Falls Church News-Press 6-16-2022 by Falls Church News-Press

June 16 - 22, 2022

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Little City’s Celebrating His 80th Big List & Priorities It’s Facing Council to Adopt Ambitious New Plans by Nicholas F. Benton

Falls Church News-Press

Falls Church City Manager Wyatt Shields presented an ambitious and lengthy Fiscal Year 2023—2024 Work Plan report to the City Council Monday night, a veritable laundry list of many things that are identified for action by the City in the next year, and the report, which the Council may formally approve next month, drew mixed reviews. For some, like Council member Marybeth Connelly, the 10-page draft document was far too detailed and project-specific, rather than policy-driven. For others, like Vice Mayor Letty Hardi, the focus on specific projects is more like just what the doctor ordered, because it establishes identifiable parameters. Either way, it is a “highly aspirational” document, Shields said. It came at the request of the Council “reflecting on initial staff recommendations on the new programs, policies and projects that are aligned with Council priorities as laid out in its recent January 25

Continued on Page 3

FALLS CHURCH DEVELOPER and Economic Development Authority chair Robert Young received a special commendation in honor of his 80th birthday from the Falls Church City Council Monday night with much of his family in town to help celebrate the birthday. Young was honored for, in the words of Acting Mayor Letty Hardi, “generously sharing his talents to make Falls Church a better place for all” in his two decades since moving to F.C. in 1999. The Vanderbilt and Wharton School grad has constructed workforce housing, a trend-setting midsized “railroad cottages” housing, been named a “Pillar of the Community” by the local Chamber of Commerce, co-founded the Falls Church Education Foundation in 2004, and has advanced the causes of small business survival, wayfinding signage and affordable housing in his EDA role. “Falls Church is my community, I can’t tell you how much I love it, appreciate it and depend on it,” Young told the Council Monday. In this photo with his family (standing in front of the Council in the rear) are, left to right, front row: Bill Haskell, Courtney Alston, N.C. State Delegate Vernetta Alston, Young, Liz Haskell, Chris Saxton and Dennis Young. (News-Press photo)

Anthony’s Restaurant Celebrates 50th Year Anniversary by Alex Russell

Falls Church News-Press

Falls Church’s famous Anthony’s Restaurant, the locallyowned and operated family eatery specializing in Greek, Italian and American staple dishes, celebrated

the Big 50 last month. That is, 50 years of business in the Falls Church community. Forced to move from its 300 West Broad Street location after 42 years there to make way for the new Harris Teeter and apart-

ment complex in 2014, the longstanding and popular family eatery has continued to work its magic on area families despite the location change out of the City of F.C. proper to a location on Annandale Road just across Route 50.

When asked about his feelings on running his business for five decades, Anthony Yiannarakis, owner and founder, joked that he felt “old.” On a more serious note,

Continued on Page 4

Inside This Week Meridian Soccer Coach of 23 Years, Frank Spinello, Retires

Photos Showcasing Meridian Graduation & Tinner Hill Festival

See Page 13

See Photos, Pages 12 & 14

The big story of the weekend was that it served as the final act of boys’ soccer Head Coach Frank Spinello’s decorated career. He led the program to 11 state titles and four additional Finals appearances over 23 years.

Last week saw two major local events take place, one being the graduation of Meridian High School’s senior class and the other being the Tinner Hill Music Festival. Full-page collages on both inside!

Index

Comment...................................... 5,7,8 Editorial................................................ 6 Letters.................................................. 6 Crime Report....................................... 8 Business News.................................... 9 Sports................................................13 News & Notes............................ 16,17 Calendar......................................18,19 Critter Corner..................................... 22 FCCPS Page..................................... 23

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

NEWS BRIEFS Democratic Primary Election is Tuesday; Only 1 Race on Ballot

only to the Virginia High School League but also to the governor, local lawmakers, and every school superintendent in Virginia urging them to do the same.

The only race on the ballot next Tuesday in Falls Church is the Democratic Primary election for the 8th District U.S. House of Representatives, with veteran incumbent Donald S. Beyer Jr. running against first-time candidate Victoria Virasingh. While mail-in and absentee voting has been underway in the last month, and ending June 18, it is Tuesday, June 21, that is the official day of regular voting, and polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the City of Falls Church’s three polling places. The Republican in that race, Karina Lipsman, noted for her call for top Biden health official Anthony Fauci to be jailed, was chosen at a party convention last month and will be on the November ballot.

U.S. Dept. of Education Sends $1.5 Million to Uvalde School District

Beyer ‘Assault Weapons Excise Tax’ Bill Introduced in Congress

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U.S. Rep. Don Beyer’s bill, reported in last week’s NewsPress, was formally introduced in the U.S. House this Tuesday with 36 Democratic co-sponsors. A 1,000 percent excise tax on semiautomatic rifles such as AR-15s could, if passed, bypass a Senate filibuster. He said he’s hoping it will be deemed eligible for inclusion in a budget reconciliation package, meaning it could pass the Senate with a simple majority, The tax would not apply retroactively or to government buyers. AR-15 style guns now range in price from $500 to more than $2,000. A 1,000 percent tax would increase the price tenfold.

F.C. School Board 1st In State to Seek Girls Wrestling OK

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The Falls Church School Board Tuesday approved a resolution calling on the Virginia High School League to sanction girls wrestling as a sport, becoming the first board in Virginia to approve and advance such a request but probably not the last. Today, the Resolution will be sent, not

This week, the U.S. Department of Education furthered the BidenHarris Administration’s wholeof-government response to the tragic mass shooting at Robb Elementary School by disbursing a $1.5 million School Emergency Response to Violence (Project SERV) grant to the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District (UCISD). The proactive release of grant funds reflects the extraordinary and immediate needs facing UCISD and follows Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona’s visit to the district on May 31 and June 1, 2022. Project SERV funds are authorized under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and may be used for activities that help restore a sense of safety and security for the district’s students, teachers, staff, and families, and that address specific needs of those individuals directly affected by the shooting. Such activities include mental health services for staff and students, and overtime pay for teachers, counselors, and security staff, and may take place over the summer in the form of additional summer programming. Secretary Cardona initiated the emergency funding through a letter to the district superintendent that outlines key assurances around the federal funding. In the days following the tragedy, Secretary Cardona and other Department staff communicated with UCISD leadership and their

Texas Education Agency colleagues and pledged to support recovery efforts in the district and community with a range of technical assistance, including direct access to Department personnel and partners who have helped other communities respond to and recover from acts of school violence. “No community should have to experience a tragedy like this alone. While in Texas, I saw the Uvalde community come together in deep and meaningful ways to support one another and all the families who lost loved ones; and it is our turn to support them,” said Secretary Cardona. “In the hours and days since that tragic day, we have committed to providing the Uvalde community with every available resource they may require from the Department. Today’s release of these emergency funds is an initial step that will be followed by technical assistance and onthe-ground supports in the months and years to come.”

Metro Announces Fall Travel Alternatives to Blue & Yellow Lines WMATA today announced travel alternatives to help customers prepare for major Blue and Yellow Metrorail line construction this fall. Starting Saturday, Sept. 10, Metro will begin work to connect the future Potomac Yard Station with the mainline rail system and to rehabilitate the Yellow Line tunnel and bridge between Pentagon and L’Enfant Plaza stations. The projects will impact Blue and Yellow line service in two phases over eight months, and free shuttle bus service will be available for customers throughout the duration.

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FCNP.COM | FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

JUNE 16 - 22, 2022 | PAGE 3

‘Vision 2040’ Plan Seeks to Balance Small Town History With Commercial Growth

Continued from Page 1

planning retreat. It encompasses the City’s “vision statement” adopted in April 2017, that defines the jurisdiction as “a welcoming and inclusive community, a special place in the heart of Northern Virginia where involved citizens are the key to the City’s long term success as a leader in education, environmental sustainability, multi-modal transportation and vibrant economic development.” That statement continues, “By investing in neighborhoods, community services and facilities, schools and parks, the City preserves small town character and history while honoring a deep commitment to progress and a growing community. The continual rejuvenation of robust commercial areas supports the City’s high quality of life for all citizens.” Those values are contained in the City’s Comprehensive Plan, titled, “Vision 2040,” achieved by progress focusing on the following issues over the next two years: Promotion of the City’s small town character; Increase the vibrancy of the commercial areas and supporting economic development and growth in the City’s commercial areas;

Make housing more inclusive and affordable; Increase environmental sustainability and making the City more resilient against ongoing climate change; continue delivering core government services to support a healthy and growing community; Implement a robust capital improvements program that will serve current and future generations. The draft biennial work plan includes the following: Small town character in an urban setting, including commercial district amenities, West Broad Street Planning Opportunity Area, the East End Opportunity Area, park and open space initiatives, City support for community run events and festivals, public art initiatives, with rightscale and massing for new development; Economic sustainability and vitality, with economic growth and diversification strategies, infill development standards and promotion, downtown parking and business friendly initiatives; Safe and complete streets for mobility and accessibility, including pedestrian connections and crossings (including W&OD street crossings and completion of the Parks

and Open Space Connections study that is exploring ways to connect the W&OD trail with Berman Park, Herman River Valley Park and the Cavalier Trail), neighborhood traffic calming, street infrastructure priorities, bicycle master plan implementation, and transit and transportation innovation; Public health and public safety priorities, including traffic safety enforcement, emergency management, completion of a reunification plan for students and parents for all public schools and St. James School, completion of security audits for all city buildings, and emergency communications, including a “Next-Gen 911” project to allow residents to contact 911 emergency services through multiple communications platforms; Environmental sustainability and leadership focused on carbon emissions reduction, the LED streetlight program, the adoption of a Community Energy Plan and government emissions reduction plan; advancing green building design and development standards, stormwater infrastructure and watershed management, the Greening of Lincoln and Greening of Lincoln West projects; sanitary sewer systems capacity

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PAGE 4 | JUNE 16 - 22, 2022

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Gratitude and Well-Wishes for Anthony’s From the Little City

Continued from Page 1

he added that, through all the “ups and downs” — especially the hardships that many family-owned restaurants struggled with during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 — all the “rewarding experiences” that “you cannot buy” are what buoyed the whole enterprise for him. Yiannarakis shared how, over the years, he has seen “parents with their babies in the basket,” and then later, “those [same] kids with their own kids” visit Anthony’s Restaurant. The base dynamic of a restaurant like this boils down to listening to and talking with a variety of people and this is something that Yiannarakis underscored as a benefit of the trade. “I sympathize [and] listen to the customers…and their problems,” adding that as a byproduct of meeting and getting to know many of his customers, he has attended a few funerals throughout the decades after forming connections with various people and their families. Yiannarakis’ proclivity to sympathize with strangers — as well as the quality of the restaurant itself — explains both the eatery’s longev-

ity and the outpour of gratitude and support from loyal customers. People “sent cards…best wishes” and thankyou notes, which are now tacked to a wall near the register. The 50th anniversary itself was marked on May 21st. “We offered some cake” to visitors, “we [also] gave out some glasses that have the name [of the restaurant] on them.” Yiannarakis also showed two kinds of t-shirts made especially for the occasion, a white variant for the customers to take home and another black variant for the employees to wear. In addition, large, gold-colored balloons in the shape of a 5 and 0 can be seen after going through the restaurant’s doors. Collectible pens, commemorating the restaurant’s 50 years in business, can also be found inside. As one of the main draws is the food itself — from American icons like the BLT or the Philly cheese steak sub to Greek cuisine like the gyro and Moussaka — it turned out that “some of the recipes” have stuck since the beginning. The menu has, however, grown exponentially since 1972 (the year Yiannarakis began his business). In the ‘70s, Anthony’s was a

smaller, mostly take-out focused place to eat at its original location on West Broad in the center of the Little City. Time has seen Yiannarakis, his family and his employees navigate the logistics of having to move to their current location on Annandale Road and the uncertainty of Covid. “I am thankful that I have my wife, my kids, by my side,” said Yiannarakis, adding that “a lot of my employees have been with me for many years,” with some of them having been on for “almost 40 years.” Even though Yiannarakis doesn’t spend a lot on advertising, “except maybe during the holidays,” the appeal of his restaurant cannot be denied. Staying operational for as long as he has and seeing business improve throughout the past year emphasizes the significance of both the 50th anniversary and the restaurant itself. People “like the business, the food, the atmosphere,” reflected Yiannarakis. “[We] had to try very hard to keep the doors open, [but now], slowly, we’re getting better… getting more business.” With word-of-mouth (or through the internet, with websites like Yelp or reviews on Google), being the

ANTHONY AND FAYE YIANNARAKIS with their children and grandchildren. (Courtesy photo) main way through which people find out about Anthony’s Restaurant, the Yiannarakis’ success is truly a testa-

ment to the level of work and dedication put into running one of the Little City’s most-favored places to eat out.

