July 16 – 22, 2020
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FOU N D E D 1991 • V OL. X XX NO. 22
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F.C. School Parents Are Pro-Hybrid Schedule
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Teacher Survey Exhibits Concern, Worry BY NICHOLAS F. BENTON
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
With 2,524 survey responses from parents of students in the system received by the Falls Church City Public Schools as of Tuesday, an overwhelming 2,247 said they favor the current board proposal for a hybrid teaching model, Superintendent Dr. Peter Noonan reported at Tuesday’s School Board meeting. The hybrid model as currently developed for the system involves two days of face-to-face teaching and two days of online instruction per week. The need “to connect with peers” was given as the single most important reason for favoring the hybrid approach, according to the survey results. In this context, Noonan announced that a preliminary plan to bring back all students of the City’s two elementary schools —
Continued on Page 5
A BLACK LIVES MATTER MEMORIAL set up by middle schoolers from Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School was held at the tennis courts by the Community Center in the City of Falls Church on Friday, where both young and old paid tribute to the lives lost from police violence over the years. (P����: J. M������ W�����)
Li�le City ‘Mouse That Roars’ Wins N. Virginia Transporta�on Grant BY NICHOLAS F. BENTON
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
Over 1,000 letters, petitions and comments from citizens played a major role in the decision by the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority board last week to award the City of Falls Church with $15.2
million for two projects aimed at reducing congestion and benefiting the wider region, it was announced this week. The two projects were among four to win grants among 41 applicants from the wider region, and were secured despite the small size of the City due to the “mouse that
roars” size of its civic activism. The two fully-funded projects in the City of Falls Church are: West Falls Church Access to Transit and Multimodal Connectivity: For $6,900,000, it involves the installation of a new 10-foot wide multi-use path and sixfoot wide planting strip along Shreve
Road between the W&OD Trail and Route 7 with acorn-style lights, a crosswalk near the intersection of Shreve Road and Gordon Road, and benches near the entrance to the W&OD trail. Downtown Falls Church
Continued on Page 4
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SEE REAL ESTATE, PAGES 13 – 20
SEE STORY, PAGE 27
This Summer’s real estate edition has arrived and covers how well the City of Falls Church’s commitment to office space in the West End project will hold up as current interest dwindles due to Covid-19.
Covid-19’s spread throughout the country influenced the City to scale back or outright cancel certain camps during its typically popping summer season, making “fun” one of the lesser known, but more persistent casualties of the pandemic.
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Northern Virginia’s own “Rockin’ the Suburbs” podcast from Falls Church’s Patrick Foster and Ashburn resident Jim Lenahan will take their show to Jammin’ Java’s stage next Wednesday. SEE PRESS PASS, PAGE 14
INDEX
Editorial............................................... 6 Letters.......................................... 6, 22 News & Notes............................10–11 Comment ................................ 7,12,21 Crime Report .................................... 12 Business News ................................. 23 Calendar ........................................... 26 Classified Ads ................................... 28 Comics, Sudoku & Crossword ......... 29 Critter Corner.................................... 30
PAGE 2 | JULY 16 - 22, 2020
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
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JULY 16 - 22, 2020 | PAGE 3
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
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PAGE 4 | JULY 16 – 22, 2020
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
F.C. Council Advances New West End Plan, Children’s Play Center
Continued from Page 1
Multimodal Improvements: For $8,300,000, this involves the installation of two midblock crossings, the widening of sidewalks, removal of obstructions (including utility lines), installation of curb extensions, adjustment of intersection geometries, and the increased visibility at six crossings/intersections on Park Avenue between N. Washington Street and Virginia Avenue. F.C. City Council member David Snyder, who has served for years on the executive committee of the NVTA, said, “We much appreciate the regional cooperation that has led to the approval for funding of both of the City of Falls Church transportation proposals. This is a great example of the direct benefits that accrue to our citizens from the active engagement of City Council Members and city staff in regional policy and funding bodies.” Both projects will significantly enhance the “walkability” of the City, and the first one will bear directly on the “Safe Routes to the Schools” initiative for student
safety, as well. The projects will come in addition to the $18 million one currently underway to improve the intersection of W. Broad (Route 7) at Haycock/Shreve Road and the planned work on the S. Washington (Route 29) and S. Maple intersection and on the multimodal project where Hillwood Ave. intersects with S. Washington. Other action by the virtual F.C. City Council at its meeting Monday with Vice Mayor Marybeth Connelly presiding (Mayor David Tarter was absent due to the passing of his aunt, Ann Fielder, “who raised me,” according to his memorial post on Facebook): • The Council voted 6-0 to grant a preliminary OK for the rezoning of 1.7 acres at 116 E. Fairfax and 130 E. Fairfax for the construction of a 12,000 square foot building on what is currently a vacant lot, used mostly for church parking. The building is slated to be the site of a children’s “interplay and cognitive development” experience known as Scramble, fully taxable with a current location in
Arlington. The land was bought by the Falls Church Episcopal in 2005 and leased, along with the adjacent strip mall, to The Young Group a decade later. The proposal will be forwarded to City boards and commissions for their consideration and a second and final approval is expected by August 10. If OK’d, the building will commence construction in mid-August and be completed by Christmas, according to developer Bob Young. • The Council heard an updated plan for the West Falls 9.6 acre project on the current site of George Mason High School, and voted 5-0 (Councilman Dan Sze also absent by that point) to refer the plans to a wide array of City boards and commissions, including the F.C. Chamber of Commerce. Evan Goldman of EYA, one of the three development teams working jointly on the project, reported some proposed changes to the project in light of the current economic environment that will reduce the number of studio (micro-units), condominiums and
senior housing units and replace them with more multi-bedroom rental units. “This is a surprising change in the mix” said Councilman Ross Litkenhous. The new plan reduces the projected net annual tax yield to the City to $4,715,314, down from $5 million, and increases the projected students in the project to 68, according to Becky Witsman, the City’s chief economic development specialist. But Goldman questioned the City’s projections, noting that the two-bedroom units his project proposes are smaller, and not likely to draw the number of families with school-aged children as, for example, the West Broad units above the HarrisTeeter. The West Falls units will be only 750 square feet on average, he said, compared to 1,000 square feet at the West Broad. Also, it was noted that some of the retail space will be filled with non-taxable entities, such as a daycare center that would pay BPOL but not sales taxes. Witsman said the City will rerun its fiscal model in light of
Goldman’s clarifications to see if there is a change. “Pupil numbers could be very different,” she said. Councilman Phil Duncan said market forces need to be heeded in matters of this kind. “We have to take the developers’ word for what can be marketed,” he said, but cautioned that “People will squeeze into small spaces to get their kids into Falls Church schools.” • Assistant City Manager Cindy Mester reported that court services commenced at the newly-renovated City Hall last week and that 70 cases were processed. “The court went very smoothly,” she said. • The Council’s work session set for July 20 will include a discussion on how to allocate $1.2 million in federal CARES Act funds and how to apply the new state firearms legislation to the City. • A proposal received by the Council received some preliminary verbal support from Council members to name the gazebo in Frady Park in honor of the late civic activist Barbara Cram.
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
JULY 16 – 22, 2020 | PAGE 5
F.C. School Board Stresses That Data In Next 6 Weeks Determine School Options Continued from Page 1
Thomas Jefferson and Mt. Daniel — on grounds that seven new spaces were found to accommodate them with social distancing, was withdrawn due to a strong reaction from parents fearful that safety considerations would be compromised. On the other hand, the hybrid plan that is moving ahead in advance of the August 24 school year start date contrasts with the Arlington School District decision announced this Monday that all teaching this fall will be virtual. This was decided, Noonan reported out of a meeting of all regional school superintendents on Monday, because of a higher Covid-19 infection rate in Arlington than, for example, Falls Church. According to the Virginia Public Access Project, the rate of Covid-19 infections in Arlington is 103.8 per 10,000, compared to 47.2 per 10,000 rate in a Fairfax County McLean area that, for the
sake of the survey, includes Falls Church. Decisions facing the Falls Church Public School System represent “the biggest challenge any of us have faced in our careers,” Noonan said at the marathon online School Board meeting Tuesday. With just six weeks until schools open for the fall, the board, staff and superintendent “have been planning for multiple scenarios” while striving to remain “flexible and nimble,” Noonan said. A survey of 349 staffers, including teachers, reveals a “lot of worry and fear,” Noonan revealed. “Emotions are running high, there is a lot of stress,” acknowledged Board member Laura Downs. “We will be erring on the side of caution,” Noonan stressed, noting that contrary to guidance indicating that three-foot social distancing is acceptable, “We’re insisting on six-foot distancing
with facial coverings.” Concerning the Jesse Thackrey Preschool, for example, staffers reported that the facility will not be able to accommodate all the high risk and special needs students who are expected there. Noonan said his team is working with the City’s Department of Recreation and Parks chief Danny Schlitt, whom he described as a “Let’s Get to Yes guy,” to see if some of his facilities might be made available for the preschool needs this fall. “Keeping students and faculty safe is our Number One priority,” Noonan said, “and we’re following all the safety elements, including monitoring the data like crazy and watching trends and listening to the staff and community.” According to Chief Academic Officer William Bates, education options will be mailed to all parents this Friday. The elementary schools will work with the Virginia Department of Education -recommended Virtual Virginia in combination
F.C. SCHOOLS’ executive director of special education, Rebecca Sharp, talked about informational sessions she will be holding with parents to stress the importance of mask-wearing and social distancing with students. (Screenshot: News-press) with F.C. teachers who will infuse International Baccalaureate components and rigor into the instruction. For the middle and high school, grades 6 to 12, online instruction will come through the hybrid Hy-C program that will accommodate those seeking International Baccalaureate diplomas as well as those seeking individual IB classes and are aligned with the state’s Standards of Learning criteria. Noonan said the deadline for
school principals to submit their detailed opening plans, ranging from doors to enter, temperature stations, quarantine rooms and a communications strategy, are due on June 27. According to Kristen Michael, work is being done on ventilation with an aim to increase the amount of outside air that is filtrated through the classrooms. Noonan said that Falls Church
Continued on Page 22
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PAGE 6 | JULY 16 – 22, 2020
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Vol. XXX, No. 22 July 16 – 22, 2020 • City of Falls Church ‘Business of the Year’ 1991 & 2001 • • Certified by the Commonwealth of Virginia to Publish Official Legal Notices • • Member, Virginia Press Association •
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E��������
E D I TO R I A L
The Importance of Local Newspapers
Owner-Editor Nicholas Benton and News Editor Matt Delaney, and by extension, the mighty Falls Church News-Press, were honored by the Falls Church School Board Tuesday night, which took time out from its busy agenda to vote unanimously to place their names on the statewide Virginia School Board Association Media Honor Roll. We are deeply appreciative and honored. But our purpose in calling attention to this event is to underscore the language of the resolution that speaks to the importance of responsible local newspapers to the communities they serve everywhere. It is well known that local newspapers are under great stress and that thousands have disappeared, including many in this region, leaving many communities unserved, for a variety of reasons but adding up to their bottom lines. It is bad news for every citizen to learn that one of the nation’s proudest and longest-serving newspaper chains, the McClatchy chain, facing bankruptcy has been bought up by a New York hedge fund. Originally based in Northern California, the highly respected McClatchy chain owned over 30 newspapers nationally, including the Miami Herald, the Sacramento Bee and the Charlotte Observer, all of course, the only dailies in those markets. It follows other hedge fund acquisitions of struggling newspapers like the Gannett chain, owner of USA Today, the Denver Post and San Jose Mercury News. Those junk bond-hedge fund entities have routinely extracted profits from their struggling new acquisitions by imposition of brutal layoffs and downsizing, gutting the editorial capabilities of the papers while retaining any means by which they can generate revenues that can be sucked out of them. Claims by hedge funds that they will “preserve newsroom jobs and independent journalism” are hollow at best. Local leaders have pleaded with bankruptcy courts that sale of distressed newspapers go to “responsible stewards of journalism, locally rooted and locally invested in our communities” that are “motivated by the desire to serve the broader public interest and not the narrow bottom line.” In this context, the Falls Church School Board, in its vote Tuesday, affirmed the importance of “the ongoing responsible and exemplary nature of reporting on this community’s public schools,” expressing “appreciation for a balanced and accurate approach to sharing with this community both the challenges facing our schools and the successes achieved by the teachers and students.” The board affirmed, in the words of the resolution, that insofar as “public schools are dependent on the community’s support in countless ways,” that “much of the community’s knowledge and opinions about public schools rely on responsible reporting by local media representatives who decide which news to share with the community, how much attention will be focused on various issues, and what the tone of the reporting will be.” It is this newspaper’s mission to achieve just these purposes and we are thankful for the recognition and the fact that, after almost 30 years, we’re still here.
