Falls Church News-Press 5-30-2024

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HAIL THE MUSTANGS!

In a startling development late into Tuesday night’s Falls Church City Council meeting, two members of the Council attempted to disparage a report on the considerable achievements of the Falls Church Economic Development Authority (EDA) by suggesting the EDA is engaged in “perceived conflicts of interest” involving local developers, though no specifics were cited.

The charges were issued by Council members Erin Flynn and David Snyder following the report of achievements in the last year by EDA board chair, developer and City resident Bob Young. Despite a lengthy exchange between the two Council members and the EDA’s Ross Litkenhous, a former member of the City Council, there were, again, no specifics named.

Litkenhous protested vehemently, calling the accusations “vague,” “soft,” “without any specifics,” “pot shots” and “disheartening.”

Mayor Letty Hardi weighed in to say she applauds the “constructive relationship between the Council and the EDA.” In a statement she released yesterday, she said, “I continue to be grateful to the 100+ volunteers who serve on our boards and offer their time and expertise for the betterment of our city. It’s disheartening that sentiment is not only not shared by all, but

Former Falls Church City Public Schools’ head of secondary schools Valerie Hardy was the keynote speaker at Falls Church’s Meridian High School commencement this Tuesday on a warm and breezy morning before a large contingent of family and friends and 210 graduates on the school’s main athletic field.

Hardy, who was principal at Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School from 2017 until

being named head of secondary schools in 2021 until her departure for Prince William Schools in 2023, hailed the 2024 graduating class, who entered high school at the onset of the pandemic in 2020 and endured virtual, remote and hybrid learning options throughout, for its adaptability and resilience.

Having been with the class from the time it was in middle school in 2017, she said she came to know it for “standing for what is right and doing something about it,” holding peaceful rallies on local

and national issues, speaking before School Board meetings and more. “You have a clarity of judgment amid hard lessons learned” of being educated during the pandemic, she said.

“You are determined to leave the world a better place than you found it, and as you grow in your advocacy, work from a place of kindness,” she offered, “even if you feel that kindness was not afforded you. Be kind, be brave, be you.”

“Be your authentic self,” she admonished, “You are ready to become who you are,” and she

closed by playing a part of the Golden Globe winning recording from 2017, her first year in Falls Church, entitled, “This is me.”

Falls Church Schools

Superintendent Dr. Peter Noonan urged the students to “Let love be your guide.”

The pleasant, light breeze made it hard for some graduates to keep their caps on without holding them down and when they threw them all into the air at the moment Associate

CAPS IN THE AIR as Meridian High School’s Class of 2024 celebrates having been graduated in a ceremony at the school’s main athletic field this Tuesday. (Photo: Gary Mester))

by Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press

by Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press

NEWS BRIEFS

VDOT Announces 20-Mile Widening of Route 7 Done

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA), and Fairfax County recently marked the completion of significant enhancements along seven miles of Route 7 (Leesburg Pike).

The Route 7 Corridor Improvements Project commenced in 2019 with the goal of improving safety, easing traffic congestion, and fostering greater mobility for all road users. Last month, the new eastbound and westbound lanes on about five miles of Route 7 between Riva Ridge Drive and Jarrett Valley Drive opened to traffic three months ahead of schedule.

One of the key achievements of this project is the expansion of Route 7 from four to six lanes between Reston Avenue and Jarrett Valley Drive, covering a distance of approximately 20 miles.

Additionally, shared-use paths have been built on both sides of the entire seven-mile segment of Route 7, connecting Reston Avenue and Jarrett Valley Drive and establishing a direct link for cyclists and pedestrians between the Fairfax County Parkway Trail and Tysons, significantly improving accessibility. Plus, for users of the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail there’s a brand-new route under the rebuilt Difficult Run bridge, offering a safe way to cross Route 7, just in time for National Trails Day.

F.C. City Urges Applications For Non-Profit Funding

The City of Falls Church welcomes applications from eligible nonprofit organizations based within the City that support the arts, culture, theater, and history. The application deadline is June 28, 2024, and funds must be utilized before May 16, 2025.

Applications may be submitted for project grants or operations support grants. Applicants may request up to $5,000 in project grants with a total of up to $19,000 available provided by the City and up to an additional $4,500 matching funds provided by the Virginia Commission for the Arts. Operational grant funding cannot exceed 25 percent of the organization’s total operational expenses budget (maximum of $15,000); the amount is based on the actual expenses from the previous year. The application and details on eligibility can be found at fallschurchva.gov/AHGrants.

Previous grants supported the Tinner Hill Music Festival, helped to create an original play at Creative Cauldron, and funded scholarships for high school students interested in pursuing careers in the arts.

After an initial review by the Recreation and Parks Department to ensure eligibility, the application will be reviewed by the Arts and Humanities Grant Review Committee. The committee will submit a recommendation to the Recreation and Parks Department, which will then present the recommendation to the City Council for final approval in a public session of the Council.

1st of 3 Office to Residential Towers in Skyline Complete

According to a report in ArlNOW, the first of three towers in a major office-to-residential conversion project has opened in Skyline.

Three Collective, a trio of older, 16-story buildings converted to apartments on the 5000 block of Leesburg Pike, will ultimately lease 675 units with one-, two- and three bedroom configurations. Resident amenities include a large indoor dog park, a bowling alley, a VR gaming lounge and arcade, “social kitchens” and an indoor/outdoor amphitheater, a press release says.

“Three Collective has quickly become the gold standard for office-to-residential conversions,” said Wendi Stallings, principal of the interior design firm Private Label International. “Being part of the team that created such an impactful property was an honor. The strategic offering with the right amenity mix creates a permanent competitive edge. We hope more conversions can follow suit.”

The Fairfax County project is among a growing number of conversion projects in the D.C. area, as work-from-home trends drives office vacancies. While Arlington does not have any adaptive reuse projects in the works right now, county staff are currently studying ways to encourage them, with guidance from the Arlington County Board expected later this year.

Media Matters Laying Off Amid Legal Assaults

Media Matters for America media watchdog organization has announced that it’s laying off at least a dozen staffers, according to Editor and Publisher news. Its president blamed a “legal assault on multiple fronts,” including a lawsuit by Elon Musk’s X and the legal actions by Republican state attorneys general that followed.

“This is the latest example of billionaires and pandering politicians abusing the legal system to retaliate against their critics and harm the public’s right to know. The result is that the American public loses access to information in a critical election year,” said Freedom of the Press Foundation (FPF) Director of Advocacy Seth Stern.

“States that don’t have laws in place to combat strategic lawsuits against public participation, or SLAPPs, should pass them. Those that do should strengthen them. And Congress needs to pass a strong anti-SLAPP bill at the federal level right away,” Stern added. “This isn’t a partisan issue. While this time it’s a right-leaning billionaire going after a left-leaning organization, the shoe could easily be on the other foot next time.”

Anti-SLAPP laws — which allow for lawsuits that retaliate against speech to be disposed of in their early stages and for defendants to recover attorney’s fees — have been useful in defending against other frivolous lawsuits driven by Musk. But filing the Media Matters lawsuit in a federal court in Texas allowed Musk to avoid an anti-SLAPP motion.

Mayor Hardi Assails Unspecific Charges of ‘Conflicts of Interest’

that service is characterized as conflicts of interest. We are too small of a city to perpetuate untruths, and it’s a distraction from the important work that the community expects us to do. I look forward to everyone working together more constructively going forward.”

In his report to the Council Tuesday, EDA Chair Young cited the many considerable achievements of the group in the last year, highlighted by the lunch given to over 300 commercial real estate brokers and developers in the top floor of the recently-completed medical office building in the City’s new and massive West End project of the Hoffman Group earlier this month.

As Litkenhous noted to the Council, after 15 years it marked the first time the NAIOP commercial real estate group’s annual bus tour of promising locations in Northern Virginia crossed into Falls Church, much less stopped there for lunch to hear from Mayor Hardi and

other City officials.

“We’ve come a very long way” in the last decade, he noted.