Contact:

Sue Johnson

sjohnson@fcnp.com 703-587-1282

CO MME NT

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Commentary

JUNE 16 - 22, 2022 | PAGE 5

Donald Trump, American Monster Maureen Dowd NEW YORK TIMES

WASHINGTON — Monsters are not what they used to be. I’m reading “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley for school, and the monster is magnificent. He starts out with an elegance of mind and sweetness of temperament, reading Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s “The Sorrows of Young Werther” and gathering firewood for a poor family. But his creator, Victor Frankenstein, abandons him and refuses him a mate to calm his loneliness. The creature finds no one who does not recoil in fear and disgust from his stitchedtogether appearance, his yellow skin and eyes and black lips. Embittered, he seeks revenge on his creator and the world. “Every where I see bliss, from which I alone am irrevocably excluded,” he laments. “I was benevolent and good; misery made me a fiend.” Before he disappears into the Arctic at the end of the book, he muses that once he had “high thoughts of honour,” until his “frightful catalogue” of malignant deeds piled up. Shelley’s monster, unlike ours, has self-awareness and a reason to wreak havoc. He knows how to feel guilty and when to leave the stage. Our monster’s malignity stems from pure narcissistic psychopathy — and he refuses to leave the stage or cease his vile mendacity. It never for a moment crossed Donald Trump’s mind that an American president committing sedition would be a debilitating, corrosive thing for the country. It was just another way for the Emperor of Chaos to burnish his title. We listened Thursday night to the frightful catalogue of Trump’s deeds. They are so beyond the pale, so hard to fathom, that in some ways, it’s all still sinking in.

The House Jan. 6 committee’s prime-time hearing was not about Trump as a bloviating buffoon who stumbled into the presidency. It was about Trump as a callous monster, and many will come away convinced that he should be criminally charged and put in jail. Lock him up! The hearing drove home the fact that Trump was deadly serious about overthrowing the government. If his onetime lap dog Mike Pence was strung up on the gallows outside the Capitol for refusing to help Trump hold onto his office illegitimately, Trump said, so be it. “Maybe our supporters have the right idea,” he remarked that day, chillingly, noting that his vice president “deserves it.” Liz Cheney cleverly used the words of former Trump aides to show that, despite his malevolent bleating, Trump knew there was no fraud on a level that would have changed the election results. “I made it clear I did not agree with the idea of saying the election was stolen and putting out this stuff, which I told the president was bullshit,” William Barr, Trump’s attorney general, said. Breaking from her father, Ivanka Trump — in a taped deposition — said she embraced Barr’s version of reality: “I respect Attorney General Barr. So I accepted what he was saying.” (Her husband, Jared Kushner, won the prize for gall in his deposition: He was too busy arranging pardons for sleazeballs to pay attention to whether Trump aides were threatening to quit over the sleazeball in the Oval.) Trump’s data experts told him bluntly that he had lost. “So there’s no there there,” Mark Meadows commented. Trump just couldn’t stand being labeled a loser — his father’s bête noire. He maniacally subverted the election out of pure selfishness and wickedness, knowing it is

Continued on Page 7

Our Man in Arlington By Charlie Clark

Delays imposed by Covid-19 have meant that not one, not two, but three Yorktown High School 50th-year class reunions made it on our 2022 calendar. The bunched-up make-up dates prompted broadcast queen Katie Couric (YHS ’75) to post a YouTube video wishing her best to the classes of 1970, 1971 and 1972. Some alums call me a semiprofessional reunion guest. So I hit the events this month for both the ’70 gang and my own ’71 charmers and lived to tell the tale. A half-century out from teenage locker land is a time when some folks who’d for decades been apathetic or cynical toward reunions rediscover a sentimental attachment. The planning committees strive to advertise and track down elusive classmates. You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make them drink… with people just because they once walked the same school hallways. Within reunion committees there often is tension between a desire to celebrate by going firstclass and the inclination to minimize costs to boost turnout. Fees hover around $100, with a penalty for late registration (those who wait to pay at the door complicate the food order). There’s also a frugality duel over spending on swag (napkins, coasters, or shot glasses bedecked with the school logo); some folks’ style is plainer. Nametags, however, displaying frozen-in-amber

yearbook portraits are both fun and vital as memory jogs. In the digital age, resurrecting the music from your teen years is a breeze for any pro deejay. He knows most guests want to talk, so his equipment is off to one side. But after a couple of hours and libations, the dance floor gets populated — once some brave souls set the pace. And the beauty of ‘60s dancing is you don’t need to pair off. Our class of ’70 drew 120 to the Westin Hotel in Ballston, nearly all pre-registered. (During their Friday night bar gathering, the Yorktown class of 2022 was having their prom upstairs, so Principal Kevin Clark came down to greet the older alums.) My ’71 gathering at Knights of Columbus drew 111 (a dozen showed up unannounced). And though some who had threatened to come were no-shows, lots of collateral reconnections got made offline. Lots of interest in the Saturday morning tours of the modern opulent Yorktown building, of which not a single brick remains of the original built 1959 — 60. (It was torn down in stages from 2009 — 13.) At the Saturday dinner-dance, guests brought yearbooks, personal snapshots and school newspapers. (I noted that sports headline lingo from high school papers doesn’t hold up: gridmen, cagers, grapplers, thinclads, netmen, hoopsters, batmen?) Professional photographers at reunions can play director and pack

100-plus 70-year-olds into a panoramic shot. The deceased were honored tastefully in an elegant list and video loop, surrounded by candles. A few guests wore masks, and by this stage in the pandemic, all understood that choice. (Only one case of Covid was later reported, with appropriate follow-up.) Two retired teachers came to our events (for free). And each class welcomed a half-dozen brave spouses, who mingled without evident boredom. Any fears of continued cliquishness or mockery of out-crowders proved unjustified. And the conventional wisdom that reunion-goers revert to their high school power roles isn’t ironclad. I encountered only mature inclusiveness. Those in their seventh decade, it seems, are simply grateful to be anywhere. ** For the first time since it opened in 2006, the Air Force Memorial will be closed to fireworks viewers this Fourth of July. That’s because it is now a construction site creating space for new graves. Arlington National Cemetery, in collaboration with the Air Force District of Washington, announced the predictable decision last week, citing “a significant safety and security risk.” The expansion of the cemetery’s southern flank — which will also end easy parking and quick pedestrian access to the memorial — means the thousands accustomed to gathering every year to admire the red-glare rockets with the soaring spires as a backdrop must take their tradition elsewhere.

PAGE 6 | JUNE 16 - 22. 2022

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Corporate Giants Must Save Newspapers

The Journalism Competition and Preservation Act of 2021, introduced by Sen. Amy Klobuchar this spring, is the only concrete suggestion for action to preserve local newspapers going forward offered in the wake of CBS News’ “60 Minutes” report on the dying local newspaper industry last weekend. It was the only included item in the “60 Minutes Overtime. com” online segment that viewers were invited to look at after the TV show. According to the author of the bill, “it creates a four-year safe harbor from antitrust laws for print, broadcast, or digital news companies to collectively negotiate with online content distributors (e.g., social media companies) regarding the terms on which the news companies’ content may be distributed by online content distributors.” It is, sadly, a vastly deficient answer to the question of dying local journalism. The “60 Minutes” TV segment, entitled, “Headlines, Deadlines and Bottom Lines,” centered on the plight of local newspapers, and, as David Jackson, the former editor of one, proclaimed, “Journalism is necessary for the survival of American democracy.” Almost any reasonable person agrees with this assessment, especially in the face of the assaults on honest journalism that have come from enemies of democracy like Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. Yet for a variety of reasons, including the takeover of over 200 local newspapers by a vulture-like hedge fund, Alden Global, that has picked them dry by selling off assets and firing personnel, as the “60 Minutes” report documents, these cornerstones of democracy are disappearing at a frightening rate. Alden’s is a “newspaper-killing business model” according to a congressional report. They are not “just another business,” it was noted, but a unique sort of glue that holds communities together and their leaders accountable. Insofar as newspapers are the shared medium of countless communities, the very fabric of democracy, those who appreciate the importance of the survival of our democracy need to step up, if even in a self-serving way, to contribute to their survival. We proposed that Fortune 500 and other big corporations pitch in by taking out full page ads in local newspapers. They can be image ads, or educational ones, and they’ll serve the combined purpose of advancing the advertisers and the publications where their ads appear. This solution is simple, and it goes directly to the survival of an indispensable resource for our free society. Big corporations used to subsidize journalism by enabling media organizations to carry the news with no ads, as was the case in the Walter Cronkite and Edward R. Murrow’s heyday. This new plan would only be a modification of that one, but it desperately needs to happen now. Today, money hungry media buyers act on behalf of big corporations to place their ads only in the giant media outlets that can return the big bucks to them. This leaves smaller entities out in the cold. These organizations need dollars to maintain the civic trust that they are tasked with maintaining.

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The Fields of Falls Church Housing Problems Editor, We recently had an opportunity to visit several apartments at the Fields of Falls Church. We were stunned to see evidence of significant rodent infestation (dead mice on sticky strips), mold on the walls of the bedrooms, old and barely functioning appliances and broken doors and cabinets. The Fields is a ten building complex of more than 100 rental apartments located in the heart of Falls Church. It is owned by Kettler — a large development, investment and property management company based in McLean. The reason for the visit was to observe first hand the conditions that tenants at the Fields are dealing with on a daily basis and have been dealing with for years and to hear the concerns of tenants with children. A number of children in the Fields complex suffer from asthma and other respiratory maladies that can influenced by excessive mold on the walls and from rodent feces. Additionally, parents are truly concerned about their toddlers playing on floors of apartments infested with mice. All of this is documented with photos and testimonies of tenants.

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The Fields apartments are not subsidized in any way but the units are more affordable than elsewhere. The tenants pay full fare ($1666 per month for 2 bedroom; $1396 per month for one bedroom) yet consistently meet with partially completed maintenance and false promises from Kettler management. We talk about the importance of affordable housing in Falls Church yet we allow these unacceptable conditions to continue for hard working people. The City has made some effort but apparently has little authority — mold and rodents are not in the city codes. We checked with the leasing office this week and the complex is 100 percent occupied — an owner’s dream. Kettler has been contacted numerous times over the years but has shown little to no interest in rectifying these conditions. This is full profit with little to no maintenance. As a wealthy, privileged community, there must be something we can do to ensure that our neighbors live with dignity in acceptable conditions! Curtis Schaeffer ESOL Adivsory Committee, FCCPS Jennifer Santiago Director of Equity and Excellence, FCCPS Erika Siguiera Parent Liaison/Director of the Family Resource Center, FCCPS

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

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JUNE 16 - 22, 2022 | PAGE 7

Jan. 6 Committee is Documenting the Extreme Crimes of Trump N�� F. B�� FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

Back in 1973, too few of us fully appreciated the momentous times we were living in, how massive the Watergate scandal was and the magnitude of its consequences. The idea of a U.S. president having to resign was simply unheard of, and even I, being more than your average U.S. history buff, was, relatively speaking, incapable of fully grasping the scale of the whole thing. This, now, is such a time again. Kids, if you felt like you missed out on paying close enough attention to

some things of grave import earlier, this is your chance to hop into the events of our present time and experience them to the fullest. In fact, it is even better this time than in the Watergate period. That is because the evidence now being provided in such an impactful way by the January 6 Committee is revealing a magnitude of former President Trump’s horrendous violation of not only U.S. law but of fundamental human decency. It is unparalleled, not only for a president, but for any average, even admittedly highly flawed, human being. Can you imagine, here is a man who was willing to have his vice president strung up on gallows at the Capitol on January 6, 2021, to have him and others summarily executed in front of TV cameras for the entire world to see. This is the behavior of a totally sociopathic person who finds himself cornered but in a position to execute a lot of power.