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Removal of Hangman’s Plaque Risks Losing History’s Lessons Editor, There’s a plaque in Falls Church that commemorates the “Hangman’s Tree” where suspected Union spies were hanged during the Civil War. The tree itself no longer exists, but the plaque remains. The News-Press has called for its removal, calling it “a veritable noose.” I’m not sure how I feel about this. It’s certainly objectionable to celebrate public executions of Union
— that is, American — soldiers. To be sure, it’s a blight on an otherwise forward-thinking Northern Virginia community. Indeed, the News-Press has, for years, called for the re-naming of schools named after Confederate figures, which I support. I also favor the removal of Confederate monuments from public squares and other places of honor. Those who argue that it “erases history” fail to appreciate that a statue
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is not a dispassionate observation of history—it’s a celebration of history. Confederate statues elevate ignominious historical figures, quite literally “placing them on a pedestal” for the admiration of future generations. We are those future generations, and now it’s our turn to decide whether these monuments represent values that we wish to pass on to generations hence. The answer, for me, is no. The News-Press is quite right that a Confederate monument “serves as an ongoing taunt to African-Americans”—indeed, history shows that many Confederate monuments were erected in abject defiance of the civil rights move-
ment. Yet, I find that I’m more circumspect when it comes to the “Hangman’s Tree.” There’s something so objectionable about it that I almost feel it should remain where it is if only to embarrass the men who erected it in the first place. It is also functionally one of very few monuments that exist to Union sympathizers in the war, even if it wasn’t intended that way. If the tree stood today, I would feel obliged to lay flowers to the memory of those martyred heroes who died there. But the fact that the events
More Letters on Page 22
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
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JULY 16 – 22, 2020 | PAGE 7
The Indelible Barb Cram Will Always Be Felt By F.C. Arts B� J�� W����� ��� K���� ��������
Barb Cram was a dynamic force and an essential part of so many countless organizations in the City of Falls Church: Watch Night, CATCH Foundation, and so many other charitable efforts that operate for the good of all. She didn’t even need to have a seat at the table to make the table shake. Barb being a part of any effort ensured good humor, great cheer, abundant energy, and an empathy and caring that was palpable. Falls Church Arts was lucky. We caught her attention at an unusual time, when she had rotated out of her cherished business, Greenspace’s storefront operation — Beyond the Garden Gate — and her focus was available to be redirected. From her first moments with us in our space inside of Falls Church Arts and Frame, she stuck with us, as Falls Church Arts began its transition to the collaborative ArtsSpace partnership with Creative Cauldron. And oh, was her endless energy needed then: there were infinite details, large and small, to be decided and executed. From the obvious (“We need LIGHTS to see the art!”) to the details of working with a marvelous theater partner whose requirements and schedule had to be respected and incorporated into our
plans. And it was Barb who oversaw our move to dedicated gallery space on the ground floor of the Kensington, attending
“Barb being a part of any effort ensured good humor, great cheer, abundant energy, and an empathy and caring that was palpable.” again to all the details involved in outfitting the space itself as well as beginning a remarkable working relationship with our Landlord and working ‘partner,’ The Kensington. In each of these moves Barb saw to it that needs, both physically and emotionally, were met and exceeded. It was Barb who finessed the concepts of our ever-changing themed exhibits that were designed to be inclusive of so many different mediums, artists and efforts. It was Barb who made sure that each exhibition opening was not just an event, but rather an event that was a fun place
to be. Still, she made time for more: Barb was entirely responsible for the efforts to bring competitive Plein-Air Painting (the French expression meaning “in the open air” referencing the practice of painting a landscape outdoors, just as the artist sees it.) to Falls Church. If you see a painter at an easel painting a scene of Falls Church, think of Barb Cram. With Barb’s pushing, instructional and informative classes were brought to full light and strength. It was she who solicited artist instructors and made sure that their classes were not only attended but appreciated. Under Barb’s hands, Falls Church Arts applied for and received the first of its grants from public institutions, bringing the organization up to the level of other established arts organizations. When a small band of us first formed Falls Church Arts we made our stated mission “to ensure that the arts are an essential part of the cultural environment in the City of Falls Church.” Barb joined us, took that to heart, and made sure the Art became essential in Falls Church. But these achievements are just marks in the path of Barb’s journey. Yes, she left clear footprints in that path but, more importantly, she left deep and profound impressions in the hearts of those she touched along the way. She cared. And she never hesitated to
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let you feel that. And you knew that the caring she showed you was unique to the bond between Barb and you. What she knew is that there was no reason she could not call you a friend. When she laughed, it was never at anyone’s expense, but always to mark a shared joy. This unbridled love of that joy in a shared personal relationship is what kept making things possible at Falls Church Arts. No one said ‘No’ to Barb Cram, and in that, no one said ‘No’ to Falls Church Arts. We have lost an irreplaceable treasure. Since she became a part of Falls Church Arts years ago, Barb made it her mission to become our champion, our strongest advocate, and in those efforts became our dearest friend. Her success is measured both in Falls Church Arts’ standing today and, more importantly, in the friends she made and people she inspired along that journey. Of course, Falls Church Arts as an organization will miss her. But we — each of us who knew her, loved her, and keep treasured memories of her in our hearts — will miss her far beyond mere words or measures of achievements. Barb is with us in our hearts forever. Joe Wetzel and Keith Thurston are both board members of Falls Church Arts
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PAGE 8 | JULY 16 - 22, 2020
WHO’S THE BEST?
The News-Press BEST OF FALLS CHURCH reader vote is back and it’s time to cast your ballot for your Falls Church-area favorites! Our 9th annual contest features a host of all new categories — now 35 in all — for readers to vote on the best eating, drinking, shopping and more in and around the Little City . Winners will be featured in a special BEST OF FALLS CHURCH edition of the News-Press on August 27!
Vote for Your Falls Church Favorites: FOOD & DRINK Burger • Pizza • Sandwich • Chicken • Seafood • American • International Breakfast • Brunch • Coffee Shop • Bakery • Frozen Treats Outside Dining • Delivery Food • Farmers Market Vendor • New Restaurant
RETAIL & SERVICES Professional Services • Bank/Credit Union • Real Estate Agent • Real Estate Group Doctors • Dentist • Retirement Community • Home Improvement • Dry Cleaners • Auto Grocery Store • Salon • Gym/Fitness • City Event • Specialty Store School • Chiropractor • Live Entertainment • New Business
BEST OF FALLS CHURCH ISSUE COMING AUGUST 27!
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1ST ROUND VOTING ENDS AUG 2
CAST YOUR BALLOT AT BESTOFFC.COM
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Fa l l s C h u r c h
NEWS BRIEFS N. Va. Covid-19 Cases Continue Downward Trend Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam at a press conference in Richmond Tuesday afternoon said that if steps need to be taken to roll back some of the openings in the commonwealth, it will be done on a regional basis, as opposed to a statewide one. Recent flare-ups of infections in the Hampton Roads area have caused overall numbers to rise in the state, but Northam noted that, by contrast, “Northern Virginia’s numbers look very good,” suggesting that any rollbacks, if they are ordered, will not apply to this region. The latest Covid-19 pandemic data for Northern Virginia shows a total of 34,129 cases, 3,571 hospitalizations, and 986 deaths since the crisis began. But current trends in the region remain relatively low and stable, with the rate of new cases decreasing by some 80 percent from its peak, according to the office of U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly. 132 total new cases were reported Tuesday in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Loudoun, Manassas City, Manassas Park, and Prince William County combined. From July 6 to July 13, Fairfax County reported 351 new cases, a two percent increase, and Prince William County reported 265 for an increase of three percent. There are 240 people with positive or pending tests hospitalized in Northern Virginia, down from the peak of 818 in late April, but up from the 211 hospitalizations reported one week ago. Additionally, the Fairfax health district has conducted 100,890 tests, and the positivity rate is currently 6.1 percent, continuing a downward trend. According to the Virginia Public Access Project (VPAP), Arlington reports 103.8 positive cases per 10,000, the McLean area including the City of Falls Church is at 47.2 per 10,000, and Woodbridge is at 226.4 per 10,000. The highest rates are in the southern parts of the state, with Emporia at 280 per 10,000, Galax at 252 and Northampton at 239 per 10,000.
Falls Church’s ‘Equal Welcome’ Project Grows Falls Church’s new Equal Welcome initiative includes a sign that retail establishments can display in their windows. The organization’s mission “is to ensure that all customers patronizing retail and hospitality establishments are treated equally and with respect.” It was founded, according to Ken Feltman and Alex Boston, “in response to an unfortunate incident two years ago when several George Mason High School students of color were forced to leave a local coffee shop and the police were called unnecessarily.” Feltman added, “The incident was representative of national trends, in which people of color were singled out by restaurant and coffee shop owners.” Following conversations with national chains and local establishments, Equal Welcome retained a training and consulting organization, specializing in diversity and inclusion to advise them. Now, establishments displaying an Equal Welcome window sign communicate to their customers and visitors that they are entitled to, and can expect, an equal welcome regardless of their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, or disability. “The Equal Welcome window sign communicates to customers and service staff an explicit commitment to treating everyone equally and with respect,” Boston noted. “Everyone wins,” Feltman added.
Fairfax County Board Meets Face-to-Face This week, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors returned to in-person meetings for the first time in months. “We followed strict social distancing guidelines and required that every person in the room wear a mask. It wasn’t ideal, but they were the actions that we all must take to continue to reduce cases of Covid-19,” reported Board chair Jeff McKay. He added, “We have come a long way and must continue to be diligent as we see spikes in other places. In fact, hours ago, I received some good news. While at the beginning of this pandemic, Fairfax County Health District had one of the highest percentages of the statewide positive cases, we now have one of the lowest. This is because of the care our residents are taking and the significant work of our Health Department.” The Fairfax Health Department’s work covers the City of Falls Church.
N. Virginia Regional Development Pushing Ahead The 400,000 square foot deal Microsoft signed at Reston Town Center in May was one of the region’s biggest leasing wins during a year slowed by the coronavirus pandemic, but Fairfax County stakeholders see more big deals coming. Boston Properties Senior Vice President Pete Otteni, whose firm owns Reston Town Center, and Fairfax County Economic Development Authority CEO Victor Hoskins said Tuesday on Bisnow’s Reopening Fairfax County webinar they see growing momentum from big tenants, especially in the technology sector. But they are still waiting to see activity pick up from a host of smaller tenants that hit the pause button.
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Community News & Notes F.C. Commissioner Requests Vehicle Verification Forms City of Falls Church commissioner of the revenue, Tom Clinton, is requesting that City residents send in any vehicle-related or address changes by, or close to, the stated due date of July 15, so all adjustments can be made before the personal property, or car tax bills are mailed out in August by the Treasurer’s Office. The bills will be due by Oct. 5. The Vehicle Verification forms went out in the mail a month ago to all vehicle owners in the City of Falls Church requesting any updates. If anyone did not get one, they are advised to contact the commissioner of revenue’s office. If a resident has any changes, they should send them in. If there are no changes, and all of a resident’s vehicles are accounted for, they can recycle the form. Leased Vehicle Verification Forms are sent to the leasing companies versus the driver of the leased vehicle. All vehicles parked in the City of Falls Church must have a current, blue, City of Falls Church decal on the left bottom portion of the front windshield. For more information about reporting changes to residents’ Vehicle Verification Forms, or about getting a City decal for a car, call 703-248-5450 or email the commissioner of revenue’s office at: commissioner@ fallschurchva.gov.
Goodwin House Honored For LGBT Advocacy
SIGNS OF SUPPORT are all over the City. One is in support of the Black Lives Matter movement (bottom) spelled out in red cups on a construction fence outside of Columbia Baptist Church’s preschool. The other is a general message of “Hope” seen on the western window of design and build firm Greenspur, Inc.’s office on W. Broad St. (Photos: News-Press)
Goodwin House Incorporated, a senior living community in both Falls Church and Alexandria, became the first senior living community in Northern Virginia to receive goldlevel certification from Services & Advocacy for LGBT Elders (SAGE). Goodwin House’s par-
ticipation in the SAGECare program provides staff members with the proper training and education to work with older adults in the LGBT community. As a gold-level provider, SAGECare is an integral component of their ongoing efforts to create an inclusive community and provides training to 60 percent of staff each year.
Juror Qualification Process Begins Soon for F.C. Residents The Arlington Circuit Court, which includes the City of Falls Church, will soon begin its annual juror qualification process. Juror questionnaires will be mailed in early August to randomly selected residents of Arlington County and Falls Church City. These questionnaires are used to qualify residents for jury duty which begins Jan. 1, 2021, and ends Dec. 31, 2021. In accordance with state law, questionnaires are distributed annually to a random selection of residents of Arlington County and the City of Falls Church. Recipients are selected from registered voter rolls provided by the State Board of Elections. Jury Commissioners appointed by the court review the questionnaires to determine eligibility for service according to criteria established by the General Assembly. Steps to follow if a resident receives a Juror Questionnaire: Read and carefully follow the instructions on the postcard. Using your Candidate/Juror ID# printed on the postcard, visit the secure Juror Website at ejuror.arlingtonva.us to complete and submit the form online. To have a paper copy of the form mailed to you, call 703-2283123 and provide the Candidate/ Juror ID number; first and last name; street address with zip code and contact phone number or email for follow-up if needed
Send Us Your News & Notes!
