Falls Church News-Press 4-6-2023

April

Kory Won’t Run Again, Seat Open For Simon

by Nicholas

Virginia Delegate Kaye

Kory Tuesday announced that she will not seek election to another term, clearing the path for Del. Marcus Simon in the 38th District, which by way of redistricting last year will soon have both Simon and Kory in the same district that includes the City of Falls Church. Kory will serve out her term through the end of the year in her current district which is located just outside the City centered in the Lake Barcroft area.

Her decision removes doubts about the upcoming Democratic primary in June, in which now only Simon is likely to run.

Del. Kory issued the following statement today:

“Serving the people of Fairfax County, first on the School Board and then in the House of Delegates, has been the honor of my life. My first priority was always to take incredible care of

DEMAND GUN CONTROL ACTION

Ambitious 6-Year CIP Agenda for F.C. Proposed

by

The Falls Church City Council is mulling dipping into its abundant capital reserves to help fund its annual Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for the first time ever this year,

Creative Cauldron Alum Makes

Broadway Debut

James Madison High School student and Creative Cauldron alum Sophia Manicone recently made her Broadway debut in the musical “Parade.” Read about how she got her start and F.C.’s impact on her theater career.

See Page 8

although the fund will not dip below official City policy levels and will be fully restored within just a few years, it was told this week.

The anticipated drawdown will be $860,000 in the coming fiscal year, and an additional $10.6 million will be extracted

in the next five years. But additions to the fund are projected to roughly equal the drafts so that by Fiscal Year 2030, the fund’s ending balance should be $12,630,377 compared to $12,930,927 now.

In a presentation by Deputy City Manager Cindy Mester and

Holy Week Observances in F.C.

Millions around the world will be celebrating the holidays this week. The NewsPress has a breakdown of what obsevances will be held locally in Falls Church. Don’t miss this section for the dates and times of these services.

See PageS 10-11

City Grants Manager Caitlin Sobsey, a six year CIP plan through Fiscal Year 2029 will come in at $154 million, including $25 million for work funded by the General and School funds, $93 million for transpor-

STUDENTS FROM FALLS CHURCH’S Meridian High School joined counterparts from schools across the U.S. last week to walk out of classes and march to demand action on gun control following the tragic school shooting in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo: FCNP)

F. Benton Falls Church News-Press

Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press

City’s Vape Shops Multiply With Well-Stocked Shelves

by Charlie Clark Falls Church News-Press

COVID forced the demise of many local small businesses; a dramatic exception has been the proliferating vape and tobacco shops.

The combined offerings of traditional cigars, ancient-style hookah pipes and digital delivery gadgets makes for colorful displays on opulently packed shelves.

A recent visit to Tobacco King at 336 South Washington St. provided an eyeful: Bob Marley rolling papers; “Gambler” packs of 250 cigarette filter tubes; glass Hookah pipes in varying colors; Cherokee menthol green pipe tobacco; herbal magical butter; lighters and ashtrays; cinnamon apple odor “exterminator candles” and a glassed-off room for pricey cigars.

The subculture of products expands to hunting knives, serving trays decorated with trucks and motorcycles, and various oils, tinctures and lotions. Another popular offering is Green Vein Kratom, a green-powdered plantbased herbal substance with pleasurable stimulant effects—currently legal but under government review.

Slapped on the front door is the “You must be 21 to enter” sign. (Repeated on its website.) And products such as e-cigarette flash drives (they can resemble school supplies) under labels such as GeekVape and Sky Solo display the label: “Warning: This product contains nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive chemical.”

According to Falls Church City business tax records, vape shops that opened since 2020 number at least three in Falls Church proper: another Tobacco King at 111 West Broad St. and a “Fine Cigars” Eastern Smoke Shop at 1055 West Broad St. The latter (proprietor Marwan Alkhaled) carries the stimulant CBD (legal in Virginia since 2019) and fruit-flavored Gummy Bears favored by vapers.

A Paradise Smoke Shop at 800 W. Broad St. was registered by the accounting firm of Riley and Nguyen LLC before it folded.

Tobacco King’s reach is the widest, registered under variations of the name Saleh Omar

Salim, with Fairfax locations on Leesburg Pike and Arlington Blvd., as well as other Virginia outlets in Arlington, Woodbridge, Sterling, Fredericksburg, Harrisonburg, Glen Allen and Blue Ridge.

“It’s roughly 80-90 stores, I’ve lost count,” said “Sammy,” as the CEO asked to be called in an interview with the News-Press He employs 200, with no investors.

The reason Tobacco King shelves are well-stocked is that “product availability is really important,” he said. “You want to make sure they are ready for customers, so they can see the products about. You can’t say, Come back tomorrow,” so the risk of oversupply pays off.

Sammy is confident in his chain’s employees’ ability to enforce the laws against selling vaping and tobacco products to minors. “Our stores are registered, and they can’t conduct a transaction until they confirm the buyer is 21 or over,” he said. “There’s a couple of steps, including being able to read the age on the I.D.” And to purchase, a buyer must wait for the clerk to scan and create an “MSA” (Management Science Associates) report on who made the sale. Sellers can be fined under federal law. Equipment and training for I.D. enforcement are expensive, he notes.

The Food and Drug Administration last October formally cracked down on Juul’s market penetration after years of watching its growing popularity among youth (delayed by an administrative hold). There were legal complaints to settle, and fruit-flavored products were halted. The Falls Church School Board in August 2019 adopted a policy that “unequivocally prohibits the use or possession of any tobacco product or nicotine vapor product on school buses, on school property, or at on-site or off-site school-sponsored activities,” communications director John Wesley Brett told the NewsPress. “The policy aligns with the school district’s commitment to creating a safe and healthy environment for all students, staff, and visitors. While it is impossible to eliminate the possibility of vaping incidents occurring in the school district, we continue to

monitor and address any vaping incidents that may arise.”

Sammy, who was raised in Bakersfield, Calif., takes a philosophical view on addiction, based on personal experience. “Cigarettes and tobacco have been in the world for the longest time, the 1700s, 1800s, since the Stone Age. It’s the same as yesterday’s product, so you can’t say it’s a new harmful product,” he specifies. “But morality-wise, it’s definitely something my wife does not support” — to the point where at first she refused to marry him.

“I used to smoke cigarettes, and then in 2014 when Juul came out, I chose to vape,” Sammy says. “I started sleeping better and could run a mile, but when I was smoking a pack a day, I couldn’t do a two-minute run. My mucus was thick and black for the first six months after I quit smoking. Juul helped me quit.”

But Sammy notes that “everyone has an opinion, and I respect the opinions.” He “understands our business is not loved by many, but a lot of people are using it” in lobbying. Some of those politicians, he says, citing stores’ facial recognition software, come in to buy cigars. “Part of those fighting the movement are in it,” he says. “They’re against it, I understand, but it’s an adult choice.”

Asked for his reaction should the Virginia government permit sale of cannabis, Sammy said it would “not be a problem, and will kill the black market, which is a big plus.” Years ago, when marijuana was sold on the street, “You didn’t know what was in it,” as he heard first-hand from customers. Street dope could be half impurities. If he did sell cannabis, Sammy added, he “would need to scale up” and enhance property security.

Is the Falls Church market anything special? “Businesswise, it’s not different compared with other counties or cities,” he says.

“Since the vape industry started, we’ve sold more vapor than tobacco,” Beginning July 1, 2020, liquid nicotine (“vape juice”) became subject to Virginia’s tobacco products tax at a rate of 6.6¢ per milliliter.

“If I were a tobacco company,” Sammy says, “I would be afraid of vape.”

Falls Church NEWS BRIEFS

Council Unhappy With Plan for Relocated Polling Places

At Monday’s Falls Church City Council work session, most on the Council expressed concern or outright opposition to the Voter Registrar David Bjerke’s plan to relocate two of the City’s three polling stations. The proposal is to move the Ward 2 location out of that ward from the longstanding Falls Green location to the Community Center and to move the Ward 3 location out of the Community Center to Meridian High School, leaving Ward 1 at its current Oak Street Elementary location.

It also involved reconfiguring the wards to make sure they are more balanced in terms of population numbers and that none have more than 4,000 registered voters, which if so would require an additional ward.

Local Signals Won’t Be Fixed for 15-20 Weeks

The traffic signals at the intersection of Lincoln and Great Falls in F.C. that are currently flashing and out of service won’t get repaired for 15 to 20 weeks, the F.C. City Council was told at its work session this Monday.

The problem seems to require the need for a cabinet replacement, Public Works officials reported.

Lawrence Webb Seeks Fairfax School Board Slot

It’s been just over two years since Lawrence Webb resigned his Falls Church School Board post to move to Fairfax County, after serving on the City Council and School Board in F.C. for 12 of the 15 years he lived here. Now living in Springfield, Webb announced this week for one of three at-large seats on the Fairfax County School Board to be decided in a June primary and November general election.

On his website, Webb touts himself as “the first openly gay African American elected official in the

Commonwealth of Virginia,” being “a leader on statewide issues in education and justice, among other things having served on the board of Equality Virginia, working to secure rights for members of Virginia’s LGBTQ community.”

13 Slots to Fill in Fairfax County in 2023 Election

There are no less than 13 elected posts that voters in Fairfax County will be asked to fill in 2023, beginning with a primary on June 20 through the general election on November 7.

The positions include the following: Member of the Virginia House of Delegates — 2-year term; Member of the Virginia Senate — 4-year term; Commonwealth’s Attorney — 4-year term; Clerk of the Circuit Court — 8-year term; Sheriff — 4-year term; Chairman of the Board of Supervisors — 4-year term; District Member of the Board of Supervisors — 4-year term; At-Large Members (vote for 3) of the School Board — 4-year term; District Member of the School Board — 4-year term; Directors (vote for 3) of the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District — 4-year term.

Sen. Saslaw’s $9 Million For F.C. Stormwater Pending

An initiative by State Sen. Dick Saslaw to provide $9 million in state funds to help address the City’s stormwater management needs, is being held up in Richmond as the legislature has yet to hammer out the final parameters of the annual budget.

Meanwhile, the City has been asked by U.S. Congressman Don Beyer and U.S. Senator Mark Warner to submit requests for $3 million from each for pressing F.C. infrastructure needs.