In its two sessions to date, the January 6 Committee has already made the case conclusively that the November 2020 election was not “stolen,” and that Biden won legitimately by a margin of over seven million votes. All claims to the contrary have been thoroughly examined by the committee and found to be totally groundless, just all part of Trump’s “Big Lie.” Yet this week, a year and a half later, according to the lead headline in the Washington Post, “Over 100 GOP Primary Victors Backed ‘Big Lie,’” noting in subheads that “2020 Falsehoods Now Drive Party” and “Embracing Trump Claims is Part of Winning Formula.” There is no way to correct this sad situation other than by doing what the committee is now doing, by sticking to the facts and presenting them with the greatest clarity possible, and using former pro-Trump

witnesses to say so. It will also be necessary for Trump to face the music on all this, to face criminal charges, even though some committee leaders say they don’t want to go there. It is simply not credible that a body with legal authority would find so much of a criminal nature and choose to do nothing about it. Of course, the Justice Department can act on its own without a request from the committee, and to this point, it is hard to imagine that everyone there has not already checked all the boxes for a classic, if outrageous, criminal enterprise. Trump has been a grifter, a sociopath and thug all his life who thinks nothing of doing anything and everything possible to advance his perceived selfish self interests with no regard for any single other human being, including members of his own family. As perhaps the nation’s foremost legal mind, Lawrence Tribe of

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Harvard University, has said plainly after the first two days of the January 6 Committee’s hearings, it would be “very strange” for the Department of Justice to examine all that is now being documented in the face of 18 USC 1343 and not to prosecute. (18 USC 1343 alludes to fraud and carries sentences of up to 20 years.) Involved has been the “most blatant attempt to overthrow the U.S. government in 246 years,” and, Tribe pointed out, the fact that the perpetrator might be deranged or otherwise disabled, is not an excuse for breaking the law. Crimes ranging from fomenting a riot to seditious conspiracy and defrauding millions from gullible people in the name of a non-existent vote fraud fighting effort are clear cases of what Trump now faces. Only by holding him accountable for these many crimes can the millions of Americans who’ve been duped by him see any way to recover.

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of the committee, noted, when the — described a hellscape. “I was slipping in people’s Capitol was attacked in 1814, it wasDC! Guns, Largest Gun Show in Metro Knives & Accessories! easy to manipulate people on social by the British. This time, it was by blood,” she recalled. “You know, I — I was catching an enemy within, egged on by the media with the Big Lie. It was fine with him if his fol- man at the heart of the democracy he people as they fell. I — you know, I was — it was carnage.” lowers broke the law and attacked swore to protect. In his dystopian Inaugural speech, “They did so at the encouragethe police and went to jail, while he ment of the president of the United Trump promised to end “American praised their “love” from afar. It’s amazing that no lawmakers States,” Thompson said of the mob, carnage.” ge 0 ! led he Instead, he delivered it.nowNow “trying to stop the transfer of0power, were killed. S ! 13 E g L t K nin Everywhere you look, there’s a precedent that had stood TABfor 220 needs to be held accountable per Trai for his x E & attempted coup — and not just in the something that makes your blood years.” It’s mind-boggling that so many court of public opinion. run cold. The monster in “Frankenstein” is people still embrace Trump when not the only one who has forsaken it’s so plain that he cares only about By MAUREEN DOWD © 2022 The himself. “thoughts of honour.” New York Times He was quick to throw his daughRussia, also in the grip of a monster, is invading and destroying a ter Ivanka Trump off the sled Friday, TICKETS SOLD ONLINE ONLY not count neighboring democracy for no rea- indicating her opinion did CDC & VA GOVERNOR GUIDELINES MUST BE FOLLOWED! son, except Vladimir Putin’s delu- since she “was not involved inAlllooking at, or studying, Election results. sions of grandeur. In Uvalde, Texas, the unfathom- She had long since checked out.” Let some conservatives dismiss able story unspools about how police delayed rescuing schoolchildren for the hearings as “A Snooze Fest.” an hour because a commander was Let Fox News churlishly refuse to run them. worried about the officers’ safety. The hearing was mesmerizing, Greedy golf icons joined a tour underwritten by the Saudis, even describing a horror story with predatory Proud Boys and apresents monster at its of Arms from one of America's most though the Saudi crown prince The NRA National Firearms Museum a Collection chief executives, Nobel Prize and Medal of Honor recipient Theodore Roosevelt. center that even Shelley could have ordered a journalist dismembered. extraordinary (Kushner is under investigation appreciated. The ratings were boffo, about whether he traded on his gov- with nearly 20 million viewers. Caroline Edwards — the tough ernment position to secure a $2 billion investment from the Saudis for Capitol Police officer who suffered a concussion, was sprayed in her eyes his new private equity firm.) As Bennie Thompson, the chair and got back up to return to the fight Continued from Page 5

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PAGE 8 | JUNE 16 - 22, 2022

A Penny for Your Thoughts

News of Greater Falls Church By Supervisor Penny Gross

Another tragic vehicle/pedestrian crash, this time near Oakton High School in the Providence District, killed two teen-aged girls walking home from school, and sent another to the hospital with serious injuries. The teen driver and a passenger from the striking car also were injured; two other passengers in that car ran from the scene, but later were identified by police. The driver of the other vehicle, which had paused for the students to exit the crosswalk before turning, also was struck by the speeding car and was treated by paramedics at the scene. Per Virginia Code 19.2-11.2, Virginia law enforcement agencies are prohibited from directly or indirectly identifying deceased juvenile victims of a crime, so the teens’ identities have not been released. The girls’ deaths were the 9th and 10th pedestrian fatalities in Fairfax County this year. It can’t be said too many times — driving is a privilege, not a sport. Slow down (the speed limit on most neighborhood streets is 25 mph), pay attention, stay off your devices and, in the case noted above, be aware of vehicular movement ahead of and behind you. Ten pedestrian deaths in less than six months is ten too many. This carnage must stop! The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), which runs the popular Tax-Aide program at the Mason District Governmental Center during tax season, is sponsoring two interesting webinars this month. Jump Start Your Job Search, on Tuesday, June 21, from 12 — 1:30 p.m., is designed to help you make a smooth transition into the job market or a career change. RSVP at aarp.cventevents.com/JSYJ06212022. A second webinar, Retirement Planning: Strategies for Today and Tomorrow, on Tuesday, June 28 at 7:00 p.m., will focus on taking charge of your financial future. RSVP at aarp. cventevents.com/retire068282022. The primary election to select a Democratic candidate for the 8th Congressional District is underway. Tuesday, June 21, is the actual Election Day at local polling places, which will be open from 6 a.m. — 7 p.m. Voters also

may cast a ballot in-person during early voting at any one of several satellite polling places in the county. Two satellite locations in Mason District are the Mason District Governmental Center (6507 Columbia Pike, Annandale), and the Thomas Jefferson Library (7415 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church). Voting hours for both locations are 1 — 7 p.m. this week, and 9 a.m. — 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 18, which is the last day to vote absentee in-person. A ballot drop box is also available at both locations during voting hours. Congressman Don Beyer is running for a fifth term representing the 8th Congressional District of Virginia which, because of decennial redistricting, now includes nearly all of Mason District, demarcated by the I-495 Beltway. Using the new boundaries, if you reside inside the Beltway, you probably are in the 8th District and are eligible to vote in the Democratic primary currently underway. The candidates are Congressman Beyer and newcomer Victoria Virasingh. I’ve known Don Beyer since the early 1990s, when he was Lieutenant Governor under two Virginia governors, Democrat Douglas Wilder and Republican George Allen. Don’s lifetime of public service includes an appointment as United States Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein under President Barack Obama. In Congress, Don has a seat on the coveted House Ways and Means Committee, a nod to his experience as a business owner. However, it is his empathy for constituents who face severe challenges that demonstrates Don’s obvious concern and search for solutions. We need more people like Don Beyer in Congress — officeholders who will go the extra mile to help, not because it might improve their re-election chances, but because it is the right and moral thing to do. I’ll be voting for Don Beyer, and hope you will, too.  Penny Gross is the Mason District Supervisor, in the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. She may be emailed at mason@fairfaxcounty.gov.

C i t y o f Fa l l s C h u r c h

C RI M E R E PO RT Week of June 6 — June 12, 2022 Shoplifting, W Broad St, June 6, 10:50 AM, unknown suspect took items of value from a business. The suspect was described as a male with slim build, approximately 5`9, wearing a black jacket and blue jeans and carrying a red lunchbox. Driving Under the Influence, Hillwood Ave, June 6, 9:09 PM, a male, 36, of Falls Church, VA, was arrested for Driving Under the Influence. Fraud-False Pretenses, S Washington St, June 7, 12:24 PM, unknown suspect received services and then drove off without paying. Suspect described as a male

wearing a white hat, blue shirt and gray shorts. Last seen driving a gray 2004 Audi with a California temporary tag.

June 9, 1:45 PM, unknown suspect took items of value. Suspect described as a male, wearing all black attire.

Fraud-Credit Card, S Washington St, June 7, 12:06 PM, an incident of fraud was reported

Identity Theft, Birch St, June 9, 3:04 PM, an incident of identity theft was reported.

Wire Fraud, Roosevelt Blvd, June 8, 5 PM, an incident of fraud was reported.

Shoplifting, W Broad, June 11, 4:45 PM unknown suspect took an item of value from a business. Suspect described as a male, approximately 20-30 years of age, slim build, 5`8-5`10 height, wearing all black.

Fraud-False Pretenses, W Broad St, June 8, 11 PM, unknown suspect left an establishment without paying his tab. Suspect described as a male, midtwenties, 6 ft, 200 lbs, brown hair and eyes. Last seen wearing dark pants, dark shirt with a green ball cap. Larceny from Building, W Broad St,

Drunk in Public, N Washington St, June 12, 8:17 PM, a male, 29, of Washington, DC, was arrested for Drunk in Public.