The News-Press is always on the lookout for photos & items for Community News & Notes, School News & Notes and other sections of the paper. If you graduate, get married, get engaged, get an award, start a club, eat a club, tie your shoes, have a birthday, have a party, host an event or anything else you think is worth being mentioned in the News-Press, write it up and send it to us! If you have a photo, even better! Because of the amount of submissions we receive, we cannot guarantee all submissions will be published, but we’ll try our best!
Community News & Notes: newsandnotes@fcnp.com | School News & Notes: schoolnews@fcnp.com Mail: News & Notes, Falls Church News-Press, 105 N. Virginia Ave #310, Falls Church, VA 22046
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Some questions on the form require submission of documents as proof of hardship (e.g., doctor’s notes, travel documents, military orders) and/or detailed explanations in the Remarks section. All information is kept confidential and destroyed after use. Residents are required to complete and return the questionnaire within 10 days of receipt. They are asked to complete the form online to save resources. Once submitted, the completed questionnaire will be processed by the court. If someone is qualified by the court to serve, they could receive a summons in the mail next year with detailed reporting instructions. Failure to respond to the questionnaire or providing incomplete information may result in a resident being summoned to court to complete the form in person. For more information, contact Lynn Pollock, Jury Coordinator, at 703-228-3124, or 703-228-4711 (TTY).
Nonprofit Offers Covid-19 Support for Businesses Recovery Program Solutions of Virginia (RPSV) — nonprofit that supports adults with mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness issues across Northern Virginia and specializes in one-on-one and peer group support programs — now offers customized virtual support sessions designed specifically for area businesses that are handling concerns related to employees returning to the workplace. The sessions are facilitated by peer specialists who will help team members work through individual problems, such as safety for their children or elderly loved ones while at work during the pan-
demic, safely traveling to work and staying safe in a work setting amid the coronavirus. RPSV will also cover collective problems, such as staff clashes over masks, cubicle barriers, and Lysol use. RPSV’s services are free to the public. RPSV operates five drop-in Recovery Centers (in Annandale, Arlington, Merrifield, Reston, and South County Alexandria). Since the pandemic began, it has offered 15 telehealth online support groups and Warm Line phone support for those in need of assistance. Since its inception, thousands of Northern Virginians have recovered with the assistance of RPSV team members. Individuals are invited to join any of RPSV’s existing virtual support groups. RPSV can also work with businesses to customize a program for their team members, as well as can join an existing virtual meeting or design sessions to address specific needs. For more information on RPSV’s current programming, visit rpsva.org. To arrange a customized support group session, contact Monika Taylor at (240) 498-9685 or via email at mtaylor@recoveryprograms.us today.
F.C. Student Helps Team Place 1st in Competition Falls Church’s Jacob Abruzzi was part of a James Madison University team that placed first in the project development category of the 2020 Collegiate Wind Competition, topping 11 other universities from around the country. This year’s competitors were challenged to design a turbine to withstand continuous winds of 22-25 meters per second and to research and develop a plan for a hypothetical 100-megawatt wind plant in eastern Colorado. JMU’s
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THE PLAQUE where the Hangman’s Tree used to reside along W. Broad St., just outside of the Broaddale Shopping Center today, says the tree was taken down in 1968, which News-Press readers helped verify by sending clips of the occasion from the Falls Church Globe. (P����: N���-P����) wind plant design was judged the best; the JMU turbine design placed fifth. Originally scheduled to be held the first week of June at the American Wind Energy Association’s CLEANPOWER conference in Denver, the competition was moved online due to Covid-19 and was held via webinar on May 20, June 2, June 3 and June 17. The 12 collegiate teams replaced their poster presentations with digital slides, shared their computer screens with the judges, and presented their turbine designs and project development plans from their homes around the
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country. “This year’s Collegiate Wind Competition was a particularly memorable one, as everyone involved had to quickly adapt to holding the competition in a virtual format,” said Daniel R. Simmons, assistant secretary for energy efficiency and renewable energy at the U.S. Department of Energy, a sponsor of the competition. “I am inspired by the flexibility, resilience and dedication of this year’s competitors. These talented students are the next generation of the wind energy workforce.” Abruzzi graduated in May with
a bachelor’s degree in engineering. This was the fourth time JMU participated in the event, including the inaugural event in 2014. JMU will participate again in 2021. Other institutions competing this year were: California Maritime Academy; California State University, Chico; Northern Arizona University; Pennsylvania State University; Texas Tech University; Tuskegee University; University of Maryland; University of New Haven; University of Wisconsin; Virginia Tech and Washington State University-Everett.
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A Penny for Your Thoughts
News of Greater Falls Church By Supervisor Penny Gross
One of the best things we have in our community is the free summer concert series, Spotlight by Starlight, which has been entertaining area residents at Mason District Park since at least 1991. As one of the founders of the series, and host/emcee for a quarter century, I often joked that I spent my summer vacations at the park, one hour at a time! Live entertainment, both touring professionals and local talent, could be enjoyed all summer long, absolutely free. You didn’t have to dress up, buy a ticket, or pay for parking. You could bring family and friends, a picnic dinner, lawn chairs, or stadium pillows for the bench seating. Oh, and an umbrella for those times when the weather was iffy, but the show must go on. When Covid-19 caused the cancellation of the June concert dates, I was disappointed, but hopeful. Then July’s schedule was cancelled, and I was a little less hopeful. Last week, when the August cancellations were announced, and there would be no 2020 concerts in the parks, I was devastated. No music, no chatting with constituents and answering their questions, no catching up with longtime concert goers and learning about new babies and grandchildren, sometimes greatgrands. A wonderful community tradition vanished, abducted by Covid-19. But not completely. This is not the summer the music died. Arrangements are being made for live, virtual performances for each magisterial district, beginning July 30 through the end of August. Virtual concerts will be held Thursday through Sunday evenings at 7:30 p.m., with children’s shows on Saturday mornings at 10. Additional information about how to view the virtual concerts will be available soon, and I will share that in
next week’s column. In the meantime, mark your calendars and plan to enjoy live musical performances devised just for you. At Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting, the first held in-person (masked and socially distanced) since mid-March, the Board approved an additional $25 million from the federal CARES Act to Fairfax RISE (Relief Initiative to Support Employers). The Board established the Fairfax RISE grant program in May, to support eligible small businesses, including non-profit organizations, to address costs of business interruptions caused by closures associated with the Covid-19 pandemic. The original grant program was funded with $25 million from the CARES Act, and was swiftly oversubscribed. More than 6000 applications were submitted, for more than $66 million in requests. Grants range from $10,000 for businesses with one to 10 employees; $15,000 for 11 to 15 employees; and $20,000 for those with 26 to 49 employees. The additional money is anticipated to fund approximately 65 to 80 percent of all applicants. Fairfax County is home to 11 Fortune 500 companies, but small businesses are the backbone of our diverse economy. Helping maintain their viability through small grant programs is an important part of getting back to whatever will be “normal” post-Covid-19. Face masks and facial coverings are crucial to preventing the spread of Covid-19; they protect the wearer and everyone around you. Be safe, be smart, and be healthy. Wear a mask! 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
CRIME REPORT Week of July 6 - 12, 2020
a stolen credit card to purchase items at a business.
Simple Assault, 6700 blk Wilson Blvd. July 6, 1:35 AM, police received a report of an unknown suspect who allegedly struck an individual with his hand and left the area prior to police arrival.
Motor Vehicle Theft, 1100 blk W Broad St. July 7, unknown suspect(s) unlawfully took a motor vehicle that was parked in a commercial parking lot.
Driving Under the Influence, 900 blk Parker Ave. July 6, 12:45 AM, a male, 32, of Falls Church, VA, was arrested for driving under the influence. Destruction of Property, 300 blk W Broad St. Between July 5 and July 6, unknown suspect(s) damaged a parked car by breaking the rear window. Credit Card Fraud, 1100 blk W Broad St. July 6, 7:31 PM, an unknown suspect fraudulently used
Motor Vehicle Theft, 200 blk W Rosemary Ln. Between July 7 and July 8, unknown suspect(s) unlawfully took a motor vehicle that was parked on a residential street. Destruction of Property, 400 blk S Maple Ave. Between July 7 and July 8, unknown suspect(s) damaged the rear bumper of a parked car. Drunkenness (DIP) & Trespassing, 100 blk E Fairfax St. July 9, 10:53 AM, a male, 62, of Falls Church, VA, was arrested for appearing drunk in public and trespassing.
Larceny of Bicycles, 400 blk S Maple Ave. Between July 9 and July 11, unknown suspect(s) removed two bicycles from the building’s parking garage. Throw Missile at Occupied Vehicle, 1000 E Broad St. July 12, 12:14 AM, a male, 21, of Falls Church, VA, was arrested for unlawfully throwing a missile at an occupied vehicle. Bicycle Larceny, 1200 blk W Broad St. July 12, 7:07 PM, an unknown suspect removed a bicycle from the front of a business.
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Delegate Marcus Simon’s
Richmond Report Every Virginian has an opportunity this fall to listen to Black voices and to follow Black women leading the way on one of the most important issues of our time. To listen to the people whose lives have been most directly affected by a corrupt and shameful practice from our past and let them pick the cure. On November 3rd, 2020 Virginia voters have an opportunity to vote NO on a proposed Constitutional Amendment that purports to be a reform measure, when it in fact enshrines in Virginia’s constitution the dominant role of politicians and political parties drawing their own districts. The good news is there is still time for the people to get up to speed and stop this abomination of an amendment before it becomes the law of the land. At each step of the exceedingly difficult process of amending the Constitution, as the language has received increased scrutiny, support for it has eroded. I’m hoping that before this final step enough of us will realize this amendment is deeply flawed and needs to be stopped. In 2019, with a newly muscular minority, many of us were optimistic about being able to adopt meaningful redistricting reform and create a non-partisan independent commission with binding authority to draw new districts after the 2020 census. However, the sausage that came out of the Virginia State Senate gave us equal parts politicians and civilians, with guaranteed representation to the two largest political parties, no guarantee of minority representation, and no ban on gerrymandering. And politicians retain veto power: any two politicians can scuttle a map. With that kind of control, the politicians retain all the leverage. And yet I voted for it. It passed the Senate 39-1 before losing some support in the House and passing 85-13 over the objections of the members of Virginia Legislative Black Caucus, led most vocally by Black women. I voted for it because it was the only bill before us that Republicans who controlled the General Assembly at the time would allow to come to the floor, and I knew this wasn’t the final vote. So reluctantly I ignored, again, the voices of the Black
caucus members who warned me this wasn’t nearly good enough. “Piss poor” in fact, was how they described it. In 2020, we came back to a Richmond completely and utterly turned upside down by the results of the 2019 elections, with Democrats in charge of both houses for the first time. And Black women led an effort to revisit the problem of redistricting and gerrymandering, which has historically been used in Virginia as a tool (much like the poll tax, literacy tests, and other Jim Crow era devices) to disenfranchise and obscure the voices of Black voters and politicians in Virginia. Out of that process came a better solution to gerrymandering. A bill that eliminated all the politicians. That was truly non-partisan and in fact citizen-led and controlled. A bill that would not only control the 2021 redistricting process but could also easily become a Constitutional Amendment in two years redefining redistricting process for decades to come. Unfortunately, too many folks were married to the idea of the commission they’d come up with in 2019, and we came eight votes short of stopping it. So we tried to include language in accompanying legislation that created two paths forward, rules for the commission that would apply if Virginia voters adopt the Amendment, and rules for an alternative commission in case the Amendment fails in November in order to ensure that redistricting remains directly out of the hands of the full 140-member legislative body. But proponents of the Amendment killed that bill, electing to move forward with NO accompanying legislation. What were they so afraid of? They know the only way this amendment passes is if the voters believe, as many of us did in 2019, that their language is the ONLY game in town for redistricting reform. This is simply not true. There is a better way - a way that accomplishes all the best practices that opponents of gerrymandering say they want while simultaneously listening to Black voices telling us how best to help all our communities. The only way to do that is to vote NO this fall on the Constitutional Amendment.
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
R��� E����� S����� 2020
Recent Of�ice Exodus Could Be Hurdle for F.C.’s West End Project
BY MATT DELANEY
SUMMER 2020 | PAGE 13
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
Workplaces transitioning out of the office and into being permanently remote could be one part of the “new normal” stemming from Covid-19’s global outbreak. That potential reality would be trouble for the City of Falls Church’s West End development that is relying on office tenants to help occupy some of its nearly 10-acre footprint, though the minds behind the project believe this adaptation won’t become a fixture once coronavirus’ danger lessens. The West End development
will sidle up to the rebuilt high school and be a part of a new commercial corridor with the West Falls Church Metro station that sits just outside of the City proper. The principals of EYA, Hoffman & Associates and Regency have plans for retail, senior living and micro units, all of it to be centered around a public area for recreation. And helping buttress these attractions will be, according to the City’s web page dedicated to the project, 325,000 sq. ft. of Class A commercial office space. Outside of its intent to build more housing, office space is, right now, the second largest
commitment in the project based on space alone. That’s why the collective recoil toward the office environment over the past few months would make any developer want to loosen their collar at the thought of going through with it, at least in the short term. “Based on the current climate of uncertainty, the market seems to be experiencing the biggest impact in the short term as it relates to increased vacancies, declines in new leases and an uptick in renewals,” Robin Bettarel, vice president of development at Hoffman & Associates, told the News-Press over email. “As more information becomes
THE OFFICE SPACE that’s a part of the West End Project is the blue square in the lower left hand portion of the site map. In the second phase of the development two spaces — outlined in red along the map’s perimeter, can also take on more office space, if the market demand is there. (S���������: N���-P����.) available and as recovery timelines solidify, we anticipate the future office leasing market outlook to trend more positively.” One of the safeguards the City has built into the project is dividing it into phases. City council member Ross Litkenhous, who
has a 20-year career in commercial real estate, said Falls Church has a firm, minimum commitment to the developers for roughly 125,000 sq. ft. of office space just based on the purchase price.