6/5 Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) Purchase

years based on the current five year US Treasury rate at the time, plus a 2.50% margin. The APR may be increased after the loan is closed. The product is for owner-occupied primary residence in the Virginia counties (and all cities and towns contained therein) of Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William, Washington DC and the Maryland county (and all cities and towns contained therein) of Montgomery. Interest paid on this ARM may be tax deductible. Consult your tax advisor. All borrowers must be occupants. The applicant is responsible for the following fees and costs at the time of closing; appraisal fee,

Active Projects Focused on Delivering $67 Million in Total Investments

Continued from Page 1

tation, $24 million for the sewer utility and $12 million for stormwater improvements.

The funding sources will be $81 million from grants, $21 million pay-as-you-go, $26 million debt financed and $12 million from the capital reserve (with $14 million as yet unfunded).

Completed projects include the S. Washington St. Transit Plaza, the S. Washington at S. Maple Ave. intersection, the Great Falls at Little Falls, S. Oak and S. Lee and Lawton Street neighborhood traffic calming (NTC) projects, the installation of 139 LED street lights, 3.1 miles of sanitary sewer line pipes relined, 22,595 square yards of asphalt repaving, and the new Wren’s Branch installations (290 feet of new pipe installed, 152 feet of pipe replaced, two curb inlets, one catch basin and one manhole installed). The Citywide sanitary sewer rehab lining effort is now 64 percent complete.

Active projects using prior year funds are focused on delivering $67 million total project investments, including $47 million for transportation, led by $17 million for the West End Revitalization District and $11,113,340 for S. Washington Planning Opportunity Area (POA), and $12,642,000 for the Stormwater Utility. There is funding for the Fire station 6 Bay Door Replacement, Oak Street Elementary Front Entrance Security, new Community Center HVAC and generator, and for improvements on the Fellows Property and the park master plan (including court light replacements).

There is the Greenway Downs NTC (federal grant funded), the Park Avenue Great Street project, 60 percent completed design with construction to proceed ni April 2026 and completed in December 2028. The stormwater projects are being advanced with federal and state American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) grants, with projects to be completed next year at N. Washington and Columbia, the S. Oak Street bridge replace-

ment, the West Falls Church pipe bursting project and stormwater improvements at the Trammel Branch, Hillwood #1 and Upper Lincoln sites.

Slated for completion in FY25 are the W&OD trail crossings, Berman Park, and Sherrow and Hillwood #2 stormwater improvement sites.

New projects due to come on line the next two years are a S. Washington bus stop expansion and access to transit (with a $6.3 million SmartScale grant) for the relocation of two existing bus shelters and six new bus shelters, the Sherrow Ave. bridge replacement, N. Washington St. multimodal improvements (with a $22.5 million Northern Virginia Transportation Authority grant) and the “Greening of Lincoln Ave.” stormwater project.

The highlights of the coming fiscal year are 1. A strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and community resilience, 2. $200,000 annually for replacing fleet and heavy machinery, 3. A $600,000 grant for electric or hybrid vehicles for the Department of Public Works,

with 10 charging stations, and $9.3 million for the purchase of additional treatment capacity for wastewater from Fairfax County.

Federal and state funds are being leveraged, $1.5 million federal and $3.5 million state funds for multimodal transporta-

tion improvements, $4 million in earmarked state funds for stormwater remediation, $6 million in federal funds being sought for affordable housing and transportation, and more than $2 million being sought to supplement existing transportation projects.

F.C.’S GRANTS Manager Caitlin Sobsey (center) talks with Chief Financial Of�icer Kiran Bawa (right) during Monday’s City Council work session on the proposed Capital improvements budget for the coming fiscal year. (News-Press Photo)

my constituents, and I pride myself on listening to every opinion of the people I represent.

“In Richmond, I worked to build strong coalitions of advocates and legislators to speak with a united voice on issues that included women’s health care and animal rights. It is impossible to point to one thing of which I am most proud, but I will never forget our work across party lines to rescue the Envigo beagles. I can also retire knowing that thanks to legislation I introduced, animals in Virginia will not be subjected to the testing of cosmetic products. Education and the environment have also been major themes in my legislation and I am proud of the successes – some which took years to accomplish. I thank the many hardworking citizens and professional groups who have honored me with awards over my tenure.

“For the past eight years during the legislative session in Richmond, I have hosted an art show, Art-Ability, to highlight the work of artists with developmental disabilities. Not only has this been personally rewarding, but the public show encouraged artists who never before had a platform for their work. I have organized a food drive for FEEDMORE as well and received thousands of dollars and hundreds of pounds of food from my generous colleagues.

“We all have much to give to this world, and it was a difficult decision for me to recognize that it is time to let others take the lead.

My husband, Ross, who has been the best partner and my biggest fan, is facing some health challenges to which I want to devote my full attention. I am grateful to him and to my children for making our home a team environment that empowered me to pursue public office, and now I want to be there for them.

“Finally, I want to stress the

importance of women helping women, which drove me to found the Women’s Health Care Caucus ten years ago. Much of my legislative work has focused on women’s issues, including my law to ensure that incarcerated women will have free access to menstrual supplies. We need more women in office, and more women to support women running for office.

“In 2009, I won my primary by a thin margin, and I will never forget that Del. Vivian Watts came out and campaigned for me. She is the hardest-working legislator in the House of Delegates, and I am fortunate that the vast majority of my current district’s constituents will soon be represented by Del. Watts in District 14.

“I wish all of my colleagues success as they continue to fight for our democratic values, and I hope to find other ways to contribute to the cause this November and beyond.”

Reacting to Del. Kory’s announcement, fellow Democrat Del. Simon issued a statement this

morning as follows:

“On behalf of the people of Falls Church, Delegate Marcus Simon would like to express his sincere gratitude and appreciation to Delegate Kaye Kory for her years of dedicated service to the Commonwealth of Virginia.

“Delegate Kory’s tireless efforts as a delegate have made a tremendous impact on the community, and she will be greatly missed. Her commitment to women’s healthcare access, education, animal rights, and the environment have left a lasting impression, and we are all grateful for her unwavering dedication.

“As a respected leader in the Virginia House of Delegates, Delegate Kory has been a champion for her constituents, advocating for their concerns and working tirelessly to improve their quality of life. Her passion for advocacy and her willingness to listen to the concerns of her constituents have inspired others to get more involved in local politics and to

be more engaged in shaping the future of our state.

“While we are sad to see her retire, we know that her legacy will continue to inspire others for years to come. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors and thank her for her service to Virginia.”

This Year’s Chamber Award Winners

Congratulations to the winners of this year’s awards given out by the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce at its annual gala last week at the State Theater. They are all representative of the hard work on a daily basis done to make their efforts succeed, and added to that the additional work put in to help out in the wider community, as well. One of the benefits of living and working in a smaller, close knit city like Falls Church are the myriad ways in which good efforts are more evident and recognizable, not only being of help but contributing to the sense of the Little City as a true community where many fewer people “fall through the cracks” of the social bonding that defines it.

This year’s recognitions went to the businesses Diener and Associates, long time generous contributors to organizations like the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation and Creative Cauldron, and the local franchise of Jazzercise. In each case it was the hands-on local leadership of their principals, Michael Diener and Sandy Kiersz, who made the difference. Diener was not able to be present himself, as his noted scientist father of 102 years just passed away (see story, elsewhere this edition). The newly minted award for Company Culture Excellence went to Body Dynamics, one of whose leaders, Barbara Benson, who has served ably as chair of the Chamber board. The nonprofit of the year went to the Falls Church Education Foundation, led by Debbie Hiscott, and the top award of the night, the Chamber’s annual Pillar of the Community award, deservedly went to Marybeth Connelly, who is the community outreach coordinator for the Falls Church City Schools. In addition, both Hiscott and Connelly are citywide elected members of the Falls Church City Council, an extraordinary challenge for any community-minded person. The whole gala event was pulled together deftly by Chamber executive director Elise Neil Bengtson with volunteer help from Chamber leaders including the current board of directors chair, Emily Jenkins.

The gala was a hoot, with many dressed up in the Bootlegger Ball style of a F. Scott Fitzgerald novel. If the Great Gatsby was there, he did not make himself known, nor was Zelda to our knowledge. Despite the plethora of local movers and shakers, there was very little in the way of contention over, for example, the City’s desperate need for more housing, especially affordable housing, something true for the entire nation. The only shaking done on this night was on the dance floor.

Indeed, it was heartening to see things returning to pre-pandemic ways, though caution was not tossed entirely to the wind. Ladies and gentlemen, lest we need to remind you, the Covid-19 crisis is not yet over.

Still, this year’s award recipients were reflective of the true Falls Church that we know and love, and trust will continue on its path to become a better, more inclusive and compassionate, if still growing, Little City.

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Editor, Meridian and MEH had a school-wide protest in response to the recent school shooting tragedy in Nashville on Friday, March 31. It has made me take a long hard look at the issue from all dimensions. The rally has also made me think about my role in this issue and what I can possibly do to prevent a shooting from happening. This topic is grim and brutal to stomach, but is absolutely necessary and must be resolved immediately.

School shootings are often first caused by bullying. Kids who get bullied, especially if they have mental health problems, have often been the perpetrators of this violence. So as much as my classmates want to wave a big sign to protest, a significant action would be expressing tolerance and kindness towards everyone. When people are insecure or have mental health challenges, we should not laugh at them but should be there to support them.

Recent Gun Violence Warrants Change Got Beef?

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Of course, it is clear that our country must do more to limit access to deadly guns. Even though a strong majority of people want tighter restrictions on guns, the powerful NRA will continue to fight tooth and nail against common-sense gun restrictions. Those of us who support rational gun laws must fight even harder.

So as I write this letter, it is hard for me because a shooting could happen to almost anybody. I am extremely lucky and live in a very nice and well-made school surrounded by beautiful suburban streets that all somehow seem friendly. But I and my classmates are not immune from something like this happening. All it takes is one kid who makes a terrible decision, access to a gun, and we can end up like so many kids around the country who have been victims of school shootings. There are millions of innocent kids who are in danger if one person makes a despicable choice. It feels like there is a shooting every week. We can’t become numb to this.

