pillar of the Community will be announced. The chamber is also celebrating Brown’s Hardware. The event includes dinner, live music, a silent auction and Matt Quinn leads the live auction. Tickets are still available at the event.
Grand Opening of Tierra Encantada
Tierra Encantada, the new Spanish immersion daycare in the West Falls development is opening this weekend. The Falls Church Chamber hosts the ribbon cutting ceremony at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 5. Visitors may join the celebration and tour the facility until 1:00 p.m. Features include an indoor gym and globally inspired meals. Originating in Minnesota, this is the second of three to open in Northern Virginia. Located at 131 Haycock Road, the West Falls location is now accepting enrollment for infants through pre-kindergarten.
Health Fair at Alloy Saturday
Alloy Personal Training is bringing together local health and wellness businesses to educate and inspire the public on ways to improve their well-being on Saturday, April 5, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. This is an opportunity to meet the best resources for fitness, nutrition, recovery and wellness in one place. The participating businesses will also have the opportunity to network and consider partnerships. Alloy specializes in small group personal training and is located at The Shops at West Falls Church on Lee Highway.
Luau on Saturday
Saturday, April 5, The Casual Pint is having a Luau from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. Live music by the Hawaiian Band Kupono at 6:00 p.m. New Realm is bringing swag to celebrate their “Tiki Like a Fox IPA” which will be a special for the luau.
Falls Church McLean Children’s Center Receives Recognition
The Inclusive Placement Opportunities for Preschoolers (IPOP) Committee comprised of Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) and community early childhood administrators and educators have nominated and selected Falls Church McLean Children’s Center for the Exemplary Community Site of the Year. They have received this recognition for their dedication to inclusive instruction that supports the diverse needs of all children. The Center will be honored at the awards ceremony and reception on May 8, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Willow Oaks Administrative Center.
How to Establish & Improve Your Business Credit
The Community Business Partnership is holding a hybrid session designed to help business owners learn how to access lines of credit, grow, and improve their company’s credit. They will also cover myths vs facts and Do’s and Don’ts and share helpful resources. Karlene Sinclair-Robinson, Director of the Finance Center, leads the session on Tuesday, April 8, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Register soon as space is limited at https://cbp.ecenterdirect.com/events/998186
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
In February, the County Board approved a site plan for property owned by Melwood Horticultural Training Center, in the Aurora Highlands neighborhood. As with many redevelopment proposals, this one opens up many political issues, and much local history.
Let’s start with a little history of the site, which is located at the corner of 23rd Street South and Grant Street, about a block away from a cluster of restaurants and commercial establishments. In the 1920s an elementary school was built on this corner, named for Nelly Custis, the granddaughter of Martha Custis Washington. The original building was added onto over the decades, until it met its fate in the late 1970s: Declining enrollment led to the closure of Nelly Custis.
The property was part of a land a swap with the County in 1981, with the Sheltered Occupational Center of Northern Virginia (SOC), which owned property near the Ballston Metro Station. SOC was a work center for people with disabilities, and ever since the 1980s, the property has been used as a facility that provides support services and educational training opportunities to persons with a range of disabilities. In 2018 SOC (later re-named Linden Resources) conveyed the property to Melwood, which continues the supportive work for people with disabilities.
In 2021 Melwood started the process that, four years later, culminated in a site plan approval for a five-story residential building with over 100 units, and 22,000 square feet of space for the community services provided by Melwood. Wesley Housing plans to develop the property with committed affordable rental units; about 30 percent of the units would be set aside for people with disabilities.
This story has two familiar Arlington aspects to it: (1) non-profit organizations being creative; and (2) opposition to development by some neighbors. Let’s start with the opposition, as the story shifts, in a strange way, to the sad history of Arlington’s resistance to integration.
The connection is that an application
had been filed with the Historical Affairs and Landmark Review Board (HALRB), seeking designation of the parcel as a local historic district. In June of 2024, the HALRB reviewed the application, listened to public comment, and had a robust discussion. One of arguments in favor of historic preservation was that the school was one of the last elementary schools to be desegregated.
This claim led me back to the history books. It might surprise you to know that this history involves a shameful busing plan put forth in 1971 by the Arlington School Board. In 1971, of the 30 elementary schools in the County, four schools had no Black students, owing in large part to segregated housing patterns. These four schools were Custis, Jamestown, Madison, and Woodmont.
This was 12 years after the first Arlington school had been desegregated. The School Board was dragging its feet, and Arlington citizens once again had to sue the County. Unfortunately, the result was disappointing. The School Board produced a plan, approved by the court, to close the two majority Black elementary schools, and to disburse those 704 students to 21 schools. Their plan carefully made sure that those schools would have no more than a 12 percent Black enrollment in each school, a plan which, in turn, disrupted the lives in one of Arlington’s vibrant Black communities.
The School Board plan chopped up the Green Valley neighborhood into over a dozen tiny sections. Children within those geographic sections were then sent to over a dozen schools. A child being sent to Barcroft might have one friend across the street being sent by bus to Jamestown, and another close friend being sent to Nottingham School.
Nowhere in this history does Nelly Custis School appear to be worthy of a special historic designation based on the history of desegregation.
Last June, the HALRB authorized staff to begin the process that could lead to the designation of the Melwood parcel for historic preservation, which would effectively kill the redevelopment project. Will that happen? I will take on that question next week, along with a bit more history about schools, lawsuits, and historic designation requests.