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Delegate Marcus Simon’s

Richmond Report I typically focus my June column on the bills that passed during the most recent General Assembly Session, since the laws we pass during our regular session are effective on July 1st and July 1st is the first day of the fiscal year, the date on which the new budget becomes effective. This year we are running a little bit behind. We finished the regular session in March without a budget, forcing the new Governor to call us back for a Special Session on April 4th. Unfortunately, he forgot to check with House and Senate leaders first — even those of his same party. So, when we arrived back in Richmond there was literally nothing for us to do. The GOP-controlled House and the Democratic Senate finally reached a budget compromise over Memorial Day weekend, and we returned on June 1st to debate and adopt the budget that was released on Memorial Day Monday. It was then sent to the Governor. The Special Session convenes again on June 17th to vote on any amendments the Governor may have made, although he’s not obliged to tell us what they are until 11:59 on the 16th of June. So much for transparency. So, I can’t yet tell you exactly what will happen with the Grocery Tax, the Earned Income Tax Credit, or your standard deduction on July 1st. I can talk about a few of the bills that passed, and more significantly this year, a few bills that WON’T become law. This is all thanks to opposition from Democrats in the General Assembly and despite the Governor’s desire to see these changes made. For instance, the City of Falls Church and Fairfax County will keep those signs at the entrances to our parks, libraries and community centers that remind residents firearms are not permitted in those public spaces. Bills to repeal local authority to regulate firearms were defeated in committee, as were bills to repeal VA’s proven and effective red-flag laws, and bills to allow Virginians to carry concealed weapons anywhere without a permit. LGBTQ+ Virginians will continue to enjoy full legal protection from discrimination under the Virginia Values Act, as efforts to repeal the bill, make it more difficult to enforce, and to provide a myriad of exemptions under the guise of *religious freedom* were defeated. Even though Governor Youngkin has created a secret tip line to report the teaching of Critical Race Theory and “inher-

ently divisive topics” in the classroom, bills that would ban the teaching of such topics in our excellent Falls Church and Fairfax County schools were defeated. Efforts to repeal public sector employees’ right to form a union were unsuccessful. This means negotiations can continue toward educator-friendly collective bargaining agreements in Falls Church City that could provide the best model for the rest of VA. Our furry friends will be better protected now that individuals who have violated the federal Animal Welfare Act will not be allowed to sell or import cats and dogs. Studentathletes can now be compensated for the use of their name, image or likeness (NIL) and prohibits higher education institutions from preventing this except in certain circumstances. We’ll start taking baby steps toward campaign finance reform. Beginning in Jan. 2024, candidates will have record keeping and retention requirements so that the Department of Elections will be able to annually audit a percentage of campaign committee accounts. If you are a VA Realtor, you will now have the ability to negotiate health insurance options through your member associations. For my fellow environmentalists, localities can now adopt ordinances for the planting and placement of trees during the land development process. Tree conservation can be a bigger priority in areas with high development. To address the issues at the Virginia Employment Commission, the VEC will develop an unemployment insurance resiliency plan to include specific actions taken when claims increase, to address staffing needs, and overall communications. The law requires employers to submit claim-related forms electronically and the VA Department of Human Resource Management will lead a multiagency workgroup to address support strategies during emergencies. The VEC’s internal audit division will also review and update online resources related to unemployment compensation. As you know from my previous Richmond Reports, we review a lot of bills during the regular session. You can view a more comprehensive list of bills on dls.virginia.gov.  Delegate Simon represents the 53rd District in the Virginia House of Delegates. He may be emailed at DelMSimon@house.virginia.gov

JUNE 16 - 22, 2022 | PAGE 9

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Fa l l s C h u r c h Business News & Notes Legislation for Small Business Health Coverage Access On June 2, 2022, at the Virginia Health Care Conference hosted by the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, Governor Glenn Youngkin held a ceremonial signing for legislation that will expand access and lower the cost of health coverage for small businesses in Virginia, which accounts for over 90 percent of employers in the state. Following the bill signing ceremony, the Virginia Chamber of Commerce announced the formation of the Virginia Small Business Health Alliance (VA SBHA). This alliance will bring together thousands of small businesses as one large self-funded group to spread claims risk and lower administrative costs which will result in savings for employees and their families. The bill, HB 884 / SB 195 was signed into law by Governor Youngkin in April and will go into effect on July 1, 2022.

Six Year Program Update Public Comment Overview At the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority meeting June 9, the Public Comment Summary was provided with an overview of comments by project, a breakout of those in support or opposed to specific projects within the SYP Update, and an overview of the 1,600 plus comments received on individual projects. The three candidate projects that received the highest number of responses included the North Washington Street Multimodal Improvements Project: Great Falls Street to Gresham Place (CFC-008) – overwhelmingly supportive of the application. The other two were the Ballston-MU Metrorail Station West Entrance (ARL-021) – overwhelmingly supportive of the application and the Van Buren Road North Extension: Route 234 to Cardinal Drive (PWC-027) – both opposition and support, in a two to one ratio. A full public comment submission compilation can be found on the FY2022-2027 SYP webpage.

Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Receive $75k Grant Petco Love, a national nonprofit formerly known as The Petco Foundation, awarded Lost Dog & Cat Rescue a $75k grant at the Petco store in Rockville on Tuesday. Lost Dog & Cat Rescue, founded by the owners of Lost Dog Café, is a nonprofit that houses up to 150 animals in their Rescue Care Center while finding them homes. The organization has saved more than 40,000 homeless pets, most of whom faced euthanasia at over-crowded shelters. The organization holds multiple adoption events on a weekly basis across Northern Virginia. During the pandemic, its adoption rate hit an annual record in 2020, with more than 2,747 cats and dogs finding new homes.

Balfour Beatty Wins Contract Balfour Beatty Construction LLC, Falls Church, Va., was awarded a $75,056,068 firm-fixed-price contract for construction of a low observable component repair facility at Langley Air Force Base. Bids were solicited via the internet with four received. Work will be performed in Hampton, Va., with an estimated completion date of May 31, 2024. Fiscal 2022 military construction, Air Force funds in the amount of $75,056,068 were obligated at the time of the award. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity (W91236-22-C-2023).

Target To Slash Prices and Realign to Consumer Trends, Inflation Target is expected to announce a cut in prices in Virginia stores in the attempt to move out excess inventory and adapt to new consumer habits fueled by growing inflation. Despite strong sales, the first quarter took a hit to profits due to higher costs. Target is planning adjustments in response to recent consumer trends, including canceling orders and raising prices to align with “unusually high” transportation and fuel costs. While revising forecasts, promotional plans and costs, the company will add five distribution centers over the next two years.

Solano Spine and Therapy Expands Solano Spine & Sport announces their recent move. They are now located at 803 West Broad Street in a 3,000 square foot facility and expanded the team with a new full-time doctor and 4 massage therapists. The space allows for additional services and the addition of air purifiers throughout the office and to sanitation stations in every room. A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held in July.

 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@fallschcurchchamber.org.

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STEM Collaboration Between Mustangs, Tsevie Roughly a week ago, students at Meridian High School wrapped up a STEM collaboration with students in Tsevie, Togo, Africa. This is the first year that MHS has learned alongside students in Africa on parallel projects. The theme was the global water crisis. Students met once a month (during the period between Nov. — June) and completed four challenges. The students found creative ways to overcome technology and language barriers in order to create a water filtration system. Next year’s theme will revolve around energy. The STEM collaboration col-

lects laptops and iPads for students in Tsevie, Togo; used or new laptops and iPads greatly help in these efforts. Those wishing to help can drop off their donations in the front office at Meridian (121 Mustang Alley Falls Church, VA) or Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School (7130 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA). Students and teachers both here and at Tsevie High School displayed a strong commitment to international-mindedness as well as learning through the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Dr. Darius Coulibaly, Carey Pollack, Dr. Ray Wu-Rorrer and Richard Dute (Tsevie, Togo) led this international STEM partnership with Meridian.

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Meridian Employee on Jewish Heritage Month Susan Zernik, Meridian High School Reading Specialist and Language and Lit Teacher, was highlighted in one of the staff spotlights for Jewish American Heritage Month, which was commemorated this past May. Zernik, in the FCCPS staff spotlight, said that “Judaism plays an important role for me from both sides of my family. On my paternal side, my grandparents and my father...escaped Nazi Germany on one of the last boats out of Europe.” On her maternal side, at the start of the 20th century, her “great-grandfather and others emigrated from Lithuania and moved to Middletown, Pennsylvania, where

EIGHT GRADERS COMPETED Against Teachers in the Annual Staff vs Students Basketball Game. (P��: FCCPS) they settled and built B’nai Jacob, an Orthodox synagogue which has been in continuous use.” FCCPS strives to celebrate all cultures and to work towards a more equitable community. Zernik’s experiences and reflections underscore the importance of such work. “Considering this history, it was exceedingly important to my

husband, who is not Jewish, and me,” Zernik explained, “to raise our daughters as Jews.” FCCPS’ online newsletter, “The Morning Announcements,” shares stories like this in commemoration of various heritage months. Visit fccps.org/page/morning-announcements to read past editions and to subscribe.

Royal Virginians Waltz Us Back Into the Falls Church Past BY MARK DREISONSTOK

There is a long history of ballroom dancing in Falls Church. In the 1890s, dances were held in the Odd Fellows Lodge Hall, where dancers danced the waltz, the two-step, and the lancers. The Holly Ball was popular for Falls Church debutants in the 1980s and 1990s. As for today, there is the Forever Dancing Ballroom on Seminary Road in Falls Church. To see ballroom dancing as it was known in the 1930s and 1940s with a live band, we recently attended a ballroom dance with the live orchestra of Joe Enroughty and His Royal Virginians at the Richmond East Moose Lodge Grand Ballroom in Richmond, Virginia. An exciting night filled with waltzes and foxtrots at the Floyd G. Henderson Big Band Weekend began with a tasty dinner. Then couples in formal dress received dance lessons from Gwendolyn Glenn, an expert dance instructor who enthusiastically taught basic dance steps to experienced and new dance patrons alike. The evening got well underway with a live performance of Mr. Enroughty and his orchestra, complete with the introductions of Scott Michaels, a radio host of the vintage music show “In the Mood” broadcast on a number of stations in the U.S., the U.K. and internet. Mr. Michaels, with his sonorous broadcasting voice, added wonderful atmosphere by mimicking a radio broadcast of a mid-twentieth-century “dance band remote” and encour-

aged the audience to imagine the show as being broadcast over the full CBS radio network. He even announced commercials for Jell-O in its “eight delicious flavors” and for General Motors, where he invited “radio listeners” to visit a Chevrolet show room to see the new 1950 Chevy! As for the music, Mr. Enroughty is an enthusiast of the ten-to-twenty piece big dance bands, especially the “sweet music” style of Guy Lombardo and His Royal Canadians. He was so enamored of this sound that he even styled the name of his orchestra the “Royal Virginians,” clearly emulating Lombardo’s “Royal Canadians” moniker. When Mr. Enroughty was a child in the 1980s, long after the passing of the swing era, he received as a gift a large collection of 78 RPM records. He discovered his niche when he spun recordings of one of the most popular band leaders of the day, Guy Lombardo. Ever since then, he has sought to promote this style of music, with its danceable rhythms, vibrato saxophones, and muted trumpets. Not surprisingly, that night in Richmond Mr, Enroughty played several vintage charts from the Lombardo book, and his band’s renditions of the Royal Canadians’ “St. Louis Blues Cha Cha,” “Coquette” and “Sweethearts on Parade” sounded nearly identical to the Guy Lombardo recordings made generations ago. Dancers responded enthusiastically with their feet, dancing the cha cha, fox trot, and waltz after waltz.