Thomas Lapp

Mail or drop

Letters to the Editor, c/o Falls Church News-Press, 105 N. Virginia Ave., #310, Falls Church, VA 22046

Local High School Student ‘Parades’ Her Talent in Broadway Debut

by Kylee Toland Falls Church News-Press

For most performing arts enthusiasts, being able to take part in a Broadway production can be considered a distant dream for an upand-coming actor. For one local high school student and former Creative Cauldron performer, this dream is currently a reality.

On Thursday, March 16th, James Madison High School senior Sophia Manicone made her Broadway debut in “Parade,” a dramatization of the trial, imprisonment and lynching of Jewish American Leo Frank for the murder of a young woman in the early 20th century. Performing alongside actor and returning Broadway player Ben Platt, Manicone will be portraying Iola Stover, a worker at Frank’s factory who testifies against him and falsely claims he showed inappropriate behavior.

Manicone’s theater career began at the young age of nine, when she started taking classes at local music school Harmonia in Vienna, as well taking part of “Vienna Idol,” a music competition showcase. She said that her teacher suggested taking theater classes due to Manicone being “super shy” as a child.

“To everyone’s surprise, I actually really loved it,” Manicone said when talking about her first theater classes, followed by singing lessons, various community theater productions and booking her first professional job in 2016 with Creative Cauldron at the age of 11.

At Creative Cauldron, Manicone portrayed lead character Tina Denmark in “Ruthless!,” a musical about a talented, young girl who

resorts to murder to get what she wants. She said her experience with the Falls Church-based theater was an “amazing” entrance into the professional, theater world. Working with an all-adult cast, Mannicone said she was initially nervous to perform in the musical, but became comfortable after the support of the cast and crew members. “Ruthless!” director and Creative Cauldron’s teaching artist Matt Conner helped mentor Manicone.

“Working with [Creative Cauldron] over the years, they’ve always really encouraged me to keep going for it,” Manicone said. “They’ve given me a lot of opportunities to learn with hands-on experience.”

Other key figures Manicone said helped pave a way for her theater career are fellow Creative Cauldron resident artist Stephen Gregory Smith and Erin Driscroll Gardiner, Manicone’s voice teacher since she was in the sixth grade. Recommended to Manicone from a Cauldron’s castmate, Gardiner has been an “inspiration” to Manicone by balancing acting, teaching and raising a family; something Manicone said she wants to do in the future.

“It was really great to just see someone that is working really hard and achieving all of their dreams,” Manicone said.

As a freshman at James Madison High School, Manicone auditioned for the Fairfax Academy for Communications and the Arts — a part-time program housed within Fairfax High School that offers specialized courses in theater, language and more. She was accepted into the program her sophomore year, begin-

ning with online courses due to the pandemic.

During her time in the program, Manicone said she was surrounded by people who were just as “passionate, hardworking and determined” as she about theater. The program also helped Manicone to be “prepared” as an artist in the “real world,” as her musical theater teacher Erich Dicenzo gave the students feedback on their performances and taught them various, helpful insights.

Through the academy, Manicone said she was able to perform one of her dream roles as Katherine Plumber in the musical “Newsies,” an experience that showed her growth as a performer who could not only act, but sing and dance as well.

Manicone first became acquainted with the musical “Parade” her freshman year of high school, when a friend played her the soundtrack of the production. Fast forward to her senior year, Manicone said she saw a casting notice for the 2023 revival of the musical, and with the help of her mom, recorded her audition in her basement. A week after submitting her audition, Manicone received a callback while sitting in her school’s computer lab.

When reflecting on what her callback audition was like, Manicone said she had to prepare new songs and material to perform before heading to New York. “Parade’s” director Michael Arden and composer Jason Robert Brown were present at Manicone’s callback, which she said was “nerve wracking” due to her admiration for the both of them and their previous work.

“Walking into the room was the most terrifying thing, but also so

exciting,” Manicone said when explaining her callback audition. Although initially unsure about her performance, two days later Manicone received the news that she got the role of Iola Stover while with her mother at a restaurant.

“I was shaking on the phone,” Mannicone said. “My mom was recording me and looking back, I’m really grateful that we have these funny pictures of me crying into the phone. It was just so surreal.”

Preparing for the role of Iola Stover was hard for Manicone, as she said the subject matter was “dark” due to her character having “bad morals” by falsely accusing an innocent man of sexual assault. She was able to overcome this concern by understanding that her character was persuaded by a male prosecutor to lie and get justice for their deceased friend, an unfortunate likelihood in the early 1900s.

Opening night of the musical “felt like a movie,” Manicone said, as she and the rest of the cast put on their “fancy dresses” and walked the red carpet where photographers and interviewers were ready to speak and take pictures of them. A memorable moment for Manicone was when she and another cast member accidentally left the stage too early when the rest of the performers were taking their final bows, and had to walk

ally captured that moment,”rassing in the moment, but now looking back, it’s really great photos of us laughing and walking back.”

Since January, Manicone has been living alone in New York City, something she said she didn’t expect her senior year to be like, especially without her parents. Balancing work, school and her overall social life has been a challenge, as Manicone said she takes her classes online now and is currently deciding where she wants to attend college.

Already having auditioned to 26 musical theater schools and accepted by 11 already, Manicone said she still wants to pursue a career in the arts, and hopes to attend a school that encourages her education and theater work at the same time. For those who may want to follow in her footsteps, Manicone said one should never give up on their goals or lose their drive for what they are passionate about.

“If you have a goal in mind and you truly love and care about it, you will get there,” Manicone said. “The joy that theater brings and the empathy that it creates can change the world.”

SOPHIA MANICONE on the red carpet for the opening of her Broadway debut “Parade .” (Photo: Michaelah Reynolds)

SOPHIA MANICONE (center) performing in the musical “Parade” with her castmates Ashlyn Maddox (left) and Emily Rose Demartino (Photo: Joan Marcus)

Passover at Temple Rodef Shalom Celebrates ‘Vibrancy’ of the Holiday

by Mark Dreisonstok

Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, begins the evening Wednesday, April 5, 2023, and ends on Thursday, April 13. This important Jewish holiday commemorates the liberation of the Jewish people from Egyptian bondage and celebrates their exodus from Egypt under the leadership of Moses to the promised land. These events, featured in the biblical Book of Exodus, are covered, of course, in epic Hollywood films popular at this time of year, including director Cecil B. DeMille’s two legendary films, both called “The Ten Commandments” — (released in 1923 and 1956, respectively).

We spoke recently to Cantor Allen Leider, Director of Lifelong Learning at Temple Rodef Shalom, a Reform Jewish congregation in Falls Church. He told us of the traditional Passover seder, a meal in which different foods represent various aspects of when the Angel of Death

“passed over” the houses of the Israelites to strike dead the first born of each Egyptian household (Exodus 12) and the exodus which ensured. These food items include, among other items, lamb, bitter herbs, matzo, egg, and wine, all symbolic of specific important ancient events as well as the joy and hardships of the time of the first Passover.

Cantor Leider also emphasized that the holiday, while seeped in antiquity and indeed linked to aspects of very ancient seasonal holidays, also is vibrant for today and evolves. Thus enters Rabbi Jeffery Saxe, who is leading a second night seder at Temple Rodef Shalom for the congregation. Rabbi Saxe tells Falls Church NewsPress that “the Passover Seder is a family moment, usually done at home, and the second night Seder at Rodef Shalom is a gathering of the synagogue family.”

Rabbi Saxe continues: “The second night seder at Rodef Shalom is mostly adults, some families with children, and we

have a really nice meal, with a seder conducted by one of our clergy. This year I am conducting the seder.” For the occasion, he will play guitar, being interested in folk music and a self-described James Taylor fan. There will be the singing of some traditional as well as modern songs—”some of them funny,” Rabbi Saxe tells us. As to Cantor Leider’s point that Passover continues to evolve, Rabbi Saxe adds: “I’ll include some social justice prayers into the usual ones.”

While the Passover Seder Cantor Leider and Rabbi Saxe describe had not taken place at press time, we close with a description of the Seder meal from poet Heinrich Heine’s novel fragment “The Rabbi of Bacharach” and its lyrical literary depiction of the seder as “a mixture of the legends of forefathers, wondrous tales of Egypt, disputed questions of theology, prayers, and festival songs. During this feast, there is a grand supper, and even during the reading there is at specified times tasting of the symbolical

food […] of Passover bread [matzo], while four cups of red wine are drunk. Mournfully merry, seriously gay, and mysteriously secret as an old legend is the character of this nocturnal festival. The traditional Haggadah [liturgy] is read by

the father, and now and then reechoed in chorus by the hearers. It first thrills the inmost soul as with a shudder, then calms it as a lullaby, and again startles it so suddenly.” (Adapted from Charles Godfrey Leland and Paul Bernard Thomas, trans.)

Together we can help you save for what matters most.

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

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

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TEMPLE RODEF SHALOM in Falls Church is currently celebrating Passover until April 13. (Photo: Cordelia Dreisonstok)

Good Friday, Easter, Passover Observances

Christ Crossman United Methodist Church

Good

Citylight Church Easter

Columbia Baptist Church Good

Dulin Methodist Church

Friendship United Methodist Church Good

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Good

Little Falls Presbyterian Church

First Christian Church

Galloway United Methodist Church

Immanuel Presbyterian Church

Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church

McLean Baptist Church

Rock Spring Congregational UCC

Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church Easter

St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church

St. James Catholic Church

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

St.

The Church of Jesus Christ

St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church

St. Philip Catholic Church

SPORTS

Early Lead for the Greyhounds Seals Fate for Hammerheads

BY ERIKA TOMAN

The Greyhounds (coached by Chris McCormack and sponsored by Davis Laine, LLC) earned a decisive victory from the Hammerheads (coached by Nick Toman, sponsored by Chandler’s Heating and Plumbing) with a score of 7-3. The Greyhounds opened up scoring in the first inning and the Hammerheads weren’t able to overcome Harrison Carmody’s crafty pitching. Carmody pitched the entire game, striking out four while allowing only six hits. He

well, racking up 11 hits throughout the game. Kellan McCormack led the team going 3 for 4 at the plate hitting each ball deep into the outfield. Connor Fine, Harrison Carmody and Henry Green all contributed with two hits each.