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INSIDE: Mission Lofts and Work-From-Home Lifestyle Come to Bailey’s Crossroads ���� 17 | F.C. Real Estate Market #s ����� 19-20
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R EA L E STATE
PAGE 14 | SUMMER 2020
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
TWO EXAMPLES of office spaces that come in around the 125,000 sq. ft. mark are found in Arlington. 801 N. Quincy Street in Ballston is tall, but narrow, and houses a rehab center and an Indian restaurant on its floor level. The 3300 block of Wilson Boulevard in Clarendon has night office space on top of night life attractions such as Bar Bao as well as necessities as Navy Federal Credit Union. (Photos: News-Press)
Region’s Strong Pre-Covid-19 Office Market Shows Durability to Developers Continued from Page 13
The layout for that square footage can take multiple forms. Some examples Litkenhous pointed out that matched phase one’s square footage included 801 N. Quincy Street in Arlington’s Ballston neighborhood, which is seven stories high, but narrow, and has Capital Rehab Arlington and Urban Tandoor, an Indian and Nepalese restaurant, as floor tenants. Another example is the office space that sits on top of Bar Bao, Spanish restaurant Pamplona and a Navy Federal Credit Union in Arlington’s Clarendon neighborhood. This design is mostly one level for more prominent retail tenants until it consolidates into a larger structure at the other end of the block. Currently, the office space for the West End project will be on the western side of the development’s entrance along Leesburg Pike.
Litkenhous doesn’t expect the City to model itself after the examples he gave, and once the second phase of the project begins to take hold several years down the line, he continued, the City will have room to modify the development’s scope, if they need to. “No project of that size and that scale ever ends up being a perfect replica of what you envisioned when you started out on day one,” Litkenhous told the News-Press. “The 2nd phase may not deliver for quite some time, and I can assure you by the time they get around to even discussing starting that piece, the market will have changed again, and there may be some clarity and additional challenges.” It’s all the adapting going on in the world right now that adds some new anxiety to the largest development in City history. A third of the year has been spent working from home for those who were fortunate enough to keep their jobs following the
pandemic’s major spread through the U.S. that started in midMarch. And with productivity maintaining, and in some cases exceeding, what was done at the office, it has prompted a reevaluation of whether a physical workplace is even necessary anymore. The New York Times covered how multiple companies from around the country have navigated the transition to full remote work back in late June. Executives from Chegg and Cisco, both technology companies, said their employees had gotten more productive when taken out of the office environment. However, executives at a public relations firm and software company separately said that they had seen dips in productivity. Primarily, as one Microsoft executive said, the concern was burnout from not having a division between work and home life. It may come down to dollars and cents, too. A study by the Cognizant
Center for Future Work in May said companies stand to save $11,000 per worker by going remote, while workers could save up to $7,000 on wardrobe, transportation and childcare costs. It also, according to the study, is good at retaining employees, with 80 percent of workers surveyed by Cognizant saying they’d turn down a job without a work from home option. And the kicker: remote workers were found to be 13 percent more productive, per the study. But Litkenhous countered by saying from studies he’s seen, people who are working from home are experiencing loneliness at higher rates, despite benefits such as not having to commute. As he puts it, a Zoom call can’t replace the human interaction that breeds innovation in the same way as the office environment does. Bettarel added separately that Falls Church’s, and more broadly, Washington, D.C.’s track record when it comes to the office mar-
ket should offer hope despite the public health emergency. “Historically, the D.C. metro area office market has rebounded faster than other major metro areas following an economic downturn,” Bettarel wrote. “An important aspect to note is that the Falls Church office market was already rising in popularity preCovid and recent market analysis points to the continuation of this trend post-Covid. Additionally, smaller office buildings, such as the offerings planned for West Falls, may be more appealing to future tenants as they look to limit potential exposure.” The bottom line, according to Litkenhous, is that the City delivers on its primary goal of making a high-class development that reaps significant fiscal returns for Falls Church. If getting creative with how office space is structured is a means to reach that end, then Litkenhous said the City’s team and the developers plan will collaborate on that.
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R EA L E STATE
SUMMER 2020 | PAGE 15
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PAGE 16 | SUMMER 2020
R EA L E STATE A Falls Church News-Press Advertorial
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
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Kate Ryan, Associate Broker, Long & Foster Realtors
Being a Realtor® perfectly blends Tori’s passion for Falls Church and finding clients their dream homes. After moving to Falls Church in 1998, she immediately immersed herself in community advocacy as a 10-year Housing Commissioner and a 20-year ongoing public school volunteer. Her participation with Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation led to becoming Executive Producer of Tinner Hill Music Festival, the Foundation’s premier fundraiser taking place next year on June 12, 2021. This philanthropic work in the arts combines her prior music industry career with her ongoing dedication to LIVE music and the musicians who are the creative fabric of our community. Tori is ever so grateful for all of her ROCK STAR clients and the community that she serves. Call Tori to help you find the home you LOVE!
Good Things Happen is the brand promise of Kate Ryan and The Kate & Ron Team – and Kate does this by helping her clients build their wealth through real estate. Success leaves clues, and Kate’s formula is simple: hard work, personalized first class service and strong negotiating skills. Combine these with targeted market research, a winning track record and a warm sense of humor and it’s no wonder Kate truly becomes “Your Realtor for Life”. With over 30 years of experience in Falls Church City and the DC metro area real estate markets, Kate values the relationships that have been built and cultivated within her community of colleagues. Market savvy, personal integrity and outstanding industry expertise allow Kate to consistently bring success to her clients. Kate is both their trusted business partner and friend for life. With her high caliber referral partners and an abundant top-notch network that spans the country, Kate connects clients and trusted business professionals in all cities and all walks of life to meet every need. Kate guides and educates her clients on making their best possible decisions through every stage of homeownership. In today’s ever challenging and changing world, having a trusted and experienced professional on your side is key. This is what Kate and the Kate & Ron Team are all about. Call them today and start making your own Good Things Happen.
Tori McKinney | CEO & Realtor® | ROCK STAR Realty Group 2101 Wilson Blvd., Suite 100, Arlington, VIRGINIA (VA) 22201 703-867-8674 • ROCKSTARRealtyGroup.com
Peake Management Peake Management, Inc. is a real estate property management firm specializing in the management of residential properties for Northern Virginia landlords. Our company foundation initially consisted of a client base of Foreign Service and military officers. They were the primary landlords of quality single-family homes in the early days. As the market changed, so did our clientele, and we now enjoy the diversity of working with all types of property owners. A few years ago, Peake had the privilege to team up with Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Premier to help market the properties we manage. We moved into shared space to make the partnership easier, and it was a great move for our clients. Their marketing support makes us that much stronger, and during the busy times, we have more resources to draw upon to make sure the job gets done right. Our specialty is definitely investment real estate. If you own quality rental property in Arlington County, Alexandria, Reston, Herndon, Falls Church, Fairfax County or Loudoun County, talk to us. We have some geographic restrictions for efficiency’s sake. If the property is a good fit, we’d love to manage it for you. We’re passionate about our calling and you’ll be glad you chose to work with us. Our whole team is excellent. Peake Mangement Inc. • 450 N. Washington Street, Suite M Falls Church, VA 22046 703-448-0212 • peakeinc.com
Kate Fleury Ryan, Long & Foster Realtors 1355 Beverly Rd. #109 | McLean, VA 22101 O 703-903-8640 | C 703-303-4618 • thekateandronteam.com
Ken Trotter, TTR Sotheby’s International Realty Ken Trotter is the founder and principal agent of the Silver Line Group and regularly recognized as one of Washington, DC’s top producing Realtors®. While the heart of the Silver Line Group’s practice is in Falls Church, the team also regularly represents buyers and sellers along the Silver Line corridor from DC to Dulles. Ken was a successful litigation attorney prior to becoming a Realtor®, and he drew upon that experience when establishing the guiding principles behind the Silver Line Group’s professional service: “We focus on making our clients’ interests our sole priority and zealously strive to achieve the best results for our clients in every transaction.” The Silver Line Group’s talented team of professionals strongly believes in delivering the highest level of integrity, professionalism, and expertise at all price points. From urban condos with high walkability scores to estate homes, the team is passionate about helping you find the perfect home, or the right buyer for your home. For more detailed information about the Silver Line Group’s real estate practice, please visit SilverLineHouses.com and reach out directly to Ken. Ken Trotter, J.D., Realtor, TTR Sotheby’s International Realty 703-863-0650 (c) 745-1212 (o) • KenTrotterHomes.com
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
R EA L E STATE
SUMMER 2020 | PAGE 17
Live & Work Lo�s Serve as Bailey’s Crossroads’ New ‘Gateway’
BY BRIAN INDRE
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
The opportunity to work from home is not new, but since Covid19, many didn’t have a choice but to take their work home with them. The new Mission Lofts living complex in Bailey’s Crossroads seemed to time its opening perfectly with the onset of the pandemic, and builds a natural division between working and living into its units. Located right on the greater Falls Church-Arlington border, this new concept of a loft style community provides residents a flexible living space, workspace, or both. Mission Lofts is the second of its kind in the country, just after e-Lofts in Alexandria. Both projects were developed by Robert Seldin, CEO and chief executive officer of Highland Square Holdings Development & Construction (2HSQ), which is based in Arlington. Seldin’s concept came well before the novel coronavirus dominated headlines, with a vision that would provide hard-to-come-by office space and marry that with
MISSION LOFTS bring some yuppie-�lair to the Bailey’s Crossroads area, with a mural serving as a signpost and its dazzle-designed garage immediately next to it. (P����: N���-P����) all the safety and zoning regulations that could also double as living space. Both e-Lofts and the Mission Lofts use already existing buildings and convert them into
state of the art living/office communities. “We all have learned how to work remotely from home, which is something the loft concept
had already figured out,” Mason District Supervisor Penny Gross said. “The design of Mission Loft units lends itself nicely to working from home with lots of natural
light and interesting places and angles to set up for virtual meetings.” Bailey’s Crossroads was chosen for the location of Mission Lofts because there was a suitable building sitting empty as a result of the 2005 Base Realignment And Closure, or BRAC, that removed many defense contractors and offices from the area. Gross had been contacted about repurposing the building, and after having been involved in the repurposing project for the Bailey’s Upper School (the first vertical urban school in the county), she knew that repurposing could be successful. When asked if the pandemic is having a positive or negative impact on leasing the units, Gross said that since the development started before the pandemic, it seems to have attracted a lot of energy and interest. With more empty buildings also vacated by the Department of Defense in the Skyline area, 2HSQ is already in the process of more development similar to Mission
Continued on Page 18
KATE RYAN Top Platinum Producer and Top Producer
Long & Foster | Christie’s International Real Estate
Focus | Teamwork | Integrity A native Washingtonian and long-time Falls Church homeowner, Kate has been providing astute insight and solid leadership to real estate clients since 1989. Recognized for her competence and sense of humor, Kate is a trusted advisor and an exceptional negotiator who understands the value of working together. Whether you’re selling or you’re buying ... large or small ... for peace of mind and true win-win, call Kate Ryan, your “Realtor for life”.