This event attracted a variety of age groups, including many who more likely grew up with rock and rap than with the Lombardo music Guy himself called “the sweetest music this side of heaven.” Incidentally, Falls Church readers might be interested to know Lombardo made appearances in our region, including a May 1949 benefit appearance at an Alexandria, Virginia, roller skating rink. Tickets for that performance, which we imagine to have been very similar in content and style to the Richmond performance of Mr. Enroughty’s orchestra, were sold in Falls Church at the Wallace and Monroe Pharmacy, which once stood at 435 South Washington Street (today the location of Colman Power Sports). Guy Lombardo was once a major figure in various media, including radio and television shows (most famously, his New Year’s Eve appearances in which he popularized “Auld Lang Syne”) and films. When the 1946 Guy Lombardo MGM film vehicle “No Leave, No Love” played at the State Theatre in Falls Church in early 1947, Guy Lombardo (while appearing in the Washington area) showed up at the then-movie theatre with his costars Pat Kirkwood and Keenan Wynn to sign autographs and promote the film, according to Mr. Enroughty. (The Royal Canadians’ bandleader did this at other cinemas around the country as well.) The Royal Virginians also played in other styles this June in Richmond, imitating other bands

ROYAL VIRGINIANS AT the Richmond East Moose Lodge Grand Ballroom in Richmond, Virginia. (P��: M�� D��) of the swing era, including Glenn Miller, Glen Gray, and Sammy Kaye. Mr. Enroughty’s musicians played smooth dance arrangements of their respective hits “Perfidia,” “Under a Blanket of Blue,” and “You’ve Got Me Crying Again.” Dancers were ecstatic as they danced — or rather hopped! — in a conga line to the Ray Anthony version of “The Bunny Hop!” The Enroughty aggregation also played the beautiful “Fascination Waltz,” and at this point we should mention an intermission feature in which choreographer Gwendolyn led couples of accomplished dancers in beautifully danced performances to recordings of the mambo tune “Sway,” the waltz “Let Me Call You Sweetheart,”

and the ever-popular Gene Kelly number “Singing in the Rain,” the latter with very colorful umbrellas as a backdrop. We asked Mr. Enroughty about his future plans for the Royal Virginians, and he told us things have been slow in the band business due to the Coronavirus pandemic, but he has plans for the future including playing outside his Richmond base and perhaps taking his band to Falls Church and other Northern Virginia locations. We hope dancers and listeners here will have the opportunity to enjoy Joe Enroughty and His Royal Virginians, both to appreciate better a piece of musical Americana but also to take part in the timeless art of ballroom dancing.

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Happy Father’s Day June 19, 2022

What are the origins of Father’s Day? Every year, on the third Sunday of June, dads are in the spotlight. This year, Father’s Day will be celebrated on June 19. If you’re wondering about the origins of the celebration, you might be interested to know that it was created at the request of a near-orphan! Father’s Day originated in the United States and was inaugurated in 1910. We owe the idea to Sonora Louise Smart Dodd. Sonora was motherless and grew up with her father, who raised his six children on a farm all by himself.

In Dad’s honor After listening to a sermon in church on Mother’s Day, Sonora had the idea of asking that a special day be established in honour of fathers. It was a

way for her to pay homage to hers, whose birthday was June 19.

The third Sunday in June The following year, Sonora’s request was granted. The first celebration of Father’s Day took place on June 19, 1910, in several states, including Washington, where Sonora lived. In 1924, the president of the time, Calvin Coolidge, suggested turning it into a national celebration. However, it was only in 1966 that President Lyndon Johnson signed a declaration officially declaring the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day. Today, Father’s Day is celebrated in many countries around the world.

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Meridian High School Senior Graduating Class of 2022

IT WAS A BRIGHT, HOT DAY roughly a week ago when Meridian High School’s Senior Class of 2022 officially graduated. Parents and friends gathered on either side of the football field, some with umbrellas to mitigate the heat. Head of Secondary Schools Valerie Hardy gave the opening remarks (top, middle) and later on, the senior class secretary welcomed commencement speaker Marc Robarge onto the stage (top, right). Meridian’s Jazz Band performed a collection of tunes to commemorate the event; many students sported creatively-decorated graduation caps, such as the SpiderMan-themed one above. (Photos: Carol Sly)

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Meridian Baseball Falls in Semis, Soccer Moves to Finals; Coach Spinello’s Farewell

by Ryan McCafferty Falls Church News-Press

The past weekend was a busy one for Meridian High School athletics as both the boys’ baseball and soccer teams competed in their respective semifinals of the Virginia State Tournament, the former of which was held at Spotsylvania High School while the latter was at nearby Courtland. Baseball fell 5-4 to Abingdon, ending their season one step short of the biggest stage, while soccer defeated Cave Springs 4-1 and advanced to the Finals, where they ultimately lost 1-0 to Yorktown’s Tabb High School. But the big story of the weekend was that it served as the final act of boys’ soccer Head Coach Frank Spinello’s decorated career. Spinello led the program to 11 state titles and four additional Finals appearances during his 23 seasons at the helm, while being named the Virginia State Coach of the Year on five different occasions and the NSCAA National Coach of the Year in 2014. His 2015 team was ranked number 2 in the entire country, the same year he placed fifth in USA Today’s “Best High School Coach in America” award across all sports, and several of his pupils over the decades have gone on to play in college as well as professionally, while others, such as Alex Fatovic at Northern Michigan University and Josiah Larson at Trinity Christian in Chicago, have entered the coaching realm themselves. He retires with a career record of 220-26-8, having

won more than 85 percent of his games, and of course, his impact is one that has reached well beyond the field, as in 2019 he received the USC award for Team Ethics and Sportsmanship. “I just want to thank the Falls Church community for all their support over the past 23 years,” Spinello stated during a phone interview Tuesday. “Our players have been amazing people to work with… they’ve achieved great things not just on the field but away from it as well, and each class we’ve had has enhanced the program and left it in better shape. That’s all a coach can really ask for.” Spinello recalls his 2021 team’s title — at home in front of a packed crowd — as the memory he will forever look back on the most fondly of all, and he cherishes the relationships he was able to build over the years with people like assistant coach Nathan Greiner, who he credits for “making me both a better coach and a better person.” And as he reflects on his career as a whole, it’s not all the accomplishments and awards he thinks about, but rather everything he learned along the way. “It’s more about the journey than the destination,” the coach summarized. “It’s more about the process than the championships.” Coach Spinello’s presence on the sidelines — and in the Mustang community — will be greatly missed, and we wish him nothing but the best in his retirement.

COACH FRANK SPINELLO (left) retired last week after 23 years with Meridian. (Courtesy photo.)

MERIDIAN GIRLS WRESTLING looking on (above), the School Board approved a Resolution calling on the Virginia High School League to sanction girls wrestling as a sport. (Photo: John Wesley Brett)

Falls Church Little League: Featured ‘Game of the Week’ by Erika Toman

The Falls Church Kiwanis Little League is proud to announce the 2022 All-Star Teams! They saw tremendous work throughout the Spring season and the teams are currently working hard to prepare for tournament play in the coming weeks. Visit fckll.org for the schedule and plan to attend some games to cheer on the home team! Majors “White Team,” Team Manager: Julie Herlands. The White Team includes Christopher Capannola, Christopher Thompson, Elijah Petty, Flynn Sheinkin, Gavin Hegenbart, Griffin Wishrad, Henry Ackerman, Jack Mullin,

Jude Fears, Kemper Morrison, Luke Torres, Matteo Pipia, Patrick Scully. Ages 9 — 11 “Blue Team,” Team Manager: Joe Greiner. The Blue Team consists of Aiden Ortiz, Alexander “Xander” Wagner, Asher Sequeira, Casey Waldron, Cole Beck, Davis Nicholas, Drew Fay, Harrison Carmody, Liam Horgan, Nathan Landers, Peter “Rocky” Marx, Reid Edmonds, Samuel Longley, Teddy Greiner. Ages 8 — 10 “Red Team,” Team Manager: Nick Toman. The Red Team is made up of Aidan Izawa, Anthony Verdi, Bobby Lynch, Evan Toman, Hayes Vaughan, James Gilroy, James Owen, John Fatzinger, Kellan McCormack, Luca Pipia, Michael Baltrym, Michael Downs, Will Wood.

THE FALLS CHURCH LITTLE LEAGUE “RED TEAM.” (Photo: Erika Toman.)

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THE 28TH ANNUAL TINNER HILL FESTIVAL hit the Little City last weekend, bringing Blues, Jazz, Rock and Reggae. Among the lineup were Batalá Washington, Dale and the ZDubs and Rebirth Brass Band. Food was served by a variety of vendors, like Liberty BBQ, Clare and Don’s and Himalayan Soul Foods. In addition, the Festival featured its staple “villages” all throughout Cherry Hill Park, such as the relaxation, art, historical and beer garden villages. Festival organizer Tori McKinney of RockStar Realty can be seen with Falls Church City Mayor David Tarter (top, middle). (Photos: Gary Mester, News-Press.)

Tinner Hill Music Festival: An Event That Embraced Community

BY NICK GATZ

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

This past Saturday the Tinner Hill Foundation put on its Annual Music festival. The premier charity event that celebrates and honors the African American legacy, which remains Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation’s mission. Headliners for the festival included Blues artist Marcia

Ball and New Orleans’ Grammy winners, Rebirth Brass Band. Rounding out the lineup were Dale and the ZDubs, a DC Rock n’ Reggae band; Carly Harvey’s Kiss & Ride featuring DC’s Queen of the Blues; Batalá Washington, the AfroBrazilian percussion ensemble making its second appearance; the DC local soul/rock Gordon Sterling and the People; Mr. Jon & Friends; and DJ Stylus “The

Vibe Conductor”. Tori McKinney and festival organizers rocked it out of the park. The music festival is just one of the many great events that occur annually here in the Little City. These are the events that bring the Falls Church Community together. As we all continue to readjust to what is normal life, we must be reminded that these are the very events that embrace com-

munity. These are the festivals and events we all dearly missed during the Covid lockdown. These are the events that we must be steadfast in continuing to support and put on, not only for the organizations they support but for our community’s well-being. Whether it’s the residents who come out to support the music and arts or it’s the businesses who step up to donate

their resources, these are the events that allow the region to see into what the Falls Church community is all about. It’s a highly educated community that continues to embrace the all-inclusive mentality and raise awareness on how you can live and work in a community that doesn’t discriminate on the basis of sex race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or marital status.

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Community News & Notes Dar Al-Hijrah Held Graduation for Sewing Academy Students The Sewing Academy at Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center (3159 Row St, Falls Church), supported by Islamic Relief USA (IRUSA), graduated its class of 12 women who enrolled in the academy’s spring semester. The 17-week, 100-hour course started in February and concluded earlier this month. In addition to gaining useful and marketable skills in the creative design of fabrics, students said that the classes helped them gain self-confidence and a sense of sisterhood as they worked together and encouraged each other. During the graduation ceremony last week, Aseel Elborno, IRUSA’s advocacy campaign specialist, praised the women for completing the course: “It’s so important we empower women to have these skills, wherever they go.” Some 200 women have completed the sewing course since its inception in 2013, made possible by grants from IRUSA — a nonprofit humanitarian and advocacy organization that has worked extensively with Dar Al-Hijrah. Throughout the classes at the Sewing Academy, students come up with their own designs and patterns, producing items like abayas (loose-fitting, long-sleeved robes), bags, pillows and face masks. The students who completed the beginner-level classes received a Singer sewing machine at the graduation ceremony. Another group of students completed advanced-level classes, producing things like commercial draperies and cushions, some of which are now used to decorate the rooms of the Islamic center. Those students received gift cards that can be used to purchase items from Jo-Ann Fabrics. Stacey Picard, director of social services at Dar Al-Hijrah, said that the graduates will get a chance to sell their goods at the mosque’s thrift store, adding that the graduates will get to keep 70 percent of the revenues, while 30 percent will go toward the store’s operations. Salwa Mangil, who came to the United States from Sudan four years ago, explained that “I never sewed anything. This is my first time…I never touched a sewing machine.” But during her time at the Sewing Academy, Mangil ended up creating enough

items to fill up an entire display table. Among the items that were showcased were table covers and runners, infant dresses, and aprons. Mangil also plans to take the advanced-level classes in the fall and hopes to eventually start a home-based sewing business. Antonia Muhammad is another recent graduate who learned sewing from scratch. “I didn’t even know how to thread a bobbin,” she said as she showed the purple abaya and white headscarf she made. She joked, “Now I can fix my husband’s pants.” Besides the knowledge and skills gained during the course, many of the graduates commented on how they benefited from the shared sense of community and comradeship. At the commencement ceremony, Mohammad ended her speech saying, “I’m going to miss everybody.” The Dar Al-Hijra Islamic Center in Falls Church, a non-profit organization since 1983, has worked to support the needs of the Muslim community and that of its interfaith neighbords. For more information about their work and programs, visit hijrah.org.