Carmody was backed up by his team with excellent fielding. Miller Stevenson had two catches in right field off of hard hit Hammerhead balls. Rocky Marx, Henry Green and Henry Upton all made multiple plays in the infield and Kellan McCormack made a diving stop for For the Hammerheads, Evan

Toman toed the rubber the first three innings. He struck out five batters, walking one and allowing three runs. Bronson Rogers threw three innings in relief out of the bullpen, striking out three. The Hammerheads were led at the plate by Casey Waldren and Hugo Collins, each having two hits. Also racking up a hit each were Luca Pipia and Landon Tucker. Defensively, shortstop Evan Toman made an excellent play on a ball hit up the middle to prevent more Greyhound runs.

Majors Division Season Standings as of April 3

Hammerheads (sponsored by Chandler’s Heating and Plumbing)

2-2

Red Robbers (sponsored by The Mount Rushmores)

3-1

Cherry Bombs (sponsored by Anthony Wilder)

3-1

Smurfs (sponsored by Don Beyer Volvo)

1-3

Notable performances the second week: Ranch FC’s Nate Landers hit two homeruns, including a grand slam. Kovas Plummer hit his second homerun for the Cherry Bombs.

HARRISON CARMODY and his little league team The Greyhounds overcame the Hammerheads with a 7-3 win. (P����: E���� T����)

THE GREYHOUNDS little league team saw the ball well, racking up 11 hits throughout the game. (P����: E���� T����)

Falls Church

School News & Notes

Teacher Receives Grant to Enhance Learning

Ms. Katie Wiles, Oak Street, recently received a grant from the FC Education Foundation and funding from the Nugget company to acquire more flexible seating for her classroom. This common accommodation helps her students due to differences in their learning styles.

MS Mathletes Compete in MathCON Finals

Three Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School students have been selected to advance to the MathCON Finals being held on May 13th in Chicago, Illinois. Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School had 26 mathletes participate in the MathCON preliminary round on February 15th. Three of these mathletes scored high enough to earn a coveted invitation to the MathCON finals (only 628 students were

Meridian Sports Are in Full Swing

by Ryan McCafferty

selected throughout North America). They are 6th grader Grace Simpson, who scored in the 98th percentile, and 7th graders Drew Duong and Aiden Lee, who scored in the 95th percentile.

MathCON is a nonprofit national mathematics organization recognized for its annual math competition for students in grades 4-12. Students are tested on various math concepts, including algebra, combinatorics, geometry, and number theory.

Biggest Fundraiser of the Year Coming Soon

The HTG Games are the biggest fundraiser for the FCEPTA. Support the schools on Saturday, April 22nd, with spirit gear and cheer for the team in the stands at Meridian High School. All proceeds will fund teacher grants and school related materials.

Rain Barrels at Brown’s Hardware

Another week is in the books for spring sports at Meridian High School, and it came with plenty of excitement as many of the teams played their final games before Spring Break. The biggest highlight was Maddie Miller’s 5-goal performance for the girls’ soccer team on Tuesday as she led them to their first win of the season against Dominion.

Baseball’s undefeated season came to an end with a 0-3 defeat against Wakefield on Monday, but they rebounded with two decisive wins at Falls Church on Wednesday (15-1) and then against Potomac on Saturday (14-4) to move to 5-1 on the year. The Potomac game was the first matchup of the Grant & Danny Spring Showcase tournament.

Girls’ soccer had the big win over Dominion, but lost their other matchup last week against Annandale the day before by a score of 2-3. That leaves them at a balanced 1-1-1 record for the season. They lost 0-1 at Park View on Monday but beat Dominion 2-1 on the road on Tuesday to move their record to 1-3.

Boys’ lacrosse continued rolling with an exciting 7-6 home win over

Help Reduce Stormwater in Falls Church

Brown’s Hardware and the Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPIS) are offering spring savings on rain barrels.

Brown’s is selling rain barrels for the low price of $120 and the VPIS RainSmart Program is offering $50 grants for up to two barrels for City of Falls Church residents.

vpis.org/environment/rainsmart-program

Trinity on Thursday, courtesy of a game winning goal by Dean Zike. It was their only game of the week as they stayed perfect at 3-0.

Unfortunately, the tough start for both tennis squads also continued, with the boys losing both of their matchups (3-6 at Tuscarora on Monday, and then 0-9 at McLean on Tuesday) to fall to 0-5, while the girls also lost twice, though they also did pick up a win, their first of the year and the first for either Mustang tennis team. They beat Tuscarora at home 6-3 on Monday, before falling 0-9 to

McLean the next evening and then going on the road against Lightridge on Thursday, where they lost 2-7.

That leaves softball, which experienced a rare tie at Oakton on Friday as both teams scored 6 runs, and then lost 0-7 against Yorktown at a neutral Fairfax location in the first round of their tournament on Saturday.

Best of luck to baseball and softball as they continue their tournament outings this week, and to everybody else, happy Spring Break!

MHS GIRLS SOCCER put up a fight in their first home match against Annandale HS on Monday, March 27. (Photo: Kathy Williamson)

Trump Indicted for Trying to Cheat Us of a Fair Election

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

CNN’s Anderson Cooper gets credit for using the straightforward term, “arrested,” on air to describe the former president as cameras caught a glimpse of him having to open the door to the courtroom by himself Tuesday. My best headline award goes to the Daily Mirror of London, “Trump in the Eye of the Stormy,” coming in just ahead of Time magazine’s cover, a visual of a big orange finger print with a yelling Trump mouth in its center and the single word, “Unprecedented.” Both are keepers.

Yesterday’s arraignment of the Orange One marked a huge cultural change for America and the world, for all of us suffering greater or lesser effects of “posttraumatic stress disorder” resulting from the last eight years (since that first walk down the escalator in 2015). His four years in office, of course, were the worst, and the fact that seems so remote, so almost cartoonish, now is a sign of PTSD itself. We have been suffering collectively from a very bad time.

That’s what makes the image from Tuesday, of an unhappy Trump seated in the courtroom surrounded by security personnel, so cathartic. He was trapped there, he was not going to get away. Thank f***ing God!

No, Arraignment Day was not a “sad day for America,” as some allegedly nonpartisan commentators claimed. It was an amazingly wonderful day. This two-bit New York mafia crook who had been allowed to ascend to the presidency of allegedly the greatest democracy on the planet, was willing to sell our nation out to our sworn adversaries and set us on an irreversible course to totalitarian rule. This punk was barely able to contain the fear he was experiencing inside himself facing the proverbial “music” for the first time in his life, with no escape route in sight. That scowl we saw in the courtroom Tuesday was the best he could do to prevent himself from breaking down like a scared child in a flood of howls and tears.

Yes, Tuesday was what he’d spent his entire criminal career of ripping off innocent people and our government to avoid. He would spare no expense to avoid just the situation he’d arrived at Tuesday. Finally at long last, the system caught up to him, no longer thwarted and frustrated by others in high places, like former Attorney General Barr.

Tuesday marked the happy first real break in the floodgates of legal reckoning for this grifter-in-chief.

As Manhattan D.A. Alvin Bragg stated plainly, the 34 felony charges leveled against Trump are for far more than just buying the silence of a porn star. The media continues to misrepresent the substance of the case in just that way.

No, this case is about trying to illegally rig the outcome of an election, one of the first of many attempts.

Even if there was no salacious element at all, the behavior documented in the indictment reveals a callous and nihilistic attempt to cheat the American people out of a fair election.

Given the equally nihilistic disregard for justice and fairness of so many other people in high places, including but not limited to the Republican Party, he was aided and abetted through the process. It can be argued it dated back to 1987 when Trump came back from a trip to Moscow and the emerging Putin faction there announced he would be its presidential candidate of choice in the U.S.

Up until then, he was just another crooked, and thereby malleable, real estate mogul in New York. But he was then given the national profile of a popular TV show host, and his rise was off and running. He cultivated his fake “tough guy” persona on that show and carried it off with the help of a traditional Mafiosa-style organization, conning enough American voters right into the White House.

MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow was right to focus in her podcast, “Ultra,” on the subject of the book by Bradley W. Hart, “Hitler’s American Friends, the Third Reich’s Supporters in the United States.” Trump’s fascist roots go far back in the U.S. Trapping him at last presents our best chance yet to revert it all back to society’s darkest fringes.

Our Man in Arlington

Your household fee rate for trash collection and recycling would rise 33 percent, under the county manager’s recent 2024 budget, hitting $409 a year as a result of cost increases in both the collection and recycling contracts.

To me it feels worth it. I rise early enough Mondays to witness all three visits during the day from three-man crews who guide their American Disposal trucks onto our cul de sac. In their safety reflector vests, the energizer-bunny-like workers (driver included) leap out and pull the wheeled carts over to the rear-hatch electric lifts. Then they return the black, blue and green carts to their rightful houses’ curbs (mostly). Often the guys wave at customers, or shoot an imaginary basketball to our neighbors’ nearby hoop.

It takes character to do this messy job.

Once as a naïve college student, I tried to arrange to spend a summer playing professional trashman in San Francisco to be near a girlfriend. Turns out the unionized firms wouldn’t even consider me.

Remaining curious about the nature of the job in Arlington, I queried the managers of parent company, Canada-based Waste Connections, but they declined an interview.

Up stepped Adam Riedel, principal environmental management specialist at the county’s

Environmental Services Department, to explain today’s challenges.

The waste management business is going through “a very competitive market for drivers and labor right now,” he said. “It’s tough to recruit because many can drive an Amazon truck, with easier work and pay that’s about the same.” Though many trash and recycling employees can earn a bit more, it’s hard work—made harder by the pandemic.

American Disposal Services is based in Manassas, Riedel noted, and employees have to start work at 6:30 a.m. having inspected trucks and donned their gear. For some, that might mean arriving by 5:00 a.m. “if not earlier,” because it takes an hour with traffic to get to Arlington, he added.

Depending on whether their crew is collecting trash, recycling or organics, their routes may not be completed until 5:00 p.m., which means that driving back to Manassas and “clocking out is a 12-hour day” before they “get home and do it over the next day.” Consider also that it’s hot in summer and cold in winter, requiring thick clothing boots and gloves. Some suffer heat exhaustion.