Other achievements spearheaded by the EDA reported Tuesday night included the highly successful bonus cards project that added $322,000 in value for local businesses last holiday season, work on three “parklets” along S. Washington Street in the manner of Mr. Brown’s Park that should be completed by later this year, a restaurant week that brought 38,000 visitors to its website with 69 percent of local restaurants reporting higher sales than during the same period the year earlier, and a tourism push with a new website and literature promoting the amenities of the Little City to the wider region and its visitors.

The report expanded on the report given to the Council’s Economic Development Committee that met Tuesday afternoon at City Hall. There, among other things, progress reports were provided on the three “parklets’ including on

S. Maple, the Triangle Park at the W. Annandale and S. Washington corner, and the Tinner Hill Park at 410 S. Washington. Updates on many of the large development projects underway in the City were also provided, including on Hoffman’s West Falls project where it is reported that the Home2 Hotel Suites is due to open in a matter of days by the end of this month, the garage and medical building are done, the Oak condominiums that are now being presold, the senior living The Reserve that will begin construction later this year, and a number of new restaurants and small healthrelated services that will be opening soon.

In a statement on the matter of the charges of “perceived conflicts of interest” made Tuesday night, Litkenhouse issued the following statement to the News-Press yesterday:

“I always prefer to address issues head on, directly and in person with others. Several times over the past year, there have been vague references

about perceived conflicts of interest within the ranks of our EDA. During Tuesday night’s council meeting those same soft accusations were raised once again. I felt it necessary to address those concerns directly with those specific council members, out in the open, during a public meeting.

“Our Boards and Commissions, as well as our own City Council are volunteer based. Each of us offers up our expertise through these elected and appointed bodies to improve our city and give back

to our community. Falls Church is small enough for anyone who has an issue with another to meet them eye to eye and address those concerns, that’s what I did last night.

“I am confident that our EDA and our other elected and appointed bodies are approaching their work with positive intent, doing what they feel is best for Falls Church. We are better together, which is why open, transparent and direct dialogue is the most effective way to maintain and strengthen public trust.”

Meridian High’s Class of 2024 Sets Sights on Rest of Their Lives

Continued from Page 1

Principal Peter Laub declared them officially graduated, many of the caps flew on the gusts to their right.

Meridian’s amazing music programs highlighted the ceremony, beginning with selections from the school’s jazz ensemble, under the direction of Mary Jo West and led by former student Tyler Waters, including Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance march.

“The Star Spangled Banner” was sung by the school’s chamber ensemble under director Jamie Sample. A speech of remembrance was delivered by Pawanart Songsirisrcha ahead of Principal Laub’s opening remarks and a welcome by Tilden Gale, senior class vice president, and the presentation of awards by Dr. Noonan.

Noonan noted that this class was in the fifth grade when he first came to the Falls Church system and first met them. “This is a special group, an amazing and powerful group,” he said. “With great power comes great

responsibility,” he added, “Be humble servants in your community. Let love be your guide. Be transcendent.”

When he asked the graduates who were scholar award winners and valedictory scholars (having achieved grade point averages of 4.0 or above), virtually everyone stood, and the same was true for all the International Baccalaureate students.

“Be inquirers, knowledge seekers, principled, risk takers, balanced and reflective,” he urged. “Be citizens of the world and global thinkers.”

The Meridian Valedictory Scholar speech was delivered by Katherine Anderson and following that the school’s jazz ensemble, the group that played at Carnegie Hall this spring, performed “Two Seconds to Midnight,” with Alessio Azimipour, alto sax, Case Dimock, trombone, Jack Kreul, guitar, and Carlos Ortiz, trumpet.

The class gift was presented by Katherine Holt, senior class treasurer, and the Meridian High chamber singers then sang

“In My Life” by The Beatles. Susan Rotherham delivered the valedictory scholar speech and Caroline Carmody, senior class secretary, introduced Ms. Hardy, the main commencement speaker.

The diplomas were then handed out by Laub, Matt Sowers, director of counseling, Valerie Chesley, counselor, Lindsey Jacobs, counselor, Brad McAdam, counselor, Dana Quirine, counselor, William Snyder, class sponsor, and Kenny George, class sponsor.

After that, senior class president Grayson Kusic spoke and Laub announced the class had been graduating, prompting the windy captossing. Finally, all the new graduates got the chance to ring the bell, as per tradition, that was placed at the rear of the group as they lined out.

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

MERIDIAN HIGH SCHOOL celebrated its latest graduating class on Tuesday Morning. (Photo: Gary Mester)

Ken Burns’ Memorable Commencement Speech

Nicholas F. Benton

Hearing of the loud booing and catcalls being thrust at Trump as he spoke to the Libertarian convention in Washington D.C. last weekend, I looked to tune in hoping to enjoy the experience. It wasn’t fun. Yes, there were many who were yelling out against him as he spoke, but make no mistake, there were others who cheered him.

What came across most clearly was just how completely vile this man Trump is. Under the pressure of a yelling and screaming crowd, Trump’s reptilian demeanor came to the forefront. His entire speech, which was actually quite long and read verbatim off of a teleprompter, was delivered with a gravelly, hostile tone, almost as if a menacing hiss lay behind every word. There were plenty of gratuitous namecalling and egregious lies saturating the remarks, but it was the tone, the angry, raspy hating tone that defined it. No one could cheer such remarks who was not him or herself sharing their nasty, seething temper inside their own heads, or otherwise was too fearful of them to oppose them.

The experience made the news of Nicky Haley’s endorsement of Trump seem so especially and brazenly foul. How could this seemingly civil person throw in her lot with such a foul forked-tongue demon? It is breathtaking to contemplate.

But lest we totally despair, on the other side last weekend was also the occasion for the remarks at the Brandeis University’s commencement by filmmaker historian Ken Burns. He told the graduates the following:

“Listen, I am in the business of history. It is not always a happy subject on college campuses these days, particularly when forces seem determined to eliminate or water down difficult parts of our past,” he said.

“For nearly 50 years now, I have diligently practiced and rigorously tried to maintain a conscious neutrality in my work, avoiding advocacy if I could, trying to speak to all of my fellow citizens,” he

continued.”Over those many decades I’ve come to understand a significant fact, that we are not condemned to repeat, as the saying goes, what we don’t remember. That is a beautiful, even poetic phrase, but not true. Nor are there cycles of history as the academic community periodically promotes.

“...If I have learned anything over those years, it’s that there’s only us. There is no them. And whenever someone suggests to you, whomever it may be in your life, that there’s a them, run away.

‘Othering’ is the simplistic binary way to make and identify enemies, but it is also the surest way to your own self imprisonment, which brings me to a moment I’ve dreaded and forces me to suspend my longstanding attempt at neutrality.

“There is no real choice this November. There is only the perpetuation, however flawed and feeble you might perceive it, of our fragile 249-year-old experiment, or the entropy that will engulf and destroy us if we take the other route, when, as Mercy Otis Warren would say, ‘The checks of conscience are thrown aside and a deformed picture of the soul is revealed.’ The presumptive Republican nominee is the opioid of all opioids, an easy cure for what some believe is the solution to our myriad pains and problems… when in fact with him, you end up re-enslaved with an even bigger problem, a worse affliction and addiction, ‘a bigger delusion,’ James Baldwin would say, the author and finisher of our national existence, our national suicide as Mr. Lincoln prophesied. Do not be seduced by easy equalization. There is nothing equal about this equation. We are at an existential crossroads in our political and civic lives. This is a choice that could not be clearer.

“...Choose honor over hypocrisy, virtue over vulgarity, discipline over dissipation, character over cleverness, sacrifice over self-indulgence. Do not lose your enthusiasm, in its Greek etymology the word enthusiasm means simply, ‘god in us’. Serve your country. Insist that we fight the right wars. Denounce oppression everywhere.

“...Remember what Louis Brandeis said, ‘The most important political office is that of the private citizen.’ Vote. Please, vote. You indelibly underscore your citizenship, and most important, our kinship with each other when you do.”

Memorable words.

COMMENT

A Penny for Your Thoughts

News of Greater Falls Church

By Penny Gross

Four simple words etched at right angles seen in the corner of a scuffed concrete floor at a vintage shop in Madison, Wisconsin: “Life Happens. Art Helps.” An almost austere motto ready for interpretation by any reader or customer. If “music hath charms that soothes the savage breast” (William Congreve, 1670-1729), imagine all the art forms that help soften the harder edges of life — dance, sculpture, fiber arts, painting, literature, poetry, architecture, and more.