SPECIALIZATION
Residential and commercial sales; Industry leader, referral based practice, attention to detail
DESIGNATIONS, AFFILIATIONS AND AWARDS Associate Broker, CRS, GRI, SRES
1355 Beverly Road, Suite 109, McLean, VA 22101
703.903.8640 (O) | 703 303 4618 (C) Kate.Ryan@LNF.com | KateRyan.com
R EA L E STATE
PAGE 18 | SUMMER 2020
Complex’s Opening Coincides With Pandemic’s Work-From-Home Push
Continued from Page 17
Lofts. “Mission Lofts is right at the gateway from Arlington into Fairfax County, so is perfectly positioned (without having to move a thing) to welcome new residents with a ‘kicky’ vibe,” said Gross. “The parking deck, which is original to the building, provides all the parking needed, and is painted with a ‘dazzle’ motif used for wartime ships, reflecting again the ‘mission’ concept of the building. The dazzle motif catches the eye and makes a ‘here I am’ statement.” Municipalities have tried to steer development more towards easily accessible public transit, and for the Washington, D.C. area new complexes have sprung up around Metro stations. This results in places like Bailey’s Crossroads that are not rail served to be overlooked and unnecessarily devalued, which makes them right for redevelopment. “We happen to like the Bailey’s area,” Seldin said. “We think that it is incredibly well located and, frankly, in a lot of respects, mispriced, considering how close it is to everything.” Initial occupancy for Mission Lofts began in April of this year, right in the middle of the pandemic — which was not great timing. Seldin said about 20 percent has been leased so far, but that it’s picking up rapidly. He expects it to be full by the end of the year. So far, according to Seldin, a significant majority of people interested in leasing were specifically looking for a place that would facilitate working from home, which is a trend that’s been growing since 2010 and has now hit warpspeed with the virus present. “An office building is really like a machine for storing information, and its value is that people have to travel to the building to get the information. For the past twelve or so years, most people have carried the sum total of human knowledge in their pocket with the smartphone, and that is what really started the trend away from the office,” said Seldin. “And obviously Covid-19 has really just brought more attention to it.” Pre-coronavirus, many businesses and companies still
required workers to show up to the office daily, while instilling strict rules about working from home. But now during the pandemic, work flexibility forced a change over night. This change in work flexibility is most likely to stick around in one form or another even when things return to normal. “What many may not realize is that the work from home order has really implemented the single largest collective mass code violation in US history,” said Seldin. “Building owners and municipalities haven’t really focused on that issue yet, but at some point they are going to have to.” Commercial use is not permitted in residential buildings, and working is a commercial use. There are also zoning and code violations that can be violated simply by working from home. Buildings that are built to commercial standards that are different from residential standards. Commercial buildings require heavier floors for support, they require wider stairs because more people are allowed to use them, handicap requirements, water fountains, more parking, etc. “If for example you were working in a residential building and somebody comes to your home office and requires handicapped toilets, and you don’t have that, then you just committed a federal crime,” Seldin said. He explained that if a residential building is damaged because it wasn’t built to withstand heavier loads coming from more people or filing cabinets, then you could be in violation of your insurance because you were using the building illegally. “All of those things are a daisy chain of unforeseen events that really haven’t played themselves out either in the marketplace or through the legal system,” Said Seldin. A shift in more people working from home will prove that real estate in its current form is completely out of phase with how people can do their jobs. This is a serious problem to Seldin, who also sees it as a significant opportunity. Intrinsic demand in apartment leasing is down across the board, but one of the benefits to Mission Lofts is that it can lawfully be used for different purposes, and by having an increased number and
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
types of people who can use the property makes it more insulated from the downturn. Seldin thinks that this is one of its strengths and that it can help to preserve communities. With every unit having the options to be used however the tenant decides, the lofts offer a meaningful change to how real estate is normally understood and operated. “Typically an apartment complex has a very limited pallet of uses with the customers there to serve the building’s needs, but in this concept we have flipped the paradigm and have put the customer first,” Seldin said. “So however it is they want the building to help advance their goals and objectives, we have the ability to help make that happen.”
GREEN SPACE is plentiful around Mission Lofts’ grounds. Outside of the front entrance (bottom), there’s a public seating area with communal tables as well as adirondacks in the lawn and a nearby grill. Along Columbia Pike, was formerly an empty parking lot has been transformed into a small park. (Photos: News-Press)
R EA L E STATE
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
SUMMER 2020 | PAGE 19
Real Estate
Top Falls Church Home Sales
JANUARY-JUNE
#1 $2,049,500
#2 $1,825,000
#4 $1,787,119 #3 $1,800,000 Top 5 F.C. Home Sales October 1 – December 31, 2019 Address BR #1 7104 Eastman Dr 7 #2 2312 Westmoreland St 6 #3 6549 Orland St. 7 #4 7306 Gordons Rd. 7 #5 2103 Greenwich St 6
FB
HB
6 7 5 6 5
2 1 1 1 0
List Price $2,149,000 $1,899,999 $1,775,000 $1,795,000 $1,725,000
Sale Price $2,049,500 $1,825,000 $1,800,000 $1,787,119 $1,749,000
Zip 22043 22046 22043 22043 22043
Date Sold 05/11/20 03/16/20 01/24/20 03/06/20 05/10/20
Source: MRIS, Inc.; Photos: MRIS, Falls Church News-Press
#5 $1,749,000
R EA L E STATE
PAGE 20 | SUMMER 2020
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Falls Church Area Housing Market — June 2020 Report Zip Code Area Median Price Number of Homes Sold
Average Days on Market
22046
City of Falls Church $928,384
10
22041
Bailey’s Crossroads
$433,212
25
8
22042
Sleepy Hollow
$628,565
54
14
22043
Pimmit Hills
$634,250
30
30
22044
Lake Barcroft
16
16
$663,250
17
Home Sales Vs. 1 Year Ago
Home Prices Vs. 1 Year Ago
Change in # of Homes Sold: June ‘19 vs June ‘2O
Change in Median Home Price: June ‘19 vs June ‘20
-56.52%
Change in Falls Church City (22046)
+3.26%
Change in Falls Church City (22046)
-19.35%
Change in Bailey’s X-roads (22041)
+3O.09%
Change in Bailey’s X-roads (22041)
+3.84% Change in Sleepy Hollow (22042)
+14.63%
Change in Sleepy Hollow (22042)
-3.22%
-5.75%
Change in Pimmit Hills (22043)
+53.34%
Change in Lake Barcroft (22044)
Change in Pimmit Hills (22043)
+60% Change in Lake Barcroft (22044) Source: Metropolitan Regional Information Systems, Inc. Copyright © 2020 Metropolitan Regional Information Systems, Inc.
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Trump’s Cosmic Consequence
Who knew that in this modern, complicated and sophisticated world, reality would conform so fully to medieval morality play content: knights in shining armor pitted against sleazy, vicious merchants of pain and death. Maybe it is a microcosm of what’s happening on the really big stage, the one where the forces of life and love are contending against the tug of black holes spotted around the cosmos, those vicious maelstroms that draw in and destroy everything that falls within their sway. Love versus destruction, that’s our big picture challenge, demonstrable by science and not just pulp fictions. Love is defined as a substantial reality that binds and enlarges the forces FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS of life in our universe. Its opposite, the forces of destruction that weaken and rip apart such bonds, renders the universe incapable of resisting the powerful vortexes of the obliterating black holes who would swallow up and negate the entire cosmos. You didn’t know, did you, that your small acts of kindness are impacting the very ability of our cosmos, of life itself as we experience it and as it exists in its abundance throughout the universe, to be sustained! A lot that is contained in the moral treatises and eons-old traditions across the breadth of humanity on this planet boils down to the simplest of mandates for we human beings who find ourselves with remarkable capacities for cognition and choice-making. We are not simple, our minds and choices do not come with batteries included and pamphlets in numerous languages. No, we are beset as we face aspects of our existence with conflicting tendencies, strong ones. We are afflicted with cross-purposes, powerful emotions and voices, from within and without, to not simply do the right thing, but on the contrary, to use our powers to rebel, to deny and defy the obvious simply because we can. This is a frightening prospect that we must live with and there is no way to avoid it. So, morality plays were developed to make matters simpler for our intellect and our powers of will. The one-dimensional universe of right and wrong that they convey are not intended to mimic reality as it exists, but what matters to us in the context of a much more complicated reality. The biggest players of the current morality play that are functioning in our collective faces are Donald Trump and Vlad Putin, on one side, and Joe Biden and Andrew Cuomo, on the other. The test thrown into our midst is the Covid-19 coronavirus that functions like emissaries of the black hole league tasked with afflicting our species with great suffering, pain and mass death. Moreover, its function is to weaken our moral resolve in favor of love and life by arousing the ugly tool of selfish self-interest as a weapon against the forces of our species solidarity. Putin exploits that selfish self-interest tool that dwells so strongly in our American culture to weaken us and strengthen his barbaric regime. He figured out a formula to enhance this tool of destruction to rig the 2016 presidential election in the U.S. and elect someone who is the very embodiment of selfish self-interest, someone who elevates it to a religion, Donald Trump, who in turn has used religious fervor to draw millions of Americans under its sway. In the name of selfish self-interest, therefore, Trump cult followers have insisted it is their right not to wear a facial covering and to ignore calls for social distancing or any measures to contain the coronavirus. It’s their “damned right” to be damned, so they tout with passion and urgency. Putin smiles coyly as Trump exclaims, “Praise the Lord (of Darkness).” On the other hand there is Biden and Cuomo, and while Biden will serve bravely and steadfastly to restore our culture in the wake of the upper hand that Putin and Trump currently have, it is Cuomo who is our inspired field general leading the charge against the virus for the forces of life and love. He has demonstrated a sheer power of leadership to reverse the virus’ trend in his state, and the data proves it. We are not helpless, but we must rise up.
CO MME NT
JULY 16 – 22, 2020 | PAGE 21
Nicholas F. Benton
Nicholas Benton may be emailed at nfbenton@fcnp.com.
Our Man in Arlington By Charlie Clark
Hunger has long gnawed at a slice of our community. But the virus crisis may mark the first time that hundreds of neighbors have been seen lining up on the street for compassionately donated food. On the morning of July 1, I watched from out in front of South Arlington’s Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church as nearly 200 — masked and standing six feet apart — calmly waited their turn on the sidewalk and parking lot. Some carried wheeled carts, recyclable bags and/or small children. They were drawn to the regular food pantry by a special event: The downtown-based World Central Kitchen run by global star chef Jose Andres had prepared, packed and donated 3,580 meals to the Arlington church at S. 19th and Edgewood Sts. As a local NBC news crew filmed, the recipients, once it was their turn at the front of the line, came forward to the sanitized plastic chairs stationed in front of the church’s Father T. Ray Hall to collect a grocery bag (also donated). In the bags were six refrigerated meals — one sample plastic container I was shown contained a tastefully arranged pasta, vegetables and a biscuit. “We got rid of every meal” to the day’s 600 households, I was told by Sally Diaz-Wells, the church’s social justice and outreach minis-
ter, who is a proud Arlingtonian of 11 years. She estimates the recipients as 75 percent Latino and the remaining 25 percent Black, Asian-American and white, “a little bit of everybody.” I asked if they had to prove Arlington residency to receive food. “We don’t believe in borders,” she said. “Our rule is if you need food, we will give you food.” During the pandemic, the Our Lady Queen of Peace pantry has scaled up from serving 235 families weekly to between 550 and 675 families, according to Amber Roseboom, the Arlington-based media relations director for the 70 parishes in the regional Catholic Diocese of Arlington. “Our commitment to the community is that we are in this for the long haul and will continue to do our best to help these families put food on their kitchen tables,” said the church pastor, Father Tim Hickey. Many other churches have stepped up efforts to ease food insecurity. Saint George’s Episcopal is the county’s longest-running food pantry, going back to 1989. At the task fulltime, of course, is the secular Arlington Food Assistance Center, to which several of my neighbors are funneling donations. And the Safeway Foundation this month announced that it had awarded $570,500 in a second round of grants to area nonprofits from its Help Feed Families During the
Crisis fundraiser. Our hometown, I saw in person, has now joined the list of other American communities with normally stable middle-class residents now forced by the pandemic’s economic freeze-out to get over any stigma and approach others for their next meal. It’s also a sign that Congress’s work on spreading relief dollars is not done. When I arrived at Our Lady Queen of Peace, I handed a few token cans of food to the staff working the sorting operation in the back of the Father Ray multipurpose room. I felt embarrassed that it seemed only a drop in the bucket. But they thanked me profusely. *** Another indicator of damage from the virus crisis: canceled high school reunions. Yorktown’s classes of ‘70 and ’75 both announced on Facebook in recent weeks that their events lovingly planned for this autumn are a no-go. Washington-Liberty’s classes of ’60 and ’70 made a similar concession to the grim reality, posting on the W-L alumni association’s “reunion scorecard.” Wakefield’s classes of ‘60, ‘70 and ‘80 postponed. O’Connell ‘70’s original plan was teased on the school website last October, but has not been updated. Most organizers have selected the odd next year’s anniversary for the rescheduled, even-year gathering.
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Mason Grad Zach Falter Dies at 47 Zachary Falter died unexpectedly on July 6 at his home in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, where he lived with his mother, Nancy Falter Whalen. He was 47 years old. Zach grew up with his family in Falls Church, which was where he spent the happiest days of his life. He graduated from George Mason High School in 1991 and from the University of Virginia in 1995. Soon after graduation, he was stricken with schizophrenia, which drastically changed the course of his life. While attending George Mason, Zach was active in sports and music, becoming captain of the football and wrestling teams, a member of the band where he played the drums, and part of a rock band with his friends from George Mason. Zach was also an honors student who received many scholastic awards and was especially proud of graduating from UVA where he earned a BA in English Literature.