Do the math, Riedel said: Arlington’s routes comprise 33,200 customers a week, which adds up to 100,000 carts to be serviced by 15 crews (two or three per truck); that’s 30 workers emptying 18,000 carts per day. Given “the scale and amount of time on

the road, it’s a very hard job.”

The crew work a five-day week and all holidays except Christmas, New Year’s Day and Thanksgiving. To give them other holidays, like President’s Day, would simply push collections a day later, the official said. (That happens occasionally when trucks are full, and residents are alerted.) Federal law prevents working seven consecutive days, but managers try to give “adequate time off, overtime, and adjusted schedules “not to appear uncaring,” Riedel said. Training includes commercial driving protocols as well as Arlington’s stricter standards for separating materials, plus policies on accepting large, improperly bunded or dangerous objects—enforced by an inspector with punishments for noncompliance.

In recent years, American Disposal “did have some staffing troubles, which we publicized,” Riedel said. “They were aggressive in the fall and brought in people with a new wages and benefits package, so they’re now fully staffed.” The county’s seven-year contract with ADS was signed in 2015 with two renewal options, and was just renewed until June 2024.

Overall, largely because of traffic fatalities, waste disposal crews perform the county’s second-most dangerous job, after coal mining, he said. Increasingly, female workers are making their way in the field, Riedel added. But overall, “it’s a young man’s game, pretty intense.”

owing VISION VISION ro V V ith

Let your voice be heard at the public comment opportunities listed or send your comments any time to cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov.

To speak at a City Council meeting, follow the steps at fallschurchva.gov/PublicCommentOptions.

All meetings are open to the public to attend in-person or watch online or on cable TV. Council Meetings and Town Halls take place in Council Chambers.

Council Work Sessions take place in the Dogwood Room. All meetings can be watched online (fallschurchva.gov/Webcasts) or on FCCTV (Cox 11, RCN 2, Verizon 35).

fallschurchva.gov/Budget

Monday, April 3: City Council Work Session Capital Improvements Program (CIP) 7:30 p.m.

Monday, April 10: First Reading

Monday, April 24: Public Hearing

Wednesday, April 26: Town Hall #2

Monday, May 1: City Council Work Session 7:30 p.m.

Monday, May 8: Second Reading, Public Hearing, and Final Consideration

A Penny for Your Thoughts News of Greater Falls Church

By Supervisor Penny Gross

Twenty years. That’s how long it’s been since the first idea was broached to redevelop the parcels on Columbia Pike known as the Southeast Quadrant in Bailey’s Crossroads. The Weissberg Company owned the commercial property for decades, leasing it to local businesses for vehicle repair services and public utility storage. Immediately to the east of the Weissberg parcels was a separately owned 1960s-era office building; to the west was county-owned land which housed the original Bailey’s Crossroads Community Shelter. Separately, none of the parcels was large enough for any significant redevelopment but, taken together, the assemblage would total slightly more than seven acres.

The Bailey’s Plan considered redevelopment opportunities; community charrettes were conducted, and many iterations were explored. At the time of the charrettes, around 2005, it seemed that mixed-use residential, with a grocery store on the ground floor, might be possible. As area elementary schools experienced overcrowding, the idea of a new urban-style elementary school with a playing field atop a parking deck was studied. Or would Fairfax County get out of leased space and build an East County Human Services Center? A company even approached me about building a storage unit facility. You

can imagine what I told them!

So many ideas; so little land. The site was a tight one, and needed a good many creative approaches. Redevelopment would require a future extension of Seminary Road. The Great Recession put a halt to redevelopment plans as investment capital dried up and the retail market began to change. Nonetheless, the various landowners continued to work on an assemblage of the parcels, and a land swap was accomplished. The old office building was purchased by Fairfax County and demolished for a future roadway and the former shelter site was “flipped” to the east. Now, there were two contiguous properties that could be developed – Weissberg had the western parcels; Fairfax County the eastern ones.

Years were spent working with one well-known developer of multifamily residential, only to have their investment committee, based in another state, finally demur. A great disappointment, but we never gave up. We hung in there. The little Bailey’s Interim Park was installed, with yellow swooping shade structures, outdoor furniture, and landscaping providing a respite for pedestrians and shoppers. The Wood Brothers company purchased the former Weissberg site and worked through the county processes to begin construction on a mid-rise apartment complex with a

City of Falls Church CRIME REPORT

Week of March 27 - April 2, 2023

Motor Vehicle Theft, W Broad St, March 27, 2:28 am, two unknown suspects stole a 2016 Red Kia Soul and a 2021 Silver Kia K5 from a car dealership lot. The Kia K5 was recovered in Baltimore, Maryland the same day. Both suspects were described as wearing dark pants, one in a gray hoodie sweatshirt and the other in a black jacket.

Counterfeiting/Forgery, W Broad St, March 27, 9:26 am, a fraudulent check was reported. On January 6, 2023 at 3:30 p.m. an unidentified male suspect cashed a false check for $9,000.

Wire Fraud, E Fairfax St, March 27, unknown suspect(s) used a fake lottery/sweepstakes scam to obtain $325 in gift cards from a victim via text message.

Drunk in Public, S Washington St, April 1, 2:38 am,

parking garage, urban green space, and updated sewer infrastructure.

On Wednesday, March 29, 2023, Fairfax County Board Chairman Jeff McKay and I were joined by Wood Brothers representatives for a ceremonial groundbreaking for the new Alta Crossroads development. Site development has already begun, much of the work is hidden by extensive blue fencing around the site. However, if you visit the Interim Park, you can view multiple artworks by students from Bailey’s Upper Elementary School along the eastern perimeter of the site. Art teacher Susie Scollon worked with her students and the developer to provide public art that can be enjoyed by all.

People sometimes wonder why revitalization of our older areas takes so long. Alta Crossroads is a good example – small parcels, lots of ideas, changing markets, multiple constituencies, dearth of investment dollars, national economic downturns – all contribute to the revitalization challenge. It’s not easy, but if it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well, and right. Alta Crossroads is scheduled for completion in December 2024.

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

three white males were arrested for being drunk in public. Subjects are ages 22, 23, or 24 from Auburn, Washington and Falls Church, Virginia.

Animal Bite, Roosevelt St, April 1, 1:10 pm, a female pedestrian was bit by a leashed dog walked by an unknown subject, described as a white male, approximately 60 years of age, with medium-length gray hair, wearing blue jeans and a dark blue loose fitting jacket. The dog, possibly named “Max”, is of mediumsize with black and white fur.

Destruction of Property, S Washington St, April 1, 4:13 pm, a 26 year old Hispanic male of unknown address was arrested for Destruction of Property and Drunkenness in Public.

Larceny from Building, W Broad St, April 2, 11:14 am, an unknown suspect shoplifted merchandise valued at $43 from a place of business. The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 20 years of age, wearing all black, and accompanied by two other male subjects.

There is normally a bit of drama filling the final days of the legislative session that coincides with the end of terms of office, but this year proved to be exponential for the Senate. Eight seasoned Senators have announced their decision to end their careers in public service to the Commonwealth. As the redrawn districts become the playing field for the upcoming election cycle, new candidates are emerging to fill the open seats and challenge current incumbents. The new class of legislators will be sworn in on January 10, 2024, bringing with them vastly different perspectives and experiences to the legislative process.

Among the list of people departing the General Assembly for a final time are a number of seasoned legislators from Northern Virginia, who have steadfastly represented our region and the Commonwealth.

Two of those leaving are Senator Janet Howell, who has over 30 years of service, and Delegate Eileen Filler-Corn, Virginia’s first female Speaker of the House. The legislators not returning are leaving a void of power as many of those currently serving hold key positions as prominent committee and subcommittee chairs. With these positions, our region has been guaranteed a seat at the table and ensured our collective voice has been heard through the years.

As we approach a new election season, we must remember that elections have consequences. Whoever wins the majority, will have the power to craft legislation and a budget with implications for decades to come. Now is the time to determine the direction of Virginia. The primary on June 20th is rapidly approaching, with early voting beginning on Saturday, May 6th. Be sure to update your voter registration if your address has changed and be aware of the new districts at play.

This year’s elections will be critical to maintain and continue the progress we are striving toward––both in Northern Virginia and the Commonwealth as a whole. The election will shape the outcome of women’s reproductive rights, gun violence prevention, public school funding, and so much more. We have already seen countless attacks on those very principles. Senate Democrats are the only reason

Virginia is not moving backward. We have protected our rights and values from Republican attacks both in legislation and the budget. Reaching a compromise on this year’s budget has been a challenge. As we work toward a bipartisan agreement, we are keeping in mind current economic forecasts. With economists predicting a recession in the near future, we are slowing down negotiations and biding our time. Having an accurate revenue estimate is key to fiscally responsible spending. It would be too risky to jump on a budget proposal with high-dollar spending and uncertain revenues on the horizon. Not to mention, this budget is simply to allocate the existing surplus. Prior to adjournment, we passed a ‘skinny’ budget to fund a few essential expenditures. Making that list was a $250 million to fix the Department of Education’s miscalculation announced back in February, as well as a mandatory rainy-day contribution and a technical fix to the Virginia Retirement System. The existing biennium budget, which was passed in the 2022 session, will stay in effect until we can reach an agreement on how to distribute the surplus.

At the end of March, we saw yet another horrific act of gun violence, this time in Nashville, Tennessee. After the attack, we learned the shooter was able to legally purchase seven guns while simultaneously undergoing treatment for an emotional disorder. There were no red flag laws to prevent or delay the shooter from legally purchasing and possessing these highly lethal weapons. Back in 2020, under a Democratic Governor, House, and Senate, we were able to pass red flag laws that prevent guns from getting into the wrong hands. Just this past session, Republicans attempted to reverse some of those efforts by relaxing gun purchasing and ownership laws. Our Democratic majority in the Senate was the only shield to prevent those irresponsible measures from becoming law. As I continue to serve out my final months in office, please reach out with any questions, concerns, or constituent requests. My staff can be reached at district35@ senate.virginia.gov.