Now think of all the talented local artists in our community. Yes, local. The engineer or teacher whose latent talents blossomed after their professional career achievements. The retired teacher who now instructs elderly students in Chinese brush painting techniques at a local senior citizens center and arranges art events to show off their creations. The military band members, now retired from serving our nation, continue to perform with local combos at free summer concerts in the parks, their snappy uniforms replaced by Hawaiian shirts or casual tees and jeans. The management expert and painter who also authors books about discovering your own creativity. “Sopranessence,” a group of “divas” whose glorious voices offer periodic concerts that also raise money for local charities (sopranessence.org).

That’s a lot of variety, but a lot of common challenges underlie that diversity. Local artists often don’t garner the local support that they need and deserve. A recent informal survey of local artists in Mason District revealed that more opportunities, and resources, are needed to connect artists and the community. Gallery space, performance space, “messy” space, and rehearsal space are in short supply. Artists need places to show their work. Performers need stages, with wing spaces and adequate dressing rooms. They all need those “messy” spaces where art is created, where paint splotches on the floor, hammers and sawdust, and sculptures-in-process are stock in trade. Performers and dancers need indoor rehearsal halls. Some large Latino dance groups practice their energetic routines outdoors in local parks or church parking lots because of inadequate rehearsal options as well as limited financial resources. Suggested remedies are many. Repurposing vacant commercial spaces could provide that elusive messy space, create studio and exhibit space, or permit multi-disciplinary classes. Existing businesses could provide wall space for temporary art shows as several small Annandale businesses did this spring. The easiest, and most immediate, remedy,

City of Falls Church CRIME REPORT

Week of May 20-26, 2024

Unlawful Filming, Park Ave, May 11, 6 PM, victim discovered a recording device inside a bathroom at a business; a second device was later located. Investigation is ongoing. (Delayed report)

Larceny from Building, E Broad St, May 20, between 9 PM and 10:05 PM, an unknown suspect removed a padlock from a secured locker, rummaged through the victim’s bag, and stole a cell phone and car keys. The cell phone was recovered days later at another business.

Larceny from Building/Credit Card Fraud, E Broad St, May 20, between 9:15 PM and 11:14 PM, an unknown suspect removed a padlock from a secured locker, and stole a wallet. The unknown suspect then made multiple fraudulent charges on the victim’s credit card.

Larceny from Building, E Broad St, May 20,

11:14 PM, an unknown suspect removed a padlock from a secured locker, rummaged through the victim’s bag, and stole a set of car keys.

Theft of Motor Vehicle, E Fairfax St, between 2 PM on May 20 and 5:26 PM on May 21, an unknown suspect stole a 2019 blue Dodge Challenger.

Driving on Suspended License, Wilson Blvd, May 21, 7:59 PM, a female, 31, of Leesburg, was arrested for Driving on Suspended License.

Larceny from Building/Credit Card Fraud, E Broad St, May 21, between 8 PM and 10 PM, an unknown suspect attempted multiple fraudulent charges on the victim’s credit card.

Reckless Driving, W Broad St, May 24, 11:21 PM, a male, 30, of Washington, DC, was arrested for Reckless Driving.

Simple Assault, S Washington St, May 25, 2:09 AM, victim reported they were assaulted by a known suspect.

is to attend performances, patronize businesses that support local artists, and shop for gifts made by local artists. The Artists United (augallery. org) shop at the Packard Center in Annandale Community Park, 4022 Hummer Road in Annandale, has a lovely selection of wearable art, jewelry, glass, pottery, and other special, one-of-a-kind, gifts made by local artists.

The DMV has a lot of nationallyknown artists and arts venues, but we don’t have to cross the Potomac for quality arts experiences. The free summer concerts in Fairfax County parks begin in mid-June. Spotlight by Starlight at Mason District Park launches on Friday, June 14, with the City of Fairfax Band. The International Series begins the following evening at Ossian Hall Park in Annandale, and the Saturday morning children’s concerts at Mason District Park begin at 10:00 a.m. on June 22. There are free concerts almost every evening somewhere in Fairfax County, so there is no excuse to miss a live performance this summer. Come as you are, bring the family, neighbors, and the dog, a picnic dinner (no alcohol, please). Mason District Park has a special seating area that accommodates wheelchairs. Concerts are free, but donations to support the concerts are appreciated. Contributions (be sure to specify the concert series, e.g. Spotlight by Starlight) also can be made via fairfaxparkfoundation.org. Life is happening all around us, and art helps. That motto isn’t exclusive to a little shop in Wisconsin. Find out for yourself all summer long — and beyond!

No Valid Operator’s License, N Cherry St, May 25, 11:46 AM, a male, 25, of Fairfax County, was arrested for No Valid Operator’s License.

Robbery, W Broad St, May 25, 10:30 PM, an unknown suspect entered the business and told an employee to place money and merchandise into his backpack while implying he had a weapon. The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 6’ tall, weighing about 170 pounds, wearing sunglasses, a face mask, a gray hooded sweatshirt, blue pants, and carrying a black backpack. Investigation is ongoing.

Simple Assault, Wilson Blvd, May 26, 2:39 AM, two victims reported being assaulted by an unknown suspect following an altercation. The suspect is described as an Asian male approximately 40-45 years of age, thin build, with medium length black hair, wearing a Blue Under Armour t-shirt, dark color shorts, with tattoos covering both arms down to the wrist, and a tattoo on his lower left leg near his ankle.

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May 30 - June 5, 2024

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E ditorial

Groundless Allegations

Alas, this is the Age of Trump, the age when facts and reality don’t matter as much as perception and prejudices. So the latest version of that has hit the Falls Church Council in the form of outrageous innuendos about so-called “perceived conflicts of interest” by evil developers meddling in the affairs of the Little City. In all our 33 years of producing our weekly newspaper here, we’ve never encountered such groundless, mean-spirited mendacity as Council members Erin Flynn and David Snyder unloaded Tuesday night, coming incredibly as they did in the context of an extraordinarily positive report on economic gains in the Little City.

The claim of “conflict of interest” is a very serious charge and as such needs always to be taken very seriously by anyone who claims it or who is being accused of it. If it is being applied wrongly or maliciously, it constitutes defamation, plain and simple, and anyone who is wrongly accused of it ought to sue and demand major penalties. If the charges brought in this case are of that nature, then those making the allegations, especially insofar as they are sworn members of the Falls Church city government, are putting at risk every citizen of Falls Church, who will be liable to pay the damages that could incur as a result.

In an age when truth, itself, is under fire, thanks to Trump and those who continue to support him, we must be vigilant to stand for it and not stand by when cavalier attacks constituting little less than character assassinations arise, especially from public officials. If there is some specific incident or activity that needs to be called into question, then there needs to be a very serious case brought to claim it, and not vague and general allegations, which do more harm than good. At this newspaper, we will not sit idly by and watch persons at whatever level feel they have an entitlement to disregard truth in the name of innuendo.

Citizens of the City of Falls Church have been especially blessed in the recent period to enjoy a level of commercial and economic development that is the envy of the region. It has enabled our government to lower the real estate tax rate while at the same time to offer competitive salaries for both City and school employees, afford one of the best education systems in the entire U.S. and still offer infrastructure improvements and quality of life amenities and even affordable housing options that are unmatched even in this affluent part of the world. It is incredible that some in our local government would want to smear and disparage that effort with what they were apparently unable or unwilling to document in making their vague allegations this week.

We are proud of our community’s economic development, and stand with those who seek to continue and expand it to the good of everyone here.

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Letters to Editor

Sen. Humphrey

Comments on Benton

Editor,

Nick Benton, thank you. Your recent column, “‘News’ in the Context of Today’s Information War,” highlights an important but too-often overlooked national security concern: The challenge to American global leadership posed by our autocratic rivals.