After he became ill, his journey was difficult at best, but he rarely complained. While he learned to cope with his mental illness, he developed serious, chronic health conditions in the last few years of his life. He loved to spend time with his family, listen to music, and celebrate every holiday, even Groundhog Day, in his own creative way. Zachary is survived by his father Steven Falter of Falls Church; his mother Nancy Falter Whalen of Shepherdstown; his twin brother Mitchell (Laurie) Falter of Clifton; his sister Bethany Falter of Ashburn and his niece and nephew, Cecilia Falter Wolfe and Thomas Falter, as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins, all of whom grieve his loss and celebrate his life. His family will have a memorial service at a later date. Anyone who cares to remember Zachary’s life is invited to do so by gaining a better understanding and greater acceptance of those with mental
School Board
Noonan said he had a productive meeting with members of the Falls Church Education Foundation Monday night, but noted that bringing parents onto campuses to volunteer “is problematic” given current concerns. Better, he said, to support the efforts of teachers. “Every week should be Teacher Appreciation Week,” he quipped, and effort be made to “create a culture around facial coverings.” “We must strive to make everybody accountable to everybody,” he stressed. “We all have a roll to play in
Continued from Page 5
is working with the Fairfax Health Department that has hired 500 people for “contact tracing,” set up as “one of the best programs in the U.S.” There will be seating charts for use in the event any student tests positive for purposes of contact tracing, which will be done with anyone proximate that has been near the student for 15 minutes or more.
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TO LETTERS THE EDITOR Continued from Page 6
described in the plaque are probably apocryphal renders it ahistorical in addition to being merely offensive. Ultimately, the narrative of the “Hangman’s Tree” can no more be rehabilitated than the “Lost Cause,” both of which are harmful myths. The plaque should probably be removed, but the concoction of a local legend to defy and intimidate African-Americans should not be forgotten by us. David Radisky Falls Church
ZACH FALTER illnesses or by making a contribution to the National Alliance on Mental Illness headquartered in Arlington. how the fall goes,” said Board chair Greg Anderson prior to reading a formal statement of support and confidence in the efforts of Dr. Noonan and his staff that decisions are being made with the best interests of all in the context of the plethora of information and feedback considerations taken into account. At the beginning of the meeting, another spate of letters were read into the record concerning consideration of changing the names of Thomas Jefferson and George Mason schools on grounds that those Founding Father figures owned slaves. One letter in favor of keeping the names was from the daughter of the founder of the Falls Church system’s IB program, the late Lou Olom, who said he would have wanted to names to be retained based on their overriding contributions to democratic values, and one from a self-proclaimed member of the “Hell no, we won’t go” generation who graduated from Mason in 1970. Joel Block, the Henderson Middle School teacher of the Falls Church Education Association, questioned the cost of a name change in these troubled times and what tradeoffs they might require. He noted that changing the name of Justice High School in Fairfax County was estimated to cost $445,000.
Editorial Was Right: Hangman’s Plaque Has Got To Go
Editor, The editorial in last week’s edition on the City’s Hangman’s Tree was right on! It should be removed. In addition to recalling a despicable past, it has never been proved that the tree was actually used for that purpose. I propose a more appropriate recognition at this location – possibly commemorating the city’s efforts to restore the community’s tree coverage and its repeated recognition as a Tree City USA by the American Arbor Day Foundation. The City’s Historical Commission with the Tree Commission can be tasked with the effort of designing an appropriate plaque. History: in 1984, I headed an investment group that purchased the 70 percent vacant, 30 year old, shopping center for major renovation plus the addition of a new restaurant. The task would require major city approvals – zoning changes, allowable use changes, lot coverage increases, parking lot entrance relocations, and more. I solicited support from the Village Preservation and Improvement Society for support, and pledged to use their landscape architect who had recently developed a prototype design for the city. I also agreed to dedicate a 15 foot easement along the West Broad Street frontaqe to accommodate the city’s own streetscape design (the only one ever executed by the city). This allowed for two rows of trees along the city major thoroughfare. This concept was part of a long range planning guide for the city.
If this effort were to be successful, I would also recommend that the city replace the existing, off putting, 35 year old, bus shelter with the city’s new distinctive and handsome shelter. This would complete the recognizable shelter design along Broad Street. Paul Barkley Falls Church
Calls to Remove Hangman’s Plaque Are Overboard
Editor, Have I become so old as to rant against political correctness? First, let’s be clear about 2 things. One, statues are not history. Do you know who Adolph Hitler is? Have you seen many statues of him? He’s history, we learn about him, but we don’t commemorate him. Second, no other country builds monuments to treason. So let’s get rid of all the Robert E Lees and Albert Pikes (it should have happened decades ago, although we ought to do it legally). But the Hangman’s Tree Plaque? Aren’t we over reading a little to say citing a legend about hanging spies is taunting, akin to displaying a noose to African-Americans? I never felt like “Civil War Day” claimed a false equivalency between the North and South, but it could certainly be improved with more context especially about slavery and race. But analogizing a goofy, spooky and probably false old tale about hanging spies to be as a “veritable noose” feels more like a false equivalency. Some time back, when I heard the Lieutenant Governor of Maryland, a black man, talking about having to look out his window each day at a statue of Roger Taney, the man who wrote the Dred Scott decision; that’s when the absurdity of asking a student to attend a school or a soldier to serve at a base named for someone who fought to keep them in bondage kind of hit me. But the Hangman’s Tree? A quirky silly piece of lore? Come on. (Don’t know a thing about George Mason, except that his Memorial is pretty cool. It’s also downtown, suggest you go see it before it ends up in the tidal basin). Jimmy Jung Falls Church
Distancing: (AKA Social Distancing)
Intentionally increasing physical space between people to avoid spreading illness • Stay at least six feet away from others • Don’t touch, hug or shake hands • Avoid places where people gather Physical distancing, also known as social distancing, is believed to be one of the most effective ways to slow the spread of pandemics like COVID-19. Like other respiratory viruses, COVID-19 is primarily spread through “respiratory droplets” from an infected person. Physical distancing of at least six feet reduces your chances of contracting COVID-19. Wearing a nonmedical cloth face covering in public is also recommended to reduce the risk of transmission.
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Fa l l s C h u r c h
LO CA L
JULYSafety 16 – 22, 2020 | PAGE 23 Shopping
While staying home as much as possible and opting to use curbside pickup or delivery services is recommended, here are a few tips to help protect your hea and the health of others during essential trips to the grocery store or pharma
Business News & Notes Turkish Restaurant Opens in Falls Church Borekg has opened at 315 S. Maple Avenue in Falls Church. Specializing in Turkish Mom’s Cookin’, Borekg offers baked goods, Paninis, classic mezes and dips, baklava, and grocery items. Borekg is open Monday through Sunday from 9 am – 9 pm for curbside pickup, grab and go, dine in or out, and deliveries. Stop by to meet owner and chef Dilek Kaygusuz or visit online at www.borekg.com for more information.
Eden Center Hosting A Free Drive-In Movie Night
• Wear a cloth face covering or mask to cover your nose and mouth. • Shop at off-peak hours when fewer people are in stores. • Carry disinfectant wipes to clean the cart or basket handle before touching it. • Remain at least six feet away from other customers and store employees. • Make a list, and get in and out of the store as quickly as possible. • Avoid touching any part of your face or face covering until after you have washed your hands or used an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. • Wash your hands after unpacking your groceries, before cooking and before eat
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We take our responsibility Intentionally increasing physical space Straight from the Thank you for your co between people to avoid spreading illness to maintain a safer & • Stay at least six feet away from others best optical trade sanitized work • Don’t touch, hug or shake hands Distanced NOT Disconnected • Avoid places where people gather environment seriously. shows in Europe, Physical isolation from other people can be difficult Physical distancing, also known as social emotionally and mentally, and health organizations are we offer distancing, is believed to be one of the most • Increased store emphasizing the cleaning importance of staying socially connected. effective ways to slow the spread of pandemics & disinfecting like COVID-19. Like other respiratory viruses, high-quality, COVID-19 is primarily spread through “respiratory • Appointments required to from an infected person. Physical affordable droplets” distancing of at least six feet reduces your allow for social distancing chances of contracting COVID-19. Wearing a “fashion for thenonmedical cloth face covering in public is also • Face masks required recommended to reduce the risk of transmission. face” that’s • Face coverings for our employees fun, versatile and eye-catching. www.policelifestyle.com Shopping Safety (AKA Social Distancing)
Eden Center is hosting a free Drive-In Movie Night on Saturday, July 18 at 9 pm. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of The Eden Center’s restaurants and then stay for a viewing of “Paris by Night” in the parking lot. The Eden Center is a Vietnamese American strip mall and a leading tourist destination located near the crossroads of Seven Corners and the City of Falls Church. Mall management has taken significant steps to keep patrons and business staff safe by installing Purell touchless hand sanitizer stations, increased cleaning frequency and protocals, added signage to remind people to wear face protection and wash hands, and created an outdoor food court to help customers social distance. For more information, visit www.edencenter.com.
Falls Church Chamber Hosting a Zoom Webinar For The Sitting Professional The Falls Church Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Zoom Webinar, The Sitting Professional, on Tuesday, July 21 from 12:15 to 1:15 pm. The webinar will be presented by Dr. Jorge Villalobos, DPT, CEAS, COMT and include tips and tricks to help those working behind a desk move more during the day. Dr. Villalobos coordinates the industrial medicine and OrthoTriage programs at Body Dynamics, Inc. and he specializes in the treatment of foot and ankle, fitting of orthotics, and ergonomics education. Self-introductions by attendees will take place following the presentation. There is no fee to attend but donations are greatly appreciated. For more information, visit the event calendar at www. FallsChurchChamber.org.
FC City Commissioner of Revenue Reminds Restaurants to Charge Full Meals Tax
“
Groceri & More
There's no lockdown on laughter; there's no lockdown on talking to your family and finding ways to connect.
Maria Van Kerkhove
Infectious Diseases Epidemiologist World Health Organization (WHO)
”
Thank you for your continued support and understanding thisDoctor difficult time! Dr. Peter Ellis Eye Exams Bythrough Independent of Optometry,
While staying home as much as possible and opting to use curbside pickup or delivery services is recommended, here are a few tips to help protect your health and the health of others during essential trips to the grocery store or pharmacy:
• Wear a cloth face covering or mask to cover your nose and mouth. • Shop at off-peak hours when fewer people are in stores. • Carry disinfectant wipes to clean the cart or basket handle before touching it. • Remain at least six feet away from other customers and store employees. • Make a list, and get in and out of the store as quickly as possible. • Avoid touching any part of your face or face covering until after you have washed your hands or used an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. • Wash your hands after unpacking your groceries, before cooking and before eating.
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Governor Ralph Northam Launches Clean Energy Virginia Governor Ralph Northam has launched Clean Energy Virginia, a new initiative to drive investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency and help meet the Commonwealth’s goals for clean energy production, which include powering 100 percent of Virginia’s electricity from carbon-free sources. As part of the new initiative, the Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy will launch a five-part webinar series to educate businesses and stakeholders on recent legislation and highlight opportunities for clean energy businesses to expand or locate in Virginia. Webinars on Energy Efficiency, Distributed Solar Generation, Energy Storage, Utility-Scale Solar and Onshore Wind, and Offshore Wind will be held on Wednesdays July 22, July 29, August 5, August 12, and August 19 respectively. For more information visit www.dmme.virginia.gov. Business News & Notes is compiled by Sally Cole, Executive Director of Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. She may be emailed at sally@fallschurchchamber.org.
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PAGE 24 | JULY 16 – 22, 2020
F ALLS C HURCH H EALTH
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Will Life Ever Be Normal Again? BY MATLIDA CHARLES
KING FEATURES SYNDICATE
The experts can’t agree on when (if ever) the coronavirus will completely vanish, or if they’ll be able to create a vaccine and when it will actually be safe to eat in a restaurant. Will this be like the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic, with a mild first wave, followed by a deadly second wave months later? Just today there was snarling among the experts about whether asymptomatic people (those with the virus but no symptoms) can actually pass along the germs. What if it takes a very long
time to return to normal? I think we need to be prepared for that, for having a new way of living, for now...and working to make that OK. A highlight of my summer is likely to be the barbecue I’m planning: 10 good friends, all properly spaced around the yard (I’ve measured where the seats and food table will go), one person manning the grill, all the food courtesy of the grocery store deli so no one has to shop and cook, a boom box blasting tunes across the yard. It’ll be great and has picked up my spirits just planning for it. I’ve also made adjustments to my budget, moving a few
things in the Entertainment category. The Lunches and Dinners Out money got pushed over to Books, and I’ll spend that cash on more e-books for my Kindle, since going to the library is out. What will your list look like, if you aim toward finding some relaxation and peace in our ongoing crisis? If you become weary of following social distancing guidelines and begin to think that all this unrest and angst about the coronavirus is unnecessary, go online to the National Geographic website and view the charts they’ve provided about how the Spanish flu spread (or didn’t spread) through various cities, depending on how they handled lockdowns. It’s an eye-opener. Matilda Charles regrets that she cannot personally answer reader questions, but will incorporate them into her column whenever possible. Send email to columnreply2@ gmail.com.
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
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HEA LTH
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
JULY 16 - 22, 2020 | PAGE 25
We Remain Open!
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Dr. Cannon is actively involved in the Arlington and Falls Church Chambers of Commerce. He is on staff at Inova Fair Oaks Hospital and Virginia Hospital Center. Dr. Cannon, Dr. Dharia and their staff welcome you to their office and look forward to seeing you soon.