Senator Dick Saslaw’s Richmond Report

Community News & Notes

Fundraiser to Benefit Women’s Scholarships

The AAUW Scholarship Fundraiser will be held at Pizzeria Orso on Wednesday, April 26, to kick off its effort in sponsoring women’s scholarships. People can come anytime from 4:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m. and sample a variety of delicious offerings. Bring family and friends and don’t forget to mention supporting the AAUW; the restaurant will donate 15 percent of proceeds to the scholarship fund

Students Recognized at Dulles Youth Art Walk Launch

A dozen student artists from Fairfax County private and public schools were recognized at the Dulles International Youth Art Walk on Thursday, March 30th.

The Youth Art Walk exhibit includes more than two dozen works of art from students ranging from elementary to high school in Fairfax County and is now open at Dulles on the ticketing level in the area across from the TSA Precheck security checkpoint.

Local Falls Church Restaurant Featured on TV Show

A local Falls Church restaurant was recently featured on TV series Kitchen Commando. Celebrity Delly, a family-run business that’s been operating since 1975, is featured in episode four of the current season. The episode is available to stream for free on Tubi.

Celebrity Delly is owned by husband-and-wife team William and Julie Thompson. Julia Thompson is the daughter of Chuck Rossler, who founded Celebrity Delly 48 years ago.

The restaurant in Graham Park Plaza shopping center features a menu with made from scratch offerings including corned beef sandwiches, matzo ball soup and other New York-style deli staples. Celebrity Delly is currently rolling out one new menu item each week to expand the menu in a new and inventive way.

For more information on Celebrity Delly, visit www. celebritydeliva.com. To watch the Kitchen Commando episode featuring Celebrity Delly, visit tubitv.com or download the Tubi app.

RainSmart Program can be sent to: RainSmartFallsChurch@ gmail.com.

Brown’s

and RainSmart Join to Fight Stormwater

Brown’s Hardware and the RainSmart Program are teaming up to offer rain barrels to help fight stormwater and reduce flooding in the City of Falls Church.

Brown’s Hardware is selling rain barrels for the low price of $120. City of Falls Church residents are eligible to apply for a grant from the RainSmart program for $50 for each of up to two rain barrels, bringing the price of a rain barrel down to $70.

The RainSmart program is managed by the Falls Church Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPIS) and supported by the City of Falls Church.

Funds for both rain barrel and rain garden grants are limited. Applications for rain barrel grants will be considered on a continuing basis until available funds for the year are committed. For more information about the RainSmart Program and for rain barrel and rain garden applications, go to: www.vpis.org/ environment/rainsmart-program/. Any questions about the

Chamber Announces Business & Community Awards at Gala

The Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Business and Community Awards Gala at the State Theatre last evening, March 29. The Bootleggers Ball, a speakeasy theme, brought over 200 in attendance where some dressed as flappers, others as bootleggers.

Five awards were announced at the gala. The Small Business of the Year went to Falls Church Jazzercise. Owner Sandy Kiersz accepted the award after acknowledgement for her innovation in the industry and her leadership roles in the City. The Large Business of the Year went to Diener Associates, which has a long history of supporting staff with educational and professional benefits. Mike Diener was unable to attend, and his team accepted together with great pride. The Nonprofit of the Year Award went to the Falls Church Education Foundation (FCEF). Executive Director Debbie Hiscott accepted the award. The Company Culture Excellence Award went to Body Dynamics. They were cited for the opportunities and care they give

employees, valuing their work, supporting employees’ service on local boards and partnerships, as well as their engagement in community events and efforts. Mario Gamboa and Barbara Benson accepted on behalf of the founder, Jennifer Gamboa, who was out of town. The evening culminated with the Pillar of the Community Award, considered the highest award by the chamber since 1966. This year, the chamber recognized Marybeth Connelly for her contributions to the City schools, leading the Women’s History Walk, and service on the City Council. Upon acceptance, she expressed thanks to many that supported her efforts over the years.

FCCEA & School Board Negotiate Contracts

The Falls Church City Education Association and the Falls Church City School Board have worked together on a resolution to allow public school employees to negotiate their contracts. The School Board passed the resolution March 28.

The Falls Church City Education Association has been working with the Falls Church City School Board and administrators since April 2022 to create a collective bargaining resolution that will empower staff in a meaningful way.

WINNER OF THE Annual Pillar of the Community Award presented at the F.C. Chamber of Commerce bootlegger-themed gala last week was Marybeth Connelly (center), F.C. City Council member and director of community engagement for the F.C. City schools She’s shown here with Chamber executive Elise Bengtson (left) and current board chair Emily Jenkins. (Photo: Brenda Schrier)

TEAM NEWS-PRESS was well represented at last week’s Chamber of Commerce gala at the State Theatre. Left to right: Kylee Toland, Sue Johnson, Nicholas Benton, Charlie Clark. There but not pictured here, Brian Reach. (News-Press Photo)

THIS WEEK IN THE LITTLE CITY

tal railroad. Signature Theatre (3200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, VA), 1:00 p.m. — 2:00 p.m.

Jordy Searcy

stitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC), 9:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m.

Adam K

7:45 p.m.). Free tickets available at karma.yoga/series. Karma Yoga (246-A W. Broad St., Falls Church), 9:00 a.m. — 10:15 a.m.

Texture

This show features 60 works from artists who were invited to explore how visual or tactile surface characteristics of objects or scenes can be enhanced or downplayed through the manipulation of light and angle. Falls Church Arts (700-B W. Broad St., Falls Church), 11:00 a.m. — 6:00 p.m.

Inside Signature with Jason Ma

Jason Ma plays the Reciter in Pacific Overtures, a present-day Asian American man who serves as the bridge between today and 1850s Japan. Learn about his Broadway career, his work as a composer/lyricist and his new musical

Jordy Searcy performs with opening act Daniel Heffington. Jammin' Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna, VA), 8:00 p.m.

FRIDAY

APRIL 7

Poets for Science

From images generated by the Hubble Telescope and MRI machines to childhood cognitive development, biology, ecology, and natural history, this exhibition features poems printed on human-sized banners that explore unexpected connections between the seemingly divergent

Adam K. performs. Clare and Don's Beach Shack (130 N. Washington St., Falls Church), 5:30 p.m.

The

Mercenary House Band

The Mercenary House Band performs. Solace Outpost (444 W. Broad St., Falls Church), 8:00 p.m.

SATURDAY

APRIL

8

Free Heated Power Yoga

Celebrating their fourth birthday, Karma Yoga is offering two free yoga sessions this weekend: a Heated Power Yoga session Saturday morning and a Yin & Meditation session on Sunday evening (6:30 p.m. —

Isla de Rios at Riverrun Festival

In this immersive environment inspired by the culture of the Tainos, Puerto Rico's indigenous inhabitants, awardwinning author and illustrator Edwin Fontanez invites visitors to enter the lush landscapes of an island with more than 220 rivers. The installation also features activities for families. Part of the Riverrun Festival, which runs through April 22. The Reach at the Kennedy Center (2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC), 10:00 a.m. — 8:00 p.m.

Spring Garden Planting Party

Help weed, feed, and beautify the public art garden bed and plant stunning Spring/Summer annuals. Event is open to all regardless of gardening experience of ability. Stay after the planting for games and refreshments. Bring gloves, trowels, shovels, and other gardening equipment if you have it; otherwise some extra equipment will be on hand. Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library (4701 Seminary Rd., Alexandria, VA), 10:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m.

ASA Free Community Shred Day

At this event, you will have the opportunity to bring your personal paper documents to be professionally shredded on-site by Patriot Shredding. Please email audrey@ realestateinva.com to RSVP or if you have any questions. Garfield Memorial Christian Church (1731 Great Falls St., McLean, VA), 10:00 a.m. — 1:00 p.m.

Mimosa & Bloody Mary Easter Festival

Easter for adults! Featuring an adult (21+) Easter Egg Hunt, 100+ beers to sample, a bloody mary bar, mimosa flavor varieties, live music, games, prizes, photo booths, dog parks, & more! Shipgarten (6579 Colshire Dr., Tysons, VA), 1:00 p.m. — 6:00 p.m.

The Dr. Suess Experience

An interactive immersion into the wondrous world of Dr. Suess. Tickets sell out fast, and are available at bit.ly/FCNP0423ds. Open through June. Tysons Corner Center (1961 Chain Bridge Rd., Tysons, VA), 7:00 p.m.

Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra & Bobby Floyd

Calling all cool cats for a swinging evening of jazz with Northern Virginia’s own Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra, featuring keyboardist/organist Bobby Floyd on the Hammond organ and led by Founder, Artistic Director, and virtuoso saxophonist Jim Carroll. Never heard an organ in a jazz performance? Get ready! The organ has played a distinctive, albeit niche, part of jazz since the early days, and under Floyd’s gifted fingers, you’ll never think of the instrument in quite the same light again. GMU Center for the Arts (4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, VA), 8:00 p.m.

Tyler Goldstein

Tyler Goldstein performs. Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad St., Falls Church), 9:30 p.m. — 12:30 a.m.

SUNDAY

APRIL 9

Easter Brunch Buffet

Easter brunch buffet: all your 4Ps brunch favorites and special holiday dishes. Call for reservations. Ireland's Four Provinces (105 W. Broad St., Falls Church), 9:00 a.m. — 3:00 p.m.

My Fair Lady

Boasting such classic songs as “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “The Rain in Spain,” “Wouldn’t it be Loverly” and “On the Street Where You Live,” My Fair Lady tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to

AN INTERACTIVE IMMERSION into the world of Dr. Suess , The Dr. Suess Experience , opens in Tysons this weekend through June. Get your tickets wellin advance. (Photo: Posted with Permission)

FALLS

CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

EVENTS, MUSIC, ART & THEATRE

transform her into his idea of a “proper lady.” But who is really being transformed? The National Theatre (1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC), 1:30 p.m.

The Nosebleed

Are we doomed to repeat the mistakes of our parents?

Through a series of absurd autobiographical vignettes, Aya Ogawa’s The Nosebleed delves into the sh*t show of parenthood, as both a parent and a child – and what it takes to forgive. A trip to their home country of Japan, a child’s nosebleed, and the hit reality TV show The Bachelor come together in this “wackily funny, psychologically insightful” (The New York Times) theatrical tribute to Ogawa’s father, with surprises like a healing ritual for the audience and a transcendent appearance by a 20th century icon. Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company (641 D St. NW, Washington, DC), 7:00 p.m.