Mr. Benton kindly references the April 2 Washington Post op-ed that former Senators Joe Lieberman and I, both of us independents, co-drafted shortly before Joe’s tragic death on March 27. We put it like this: “Formerly, we thought about national security in terms of battles on land, at sea and in the air. The newest battlefield is the human mind. Our adversaries are fully deployed on that field of battle. We are all but absent.”

Former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates says it more simply: “Russia and China are running circles around us.”

Recently, Secretary Gates told a forum sponsored by the Public Diplomacy Council of America, of which I am a member, that the U.S. is in the most dangerous international environment in its history, noting that “We face an alliance of Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, all with the same narrative: That the West and the U.S. are in decline.”

They believe this is their chance to change the international order. Secretary Gates believes, and I believe, that to meet this challenge, we need a strategy, cohesive messaging, and additional resources. Instead, the U.S. Government has 19 departments and 48 agencies with international communications responsibilities – and no attempt at message coordination.

Russia’s budget for producing disinformation materials is estimated at $1.5 billion, China’s is $7 billion. The State Department’s Global Engagement Center [GEC], the U.S. agency charged with countering disinformation, operates with a budget of $61 million. The scale of the discrepancy speaks for itself. [Yet, funding for the GEC runs out at the end of the year and a group of House members is opposing its continuation.] Money isn’t everything: U.S. Government public diplomacy officers around the world are telling America’s story and correcting misperceptions and misinformation about our country. Their work is impressive and effective. Now, Congress and the White House should take steps to level the playing field with a realistic budget and a whole-of-government management structure that ensures America is speaking with one clear voice.

Gordon Humphrey represented New Hampshire in the U.S. Senate from 1979 to 1990.

Gordon Humphrey

Ruminating on the Art World in a Long-lost Mark Twain Comedy

by Mark Dreisonstok

Now playing at the Little Theatre of Alexandria, “Is He Dead?” is based on a recently discovered play by Mark Twain. The play is based on Twain’s own short story, “Is He Living or Is He Dead?” and is based on fictional events in the life of the real French artist Jean-Francois Millet. In this play, we meet the talented painter in his youth. He is in love with a woman named Marie Leroux, but a villainous art dealer, Bastien Andre, desires to force her to marry him instead. What drives the comedy of the play is Twain’s shrewd observation, in the words of his original short story, that “every great unknown and neglected artist must and will be recognized and his pictures climb to high prices after his death.” Indeed, we see this “law” (as Twain termed it) in action when, early in the play, a very wealthy arts patron admires and is about to purchase one of Millet’s paintings…but when the patron is told that the painter is still alive, he quickly leaves the gallery without purchasing

anything! Millet and his friends “solve” this problem by faking the artist’s death. Predictably, interest in his art flourishes, with his paintings becoming invaluable. Millet—still very much alive—profits by pretending to be his own sister, the widow Tillou.

As a result of his ruse, Millet becomes well-off financially. Yet now he must find some means to return to the world of the living so that he may marry Marie. A bit like an Oscar Wilde play, the show fluctuates between being a farce based on mistaken identities and a drawing room comedy. Also present is an interesting discussion of the nature of art itself: is great art not great regardless of whether it was painted by a living artist or one now dead?

The play’s variations in tone from understated comedy to near-slapstick may strike some as fast-paced and others as a little uneven. Without a doubt, however, the acting is very strong, and the production, directed skillfully by Joey Pierce, has much to recommend it. Lanny Warkentien is excellent as artist Millet, and also as his alter ego,

the widow Tillou. Kirk Lambert is in fine imperious form as the villainous art dealer and landlord Bastien Andre. Sara Keisler is a wonderful Marie Leroux, a refined-but-not-wealthy woman of nineteenth-century France. The setting of the story, an artist’s colony in France with characters of various nationalities, is also well-drawn. Hanlon SmithDorsey, for instance, is excellent as Millet’s German friend Dutchy. Mr. Smith-Dorsey seems to be a master of dialects, for we last saw him with a spot-on British accent in “Table Manners” at NOVA Nightsky Theatre in Falls Church.

Matt Liptak’s excellent set design (shifting between an impoverished lodging in Act 1 and an elegant drawing room in Act 2), as well as Jean Schlichting and Kit Sibley’s first-rate costumes, lend the production a compelling period atmosphere.

Art devotees take note, for the production has a special component: the Little Theatre of Alexandria is presenting this play in cooperation with Alexandria’s

Art League. The latter group is hosting a collaborative exhibition of works related to the themes of this Mark Twain comedy. Works on display include Catherine Messina’s acrylic of a church and graveyard in her “Goodbye, All My Fathers;” Judy Guenther’s haunting monochrome photograph “Cherub of Death;” and Rob Baker’s striking photograph “The Afterlife,” featuring a man leisurely reading on a bed as another man, his back to us, stands by with his top hat afire. Many of these images do

indeed reflect back on the play “Is He Dead?”, with its themes of mortality and death often lurking behind the bright comedy. Both the play and the art exhibit run at the Little Theatre of Alexandria through June 8, 2024. The theatre’s address is 600 Wolfe Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314. More information on performances may be found at thelittletheatre.com, while images of the artwork on display may be seen attheartleague.org/event/ collaborative-exhibit-with-thelittle-theater-of-alexandria.

Summer Food Drive

( Photo: Matthew Randall)

Falls Church Honors America’s Heroes at Memorial Day Parade

THE WEATHER HELD OUT for the 2024 Falls Church Memorial Day Parade, one of The Little City’s most celebrated events, last weekend (Photos: Gary Mester & Letty Hardi)

Guest Commentary

Looking Back on 30 Years: The Tinner Hill Music Festival

by Edwin B. Henderson

This year’s theme of “Let’s Hope, Let’s Love, Let’s Dance” is an optimistic take on the past 31 years since the festival’s inception. The 30th annual Tinner Hill Music Festival marks a milestone for music festivals in Falls Church (The Little City). This year promises to be one of the best musical events we have ever put on, which includes two current Grammy winners, headlining the stage at Cherry Hill Park on Saturday, June 8. This year’s lineup provides something for almost everyone regardless of your favorite genre of musical entertainment.

There have been several challenges and many name changes since the first festival was held in 1994. The first festival was intended to bring attention to a much-neglected neighborhood along South Washington Street that highlighted a rich, but unappreciated, history of African Americans and their struggle for equity and social justice in the

early 20th century.

The idea of a festival (The Tinner Hill Street Festival) was the brainchild of Jim Edmonds, the owner of Foxes Music, and David Eckert, a community activist and environmentalist. The first festival was a small intimate gathering of the two African American Churches, (Galloway United Methodist and Second Baptist Churches) that were once within the borders of the Falls Church until the 1887 gerrymandering of the town’s borders. Performances consisted of church choirs and other small African American community groups from the James Lee Community

The following year, the festival moved to Wallace Street. The stage was in the parking lot of what is now Super Chicken, and vendors were located along Wallace Street. Oral histories were conducted in the Olde Market Antiques. One oral history in particular was with Mr. Garland Hicks, who was the school bus driver for the Black Students to the Jennie Dean School in Manassas, which was

the only Virginia school for Black students after finishing James Lee Elementary School on Annandale Road. The festival was held on Wallace Street for five years

In 1998, a Tinner Hill marker was erected where the Tinner Hill Monument is today. A confluence of political figures was present. We led the politicians to the vacant half-acre lot on Tinner Hill and impressed them with how we could create a space to commemorate Tinner Hill’s history. There were two lots. One was located in the confines of Falls Church, with the other in Fairfax County. David Snyder, Falls Church Mayor, Gerry Connelly, Providence District Supervisor, and Bob Hull, Virginia State Delegate, were convinced to buy the property from Mrs. Johnson. The festival would take place on Tinner Hill for six years.

In 2006, the festival had grown, and there was no room to hold the festival. So, we moved the festival to the new Henderson Middle School for two years. But, the asphalt parking lot with no tree

cover was too hot and uncomfortable for many attendees.