Mary Riley Styles Public Library Closed for Juneteenth Mary Riley Styles Public Library, located at 120 N. Virginia Ave, Falls Church, will be closed for the Juneteenth holiday on Sunday, June 19 as well as on Monday, June 20 (which is when Juneteenth is observed by the City of Falls Church). While the library is closed, its online resources, such as the digital collection (fallschurchva. gov/499/digital-collection), research tools (fallschurchva.gov/526/ research-tools-alphabetically-listed) and the library’s catalog (catalog. fallschurchva.gov/catalog) will still be available for access.

“Our History Matters”: FCCPS Celebrates Pride Month FCCPS is celebrating Pride Month this June as part of its “Our History Matters” equity campaign. Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall riots of 1969 and subsequent rallies in support of the LGBTQ+ community. To learn more about the “Our History Matters” initiative, visit fccps.org/

MERIDIAN HIGH SCHOOL student applicants were interviewed and earned formal nominations to serve on City of Falls Church boards, commissions and civic groups in the coming year appeared before the City Council and were sworn in last month. The group was the largest contingent of such student volunteers yet in the program sponsored by the Citizens for a Better City (CBC). (Photo: News-Press) page/our-history-matters. There are a number of Pride events in the region, two of which will take place nearby: Saturday, June 18: LGBTQ+ Pride Concert for Families, featuring music from the Alphabet Rockers album “The Love,” from 4 — 5 p.m. at The Alden at the McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean, VA); Sunday, June 26: Loudoun Pride, from 1 — 8 p.m. at the Claude Moore Park Visitor Center (21544 Old Vestal’s Gap Rd, Sterling, VA), presented by Equality Loudoun and featuring live music, food and kids’ activities. Monday, June 27, will mark the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Riots which occurred in June of that year in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of New York City, often considered the birth of the modern LGBTQ+ civil rights movement.

“Stuff the Truck” at Columbia Baptist, June 17 — 19 Between Friday, June 17 — Sunday, June 19, Columbia Baptist Church will once again have its pickup truck on West Columbia St to collect food and hygiene item donations. The truck will leave Sunday at 12 p.m. Suggested food donations are: canned fruit (100 percent juice), canned meat (chicken, tuna and salmon), dried beans (1 or

2lb bags), hearty soup (Progresso, Healthy Choice, Chunky), macaroni and cheese, no sodium added canned corn, no sodium added canned tomatoes, non-instant oatmeal, unsweetened cereal, pasta, pasta sauce and white rice (1 or 2lb bags). Suggested hygiene items include feminine hygiene supplies such as wrapped pads and panty liners. Non-perishable food items can also be dropped off daily at the church’s main campus at 103 W. Columbia St, Falls Church (in the large, red food donation bins inside entrance 12) as well as from 10:30 a.m. — 12 p.m. on the third Saturday of each month during the clothing and household supplies drives. Local food suppliers and restaurants who wish to donate fresh produce can contact Rachel Eckard at reckard@ columbiabaptist.org for further information. For more details on the donation drives operated by Columbia, visit columbiabaptist.org/donate.

Mural of Historic Blacksmith’s Unveils Sunday The “Hope for Tomorrow” mural commemorates the survival of a Falls Church landmark, a blacksmith shop dating to pre-Civil War times. It features two men, one White and one Black, who operated that shop for a half century. The blacksmith

shop, located near The Falls Church, opened for business in 1850. Robert Harmon, who bought the shop in 1906, hired Henry Simms, a skilled African American blacksmith. Over the years, Mr. Simms gained a reputation for his handling of the horses; he was known for his ease with calming nervous horses before they were shod. Descendants of both men still live in the Falls Church area; the mural is a testament to both men and to the continuing struggle for equality, justice, racial harmony and respect. The artist, David Barr, included historic and symbolic images in this work, including: flames, which represent struggle as well the opportunity to ignite change; the horseshoe, a historic reference, is also a sign of good luck and fortune, reflecting the relationship between the two men; the jagged edges between images and the Black Lives Matter segment are reminders that the struggle continues. This mural was realized through the partnership between the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation and The Falls Church. The mural is part of the Tinner Hill Mural Initiative, supported by the Community Foundation of Northern Virginia and other local and regional donors. The unveiling of the mural will take place on Sunday, June 19, at 12 p.m. beside

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

the Blacksmith shop following a joint service of The Rock Christian Center and The Falls Church commemorating Juneteenth in The Falls Church Sanctuary. Visitors can view the mural from Sunday onwards, located behind The Thrifty Church Mouse shop, on the property of The Falls Church, 115 E. Fairfax St, Falls Church, Virginia.

Juneteenth and are limited to 15 people per tour. Sully Historic Site is located at 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, VA. For more information, visit fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sullyhistoric-site or call 703-437-1794. Find other activities and opportunities to learn about Juneteenth at fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/topics/juneteenth.

Mary Fahl, of October Project, Coming Soon to F.C.

Summer Covid-19 Testing Offered by FCCPS

Mary Fahl, formerly of the pop rock band October Project, will be performing live next week on Thursday, June 23rd, at Jammin’ Java, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Fahl’s music draws on classical and world music sources, as well as folk and American art songs. For more information on Fahl and her upcoming show, visit jamminjava. com. Jammin’ Java is located at 227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna, VA.

Falls Church City Public Schools will be offering weekly Covid-19 testing from now — Thursday, July 28 at Oak Street Elementary School (601 South Oak St, Falls Church, VA) each Tuesday, between the hours of 1 — 3:30 p.m. Testing will be open to all students and staff. For more information about the Virginia School Screening Testing for Assurance (ViSSTA) program, visit fccps.org/page/vissta. Those with questions regarding the registration process can email John Brett at jwbrett@fccps.org.

Travel Down the Forgotten Road at Sully Historic Site Sully Historic Site will offer free Forgotten Road Tours as part of its commemoration of Juneteenth on Thursday, June 16, on Friday, June 17 and again on Saturday, June 18, at 2 p.m. This 45-minute tour is of Sully’s outbuildings and slave quarter area, highlighting the daily work and history of the enslaved community at Sully during the late 18th century. Visitors will be able to learn about George and Samuel, enslaved blacksmiths; Harry, a carpenter; Henry, a wagoner; Juba the laundress; and Thornton, an enslaved cook. The Forgotten Road Tours at Sully Historic Site allow participants to see where enslaved people lived and worked, as well as to learn about the escape of Godfrey and Ludwell — freedom seekers before the time of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. These outdoor walking tours are set before the holiday of

Blood Drive at Columbia Baptist Church, June 18 The Red Cross Blood Mobile will be in the Columbia Baptist Church parking lot (103 W. Columbia St, Falls Church) between 11 a.m. — 3 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome but it is suggested that those wishing to donate go online and reserve their preferred time slot at inovabloodsaves.org. For more information about this blood drive, visit columbiabaptist.org/blooddrive.

“Mutt Love” Weekly Adoption Events Return Mutt Love Rescue has resumed their Saturday adoption events at Weber’s Pet Supermarket, located at 11135 Lee Highway, Fairfax. Volunteers are needed to help walk the dogs and show them to potential adopters. For the health and safety of

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volunteers and adopters, Mutt Love asks that persons not fully vaccinated or unvaccinated wear a mask at all times. This Mutt Love Event will take place on Saturday, June 18, from 12 — 3 p.m. For more information, call Jeong Kim at 540-6826724, email adopt@muttloverescue. org, or visit muttloverescue.org.

Deadline Extended for Park Volunteer Award Nominations The deadline to nominate an individual or organization for the Elly Doyle Park Service Awards has been extended by the Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) to Friday, June 24. The Elly Doyle Park Service Awards include a wide variety of categories that honor those who create partnerships, youth awards, individuals and groups that support equity, increased park access, local history and the environment. All award recipients will be honored in a virtual ceremony this coming fall. To submit a nomination, visit surveymonkey.com/r/Ellys2022. For more information about the Elly Doyle Park Service Awards, visit fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/awards/ ellydoyle. For alternative formats for applications, contact the Public Information Office at 703-324-8662 or parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

HONORED WITH ‘MEDIA HONOR ROLL’ recognition at Tuesday’s Falls Church School Board meeting was the Meridian High School newspaper, The Lasso, represented, as shown here with Superintendent Peter Noonan, by Editor in Chief Sam Mostow and incoming editor Stella Turner. (P��: N��-P��.) er duo The DonJuans (Don Henry and Jon Vezner) will perform at the same time on Sunday, June 19, at Mason District Amphitheater (6621 Columbia Pike, Annandale). Concerts are held outdoors and may be canceled due to inclement weather. Call 703-324-7469 for concert capacity and inclement weather updates. Cancellations are recorded an hour before showtime. For details regarding each performance, go to the Summer Entertainment Series website at fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ performances.

DC-Based Raymi, Grammy Winner Tom Paxton at SES

Cherry Hill Farm Offering Lavender Wand Workshop

Joining the upcoming June lineup for the Fairfax County Park Authority’s (FCPA) Summer Entertainment Series (SES) are D.C.-based band Raymi, who specialize in traditional music from the Andes Mountains, and Tom Paxton, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award-winning folk singer. Raymi will be onstage Saturday, June 18, from 7:30 — 8:30 p.m. at Ossian Hall Park (7900 Heritage Dr, Annandale) led by Juan Cayrampoma. Tom Paxton, along with Grammy-winning singer/songwrit-

In addition to the free, docent-led weekend tours of the historic Cherry Hill farmhouse and barn, Cherry Hill offers other events throughout the summer, such as its upcoming lavender wand workshop on Thursday, June 23 at 7 p.m. Participants will learn about the historical uses of lavender and why it was popular during the Victorian era. Participants will also have the opportunity to make lavender wands and later enjoy some lavender tea and cookies. Children 10 and under are welcome but must have adult supervision. The work-

shop costs $10 per person. Those interested in attending can register by calling the Falls Church Community Center at 703-248-5027 and providing activity code 330110-A. For more information, visit cherryhillfallschurch.org or email Corey Jannicelli at cjannicelli@fallschurchva.gov. Cherry Hill Farmhouse is located 312 Park Ave, Falls Church, VA.

Summer Fun Night Returns to Columbia Baptist Columbia Baptist Church invites all to their Summer Fun Night in the building’s main parking lot (near the entrance on N. Maple Ave) on Wednesday, June 23, from 4:30 — 7 p.m. The church asks that all those that are interested in attending RSVP online by Monday, June 20, at columbiabaptist.org/summerfun-nights. The event will feature games for the whole family, crafts, ice cream and more. Dinner (an adult meal of cheeseburger, tater tots and coleslaw, or a kid’s meal of hot dog, tater tots and coleslaw) will be available for an additional fee. The Summer Fun Night event on June 23 will focus on water games, so attendees should dress accordingly.

German Gourmet WANTS YOU! Now Hiring FT/PT Multiple Positions Service, Sandwich & Food Prep, Cleaner Email Resume to GermanGourmet@yahoo.com OR complete application in store: 5838 Columbia Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041 703-379-8080 www.germangourmet.com

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FALLS CHURCH CALENDAR LOCAL EVENTS SATURDAY, JUNE 18 Falls Church Farmers Market. Every Saturday, the Farmers Market features fresh, local produce, meat, dairy, flowers, honey and more. Covid-19 guidelines observed. City Hall parking lot (300 Park Ave, Falls Church). 8 a.m. — 12 p.m. Cherry Hill Open House Tours. Cherry Hill historic house and farm is offering docent-led tours now through Oct. Cherry Hill Farmhouse (312 Park Ave, Falls Church). For more information, visit cherryhillfallschurch.org. 10:00 a.m. — 12 p.m. Sing Books with Emily. A singing storytime with Emily and her Symphony of Silly Instruments at Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave, Falls Church). 11 — 11:30 a.m. Learn Vietnamese. Participants will be able to practice Vietnamese with a native speaker. Thomas Jefferson Library (7415 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church). 12 — 1 p.m.