Wolf's Blues Jam

Wolf's Blues Jam performs. JV's Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church), 8:30 p.m.

MONDAY APRIL 10

Boiler Room Series: Air (Elements Cycle)

Mina and River travel to Fairbanks, Alaska, where they are producing the second season of Clime. Ahnah is a world-renowned indigenous glass artist and art therapist who has spent decades in residence at a glass center in Fairbanks, Alaska, one of the most polluted cities in the U.S. As her lungs begin to weaken from her life spent breathing heavily polluted air, she comes to terms with her waning breath and her life spent as the only art therapist in Fairbanks. With no one to take over the studio, she plans to sell her studio to a group of artists who want to create the world’s first carbon-neutral

glass studio. Breathing her last productive breaths, she reflects on all those who will be left behind. Keegan Theatre (1742 Church St. NW, Washington, DC), 7:00 p.m.

City Council Meeting and Budget First Reading

The City Council will hear a first reading on the proposed budget ordinance, tax rates, and Capital Improvements Program (CIP). The public is welcome to address the City Council on any topic during the public comment period. Sign up to speak at fallschurchva.gov/publiccomment. Watch the meeting live or recorded at fallschurchva.gov/ CouncilMeetings and FCCTV (Cox 11, RCN 2, Verizon 35).

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

TUESDAY APRIL 11

Housing Commission Meeting

City of Falls Church Housing Commission meeting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 6:30 p.m. — 8:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 12

Solid Waste Management Plan Advisory Cmte.

City of Falls Church Solid Waste Management Plan Advisory Committee (SWMPAC) meeting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Oak Room, Falls Church), 11:30 a.m. — 1:00 p.m.

West Falls Community Development Authority

City of Falls Church West Falls Community Development Authority meeting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Laurel Room, Falls Church), 3:00 p.m. — 4:00 p.m.

Citizens Advisory Cmte. on Transportation Mtg.

City of Falls Church Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation meeting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 7:00 p.m.

Recreation and Parks Advisory Board Meeting

City of Falls Church Recreation and Parks Advisory Board meeting. Falls Church Community Center (223 Little Falls St., Kenneth R. Burnett Bldg., Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.

Cross-FCCPS Joint PTA Meeting

Join the Meridian High School, Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School, and Falls Church City Elementary PTAs for a special joint meeting on talking to young people about drugs and alcohol. A Behavioral Health Specialist from Fairfax-Falls Church CSB will present. The event description reads: "Research shows that parents are the #1 reason young people decide not to drink or use drugs. Start talking to your children about alcohol and drugs before they start drinking as early as 9 years old. Even if it doesn't seem like it, they really do hear you." Meridian High School (121 Mustang Alley, Falls Church), 7:00 p.m.

Architectural Advisory Board Meeting

City of Falls Church Architectural Advisory Board meeting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Council Chambers/ Court Room, Falls Church), 7:30 p.m. — 10:30 p.m.

Appointments Committee Meeting

The City Council Appointments Committee will meet to interview candidates for boards and commissions and conduct exit interviews. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Oak Room, Falls Church), 8:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.

EASTER FOR ADULTS, this Saturday at Shipgarten's Mimosa & Bloody Mary Easter Festival in Tysons. (Courtesy Photo)

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

A public hearing and final City Council action on the following is scheduled for Monday, April 10, 2023 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard.

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

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

CELESTE HEATH, CITY CLERK PUBLIC NOTICE

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

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

Property Records, zoned R-1A, Low Density

Residential.

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

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

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 (alternate)

Arts & Humanities Council of Falls Church

Board of Equalization

City Employee Review Board

Environmental Sustainability Council

Historical Commission

Human Services Advisory Council

Library Board of Trustees

Recreation and Parks Advisory Board

Regional Boards/Commissions

Fairfax Area Commission on Aging

Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services

Board

Health Systems Agency of Northern Virginia

Long Term Care Coordinating Council

Northern Virginia Juvenile Detention Commission Virginia Career Works Northern Region

Ad Hoc Committee Sold Waste Management Plan Advisory

Committee: This Committee will advise the City Council in the development of the City’s 20-year Solid Waste Management Plan.

Invitation For Bids (IFB) IFB 0427-23-WODT

W&OD Trail Crossings Project

City of Falls Church

PASSWORD PROTECTED ELECTRONIC

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

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

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

FOR SALE

National Memorial Park plots for sale. 2 Choice plots valued at $10,995 each, asking $4,500 each. Call 910-575-0258.

King David Memorial park F. C. 1 double plot over under new $14,000.00 sale $7,500.00. Two separate plots $9,000.00 each sale $4,500.00 per plot. Call 540-347-2497 and leave a message.

LAWN & LANDSCAPE

LAWN & LANDSCAPE SERVICE. Spring Clean Up. Planting flowers .Bushes.Install Mulch. Lawn Program Debris Removal. Good References. Call Gabriel. 703-546 6383. Free Estimates.

AUCTIONS

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

DOGS, PET CARE

Happy Jack® Liquivict2x® is recognized safe & effective against hook & round worms in dogs by US CVM. Double strength. 3 year stability.

At Tractor Supply®

FARMS/FISH

Live Fish for restocking ponds. Over 25 species available. We deliver. Colorful catalogue upon request. Zetts Fish Farm P.O. Box 5 Inwood, W.V. 25428. Call 304-821-4496, 304-9959202. Cell 304-820-6986.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Now Offering Financing! Ronnie Jenkins II Windows, Siding, Roofing and Gutters! FREE Estimates! Call 804-739-8207 for More Details! American Made Products! Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-877-614-6667 GENERAC Standby Generators provide backup power during utility power outages, so your home and family stay safe and comfortable. Prepare now. Free 7-year extended warranty ($695 value!). Request a free quote today! Call for additional terms and conditions. 1-877-636-0738

The

OTHER SERVIcES

+ Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-844902-4611 Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-877-591-9950

The bathroom of your dreams for as little as $149/month! BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Limited Time Offer - FREE virtual in-home consultation now and SAVE 15%! Call Today! 1-844-945-1631

LIVESTOCK SALES

The Virginia Beef Expo is April 13-16, 2023, at Rockingham Co. Fairgrounds. Enjoy Cattle Sales, Industry Trade Show & Youth Events. Learn more at www.vabeefexpo.com

SERVICES

DIVORCE-Uncontested, $475+$86 court cost. WILLS-$295.00. No court appearance. Estimated completion time twenty-one

EVENTS

Charlottesville Coin, Currency & Stamp Show. Free Admission! Elks Lodge #389. 389 Elk Drive Charlottesville, VA. Saturday, April 22nd. 9am-5pm. Contact Jackie Dean (540) 8320024, Debomb14@aol.com.

Classified Ad Rates

$20 dollars for up to 20 words and $0.50 for every word after.

Contact Us: classads@fcnp.com 703-532-3267

We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap. All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are 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.

The Weekly Diplomatic Reach

by Brian Reach Falls Church News-Press

Orange Is The New Orange

Yes, the news of the week, month, and year right now is that former U.S. President Donald J. Trump surrendered to authorities, ‘perp walk’ and all, and was fingerprinted and booked.

An indictment showed 34 counts of falsifying business records all firstdegree felonies in a conspiracy to suppress information that could harm his presidential bid, including an affair with an adult film actress and a doorman claiming to know about another affair resulting in a child.

As one would expect, the President shout-posted about the “VERY UNFAIR VENUE” a refrain of his whenever a court rules against him, blaming it on being in a city, or a blue state, or attacking

the judge and their family and once again vaguely referred to some sort of existential destruction that he alone is protecting us from.

In a perfect ‘like father, like son’ act of breathtaking inhumanity, Donald J. Trump, Jr. posted a Breitbart article to point right-wing mobs at the daughter of the judge — an all-toofamiliar Trump family technique of threatening the families of individuals in the justice system.

This is likely the beginning of a years-long cascade of charges and trials and drama, with prosecutors seemingly having firm enough grasp on a thread that they’re finally willing to pull. They could get a lot of yarn.

Local Delegate Kaye Kory Announces Retirement

Delegate Kaye Kory (D-Fairfax) announced her retirement this week

after nearly fifteen years in the seat.

When interviewed, Kory said the decision was independent of redistricting that had poised her and Del. Marcus Simon (D-Falls Church) to compete for the same district in June.

Three Candidates Qualify for New State Senate District Race

All three candidates seeking the Democratic nomination to represent Virginia’s new 37th Senate District, which includes Falls Church and Central Fairfax County, turned in sufficient signatures to qualify for the ballot in the Democratic Primary on June 20, per sources with the Democratic Party.

Saddam Salim and Chap Petersen both turned in their signatures first, meaning one of the two will be chosen at random to appear at the top of the ballot in June. Yalowitz will appear third. The names on the ballot

will be locked after April 11.

This race is the one to watch in Northern Virginia this spring, as Petersen’s conservative voting record on gay rights, gun control and most recently bullying of school boards during the pandemic (to open fully without any mask mandate, far before vaccines were widespread) is judged by a group of voters, 60% of whom have never seen his name on a ballot, and who have never had another option. Voters have never chosen Petersen when given a more progressive option, even when being overwhelmingly outspent.

Republican Announces State Senate Bid, Expects Petersen As Opponent Republican Ken Reid, who moved to McLean in December 2021 from Norfolk and served as a Loudoun County supervisor until 2017, announced his bid for the Republican nomination for Virginia’s new (and aforementioned) 37th Senate District seat. Noting

that Petersen, currently serving a district that includes Centreville instead of Falls Church, hasn’t had a GOP nominee run against him since 2011. Reid also criticized Petersen’s inconsistent voting record, saying “my opponent waffles between Right and Left just to stay in office,” making it clear he expects Petersen to prevail in the June 20 primary.

Though an “incumbent” with a substantial financial advantage (this writer assumes most readers are already well-aware, having witnessed stacks of what one local Democrat called “Chap crap” piling up at homes across the county), Petersen may not have such an easy contest ahead, even with two opponents.