In 2008, at the suggestion of vice-mayor Lindy Hockenberry, the festival was moved to Cherry Hill Park where there was grass and tree cover to hold the festival. Lindy, an avid Blues music lover, suggested targeting the Blues music market. Blues music was consistent with our mission of preserving African American history and culture. The Tinner Hill Blues Festival under the leadership of Nikki Graves Henderson embarked on creating an ambitious three day festival, which kicked off at the State Theater on Friday, Saturday in the park, and a Sunday Blues Brunch. After a couple of years, we added beer and wine sales, as an additional income stream. The Tinner Hill Foundation booked some of the greatest national Blues acts over 10 years (2008-2018) in Cherry Hill Park.

In 2018, I stepped aside and Let someone else take the festival over. Tinner Hill board member, Tori McKinney, produced the fes-

tival from 2019 to 2023. There was no festival in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. A big increase in the festival’s popularity and a more professional look has occurred under Tori’s leadership. She has helped to grow the festival.

Tori McKinney has decided to step aside this year, and Ms. LaVerne Washington will produce this year’s festival. She comes with vast experience in music production, nationally.

In conclusion, I’d like to make note of the new “Welcome to Tinner Hill” mural on S. Washington Street. The dedication takes place June 15, at 11:00 a.m. “The Tinner Hill Historic and Cultural District”, is an effort to codify African American History within the City of Falls Church. The City Council will vote to create this in late June. So, stay tuned for more from Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation.

Edwin B. Henderson, II is theauthor of “The Grandfather of Black Basketball, The Life and Times of Dr. E. B. Henderson”

News-Press

Community News & Notes

F.C. Opens Arts, Culture, History Program Grant Applications

The City of Falls Church is now welcoming applications from eligible nonprofit organizations based within the City that support the arts, culture, theater, and history. The application deadline is June 28, 2024, and funds must be utilized before May 16, 2025.

Applications may be submitted for project grants or operations support grants. Applicants may request up to $5,000 in project grants with a total of up to $19,000 available provided by the City and up to an additional $4,500 matching funds provided by the Virginia Commission for the Arts.

Operational grant funding cannot exceed 25 percent of the organization’s total operational expenses budget (maximum of $15,000); the amount is based on the actual expenses from the previous year.

Previous grants have supported the Tinner Hill Music Festival, created an original play at Creative Cauldron, and

funded scholarships for high school students interested in pursuing careers in the arts.

After an initial review by the Recreation and Parks Department to ensure eligibility, applications will be reviewed by the Arts and Humanities Grant Review Committee. The committee will submit recommendations to the Recreation and Parks Department, which will present the recommendations to City Council for final approval during a public City Council session.

The application, details on eligibility, and more information can be found at fallschurchva.gov/AHGrants.

Artist Sharmila Kapur is People’s Choice for FCA Exhibit

Artist Sharmila Kapur won the People’s Choice Award for her oil painting, “Indoor Life” at the “Flora and Fauna: Thriving or Threatened” exhibit, on view at Falls Church Arts through June 9.

The all-media exhibit celebrates the beauty and diversity

of the natural world or explores the challenges it faces.

In her artist’s statement, Sharmila talked about her artistic influences. “I am inspired by the intimate relationship between humans and nature. Given the threat of climate change and unsettling world events, my recent paintings have focused on the life of indoor plants as a source of tranquility. These paintings serve as a reminder of our dependency and interconnectedness with the green world around us.”

“Flora and Fauna: Thriving or Threatened” will be on display through June 9 at Falls Church Arts gallery (750-B. W. Broad St., Falls Church). The gallery is open Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Artworks can viewed online atfallschurcharts.org. All pieces can be purchased at the gallery or on the website.

Admission is free. Masks are optional and guests are asked to postpone their visit if they are not well.

WINNERS OF THE May 16 Pinewood Derby fundraiser at Harvey’s, which benefited the Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPIS), posed with owner Thomas Harvey (center-right). (Photo: John Murphy)

ARTIST SHARMILA KAPUR won the People’s Choice Award for “Indoor Life” for FCA’s “Flora and Fauna” exhibit. (Photo: Falls Church Arts)

MANY CHILDREN ENJOYED the return of the annual F.C. Public Works Department’s “Touch a Truck” open house. (Photo: Gary Mester)

Jewish Month

The following statement was delivered by Falls Church City Council member Justine Underhill at this Tuesday’s Council meeting when a proclamation recognizing May as Jewish American Heritage Month:

“I am Jewish American, in that I come from a very long line of strong Jewish women, who instilled a culture of learning, curiosity and always questioning rules and why things are the way they are... which I will say has benefited me (and maybe annoyed many) as I’ve settled into my role on City Council. My great grandmother immigrated to the US in the early 1900, and left behind a family in Eastern Europe. Today, my family extends all over the world— including the Middle East. Some members of my family have dedicated much of their lives to advocating for peace and I too hope and advocate for peace alongside them.”

The proclamation of the Falls Church City Council this Tuesday noted that Jewish American Heritage Month was first observed in May of 2006 by a Presidential Proclamation in recognition of the 350th anniversary celebration of American Jewish History two years prior.

It adds that whereas, Jewish American Heritage Month encourages the community to raise awareness and understanding of Jewish American history, heritage, and culture, both past and present; and whereas, during this month, communities across the United States will celebrate the contributions of Jewish Americans, a diverse group of people representing many races, ethnicities, and Jewish movements; and whereas, Jewish Americans have contributed significantly to cultural, social, and political fields, helping shape American sports, entertainment, arts, medicine, cuisine, science, government, and business; and whereas, the City wishes to honor the impact Jewish Americans have had on our country through their advocacy for religious and cultural freedom for themselves and others; and whereas the City also wishes to honor the many contributions that Jewish Americans have made, and continue to make, to our community; therefore, Letty Hardi, Mayor of the City of Falls Church has hereby proclaimed the month of May 2024 as Jewish American Heritage Month in the City of Falls Church and calls on all of our community members to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.”

SCHOOLS

MUSTANG BASEBALL WON THEIR first-round regional playoff game last Wednesday, allowing only four hits and no runs in a shutout 1-0 victory against William Monroe. (Photo: Gary Mester)

DESPITE THE HEAT, after Friday’s 3B Region Championship performance, Mustang Track and Field will advance to States. (Photo: FCCPS)

THE F.C. SCHOOL Board marched in the City’s Memorial Day parade, joined by mascots from all five schools. (Photo: FCCPS)

STUDENTS SHOWCASED artistic talents last week at Fine Arts Night, with art on display and music performances. (Photo: Meaghan Barrett)

AS PART OF THEIR “Sharing the Planet” PYP unit, second graders at Mount Daniels Elementary School took a field trip to Shenandoah National Park. (Photo: Christine Stillwagoner)

THIS WEEK AROUND F.C.

THURSDAY MAY 30

Tysons Library Book & Media Sale

Thursday through Sunday, shop a large selection of books and media for all ages and interests. Proceeds benefit library and related activities. Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church), 10:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m.

Founders Groove: Diamond Alley

Enjoy an evening filled with live music, delicious food, and good vibes. Part of the Founders Groove concert series, Thursdays through July 25. Free to attend. This week's performer: Diamond Alley. Founders Row (109 Founders Ave., Falls Church), 6:30 p.m. — 8:30 p.m.

FCCPS and W&OD Connection Meeting

Community meeting discussing FCCPS plans to connect their secondary campus to the W&OD trail. Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School (105 Mustang Alley, Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 8:30 p.m.

FRIDAY MAY 31

Bubbly Black Girl Sheds

Her Chameleon Skin

In a humorous and pointed coming-of-age story spanning the sixties through the nineties, Viveca blithely sails through the confusing worlds of racism, sexism and Broadway showbiz until she's forced to face the devastating effect self-denial has had on her life. Tickets at creativecauldron.org. Creative Cauldron (410 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church), 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY JUNE 1

Falls Church

Farmers Market

Shop the award winning market every Saturday, year-round! City Hall Parking Lot (300 Park Ave., Falls Church), 9:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m.

Open Art Studio Summer Market

The Studios and 307, located inside Art and Frame, host an "Endless Art" event with open studios to search for the perfect piece of art. Art and Frame of Falls Church (307 E. Annandale Rd., Falls Church), 11:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m.