Coming Summer 2025
Trampled
Garfunkel et al. 40. Ballerina’s jump
Fancy fabric
Stink
Farewell to Brown’s Hardware
by Ted White Falls Church News-Press
When I was a toddler – maybe three years old – my mother and I would walk the mile from our house in eastern Falls Church to Brown’s store. It was then a general store, not limited to hardware. Cereal boxes sat on high shelves, fetched with either a rolling ladder or an extended “grabber.” There were lollipops on display, and, to my delight, sometimes I would be given one.
Then my father would come out of the back room to greet us. He had worked at Brown’s for most of the 1930s, until taking a job at the Navy Yard in D.C. in the early ‘40s.
Brown’s was a hub in Falls Church then, and not least for its location in the geographical center of the town. It was a gathering spot, where adults discussed things then over my head.
Brown’s store was not then the onestory building it is now. For one thing, it was located directly on the northwest corner of the intersection of Washington and Broad Streets – no parking lot or garden center between it and the sidewalk. More important, it was a large, multi-story building. I’m not sure whether it started out as just a house, but it definitely had a house attached to it, on its western end. I believe the Brown family lived in that house, and my father had a room in it before he married my mother in 1935 and they built the house in which I still live.
It was a large, sprawling building, more than half devoted to the store. Behind it, to the north and west of it, was a large graveled parking lot, dominated by several mature trees.
One of Brown’s other employees, and a friend of my father’s, was Avon Lee. He was the first Black man I ever knew (in thensegregated Falls Church), and I regarded him, in my childhood, as my friend. He liked to show me things. Once we went out to that parking lot behind Brown’s and while we stood there, very quietly, a squirrel came down a tree and approached us. Soon it was climbing Avon’s pants leg, up to his shoulder and arm. At that point Avon gave it something edible, which it grabbed with its front paws and quickly consumed, maintaining its perch on him. It gave him a quizzical look and he gave it a second bite of food. Then it ran down his body to the
ground and scampered back up the tree. I was impressed. I still am. Years later, when I was at George Mason high school, Avon became the school’s chief custodian. I was glad to see him again – and disappointed by the way some of my bigoted classmates treated him.
I moved out of the area in 1958, ending up in New York City in pursuit of a career as an editor and writer. That accomplished, I moved back, with a wife and daughter, to my family house in 1970.
Much had changed in my absence. For one thing, North Washington Street had been expanded to four lanes. The expansion had pushed the street’s western side into Brown’s property, forcing the tear-down of the original building, and the construction of the current structure – well back from Washington Street. By then Brown’s had transitioned from a general store to a hardware store –probably some years earlier, in fact. Upon my return I renewed acquaintances with Hugh Brown, then the store’s owner.
The Brown family had been important in Falls Church for decades. An earliergeneration Brown had been instrumental in setting up the local bank which for many years occupied the corner now claimed by Ireland’s Four Provinces. Hugh was, I guess, the last of that dynasty.
I enjoyed shopping at Brown’s. Unlike Home Depot, there was always someone there to help. It was my go-to store for everything from plumbing supplies to garden materials – and fresh plants every spring.
But after Hugh Brown died in 2018, the store changed in small ways. The major change was in its hours. The store closed at 5:00 p.m. every weekday and was closed Sundays. Those hours might have worked decades ago, but not now. People who wanted to shop there after getting home from work couldn’t do it. They were forced elsewhere.
Small independent hardware stores have mostly disappeared from this area, forced out by the big chains like Home Depot. I’m aware of only one independent store left: Ayer’s in Westover (on Washington Blvd.) I think we should all support it, now that Brown’s is gone.
Ted White is a native of Falls Church. He is a well-known science fiction writer, editor, music critic and copy editor at the Falls Church News-Press
Meridian Track and Field Joins the Spring Action
by Ryan McCafferty
Week Two of spring sports season at Meridian High School didn’t quite see the same active schedule as usual. That said, the co-ed track and field squad joined those already in action by getting its 2025 season underway, and was among the busiest Mustang teams this week with two different meetings.
First, they played in a District meet at Fauquier County last Wednesday, where the girls placed fourth and the boys sixth while William Anderson (3200m), Michelle Malheiro (1600m), Molly Moore (3200m), and Emily Beloe (300H) all won individual events. Then on Saturday they competed in the Carolyn Legend Relays at Woodson High School, and saw a productive outing that resulted in six new school records, including both 800m Sprint Medley Relay teams.
Elsewhere, the girls’ softball squad got lots of action with three games on three consecutive nights, two of which were at home. They lost 4-1 to Fauquier last Wednesday and 16-6 to Oakton last Thursday, but then turned around and ended their week strong by beating
Liberty (Bealeton) 3-1 on the road Friday night. They face off against Kettle Run today.
Baseball lost its lone outing of last week, 11-4 against Fauquier on Wednesday at Capital One Ballpark in Tysons Corner. That drops them to 1-3 as they continue to adjust to their unique circumstances, and their schedule this week includes a game at “home” Thursday against Kettle Run.
On the lacrosse field, the boys lost 8-4 at Alexandria City last Monday, while beating Lightridge on Tuesday 17-11 and they play Seton on Saturday. The girls, meanwhile, beat Alexandria City 22-11 last Monday at home but then lost 17-9 to Riverside the next night, in addition they dropped a game vs Lightridge 14-11. bringing their record to 1-3. They’ll be on the road this week, playing at Hayfield on Saturday.
Finally, both soccer teams play this week, the boys (3-1) are set for home games against Alexandria City tonight, and Dominion on Friday, while the girls (1-1) will also face Alexandria City at home tonight in a rare doubleheader before visiting Dominion the next night.
MUSTANGS GIRLS LACROSSE Splits Week with Win Over Alexandria City, Tough Battle at Riverside. (Photo: FCCPS Photos/Katie Rosenbusch)