Earliest indicators show nearly 80% of activists most likely to be primary voters oppose Petersen representing them, with many in deepblue Falls Church frustrated with the possibility of being associated with Petersen’s politics, and many in Fairfax fed up with years of the same.

In Memoriam: Dr. Theodor Otto Diener In Memoriam: Douglass W. Svendson

Dr. Theodor Otto Diener, a Swiss-American plant pathologist who was a U.S. Department of Agriculture Research Service Science Hall of Fame inductee as the discoverer of ‘viroids,’ 80 times smaller than the smallest known viruses, died last week at the age of 102 at his home in Maryland. Dr. Diener published two books, 120 peer-reviewed articles, 53 book chapters and lectured on viroids worldwide.

Diener was the father of prominent Falls Church businessman Michael Diener.

In 1971, Diener discovered that the causative agent of the potato spindle tuber disease is not a virus, but a novel agent, which consists solely of a short strand of single-stranded RNA without a protein capsid, 80 times smaller than the smallest viruses that he called “viroids.”

Dr. Diener was born in Zurich, Switzerland, on February 28, 1921 and graduated from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in 1946. He emigrated to the United States in 1949 and in 1959 he joined the U.S.D.A. Agricultural Research Service Center in Beltsville, Maryland, where he made his “viroids” discovery.

He was the recipient of the National Medal of Science (1987), the Campbell Award of the American Institute Biological Sciences (1968), the American Phytopathological Society fellow award (1973), the Wolf Prize in Agriculture (State of Israel, 1987) and the E.C. Stakman Award (University of Minnesota, 1987).

He was elected as a member of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences (1977), a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences (1978), the Andrew D. White Professor at Large (Cornell University, 1979), and member of the Leopoldina (German Academy of Sciences, 1980). In 1989, he was inducted into the Science Hall of Fame, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and was named Distinguished Professor at the University of Maryland, and in 1994 was named Distinguished Professor Emeritus there.

After receiving his doctorate from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, he worked as a research assistant at the Swiss Federal Experiment Station for Viticulture and Horticulture at Wadenswil, where he discovered rust fungus on the leaves of a cherry tree, the first such detected occurrence seen north of the Alps in over 100 years. Working first as Assistant Plant Pathologist at Washington State University’s Irrigation Experiment Station in Prosser, Washington, he showed that an unusual amino acid, pipecolic acid, accumulates only in peach leaves bearing symptoms of Western-X-Disease and that injection of the amino acid into healthy peach seedlings resulted in abnormalities resembling disease symptoms, thus indicating that pipecolic acid is intimately associated with the disease’s molecular pathogenesis.

At the U.S.D.A. Research Service, he discovered the causative agent of potato spindle tuber disease, for which he proposed the term, “viroid.” The discovery was subsequently officially designated by the International Committee for Virus Taxonomy as a novel order of subviral agents encompassing 2 families, 8 genera and 32 species.

In 1989, Diener hypothesized that the unique properties of viroids make them more plausible candidates as “living relics” of a hypothetical, pre-cellular RNA world than are others then considered as such. His hypothesis remains valid.

Douglass W. Svendson, Jr. passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 26, 2023, surrounded by many family members at the Baton Rouge General Hospital. Doug was a native of Baton Rouge, born in 1939.

Doug was a graduate of Notre Dame and earned his J.D. degree from LSU Law School.

In 1974, Doug relocated to the Washington, D.C. area. There he met his second wife, Dorothy “Dot” Turnipseed. He became a legislative assistant to then Senator Russell Long, and served on the staff of the Senate Commerce Committee. Doug served as an independent legislative consultant for major tank barge operators, and several motor freight associations. In 1995, Doug was named executive director of the Gulf Intracoastal Canal Association, and received the Commander’s Award for Civilian Service from the Army, and the Distinguished Public Service Award from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Doug enjoyed his big family of ten siblings, his sons, Douglass and David, and his granddaughter Maya Svendson, and grandson Matthias Junod Svendson. He loved traveling with his wife, Dot, on painting excursions. His love of hunting brought him regularly to the Eastern Shore of Chesapeake Bay, and down to South Texas for trips with close friends. He relished family gatherings at the Svendson Rice Farm in Louisiana where he could sit and partake in family traditions of cooking, and sharing stories. Doug loved to laugh, and to cook.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Douglass W. Svendson, Sr., and Jeanne Martin Svendson; his sister, Jeannette Svendson, brother Lee Svendson, his son, Douglass, and most recently by his loving wife, Dot.

Doug is survived by his first wife, Emily A. Svendson, and their sons Douglass and David Svendson, David’s wife, Sarah, their daughter, Maya; and by Douglass’ son, Matthias Junod Svendson. His surviving siblings are: Alice Svendson, Marie Svendson Pribble, Teen Svendson Siener, Kris Svendson Chadwick, Jeffery Svendson, Toni Svendson DeBosier, Martin Svendson, and Lawrence Svendson; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

A small family service will be held for Doug at a later date.

Honorary pallbearers will be: David Svendson, Jeffery Svendson, Toni Svendson DeBosier, Martin Svendson, Lawrence Svendson, Matthias Junod Svendson.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association, PO Box 7023, Merrifield, VA, 22116-22116-7023, or the American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.

Falls Church

Business News & Notes

Northern Virginia to Benefit from GO Grants

Gov. Youngkin approved state GO grants of $8.1 to boost the economy and workforce development across the state. Of the 17 projects, nearly $4.8 million will fund two Virginia Tech projects, once of which will build a talent pipeline for emerging the nanotechnology industry in Northern Virginia and another to transition to green hydrogen production in Hampton Roads. The Northern Virginia project will connect higher education institutions with existing state-wide nanotechnology facilities to a main hub at Virginia Tech by an advanced cloud-based system. Under this project, 600 students will receive training, 500 certificates will be awarded, and 80 internships will be created.

GDIT Lands $1.8B Army Contract

The U.S. Army has awarded a $1.8 billion contract to General Dynamics Information Technology, Inc. (GDIT). Under the contract, GDIT will provide flight simulation training services through March 2035 with locations and funding to be determined.

Last Call Nominations: Women in Leadership

Virginia Business Magazine is seeking nominations due at 11:45 p.m. on Friday, April 14, 2023, for women leaders to feature in the July issue of Virginia Business. Nominees must be in C-suite or senior executive level positions or be owners or co-owners of a business in order to be considered. Previous winners of the Virginia Business Women in Leadership Awards are not eligible.

 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.

Guest Commentary: Common Ground on Climate Policy

by Eric Falls

With headlines emphasizing political battles over climate change, you may wonder if we can bridge the partisan divide. In fact, surprising and positive examples challenge the conventional wisdom and create opportunities for all of us – Independents, Democrats, and Republicans – to deepen our understanding and seek solutions.

Conventional wisdom suggests renewable energy progress would come from traditionally Democratic states (“blue states”). In fact, we can look to Republican states (“red states”) for inspiration. Considering top renewable energy producers based on share of their market, red states top the list with four of the top five producers (Iowa (63 percent of all energy produced was renewable 2022), South Dakota (54 percent), Vermont (51 percent), Kansas (47 percent), and Oklahoma (45 percent). Looking at total renewable energy produced in a year, Texas leads the nation by far based on the amount of clean energy produced (137 million megawatt hours), almost double the amount of the second largest producer, California.

Fear of rising energy prices remains a strong concern for most households – and for their elected representatives. But the myth that progressives must raise energy taxes to advance a green agenda took a hit in the last few years as the price of renewables fell. Now, market forces are driving a shift to clean energy.

Solar and wind energy are now the cheapest option in most countries, according to the International Energy Agency, driving a global surge in renewable power deployment. Renewables are projected to rise from 28 percent to 38 percent of global energy production by 2027. Bloomberg reported in January that “investment in lowcarbon technologies appears to have reached parity with capital deployed in support of fossil fuel supply.”

Skepticism of environmental activists might seem a knee jerk reaction for some conservatives. However, former congressmen Ryan Costello and Francis Rooney, both Republicans, disproved that stereotype. They recently called

for greater outreach by environmentalists to build up the “ecoright” which would promote sensible action on climate change.

As former members of the bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus of the House of Representatives, Costello and Rooney also outlined many examples of acrossthe-aisle cooperation. The Republicans give a nod of approval to Democratic Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger’s 2022 Growing Climate Solutions Act, a bipartisan law which helps farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners participate in carbon credit markets which reward climate-friendly business efforts.

Congresswoman Spanberger’s initiative demonstrated the power of reaching beyond partisan boundaries and leveraging private sector support and dynamism for the benefit of the American people.

Progressives who are cynical about the private sector’s willingness and capacity to lead on climate change may change their perspectives after reading iconic businessman Bill Gates’ book, “How to Avoid a Climate Disaster.” Emphasizing the importance of new technology, Gates makes the case for getting to “net zero” carbon emissions. Of course, he acknowledges the humanitarian arguments about the hardships millions would face from catastrophic climate change. At the same time, he also makes powerful economic points: “In the next decade or two, the economic damage caused by climate change will likely be as bad as having a Covid-sized pandemic every 10 years.” Getting to “net zero” will be extremely tough, Gates explains, but the needed policy incentives and commitment to innovation will create immense opportunities.

National security can be an area ripe for bipartisan cooperation, including when it comes to climate change. The Department of Defense now identifies climate change “a critical national security issue and threat multiplier.” For example, more scarce water resources may increase the number of conflicts around the world. More immediately, extreme weather events “are already costing the Department billions of dollars and are degrading mission capabilities. These effects and costs are likely to increase as climate change accelerates.”

Our military personnel require equipment and training to ensure they can maintain their superior performance in extreme conditions. Richard Kidd, the Deputy Assistant Defense Secretary for Environment and Energy Resilience, noted the U.S. military developed the capacity decades ago to operate at night, giving important tactical and strategic advantages. “Looking forward to a hotter world, we need to be able to operate in all temperatures. We need to be able to own the heat the same way that we now own [the] night.”

We need even more examples of successful bipartisan action to confront climate change. Gates’ book offers multiple suggestions for citizens, entrepreneurs, and employees to move us forward locally and nationally. Engaging our elected leaders at all levels of government – urging clean energy research and clean energy standards – tops the list. Let’s all get to work.

Eric G. Falls is a student at the National Defense University. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. government.