St. Katherine's Greek Festival

Enjoy authentic Greek dancing, pastries, homemade food, and live music. Rain or Shine. Friday through Sunday. Saint Katherine Greek Orthodox Church (3149 Glen Carlyn Rd., Falls Church), 11:00 a.m. — 9:00 p.m.

SUNDAY JUNE 2

American Sign Language Class

Interested in learning American Sign Language? Come learn from members of the Meridian High School American Sign Language Honor Society (ASLHS). This four-session series of classes is intended for beginners. Register free at mrspl.org. Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Upper Floor Conf. Rm., Falls Church), 11:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m.

MONDAY

JUNE 3

Evening Art Critique Group

Bring a piece of art for feedback from a community of artists. Free and open to all levels; meets the first Monday every month. Falls Church Arts (700-B W. Broad St., Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.

City Council Work Session

City Council Work Sessions are held the first and third Monday of the month, with the exception of August and December when only one meeting is held. These meetings are open to the public and are conducted to allow Council Members to discuss upcoming legislation and policy issues; the public

is not generally invited to speak. Watch the meeting live or on-demand at fallschurchva.gov/CouncilMeetings or on FCCTV (Cox 11, RCN 2, Verizon 35). City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 7:30 p.m. — 11:00 p.m.

TUESDAY

JUNE 4

Economic Development Authority Meeting

Economic Development Authority meets. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.

WEDNESDAY

JUNE 5

Mark Twain's 'Is He Dead?'

Young painter Jean-Francois Millet fakes his death, as only dead artists achieve fame and fortune, to pay off debt. Now posing as his own widow, Millet must find a way to return to life and marry the woman he loves. Tickets at thelittlethreatre.com. The Little Theatre of Alexandria (600 Wolfe St.., Alexandria, VA), 8:00 p.m.

Ask the Council Session

The public is invited to meet with Council members and ask questions in an informal setting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Oak Room, Falls Church), 9:00 a.m. — 10:00 a.m.

Planning Commission Meeting

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

THURSDAY

JUNE 6

VPIS

Spring Social

The Falls Church Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPIS) holds their Spring Social. Falls Church Arts (700-B W. Broad St., Falls Church), 6:00 p.m. — 8:00 p.m.

LANNY WARKENTEIN is the Widow Tillou in "Is He Dead," on stage at The Little Theatre of Alexandria through June 8. (Courtesy Photo)

THE 2024 GRADUATING CLASS composed of 210 Mustangs who celebrated the achievement at Meridian High Tuesday morning (Photos: Gary Mester)

Meridian Class of 2024 Graduates

Jacob Masri Abrenio

William John Ackerman III

Abigail Beth Agin

Tucker Mead Albaugh

Madeline Paige Aldana

Danessa Behatriz Alvarado

Ivy Edelen Anderson

Katherine Jane Anderson

Skyler Nathaniel Anderson

Naomi Joy Ayre

Alessio Azimipour

Nora Grace Ballow

Annabel Renee Barbour

Annaliese Elspeth Baron

Marin King Baroody

Thomas Clark Bartholomew

Benjamin Saito Barwig

Trenton Chirasin Bolinger

Henri-Louis Daniel Bono

Sophie Trieste Bono

Aiemi Yoneshige Bradford

Rachel Victoria Brantley

Piper Claire Cannon

Caroline Anne Carmody

Colleen Quill Carpenter

Megan Elann Carpenter

Ryan Cruess Carroll

Belen Casarrubias-Campos

Jack Vincent Castro

Nicholas Ha-Young Francisco

Chang

Raden Xavier Chaves

Riley Sara Chirico

Mason Firman Clark

Joseph Michael Cobucci

Gabriel Jacques Contessa

Maren Fay Louise Cooper

Alta Sheng Copeland

Briana Elise Corry

Giselle Allie Cowan

Sean Henry Cunniffe

Kaylah Margaret Curley

Omar Muhsen Dabbourah

Evan Thomas David

Thomas Oliver Davies

Isabella Reese Davis

Giovanna Bella De Veaux

Noor Towfique DeWald

Mathewson Raymond Downs

Catherine Brooke DuBois

Maya Kasumi Dycaico

Haylee Madison El-Shihabi

Menatalaah Ehab Mahmoud

Elabsy

Defne Eren

Jane Olivia Fagnan

Boston Camilo Fitzpatrick

Jack Caleb Freas

Adam Jackson Funk

Tilden Wilson Gale

Odalys Galicia

Benjamin Joshua Gamez Ramirez

Jonathan Chris Gideon

Amelie Marielle Goesch

Peter Lucas Gomez-Villarroel

Kyra Margaret Morrissey Gorman

Felix Martin Green

Zander Ethan Greene

Grant David Greiner

Ryan Jameson Grubb

Mateo Jose Guillen

Anthony Joel Guiracocha

William Chucker Hahn

Monira Haidari

Julia Phyllis Hall

Alexa Lee Hammond

Ariella Nalina Hanibal

Simone Sunder Hanibal

Alden Matthew Harrison

Ethan Henry Hawn

Carey Avery Heard

Paxton Moore Hebblethwaite

Isabel Caridad Margherita Herrera

Saron Webishet Heruy

Charlotte Elise Hill

Lucas Trent Hollinger

Katherine Mae Holt

Juliet Rose Houseknecht

Emilia Josefina Howard

Ella Sydney Huang

Kathryn Waller Ives

Matthew Joseph Janicki

Alexandra Carmen Jerez

Ruby Alaisea Jones

Tyler Marie Jones

Jeremy Evan Katen

Ethan James Kavitz

Kathryn Ann Kearney

Adelle Lorrainne Kedrow

Madison Berckman Quinn Keelen

Declan Sean Kennedy

Carson Baxter King

Trevor Patrick Coveney Klein

Benjamin Rhodes Kline

Morgan Foster Knight

Carlos Christopher Koski

Ian Albert Kraaimoore

Martin Alejandro Kraft

Austin James Kraus

William Kengo Kroboth

Zoe Chu Jiun Kuo

Grayson Dodds Kusic

Sofia Bella Lambrecht

Connor Cyrus Lee

Ariana Sofia Lehrer

Sean Patrick Lewin

Naomi Jean Lewis

Laura Hien Lieu

Abigail Sue Lindly

Jack Arthur Loper

Aurora Candice Lupi

Adeline Ly

Alex Steven Machado Terrazas

Reese Susan Mamajek

Christopher James McCoy

Jeremy McInerney

Benjamin Philip Meade

Dominic Cooper Memoli

Campbell Hurwitz Michael

Clary Lucia Evangeline Miller

Madeline Sofia Miller

Henry David Moore

Lila Evee Morris

Bernard Ryan Mossburg

Ceara Blanche LaFave Murphy

Emma Burke Najarian

Anshul Negi

Ethan Philip Nguyen

Vivian Tuong Nguyen

Ivy DoLan Nguyen

Vivian Rae Norquist

Sophie Claire O’Hara

Dmitry Eduardovich Oleynik

Carlos Santana Ortiz

Remi Sarah Osztreicher

Preston David Otero

Delia Salome Paradiso

Joseph Youngbin Parente

Narayan A Pathak

Jose Luis Vicerra Perez

Avery Willow Pike

Savannah Buckwalter Platt

Morgan Lindsay Potts

Carson Vaughn Ramey

Mateo Thierry Fernando

Ratheau Beneito

Gabrielle Elizabeth Resta

Alexandria Rose Ries

Ava Grace Rissetto

Mia Argento Rodriguez

Andrea Elizabeth Romero

Avery Kennedy Ross

Elizabeth Rose Rotherham

Susan Shenandoah Rotherham

Luke Alton Russell

Mahdi Omar Sabbar

Scott Sandy Salazar

Abigail Madelyn Salinas-Zeballos

George Stuart P Rinetti Salmoiraghi

Andres Senderowitsch

Sahil Shinwari

Rosa Parks Sims

Henry William Singh

Ava Grace Smith

Mohammad Umer Sohail

Yaroslava Solohub

Pawanart Songsiriarcha

William James Sutton

Jon Talka

Zane Flemming Taylor

James Edward Teague

Noah Townsend Tice-Kepner

Zablon Nega Tilahun

David Austin Ting

Claudia Sofia Torres

Maureen Anna Tremblay

Mikayla Jordyn Turner

Ryan Tomas Gripkey Vagoun

Charles Whitby VanHorn

Arianna Irene Vargas

Davi Vezzetti

Isabella Rose Villano

Ashly Michel Villegas-Sanchez

Nicholas Sebastian Vinatea

Alexa Brooke Wagner

Eve Aurelia Warren

Alistair McKenzie Way

Lucy Catherine Wellons

Alexis Cassandra West

Luke Allen Whiteacre

Violet Wilder

Carter Wynne Williams

Michael Francis Williams

Joy Kaitlyn Wilson

Ava Victoria Stanton Wodiska

Julia Teschke Wolf

Thomas Nichols Wotka

Shruti Yadav

David Alan Yee

Phoebe Jane Yoder

Tania Jareni Zanetti

Joseph Viet Ziayee

Gregory Dean Zike III

The LGBTQ+ Reach

by Brian Reach Falls Church News-Press

Happy LGBTQ+ Pride Month 2024!