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PAGE 26 | JULY 16 – 22, 2020
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
FALLS CHURCHCALENDAR In response to the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic affecting the globe and policies enacted to avoid social gatherings, the News-Press will publish a list of virtual events weekly in lieu of its regular listings. If you have a virtual event you’d like to see listed, please email calendar@fcnp.com. Deadline is 5 p.m. Monday weekly.
CITYEVENTS SATURDAY, JULY 18 Falls Church Farmers Market To Go. The Falls Church Farmers Market has converted to a preorder, to-go event. All orders must be placed in advance of Saturday’s market which will be open from 8 a.m. – noon for pre-order pickup only in front of City Hall (300 Park Ave.). A list of participating vendors and information on pre-
ordering can be found at fallschurchva.gov/547/Farmers-MarketTo-Go.
VIRTUALEVENTS
THURSDAY, JULY 16 Felt Crafts with Shannyn Snyder Workshops. Interested attendees can spend an afternoon at home with a Grab and Go Craft kit provided by Shannyn Snyder Workshops. Everything an attendee needs for a felt sewing project will be available in the kit along with instructions provided by Shannyn. Felt Craft Kits will be available via curbside pickup starting July 9 at 601 S. Oak St., Falls Church. 3 – 3:30 p.m.
FRIDAY, JULY 17 Silent Witness Against Racial Injustice. Members of the Falls Church faith communities and neighborhoods will join togeth-
er in silent witness to highlight racial injustice and elevate Black voices. Rain or shine. Attendees are encouraged to bring a sign as well as water. Attendees should also wear a mask and maintain a social distance of 6 – 10 feet Parking available at Falls Church Presbyterian. For more information, contact nancybp@mac. com. 5 – 6 p.m.
MONDAY, JULY 20 City Council Work Session (Virtual). City Council work sessions are held the first and third Monday of the month. These meetings are open to the public and are conducted to allow Council Members to discuss upcoming legislation and policy issues; the public is not generally invited to speak. All participating members of the City Council will be present at this meeting through electronic means. All members of the public
Webinar Luncheon
Tuesday, July 21 —12:00 to 1:00 Partner Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
The Sitting Professional
Whether you are working from home or are back at the office, chances are you are spending a lot of time sitting in front of a computer. Join us for a virtual presentation by Body Dynamics’ Dr. Jorge Villalobos, DPT, CEAS, COMT for some tips and tricks to get you moving.
may view this electronic meeting via www.fallschurchva.gov/ CouncilMeetings. The meeting may also be viewed on FCCTV (Cox 11, RCN 2, Verizon 35). Video will be available after the meeting both online and on FCCTV. 7:30 – 11 p.m.
THEATER&ARTS FRIDAY, JULY 17
The Librarian. There is a library of your life stacked on its shelves. The Librarian charges 200 bucks a minute to help you rewrite it. Then a clown walks in…From actress Elizabeth Keith, who plays the client, “As with live theater, this short play showcases the amazing work of the show’s ‘behind-the-scenes’ tech crew whose talents and hard work contribute so much to telling this story. Show plays all weekend. Visit providenceplayers.org to reserve a spot now. 6:45 p.m.
LIVEMUSIC
THURSDAY, JULY 16 Guitarist Rich Barry. The State Theatre (220 N Washington St., Falls Church). 7:30 p.m. 703-2370300.
FRIDAY, JULY 17 Q Squared Falls Church Distillers (442 S. Washington Street, Ste A Falls Church). 8 p.m. 703-8589186.
SATURDAY, JULY 18 Old Dominion Trio. Falls Church Distillers (442 S. Washington Street, Ste A Falls Church). 3 p.m. 703-858-9186. Shawn Codey & The Kodiaks. Falls Church Distillers (442 S. Washington Street, Ste A Falls Church). 7 p.m. 703-858-9186.
SUNDAY, JULY 19 Open Mic with The Field Shaman. Falls Church Distillers (442 S. Washington Street, Ste A Falls Church). 5 p.m. 703-858-9186.
Webinar Orientation Tuesday, July 28 —12:15 to 1:15
Would you like to:
Learn more about the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce? Make the most of your benefits? Find out how to add Events/Hot Deals and edit your Member Page? Network with other Chamber members?
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors Body Dynamics John Marshall Bank John N. Rodock —
Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC
Tax Analysts
Those interested in participating must REGISTER ONLINE to secure the link to the Zoom meeting.
Those interested in participating must REGISTER ONLINE to secure the link to the Zoom meeting.
Before the lunch, order for delivery or grab & go from one of our restaurants http:// www.fallschurchchamber.org/live-local-falls-church.
Before the lunch, order for delivery or grab & go from one of our restaurants http:// www.fallschurchchamber.org/live-local-falls-church.
Learn More at www.FallsChurchChamber.org
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
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JULY 16 – 22, 2020 | PAGE 27
Virus Forces F.C. City Camps to Set Capacity & Age Limits BY MATT DELANEY
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
One of the summer signatures in the City of Falls Church are the camps offered through its Recreation and Parks department. Covid-19’s spread throughout the country influenced the City to scale back or outright cancel certain camps, making “fun” one of the lesser known, but more persistent casualties of the pandemic. “Those kids make relationships in the summer, especially the ones in the Summer Fun program for the full eight weeks,” Amy Youngs, the deputy director for the City’s Recreation and Parks department, said. “It’s just sad that there’s a lot of kids who aren’t having the experience they’re used to having.” The camp season that was supposed to kick off in midJune didn’t even hold its first get-together until Falls Church’s staple, Summer Fun, began the week of June 22. More camps began to open up starting July 6, with dance and soccer activities allowed to start
up with modifications to keep up the social distancing. Writing and LEGO camps also got going this week starting on Monday, including another popular offering in All American Sports. Youngs mentioned that more specialized camps, such as fishing and mountain biking ones, have also been full. But an age limit that the Recreation and Parks department decided on excluded younger children. Youngs said that the minimum age for this year’s camps was chosen at 8. Preschoolers, Youngs added, were expected to have a hard time maintaining the social distancing protocols that have become commonplace in preventing the spread of coronavirus. Youngs and the rest of the staff referenced Virginia’s Department of Social Services as well as the state’s Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines when making the final call on how camps will be run. Just like with the raised age limit, those guidelines have left some families on the out-
PRESCHOOLERS are excluded from this year’s round of camps offered by the City of Falls Church’s Recreation and Parks department because of�icials thought it would be too hard for them to follow social distancing guidelines. (P����: N���-P����) side looking in when it comes to enrollment. On a given week, the camps would typically have 600 kids registered, Youngs said. Now, those same camps are topping out at 150 kids per week. Capacities have been lowered as well, with a camp that would normally host
20 kids being chopped down to 12. “There’s definitely been some parents that are saying ‘Please take my kid and give them something to do,’” Youngs said with a chuckle. “But in general, I think people are being a little more cautious.
So far, the Recreation and Parks department has only announced which camps will be available through the end of July. Interested campgoers (and their parents) should expect an update on which camps will be offered for the month of August on Monday, July 20.
BECOME A MEMBER OF THE NEWS-PRESS & HELP US KEEP COMMUNITY JOURNALISM ALIVE & WELL IN THE LITTLE CITY. Since 1991, the News-Press has been on a mission to provide independent and honest journalism to the Falls Church community. We recognize and appreciate the support the City, its businesses and residents have shown us for the past 29 years. Now, we need your help to con�nue with our mission. If you find value in our work and believe the News-Press contributes to the be�erment of the Falls Church community, please consider becoming a member today and help us keep you informed on all the happenings — big and small — in The Li�le City. Never before has the fight to ensure a free press been more important.
Visit FCNP.com/members to become a member of the News-Press today
PAGE 28 | JULY 16 - 22, 2020 AUCTIONS Absolute Auction! Sat. Aug 1st
10:30AM. 172 Acres in 7 Tracts. Galax, Va 24333 for more info call 276-686-8539 or visit wagonerauctions.com
ATTN. AUCTIONEERS: Advertise your
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HELP WANTED Vacancies: K-4, 5-8, Special Educa-
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
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CLASSI F I E DS (TR20-30) RESOLUTION TO GRANT SPECIAL EXCEPTION SITE PLAN (SEC. 48-488.B(3)) FOR A MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT WITH A BUILDING HEIGHT UP TO FIFTEEN (15) STORIES ON APPROXIMATELY 8.82 ACRES OF LAND LOCATED AT 7124 LEESBURG PIKE (PORTIONS OF REAL PROPERTY CODE NUMBERS 51-221-006, -007) ON APPLICATION BY FALLS CHURCH GATEWAY PARTNERS The application materials for the above items may be viewed on the City’s web site: http://www.fallschurchva.gov/WFC (TO20-17) AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE OFFICIAL ZONING DISTRICT MAP OF THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA, BY REZONING A TOTAL OF APPROXIMATELY 1.7 ACRES OF LAND TO REPLACE THE EXISTING PROFFERED DEVELOPMENT CONDITIONS WHILE MAINTAINING THE B-3, GENERAL BUSINESS ZONING DESIGNATION FOR THE PROPERTIES AT 116 EAST FAIRFAX AND 130 EAST FAIRFAX (REAL PROPERTY CODE 53-108-007 AND 53-108-009) ON APPLICATION BY FAIRFAX ONE, LLC AND THE PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH The Planning Commission will also consider approval of the following site plan application: SITE PLAN APPLICATION #2019-1177 TO PERMIT THE CONSTRUCTION OF A 1.5 STORY COMMERCIAL BUILDING ON APPROXIMATELY 0.88 ACRES OF LAND LOCATED ON 130 EAST FAIRFAX STREET, RPC #53-108-009 OF THE FALLS CHURCH REAL PROPERTY RECORDS, ZONED B-3, GENERAL BUSI-
SERVICES
NESS, ON APPLICATION BY FAIRFAX ONE, LLC AND THE PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH The application materials for the above items will be available on the city’s webpage prior to the public hearing: http://www. fallschurchva.gov/PC
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Public comment will be accepted via email at cgahres@fallschurchva.gov <mailto:cgahres@fallschurchva.gov> until 6:30 p.m. on July 23rd. The link to access the virtual meeting will be available at www.fallschurchva.gov/HARB <http://www. fallschurchva.gov/HARB> .
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On August 5, 2020, at 7:30 p.m., the City of Falls Church Planning Commission will hold a virtual public meeting. All members of the public may view this electronic meeting via www.fallschurchva.gov/PC. The meeting may also be viewed on FCCTV (Cox 11, RCN 2, and Verizon 35). Video will be available after the meeting both online and on FCCTV. The Planning Commission will consider the following items and recommendations to City Council:
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1. “The United States is not, and never will be, at war with ____”: Obama 6. Part of OTOH 11. Chinese zodiac animal of 2020 14. “Throw ____ From the Train” (1987 Danny DeVito comedy) 15. Green 16. SeÒora PerÛn 17. Cold beverage sweetened with sugar and condensed milk that originated in Southeast Asia 19. Cardinal ____ 20. Tic-tac-toe win 21. Toodle-oos 22. Drench 23. All-Star infielder Miguel 24. Go-getter 26. One teaching pizza slices and S-turns 31. Longer forearm bone 33. Hostile look 34. Org. behind the Bay of Pigs invasion 35. “No, no, really ...” 38. Charlotte of “The Facts of Life” 39. It creates an adjustable loop 41. Producer of boxing rings 42. Popular Asian honeymoon destination 46. Norms: Abbr. 47. Agreeable (to) 48. Exclamations from Scrooge 50. Jet similar to a 747 52. POTUS #36 55. Wrath
STRANGE BREW
56. Agree ... or what you’ll do when solving 17-, 26-, 35- or 42-Across 59. No later than 60. Drum used for a drumroll 61. Sample 62. Smoked fish 63. Razzle-dazzle 64. River frolicker
Down 1. “If ____ believe ...” 2. Manhattan area north of TriBeCa 3. “Hahahahahaha!” 4. “Who ____ kidding?” 5. Tiki bar drink 6. Equivalent of 32,000 ounces 7. “And there you have it!” 8. Google results 9. December 31, e.g. 10. Stephen of “V for Vendetta” 11. It may offer dining options and a spa 12. Running shoe brand 13. Fail miserably 18. “Please, Mommy ... Please, Daddy?” 22. Mennonites, e.g. 23. Reggae relative 24. Prohibitionists 25. Remove from power 26. Mobile home? 27. “Law & Order” actor Jeremy 28. Cable co. acquired by AT&T 29. Word before surgeon or tradition 30. Rod’s partner 31. Golden State school inits. 32. Philanthropist Wallace
JOHN DEERING
Sudoku
JULY 16 - 22, 2020 | PAGE 29
35. “Just joshing!” 36. Rustic lodgings 37. Show tiredness 40. Olive discards 41. Recycling ____ 43. “Just a little longer” 44. Weapon used when saying “En garde!” 45. Mailed 48. Sound ____ (and homophone of 53-Down) 49. Grammy winner India.____ 50. Good buy 51. Michael of “Arrested Development” 52. For fear that 53. Memory unit (and homophone of 48-Down) 54. Taunt from the bleachers 56. Compass dir. 57. Bus. letter accompanier 58. Cheerios grain
Last Thursday’s Solution R A M P S
A R A B S
M L K J R
P R I C E C U T S
R E F R A I N E D
O S C A R N O D S
B O W E N A E S T R S O H B R O B U I L O F T F U L S A F T B R T H P D E R F O R B A H I D O
O P I O I D S P E R L M A N
R L D N E A D E S K A L N B R I A C R A P A W E R I S M I A F I T I H T A
R A D D R Y E T A L
S U P E R G L U E
P R I N C E T O N
R E P O S S E S S
E X I S T
Y E N T E
E D G A R
By The Mepham Group
Level 1 2 3 4
Solution to last Sunday’s puzzle
NICK KNACK
© 2020 N.F. Benton
7/19/20
Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit sudoku.org.uk. © 2020 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.