Solace Outpost Falls Church Anniversary Party. Solace Outpost invites all to celebrate their two year anniversary in Falls Church, featuring live music and an anniversary beer release. (444 W Broad St, Falls Church.) 1 p.m. — 1 a.m. Paws to Read with Lucy. Visitors can read aloud to Lucy, a trained therapy dog. Thomas Jefferson Library (7415 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church). 2 — 3 p.m.

SUNDAY, JUNE 19 NOVA Central Farm Markets. This year-round market features meat, produce, dairy, baked goods and other local finds. Visit nova.centralfarmmarkets.com for more info. (7731 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church.) 9 a.m. — 1 p.m. Black + White Exhibition (Runs to June 26). Featuring art done in black, white, and gray, this Falls Church Arts exhibit includes paintings, drawings, collages, and sculpture. F.C. Arts Gallery (700-B W. Broad St,

Falls Church). Open Tuesday — Friday from 11 a.m. — 6 p.m. and on weekends from 9 a.m. — 4 p.m. For more information, visit fallschurcharts.org/ blackwhite.

FCNP Featured Event

Juneteenth Sunday, June 19

TUESDAY, JUNE 21 Time to Knit. Knitters of all levels are welcome to join a crafting group at Cherry Hill Farmhouse (312 Park Ave, Falls Church, VA). The knitting group meets the third Tuesday of the month. Contact cprice@fallschurchva.gov to sign up. 10. — 11:30 a.m. Spanish Conversation Group. An intermediate — advanced level group for those seeking to practice with a native speaker. Register at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov. Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). 10:30 — 11:30 a.m. Networking Luncheon. Ryan McLaughlin, CEO of the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors, will discuss the current residential real estate market as part of this Falls Church Chamber of Commerce networking luncheon. The Italian Cafe (7161 Lee Highway, Falls Church).

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATES the end of slavery in the United States. President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on Sept. 22, 1862, yet it was not until June 19, 1865, that all slaves were finally freed. General Gordon Granger of the Union Army rode into Galveston, Texas, on June 19 and issued Order No. 3, which began as follows: “The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.” Juneteenth celebrations, typically community-centric events like parades, cookouts, prayer gatherings, historical readings and musical performances, began in Texas. As families moved out of the state, they carried their Juneteenth traditions with them. Six months later, the 13th Amendment, providing that “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States,” was passed. Juneteenth is a federally-recognized holiday. According to the National Archives, “In Texas, New York, Virginia, Washington and Illinois, Juneteenth is a paid holiday for state employees.” Above is a display outside Falls Church Presbyterian Church, which strives to maintain a "still more just and inclusive" place of worship for all. (Photo: News-Press.) For more info, visit fallschurchchamber.org. 11:30 a.m. — 1:15 p.m.

HALF AN HOUR FROM THE LITTLE CITY, the Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly will be featuring over 50 aircraft at the annual "Innovations in Flight" day on Saturday, June 18, from 10 a.m. — 3 p.m. For more information, visit airandspace.si.edu. (Courtesy photo.)

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22

Tales of the Dairy Godmother. Storytime about where ice cream comes from, with an ice creammaking activity after. For kids ages 4 — 10. Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). Register online at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov. 3 — 4 p.m.

Havana Hop. An interactive family workshop led by Wolf Trap Master Teaching Artist Paige Hernande where families will learn the basics of hip hop, salsa and partner dance. For ages 3 — 5. Register online at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov. Woodrow Wilson Library (6101 Knollwood Dr, Falls Church) 10:30 — 11:15 a.m.

Mystery Book Group. The title for June is “Razorblade Tears” by S. A. Cosby. A limited number of copies are available for mystery book group participants at Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). For adults; newcomers welcome.7 — 8:30 p.m.

Summer Crafternoon: 3D Aquariums. Kids in grades K — 5 will be able to make accordion folded fishbowl dioramas at Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave, Falls Church). Register online at mrspl.librarycalendar.com. 3:30 — 4:30 p.m.

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

LIVE MUSIC THURSDAY, JUNE 16 Ashleigh Chevalier. Settle Down Easy Brewing Co. (2822 Fallfax Drive, Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703-573-2011. Sheryl Crow. Wolf Trap (1551 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA). $49. 7 p.m. 703255-1900. Anna Tivel. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $15. 8 p.m. 703-255-1566.

FRIDAY, JUNE 17 Dan & Chuck. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack (130 N Washington St, Falls Church). 5:30 p.m. 703-532-9283. NRBQ and Bill Kirchen & Too Much Fun. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $45. 7:30 p.m. Spirit of the Bear, Indigo Boulevard. Jammin’ Java (227

Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $10. 8 p.m. 703-255-1566. Britton James. Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad St, Falls Church). 9:30 p.m. 703-237-8333.

SATURDAY, JUNE 18 Groovejet. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack (130 N Washington St, Falls Church). 5 p.m. 703-532-9283. Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue with Tank and Bangas, Big Freedia, Cyril Neville & more. Wolf Trap (1551 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA). $42. 7 p.m. 703-255-1900. The S.O.S. Band. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $69.50. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500. Lenny Burridge. Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad St., Falls Church). 9:30 p.m. 703-237-8333.

THEATER & ARTS THURSDAY, JUNE 16 Playing Juliet and Casting Othello. Presented by Providence Players of Fairfax, the play centers on the New Vistas Theatre Company as they work on staging Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” and “Othello” with a multi-racial cast. Wendy, a determined White director, casts her long-time Black friend Georgia in the role of Juliet. Tempers soon begin to flare, however, when Jimmy, Georgia’s boyfriend, tries to prevent her from participating. Later, as the group puts on “Othello,” Jimmy, now married to the pregnant Georgia, and having grown accustomed to being a stand-in for the leading man during rehearsals, is on his way to being Othello — despite his lack of training. Friendship soon turns into discord as Georgia vigorously opposes Jimmy’s casting. In these companion one-acts, issues of race, gender and nontraditional casting emerge as the Bard brings out hidden animosities, love and laughter among this company of players. Performances will take place on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, now — June 25 at 7:30 p.m. with a matinee showing on Sunday, June 19

at 2 p.m. For more information, visit providenceplayers.org. Shows take place at the James Lee Community Center Theater, (2855 Annandale Rd, Falls Church, VA).

FRIDAY, JUNE 17 The American Plan. Written by Richard Greenberg, the story centers on Eva Adler, a widow in 1960s New York state and her daughter, Lili, a socially-awkward 20-year old. After meeting Nick Lockridge, an aspiring architect engaged to another woman, Lili and Nick fall in love. Eva, seeking to control Lili, embarks on discrediting Nick. This production of “The American Plan,” presented by NOVA Nightsky Theater, will run on Friday, June 17 and Saturday, June 18, as well as on Friday, June 24 and Saturday, June 25, at 7:30 p.m., in the parking lot of Falls Church Presbyterian Church (225 E Broad St, Falls Church, VA). Tickets are on sale now at novanightskytheater.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 18 Shear Madness. Set in presentday Georgetown within the Shear Madness hairstyling salon, the

CA L E NDA R SUNDAY, JUNE 19

JUNE 16 - 22, 2022 | PAGE 19

Thee Phantom and the Illharmonic Orchestra. Wolf Trap (1551 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA). $27. 6 p.m. 703-255-1900. The Zappa Band. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $55. 7:30 p.m. 703549-7500.

MONDAY, JUNE 20 Jesse Cook. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $45. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500.

TUESDAY, JUNE 21 Josh Lovelace. Wolf Trap (1551 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA). $12. 10:30 a.m. 703-255-1900. Traditional Irish Music. Ireland’s Four Provinces (105 W Broad St, Falls Church). 8 p.m. 703-5348999.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22 The Fourth Wall. Wolf Trap (1551 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA). $12. 10:30 a.m. 703-255-1900. show combines improvisational humor with audience participation for a slightly different experience each night. “Shear Madness,” the interactive, hilarious whodunit, will run through Sunday, Oct. 2, presented by the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (2700 F St., NW, Washington, DC). Covid-19 health and safety guidelines observed; for more information on the Kennedy Center’s Covid-19 Safety Plan, visit kennedy-center.org/visit/covid-safety. For more information about the play, complete showtimes and tickets, visit kennedy-center.org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 21 Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. “Beautiful” tells the true story of Carole King, the influential singer/ songwriter and her rise to stardom. Audiences will see King essentially compose the soundtrack to a whole generation. “Beautiful” features songs by Gerry Goffin/Carole King and Barry Mann/Cynthia Weil, including “I Feel The Earth Move,” “One Fine Day,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” “You’ve Got A Friend,” and the title song, “Beautiful.” Presented at the Filene Center at Wolf Trap (1551 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA). Covid-19 health protocols will be in place. Show starts at 8 p.m. For more information and tickets, visit wolftrap.org.

ANNA TIVEL, an Oregon-based singer/songwriter, will be performing live at Jammin' Java this Thursday as part of a tour promoting her upcoming album "Outsiders." Inspired by authors like John Steinbeck and Joan Didion, Tivel's songs approach life with a poet's eye for empathy and detail. (Photo: Vincent Bancheri.)

PAGE 20 | JUNE 16 - 22, 2022 ABC NOTICE Trading as Meticulous International Inc., 450 West Broad ST STE 412 Falls Church VA 22046. The above establishment is applying to the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Authority for a Fulfillment Warehouse license to fulfill wine beverage shipments. Nomvimbi Meriwether, Authorized Signatory Meticulous International Inc. NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200. HHAM, LLC., Trading as: Afandina Hookah Lounge 3400—C Washington Drive, Falls Church, Virginia 22041. The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) for a Wine & Beer On Premises; Mixed Beverage On Premises. Henny Teshome Hanok, Authorized Signatory HHAM, LLC. the Operating Member of Afandina Hookah Lounge. NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200. Abol Ethiopian Market LLC, Trading as: Abol Ethiopian Market, 5614 Columbia PIKE, Falls Church, VA 22041-2716. The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) for a Wine & Beer On Premises; Mixed Beverage On Premises. Biruk Mengistu, Authorized Signatory Abol Ethiopian Market LLC. the Operating Member of Abol Ethiopian Market. NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200. Trading as: Yeshi Kitfo Ethiopian Restaurant, 3400 -D Washington Drive, Falls Church, Virginia 22041. The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) for a Wine & Beer On Premises; Mixed Beverage On Premises. Andamlak Tizazu Munga., Authorized Signatory of Yeshi Kitfo Ethiopian Restaurant. NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200.