Happy Pride! June marks the LGBTQ+ community’s month of celebration and visibility and, with 2024 being the first year without a pandemic emergency declaration since 2019, the events schedule this year is getting crowded!

Capital Pride: The 800-lb Gorilla

The two main events of the Capital Pride festivities come next weekend, June 8-9, with the Capital Pride Parade on Saturday and the Festival on Sunday. If you’ve never been to a Pride, this one is on the larger side (though one tenth the size of the festivities in Toronto or New York), with just over 200,000 in attendance last year — and with the U.S. Capitol and monuments as a backdrop, the event has a really impactful vibe.

Family In, Booze Out at Herndon Pride

As the parade proceeds through the streets of DC, with packed crowds partying along streets and a steady roar of cheers ranging in decibels roughly between a helicopter and a jet engine, some may find a refreshing change of pace at Herndon’s first ever Pride festival next Saturday, June 8.

Many were shocked last December when the Town of Herndon announced that the annual Herndon Festival, held every summer since 1981, would no longer be held. In its place, the Town launched a “Community Cultural Festival Donation Program,” asking local nonprofits to submit applications to receive funding for up to 50 percent of the costs of holding a smaller festival, with the town reimbursing up to $5,000 in costs for each approved event.

Soon after the launch of the program, Joanna Ormesher — Herndon resident and CEO and President of Arts Herndon — submitted an application to hold the town’s first ever Pride festival this year. With enthusiastic support from the office of Fairfax County Dranesville Supervisor Jimmy Bierman, the application was approved, and Herndon Pride is a go!

Despite the event being held the same day as the Capital Pride Festival, vendors and community organizations have lined up to participate, including at least four food concessions serving everything from typical festival fare to barbecue to bundt cakes.

Herndon Pride will be “an exhilarating and fun celebration of color,” said Ormesher, who says the event’s goals include creating “a safe and joyous space for queer Hendon students and young people” and offering “a diverse array of opportunities to gather in activism, in celebration, and in advocacy.”

Unlike most Pride festivals, where alcohol — often the only revenue source beside sponsor and vendor fees — is a central component, Ormesher and others have a different vision for Herndon Pride, which will not serve alcohol. Instead, those looking to imbibe are encouraged to walk to one of the bars easily walkable from the festival grounds, including Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern, Sully’s Pour House, and Aslin Beer Company.

Ormesher says that Arts Herndon has become a safe haven for LGBTQ+ youth in recent years, allowing them to come as they are and meet their peers, and that knowing the space will be free from alcohol or tobacco products provides them (and their parents) with additional peace of mind.

Having organized multiple Pride festivals across Virginia, I’ve consulted with Ormesher, and NOVA Pride is providing as much support as possible to help promote the event and ensure its success.

The event is free to attend, and will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 8, at the Lawn at Arts Herndon (750 Center St., Herndon, VA).

Check it out!

A Sober Pride Festival Is A Great Idea

Substance use and abuse among those who identify as LGBTQ+ is significantly higher than among heterosexuals — with the National Survey on Drug Use and Health finding roughly double the prevalence of all categories of substance use (alcohol, marijuana, opioids), and three times that use of nicotine products, within the community.

Stonewall was a bar. Most LGBTQ+ community connections form at gay bars. Alcohol is extremely present, which can range from unpleasant to untenable for those in recovery.

Our community needs more events catered towards “rainbow families,” and it also needs more events for those who wish to be in a sober environment. Those who live throughout the DMV interested in a sober atmosphere to celebrate Pride should consider a trip out to Herndon for their event.

Falls Church Business News & Notes

Public Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

The Falls Church Chamber invites the public to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony for Fastest Labs of Falls Church. Join the Falls Church City Council members and Chamber Board of Directors as we celebrate Alnoor Jamal and his new business. Fastest Labs provides DNA testing for paternity, ancestry and more as well as DOTcompliant testing services for drugs and alcohol. The ceremony is at 5:00 p.m. followed by a reception where you may learn more about the testing and tour the space. The event is today, May 30 at 5:00 p.m. at 6540 Arlington Blvd., Suite B.

Local Media Hosts AI Seminar

The City of Falls Church Independent Media (CFCIM) is hosting a seminar on using AI for video production on Wednesday, June 12, 6:00 — 8:00 p.m. at Daniel M. Arons Memorial Studio at Meridian High School. Experts Matt Maddock and Jessica Wynter Martin will discuss the dangers and policies as well as how to produce instant messaging and commercials, television, and feature film projects. This presentation is especially geared to those who are video/film creators, educators, theatrical producers, or businesses with a message to deliver. Seating is limited and advance registration is required at interinv@aol.com for Campus Security.

RetirePath Webinar

Join the Introduction to RetirePath Virginia webinar on Tuesday, June 4, 12:00 — 1:00 p.m. The session will provide an overview of the Commonwealth’s automaticenrollment, state-facilitated individual retirement account savings program. Webinar attendees are automatically entered into a $50 Etsy gift card giveaway. Register for the Zoom link here: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/6517128615742/WN_Gh8U3-DeSSNlEp3v37H-w#/registration

Demystifying Small Business Taxes

The Women’s Business Center of Northern Virginia (CBP) is offering a class on business taxes and record keeping. The session is scheduled for Wednesday, June 5, 5:30 p.m. — 8:30 p.m. Robert Lemay of Lemay & Company will lead the session and answer your questions. The workshop is online, and participants must register in advance to receive the meeting link at wbcnova.centerdynamics.com/workshop. aspx?ekey=10440116

 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.

FCNP is now accepting applications for students and young adults seeking experience in journalism, graphic design, or digital marketing! For more information, send an introductory email to breach@fcnp.com along with writing samples and expected dates of availability. FCNP will gladly verify hours for school programs offering compensation for unpaid internships.

Now Hiring: Graphic DesignerS

Are you a digital or print designer looking for work? Send your portfolio and resume to ngatz@fcnp.com!

FCNP Seeking Summer Interns!

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

A public hearing and possible City Council action is scheduled for Monday, June 10, 2024 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard.

(TR24-10) RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO UPDATE CHAPTER 2, “PEOPLE, HOUSING, AND JOBS: DEMOGRAPHICS CHAPTER OF THE CITY’S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

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 fallschurchva.gov/councilmeetings. The City of Falls Church is committed to the letter and spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, call 703-248-5014 (TTY 711).

CELESTE HEATH, CITY CLERK

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Planning Commission CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA

On June 5, 2024, at 7:30 p.m., the City of Falls Church Planning Commission will hold a public hearing during their regularly scheduled meeting, in City Council Chambers at City Hall, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church Virginia 22046, on the following: (TR24-10) RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO UPDATE CHAPTER 2, “PEOPLE, HOUSING, AND JOBS: DEMOGRAPHICS CHAPTER OF THE CITY’S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

Meeting agenda and materials will be available on the following page prior to the public meeting: http://www.fallschurchva.gov/PC. Information on the project can also be found at on the project webpage: www.fallschurchva. gov/DemographicsChapter. 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 703-248-5040 (TTY 711).

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY COUNCIL

CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA

A public hearing and possible City Council action is scheduled for Monday, June 10, 2024 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard.