PAGE 30 | JULY 16 – 22, 2020
LO CA L
BACK IN THE DAY
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
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25 � 10 Y���� A�� �� ��� N���-P���� Falls Church News-Press Vol. V, No. 17 • JULY 12, 1995
Falls Church News-Press Vol. XX, No. 20 • July 15, 2010
Popular Local Teen Dies In Horseback Riding Fall
Mad Fox Brewing Co. Opens in F.C. To Unexpected Surge of Patrons
Memorial services will be held tomorrow at four o’clock at The Falls Church Episcopal, E. Fairfax and S. Washington St., for popular and well-loved 14 year old Maria Elena Nudell who died tragically last Friday in a horsebackriding accident while on vacation in Texas. Friends may attend today from 2 to 9 p.m.
Monday night around 9 p.m., a small entourage of Falls Church City officials and their friends, departing from early-ending City Council and Planning Commission meetings, descended on the just-opened Mad Fox Brewing Company in downtown Falls Church to a capacity crowd of happy patrons.
THE SIBLINGS Mareth (background) and Kepler Heartney are enjoying hanging out with their humans who are home all the time now and getting lots of attention, especially from their big sisters, Sofía and Kira. The pair were rescued from London, England and are happy to be on this side of the pond. Just because you’re not famous doesn’t mean your pet can’t be! Send in your Critter Corner submissions to crittercorner@fcnp.com.
UPCOMING
AUCTIONS Roanoke Co.
Beautiful 39 Acre Roanoke Estate Thur, Aug.6 @ 12:30PM 6505 Winter Dr, Boones Mill, VA Just 7mi from Roanoke w/ 3558sf 4br 3ba home, 3br 2ba guest home, pond, stream, pool, 12-stall barn, and outdoor arena. Bid live or online at trfauctions.com
Campbell Co.
ABSOLUTE: 113 Acres with Pond Wed, Aug.12 @ 12:30PM Brookneal Hwy, Gladys, VA Ideal for private estate, farm, hunting, or timber investment. Majority in young planted pine. 1035’ of frontage on US-501. Bid live or online at trfauctions.com
Charlottesville
20,202 Sq.Ft. Professional Office Bldg Thur, Aug.13 @ 12:30PM 3926 Seminole Trl, Charlottesville, VA Former American National University campus. 2-story steel frame/brick building on 6.34ac. Public utilities. Elevator. Bid live or online at trfauctions.com
TRF
AUCTIONS
Torrence, Read, & Forehand VAAF501
Details, photos, & terms online
434.847.7741 | TRFAuctions.com
JULY 16 - 22, 2020 | PAGE 31
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Legal Notice
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC OF AN APPLICATION BY VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY D/B/A DOMINION ENERGY VIRGINIA FOR APPROVAL OF A RATE ADJUSTMENT CLAUSE RIDER B, BIOMASS CONVERSIONS OF THE ALTAVISTA, HOPEWELL, AND SOUTHAMPTON POWER STATIONS FOR THE RATE YEAR COMMENCING APRIL 1, 2021 CASE NO. PUR-2020-00099 •Virginia Electric and Power Company d/b/a Dominion Energy Virginia (“Dominion”) has applied for approval to revise its rate adjustment clause, Rider B. •Dominion’s request represents an increase of $24,124,355 million annually, which would decrease the bill of a typical residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours per month by $0.17. •A Hearing Examiner appointed by the State Corporation Commission will hold an evidentiary hearing in the case on November 23, 2020. •Further information about this case is available on the SCC website at: https://scc.virginia.gov/pages/Case-Information. On June 1, 2020, Virginia Electric and Power Company d/b/a Dominion Energy Virginia (“Dominion” or “Company”), pursuant to § 56-585.1 A 6 of the Code of Virginia (“Code”), filed with the State Corporation Commission (“Commission”) an annual update of the Company’s rate adjustment clause, Rider B (“Application”). Through its Application, the Company seeks to recover costs associated with the major unit modifications of the Altavista, Hopewell, and Southampton Power Stations; from coal-burning generation facilities into renewable biomass generation facilities (collectively, the “Biomass Conversion Projects” or “Conversions”). In Case No. PUE-2011-00073, the Commission approved the proposed Conversions as major unit modifications under Code § 56-585.1 A 6 and reissued amended certificates of public convenience and necessity for the Altavista, Hopewell, and Southampton Power Stations (the “CPCN Order”). The CPCN Order also authorizes Dominion to recover costs associated with the construction of the Biomass Conversion Projects. All three Biomass Conversion Projects became operational in 2013. In this proceeding, Dominion has asked the Commission to approve Rider B for the rate year beginning April 1, 2021, and ending March 31, 2022 (“2021 Rate Year”). The two components of the proposed total revenue requirement for the 2021 Rate Year are the Projected Cost Recovery Factor and the Actual Cost True-Up Factor. The Company is requesting a combined Projected Cost Recovery Factor revenue requirement of $29,213,936 and a combined Actual Cost True Up Factor revenue requirement of ($5,089,581). Thus, the Company is requesting a total revenue requirement of $24,124,355 for service rendered during the 2021 Rate Year. For purposes of calculating the revenue requirement in this case, Dominion utilized an enhanced rate of return on common equity (“ROE”) of 9.2%. This ROE comprises a general ROE of 9.2%, approved by the Commission in Case Nos. PUR-2017-00038 and PUR-2019-00050. If the proposed Rider B for the 2021 Rate Year is approved, the impact on customer bills would depend on the customer’s rate schedule and usage. According to Dominion, implementation of its proposed Rider B on April 1, 2021, would decrease the bill of a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours per month by approximately $0.17. The Company indicates it has calculated the proposed Rider B rates in accordance with the same methodology as used for rates approved by the Commission in the most recent Rider B proceeding, Case No. PUR-2019-00085, with the exception that in this case the Company did not remove federal customers’ and retail choice customers’ load and usage for the purpose of designing rates. This Application is one of six filings Dominion made on or about June 1, 2020, for recovery of funds related to capital projects. If the revenue requirements in these filings are approved as proposed, the cumulative impact would be a monthly increase of approximately $0.96 for a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours per month. Interested persons are encouraged to review the Application and supporting documents for the details of these and other proposals. TAKE NOTICE that the Commission may apportion revenues among customer classes and/or design rates in a manner differing from that shown in the Application and supporting documents and thus may adopt rates that differ from those appearing in the Company’s Application and supporting documents. A public hearing on the Application shall be convened on November 23, 2020, at 10 a.m., to receive the testimony of public witnesses and the evidence of the Company, any respondents, and the Staff. Further details on the hearing will be provided by subsequent Commission Order or Hearing Examiner’s Ruling. The Commission has taken judicial notice of the ongoing public health emergency related to the spread of the coronavirus, or COVID-19, and the declarations of emergency issued at both the state and federal levels. In accordance therewith, all pleadings, briefs, or other documents required to be served in this matter should be submitted electronically to the extent authorized by 5 VAC 5-20-150, Copies and format, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure (“Rules of Practice”). Confidential and Extraordinarily Sensitive information shall not be submitted electronically and should comply with 5 VAC 5-20-170, Confidential information, of the Rules of Practice. For the duration of the COVID-19 emergency, any person seeking to hand deliver and physically file or submit any pleading or other document shall contact the Clerk’s Office Document Control Center at (804) 371-9838 to arrange the delivery. Pursuant to 5 VAC 5-20-140, Filing and service, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice, the Commission has directed that service on parties and the Commission’s Staff in this matter shall be accomplished by electronic means. Please refer to the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing for further instructions concerning Confidential or Extraordinarily Sensitive Information. An electronic copy of the Company’s Application may be obtained by submitting a written request to counsel for the Company, Lisa R. Crabtree, Esquire, McGuireWoods LLP, Gateway Plaza, 800 East Canal Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, or LCrabtree@mcguirewoods.com. Interested persons also may download unofficial copies from the Commission’s website: https://scc.virginia.gov/pages/Case-Information. On or before November 23, 2020, any interested person may file comments on the Application by following the instructions found on the Commission’s website: https://scc.virginia. gov/casecomments/Submit-Public-Comments. All comments shall refer to Case No. PUR-2020-00099. On or before September 8, 2020, any person or entity wishing to participate as a respondent in this proceeding may do so by filing a notice of participation. Such notice of participation shall include the email addresses of such parties or their counsel. The respondent simultaneously shall serve a copy of the notice of participation on counsel to the Company. Pursuant to Rule 5 VAC 5-20-80 B, Participation as a respondent, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice, any notice of participation shall set forth: (i) a precise statement of the interest of the respondent; (ii) a statement of the specific action sought to the extent then known; and (iii) the factual and legal basis for the action. Any organization, corporation, or government body participating as a respondent must be represented by counsel as required by Rule 5 VAC 5-20-30, Counsel, of the Rules of Practice. All filings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2020-00099. On or before October 6, 2020, each respondent may file with the Clerk of the Commission and serve on the Staff, the Company, and all other respondents, any testimony and exhibits by which the respondent expects to establish its case, and each witness’s testimony shall include a summary not to exceed one page. In all filings, respondents shall comply with the Commission’s Rules of Practice, including 5 VAC 5-20-140, Filing and service; and 5 VAC 5-20-240, Prepared testimony and exhibits. All filings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2020-00099. Any documents filed in paper form with the Office of the Clerk of the Commission in this docket may use both sides of the paper. In all other respects, except as modified by the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, all filings shall comply fully with the requirements of 5 VAC 5-20-150, Copies and format, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice. The Company’s Application, the Commission’s Rules of Practice and the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing may be viewed at: https://scc.virginia.gov/pages/CaseInfomation. VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY d/b/a DOMINION ENERGY VIRGINIA
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
PAGE 32 | JULY 16 - 22, 2020
1 1 2 5 W. B r o a d S t . , F a l l s C h u r c h , V A
$199 PER MONTH MONTH LEASE $199 DUE AT SIGNING! 36 12,000 MILES/YEAR*
Top Left- FOR SALE 7307 Allan Ave, Falls Church Top Right- COMING SOON (pic attached) 7800 Antiopi Street, Annandale -4 Bedrooms -3.5 Bathrooms -Large Fenced-in Yard w/Deck -2-Car Garage
2020 KIA
SORENTO
Bottom Left- SOLD - pic attached 317 Lincoln Ave, Falls Church City -5 Bedrooms -4.5 Bathrooms -1-Car Garage -FCC Schools Bottom Right - Buyers Wanted Square Attached
LX
Stock# 7611C. MSRP: $29,495. On approved credit. Must finance through KIA Motors Finance. $219 Due at signing, plus VA tax, tag, freight, acquisition fee and processing fee of $799. $0.00 security deposit required. Offer Expires 2/6/2020
Ballston-Walk to Metro!
ROCK STAR Realty ... ROCK STAR Service
TM
Virtual Tours
ROCKSTARRealtyGroup.com/Open-Houses
FOR SALE!
308 Poplar Drive, Falls Church City 6-7 Bed 6.5 Baths
Elegant living in the heart of Ballston! Gorgeous townhome has been gilded with luxurious touches -- sparkling new light fixtures, SMART home features like Nest thermostats and keyless door locks, new hardwood floors on the loft level and garage finishes for the car lover, including a beautifully coated floor and Tesla charging station. Open plan with high ceilings is great for entertaining. All bedrooms have en suite baths and the master has 2 Elfa-organized, walk-in closets. Top floor has potential to be a master suite with sunny balcony. Enjoy plenty of flexible space and the convenience of city-life with Metro and tons of shops and restaurants within walking distance. Easy access to DC and 66. Priced at $1,175,000.
Expansive Corner Lot Custom Home w/ the finest architectural features
1001 Seaton Ln, Falls Church City 4 Bed
Renovated Kitchen
3 Baths
Large Backyard
FOR SALE !
FOR RENT!
154 Haycock Rd, #B-3, Falls Church City
513 W Broad St #711, Falls Church City
Open Sun 2-4
2 Bed 1 Bath REALTOR®
COMING SOON!
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
2101 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201
Steps to METRO Renovated Kitchen & Bath
1 Bed + Den 1.5 Baths
Condo in the Byron Walk to Shops & Dining
CALL 703-867-TORI
Tori@ROCKSTARRealtyGroup.com ROCKSTARRealtyGroup.com © 2020 Tori McKinney, LLC