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JUNE 16 - 22, 2022 | PAGE 21

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Faces of Falls Church PUZZLE NO. 142

PUZZLE NO. 141

23. Pub orders 25. Lump 26. Come forth 29. Gentlemen 30. Faithful 31. Hankerings 33. Dash’s partner 35. Facing the ocean 38. Nary a soul 40. Of the past

42. Petty argument 43. To ____ his own 44. Succession 46. Mother ____ 48. Corn core 50. Host Leno 51. ____ of Aquarius 52. Like Rudolph’s nose

16. Duplicate 20. Newspaper features 22. Split 23. Baseball’s Hernandez 25. Raw metals 26. Campground item 27. Donkey’s comment 28. Provoke 29. Views 30. Spider’s parlor 32. Duffer’s goal

ACROSS 1. Come again? 5. Santa’s staffer 8. Bird’s “arm” 12. Comic Bob ____ 13. Bogey beater 14. Aroma 15. Chooses 16. Wintry 17. Only 18. Nip and ____ 20. Soared 21. Discolor 24. Female sheep 27. Ships’ bottoms 28. River barrier 29. Sow’s home

32. Heeded 34. Urge 36. Mas’ mates 37. Eternity 39. Secondhand TV fare 40. Informed of 41. Helium and nitrogen, e.g. 42. Peddle 45. Gusted 47. Recompensed 48. Dove’s call 49. Cracked open 53. Teen skin problem 54. Unusual 55. Ire 56. Formerly

57. Adios! 58. Tinted DOWN 1. Which person? 2. Bunny’s step 3. Prone 4. Grumpily 5. Long tale 6. Was without 7. Cook in lard 8. ____ down (devours) 9. Fan favorite 10. Naught 11. Increased 19. Concealed 21. Store 22. Large brass horn

35. Foot end 38. Bad humor 40. Refs’ kin 43. Bordered 45. Fling 47. Put out of sight 48. October ston 49. Narrate 50. Works by Keats 51. Gain victory 52. Weed tool 54. Not neath 55. Slick

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 141

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING

ACROSS 59. Sparrow’s 31. Extra shelter 1. Lag behind 33. Aged 60. Arid 34. Cherry seed 5. Santa’s suit color 36. Prayer finale 61. Additions 8. Small quarrel 37. Legal excuse ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 142 DOWN 12. ____ Grey tea 39. Visitor 1. Forest 13. Rowing 41. Urge denizen implement 42. Alter slacks 2. Estimate 14. So long, in 44. Like coffee, 3. Circle Liverpool: at times sections 2 wds. 46. Picture 4. High spirits 15. And so forth: 51. Horse 2 wds. 5. Shad ____ command I RAN INTO JASMINE as she was leaving the CVS on West Broad 17. Applied 6. Corn portion 53. Passed on Street. raised in Washington, 18. Darn againBorn and 7. Hang with DC she now calls Falls rumors Church home. When asked what clothattracted her to the Little 19. Breathe 56. Charged City she said, “What’s like? Good food everywhere, nice Daze quickly atoms not to 8. 9. Deli meat Whalen) people, It’s a57. nice place.”fish (Photo: J. Michael 21. Bothered Elongated 24. Spoil 58. Chip’s cartoon 10. Gulped down CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS pal 27. Girl Scout 11. Smidgen USE AMERICAN SPELLING

Your Paper Without the Paper See the News-Press Online Just Like you See it in Print

PUZZLE NO. 143

PUZZLE NO. 144

25. Clips 27. Inclines 28. Kind 30. TV serial 31. Something wicked 32. Bank (on) 36. Legislative body 37. Venomous snake 39. Slammer

41. Petty argument 42. Elaborate melody 43. Geek 45. Nobleman 47. Desk wood 49. Buck’s companion 50. Faulty item 51. Breakfast item 52. Letter after cee

35. Bends down 37. Attack 38. Chirps 40. Tissue layer 41. Sensible 44. Informal denial 46. Washer setting 48. Calculated sums 53. Broadcast 54. Had food 55. Red cosmetic 56. Little bit 57. Door opener 58. Windowsill DOWN 1. Truck component

In times past Hurried Young swine Stuck-up person 6. Office worker, for short 7. Throat part 8. Team cheer 9. Weeder 10. Not moving 11. Flat-topped formation 17. Municipal officials 19. Promotional spots 21. Goofs up 22. Skiff 23. ____ tie

19. More E-Issue

uncommon 21. Building wing 22. Willing’s partner 23. School official 24. Paces 26. Sleds 27. Roadway hazards 28. Links 29. Betwixt 30. Agts.

35. Organ of hearing 38. Lugged 39. Evidence 40. Sinister 41. Stack 42. Fruity drinks 43. Small mountain 46. Pair 48. Hole piercer 49. Santa’s gift

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ACROSS 1. Complains 6. Hog’s dwelling 9. That dude 12. Another time 13. Foot part 14. Keats work 15. Small drum 16. Glossy paints 18. Prevents 20. Vicinity 21. Recede, as the tide 24. Lacy mat 26. Perches 29. More slack 33. Gather and organize 34. Establish as true

With our

2. 3. 4. 5.

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 143

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING

ACROSS 1. That girl 4. Region 8. Dance component 12. Fierce anger 13. Hollow plant 14. Volcano flow 15. Label 16. Farm cylinder 17. Steers 18. Branding ____ 20. Go to bed 22. Jingle writer 24. Maiden 25. Saloon order 26. San Francisco attraction: 2 wds.

31. Fixed route 32. Black gold 33. Certain ones 34. Plea 36. Cut 37. Burro 38. Looks after 39. Leave 43. Garden tube 44. Anxious 45. Newsroom word 47. Mouse catcher 50. Scrabble piece 51. Regulation 52. 1 + 1 53. Bar beverages

54. Auctioneer’s word 55. Crafty

DOWN 1. Popular show 2. Historical period 3. Corps 4. Fire-setting crime 5. Control strap 6. Snaky fish 7. Endearingly 8. Piggy bank feature 9. Hired car 10. Continually 11. Window part

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 144

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING

PAGE 22 | JUNE 16 - 22, 2022

LO CA L

BACK IN THE DAY

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

C�� C��

25 � 10 Y�� A�� N��-P�� Falls Church News-Press Vol. VII, No. 13 • June 12, 1997

Falls Church News-Press Vol. XXII, No. 16 • June 14, 2012

Secretary of State Madeleine Albright Will Address GMHS Commencement Tuesday

Mason High Girls Soccer Notches 5th Straight Title; Boys Tennis Champs, Too

Secretary of State Madeleine Albright will be the commencement speaker next Tuesday night as 130 George Mason High School seniors graduate in the school’s auditorium. Also addressing the audience will be seniors Marian Weber and Jean Wang. Marian and Jean are valedictorian and salutatorian.

It was a championship weekend for George Mason High School at the Virginia High School League state championships at Radford University. Both Mason’s girls soccer team and boys tennis team brought home state titles. It was the fifth time in a row that the girls soccer team won the state championship.

I� M��: C�� D�� On June 4, 2022, Cynthia Jean Donaldson died in the arms of her loving family, at her home in Avenue, MD, after an extended battle with Lymphoma. She was 74 years old. Cindy is survived by her husband Bob; their daughters, Jennifer (Steve) of Takoma Park, MD; and Jessica of Arlington, VA and 3 grandchildren, Olivia, William and Angel. Cindy was born on Jan. 9, 1948 to the late Julian P. Gudmundson and Dorothy E. Bunning, in Tyler, MN. She was preceded in death by her brother Julian P. Gudmundson, Jr. She graduated from Thurmont High School, near Camp David, MD, in 1966 and went on to attend the University of Maryland where she graduated in 1977 with a BS degree after going to school and working full time. Cindy married Robert Edward Donaldson in 1978 after having met in 1972 while both were working for C&P Telephone. They purchased a townhouse on Capitol Hill in 1977 and proceeded to renovate it over the next 15 years. They welcomed Jennifer in 1984 and Jessica in 1987. Cindy rose to the position of Manager of the Government Business Office for Bell Atlantic where she retired after the arrival of her second child. Cindy and Bob were both chil-

dren of military families and moved frequently during their early years. While they didn’t meet until 1972, their fathers both worked supporting President Johnson in 1964 — 1966. Cindy’s father managed Camp David as a Navy Seabee and Bob’s father managed security for Air Force One at Andrews AFB as an Air Force Colonel. After all that moving, they put down roots on Capitol Hill where they lived for 25 years and in Falls Church, VA, where they lived for 18 years. During that period, they temporarily moved with their two small children to Sydney, Australia for 2 years from 1991 — 1993. Over the past 30 years Cindy and Bob spent many weekends and summer vacations at the family farm and in 2016 built their dream home and moved permanently to Avenue, MD, where they have been members of Christ Church, Chaptico for the past 23 years. Cindy’s leisure activities included reading, sewing and cross stitch projects. She was active in the community as the treasurer of the Falls Church League of Women Voters. She also learned how to play Mah Jongg with her Falls Church neighbors.

SAMMY AND SAMPSON are two local kittens, both only 6 months old, pictured here perched atop their cat tree.

CYNTHIA DONALDSON Their weekly games, over a period of 10 years, developed into dear friendships. A memorial service will be held at Christ Church, Chaptico, MD, on June 18, 2022 at 12 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Foundation, 100 Painters Mill Road, Suite 800, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Condolences to the family may be made at brinsfieldfuneral. com. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home. P.A.

OBITUARIES

The deadline for obituaries is 5 p.m. Monday each week of publication. Should be 350 words or less. Email obits@fcnp.com

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

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

FCCPS PAGE

JUNE 16 - 22, 2022 | PAGE 23

Meridian Sports Teams Conclude Exciting Post-Season at States

Last week of school for FCCPS students After a tumultuous school year full of changes left and right, the successful and entirely in-person 20212022 school year is finally drawing to a close. At Oak Street (below), students celebrated their first-ever field day at the upper elementary school, complete with tug-of-war, relay races, and a visit from the Meridian Class of ‘22 graduates! Celebrations at Mount Daniel occur as Meridian students wrap up their final exams and wave goodbye to their teachers until next year.

FCCPS Photo/Lisa Lacroix

FCCPS Photo/Carol Sly

This year’s Meridian Baseball team put together the best season for the Mustangs in over forty years. Last Friday, the team fell in a 5-4 heartbreaker in the state semi-final game against Abingdon. But no other Mustang baseball team has advanced this far into the state tournament save for the 1980 state championship Mustangs. Meridian Boys Soccer faced Tabb (Yorktown) last weekend in the VHSL Class 3 Final. It was the Mustangs’ 16th appearance in the State Championship game under Region 3B Coach of the Year Frank Spinello, who is retiring. Meridian Girls Soccer also completed its season last week in the state final game. The Meridian Track Team sent seven competitors to the state championship in Richmond. Girls Lacrosse advanced to the state semi-finals this year. Both Boys and Girls Tennis reached the state quarter-finals against Tabb (Yorktown). Congratulations to all the teams and their hard work this season!

Meridian Graduates Class of ‘22 While the Class of 2022 has undoubtedly had an unconventional high school experience, graduates were happy to celebrate their conclusion at FCCPS on the Meridian Stadium Field last Wednesday with friends and family. The ceremony included performances from the Meridian band and choir and speeches from School Board Chair Laura Downs and graduating class members. Speaker and senior class officer Maeve Dodge remarked, “We are the first graduating class of the new Meridian High School, and although today is about making history, it’s also about celebrating what the future now holds as a result of this huge accomplishment.” Congratulations, seniors, and good luck on your next adventures!

FCCPS Photo/Carol Sly

Athletic Boosters Award $13K in Scholarships

FCCPS Photos/Carol Sly

The Mustang Athletic Boosters presented nine student-athletes with scholarships during the halftime of a Boys Soccer game. Seven were present for the ceremony, while two were on the road -- one for the Girls Soccer State QF game and one for the Baseball State QF game. Congratulations to this outstanding group of graduates!

• • • • •

The Judy Lubnow Champion of Character Scholarship: Hunter Hicks The Forever a Mustang Scholarship: Karina Alaniz and Eleanor Giesler The Arnold Siegfried Memorial Scholarship for an Outstanding Scholar-Athlete: Megan Tremblay and Jack Biggs The Al Krueger Scholarship for an Outstanding Athlete in an Individual Sport: Lauren Mellon and Justin Cerullo The Jack Gambill Scholarship for Outstanding Overall Athlete: Zoraida Icabecleta and George Papadopoulos

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

PAGE 24 | JUNE 16 - 22, 2022

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Articles inside

Sports................................................13 News & Notes............................ 16,17 Calendar.....................................18,19 Critter Corner

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