(TR24-10) RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO UPDATE CHAPTER 2, “PEOPLE, HOUSING, AND JOBS: DEMOGRAPHICS CHAPTER OF THE CITY’S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

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 June 13, 2024 at 7:30 PM in the Council Chambers, located at 300 Park Avenue, for consideration of the following items:

a. Variance application V1649-24 by Jason and Yeseung Ackerman, applicants and owners, of Section 48-263(3)(a) to allow a side yard setback of 8.8 feet and a side yard setback of 9.3 feet instead of 10 feet minimum to construct a second story addition for the property at 112 West Marshall Street, RPC#52-404-012 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned R-1B, Medium Density Residential district. Public comment and questions may be submitted to zoning@fallschurchva.gov until 4:30 pm on June 13, 2024. 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.

MUSIC

GOT JAZZ? Develop your creative self in an established studio for Piano, Bass and Drums. www.PianoJazz.com 703-489-8704

Two gravesites w/vaults for sale. “Lilac” section of National Memorial Park Cemetery, Falls Church, VA. Current total price for both $8,995. Sale price $4,995. Call 703-431-9106 or paphipps@plexar.net

Huge Community Yard Sale. Sat 6/8, 9am-1pm (rain date 6/9) at over 20 homes throughout Jefferson Village and Greenway Downs. Located between Lee Hwy, Rt. 50, Annandale and Graham Rds., 22042.

EMPLOYMENT

Occupat’l therapist for nursing/rehab facility in Falls Church, VA. Apply to: HR, HealthPRO-Heritage, 1 Marcus Dr, #102, Greenville, SC 29615 CAREGIVERS

ELDER CARE/COMPANIONS - job is for 5 Days a Week – 5 Hours per Day – Salary is $30 per Hour.clean record, good recommendations, mobile, with many skills For more details about the position, email (kevinaxeman777@ gmail.com)

CLASSIC AND EXOTIC CAR AUCTION. Friday, May 31st, 12PM ET. 50+ Expected Vehicles. Bid Live or Online! View the inventory and register to bid at: www.RichmondAA.com/ events. Richmond Auto Auction 3600 Deepwater Terminal Road Richmond, VA 23234. 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

FISH/FARMS

Live Fish for stocking ponds. Many varieties available. Delivery to your pond or pickup available. Call Zetts Fish Farm & Hatchery for information 304-995-9202, Cell 304-820-6986.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Vinyl Replacement Windows Installed! Starting at $350 Call 804-739-8207 for More Details! Ronnie Jenkins II Windows, Siding, Roofing and Gutters! FREE Estimates! Call 804-739-8207 for More Details! American Made Products!

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 7-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-844-947-1479 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

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PETS

When veterinary care is unavailable or unaffordable, ask for Happy Jack® animal healthcare products for cats, dogs, & horses. At Tractor Supply® & Southern States®.

SERVICES

DIVORCE-Uncontested, $475+$86 court cost. WILLS-$295.00. No court appearance. Estimated completion time twenty-one days. Hilton Oliver, Attorney (Facebook). 757-4900126. Se Habla Espanol. BBB Member. https:// hiltonoliverattorneyva.com.

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DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-888-550-3083 www.dental50plus. com/virginia #6258 Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920. Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed.

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pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for

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.

In Memoriam: Steven Michael Briese

Steven Michael Briese (Captain Ret., U.S. Navy) passed into the glory of heaven at home in Falls Church, Virginia, on May 16, 2024.

CAPT Steven M. Briese, U.S. Navy, was a California native. He was born in Fontana and graduated from Yucaipa High School in 1981. He graduated from the University of Redlands in 1984 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and a minor in British Literature. He attended Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island and was commissioned in October 1984 as a Cryptologist. In addition to his

time as a “Crypie,” Steven worked for 28 years at Northrup Grumman as a project manager amongst many other roles. He also received master’s degrees from The Naval War College and George Mason University.

Susan and Steven married in the Napa Valley on July 11, 1987. The Navy relocated them to Virginia in 1988 and they had to drive across an ice storm in Texas to make it here! Steven might say the worst part was being “accidentally” fed Fancy Feast cat food on a Triscuit. Steven and Susan moved into Falls Church in 1991 during Steven’s deployment to the Mediterranean Sea. They have been at their home on Rosemary Lane ever since. Their daughter Taylor C. Briese was born in 1994 and was an FCCPS Lifer which made all the “Little City” taxes worth it.

Steven loved supporting all FCCPS School events, fundraisers and was an avid supporter of GMHS athletics, the athletic boosters and specifically Lady Mustang basketball travelling up and down Rt. 7 and I-81 to watch Taylor’s games. Before that, he was always present at FCCKL games or Rec League basketball games. As evident by the amazing way the neigh-

borhood has risen around Susan and Taylor during these past two weeks, Steven was the consummate neighbor. He valued every person he met, whether for the first time or for the fiftieth, Steven greeted everyone with a smile and a witty joke. This was the basis of his devout faith that included his reading the Bible every morning.

A memorial service and Eucharist will be held at The Falls Church Episcopal, on Saturday, June 1 at 2:00 p.m. The burial at Arlington National Cemetery will be held at a future date. A visitation will occur from 4:00 p.m.— 8:00 p.m. at Murphy’s Funeral Home in Falls Church on May 31. Online condolences may be offered to the family at dignitymemorial.com/ obituaries/falls-church-va/stevenbriese-11820992#remembering. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Children’s Incorporated (PO Box 72848, North Chesterfield, VA 23235) in memory of Steven Briese and to continue his sponsorship of a child. Donations may also be made to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society at nmcrs.org or by mail in memory of CAPT Steven M. Briese to NMCRS, 875 N Randolph St, Suite 225, Arlington, VA 22203.

C ritter C orner

MEET GRACIE, WHO has been a resident of F.C. for three years and celebrated her fifth birthday in early May! Gracie enjoys walks through the Mastenbrook-Greenway Downs Park every day, and seeing her pup pals in the neighborhood. (Courtesy Photo)

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

Two FCKLL Teams Advance After Playoffs Round 1

by Erika Toman

In an exhilarating kickoff to the Little League playoffs, two firstround games unfolded last week, showcasing thrilling performances and nail-biting moments. The opening match featured a showdown between We Show Speed, (coached by Dave Izawa and sponsored by Beyer Volvo), and the Commandos (coached by Nick Toman, sponsored by NDI Custom Homes). Despite being out-hit seven to two, We Show Speed emerged victorious with a narrow 4-3 win. The game reached a tense climax in the bottom of the 5th inning when a passed ball allowed the winning run to cross the plate, securing the victory for We Show Speed. Notable performances included hits from Aidan Izawa and Rami Sarsour for We Show Speed, while the Commandos saw hits from Logan Pinkerton, Evan Toman, Caleb Edel, Paul Thiede, Connor Webb, and Jack Disantis. The pitching prowess of Izawa, Emmett Grenfell, and Simon Coho held the Commandos to three runs, sealing the win for We Show Speed. In the second game of the evening, the Clouds (coached by

Anthony Verdi II, sponsored by RPJ Advisors), faced off against the Little City Legends, (coached by Adam Alderson, sponsored by Kirk’s Army). The Clouds soared to a dominant 6-0 victory, propelled by a stellar pitching performance from Anthony Verdi III, who allowed zero hits and zero runs over five and onethird innings. Verdi, along with teammates James Owen, Finn Thompson, Will James, Teddy Verasin, Colin Kirchgraber, Hunter Seymour, and Joey Barnes, contributed hits to secure the win. Despite a valiant effort, the Little City Legends, with Luca Pipia striking out four batters over three innings and support from Stanley Lu and Ryan Alderson on the mound, couldn’t overcome the Clouds’ formidable offense. With these victories, both We Show Speed and the Clouds advance to the second round of the playoffs scheduled for this week. Championship Saturday looms on June 1, promising an exciting culmination to the season for A through Majors levels, followed by the highly anticipated league award ceremony. All are encouraged to attend and show support for the young athletes. Visit fckll.org for more information.

TWO LOCAL TEAMS, the Clouds (pictured) and We Show Speed,