Falls Church News-Press 8-11-2022

At Last, The Movies Coming to Founders Row

by Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press

The Mill Creek Residential Trust, developers of the new Founder’s Row mixed use development at the intersection of W. Broad and N. West Streets in the center of the City of Falls Church, announced through a new filing with the City that it is “in the final stages of securing a lease with Paragon Theaters,” noting that “Paragon will operate a seven-screen movie theater, including an IMAX-similar screen with a total capacity of approximately 600 seats.”

This is one less screen and approximately 150 fewer seats than previously agreed to in the voluntary concessions previously agreed to by the City, so this necessitates a revised application that was considered by the City Council last Monday night.

The plan is for Paragon to follow the multi-screen models

Falls Church Now Entering ‘Back to School’ Mode

by Nichloas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press

“Back to School” mode is in full swing in the City of Falls Church this week, despite the fact the City’s five schools start on August 29, a

Back to School 2022: This Year’s Education Guide

It’s that time of the year again! The Falls Church News Press presents its 2022 Back to School Guide, which includes important events/dates before school begins, advice for college bound students, and ways to enrich young students.

See PageS 9 — 16

week later than neighboring Fairfax County, and the fact there is clearly a lot more summer weather ahead. Ergo, this is the News-Press’ official “Back to School” edition. Check out everything we’ve done to address this fact on our inside pages.

The biggest news, from a regional standpoint, is that the Falls Church Schools are not facing a teacher shortage crisis as other systems in the region have reported. Superintendent Dr. Peter Noonan told the NewsPress Tuesday that with still weeks

Sislers Stone Business Owner Retires

FCNP’s Sally Cole describes the long career of Steve Sisler, the now-former business owner of Sislers Stone, a local familyowned and operated business.

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to go before the start of the school year, the system is down only five teachers and still recruiting.

Noonan credited the ability of the Falls Church system to avoid the

56 BEAGLES RESCUED from a mass-breeding facility in Cumberland, VA, are now calling the Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation in Falls Church their temporary home. In a recent press release, the foundation reports more than 150 adoption inquiries have been received. One can begin the adoption process by going on the “Bring A Beagle Home” web page to fill out an application, followed by a two week trial period and application review. (Photo courtesy: Heidi Gioseffi)

Steve Sisler Retires as CEO of Family-Owned Sislers Stone

by Sally Cole

You’d be hard pressed to find a business owner who is more hard working, admired, team-oriented, innovative, loyal and beloved than Steve Sisler of Sislers Stone. Steve retired in mid-July as CEO from his family-owned and, until his departure, family-operated business.

Sislers Stone was founded by Steve’s grandfather, WD Sisler, in 1937. The business has long been an important provider of natural stone, concrete pavers, sand, gravel, and the like, in the Falls Church area but it wasn’t until Steve took over in 2002 that the company became the industry leader in the Mid-Atlantic area.

Steve Sisler is very much his late father’s son. Charles Benjamin “Ben” Sisler instilled in him the importance of being honest and true to one’s word, a great appreciation for our military and a desire to serve the community as a firefighter.

Those qualities are an integral part of Steve, whose retirement is in large part due to his promise to his father to care for his mother Mary.

Steve also has an innate understanding of solid management practices and the importance of innovation, both of which were realized at a young age. Steve began working at Sislers Stone when he was 10 and he immediately began absorbing the business.

According to Harry Shovlin, who became a mentor after teaching Steve in the 6th grade and later coaching him in discus and shotput, “Steve started thinking about how he would run the business when he was in high school. He had plans.”

Steve’s innovations ranged from sales to management to inventory. He created a sales team, delegated management responsibilities and began cross-training staff.

He opened Sislers West and Shenandoah Stone Supply in West Virginia to provide contractors with a wholesale source, enable the business to secure bulk discounts and provide rapid order fulfillment.

He added fire pits and outdoor kitchens to their offerings, created displays to help buyers better understand materials, ensured that the company had a huge presence at trade shows and created Sislers University to educate contractors about all aspects of the business.

He built relationships and positioned Sislers Stone as a partner to its clients; a trusted resource, not just a source.

The same is true of Steve’s dealings with the community. During his tenure, Sislers Stone actively participated in and sponsored Falls Church City and the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce and their events while also supporting a number of

Falls Church NEWS BRIEFS

F.C. City Attorney Set To Leave in October

Carol McKoskrie, who has served the City of Falls Church as its City attorney since August 2014, announced that she will be leaving her position in October, City Manager Wyatt Shields reported this Monday.

McKoskrie led the City through a number of complicated legal situations during her tenure, including the 66 signatures required recently to consummate the deal on the 10-acre West End development project.

Sen. Warner Hails Biden Signing Vets’ Toxins Relief Act

Virginia U.S. Senator Mark Warner yesterday hailed the passage and President Biden’s signature on the monumental veterans’ toxic relief act Wednesday, the biggest bill supporting relief for veterans in 35 years.

opportunity to hear from our local elected leaders about the economic climate in the region, initiatives they have completed or are undertaking to foster economic growth, and thoughts on how each jurisdiction can work together to improve our regional economy,” according to the Chamber.

Scheduled speakers include Katie Cristol, chair, Arlington County Board, Margaret Franklin, Vice Chair, Prince William County Board of Supervisors, Jeff McKay, chair, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, Phyllis Randall, chair, Loudoun County Board of Supervisors and Justin Wilson, Mayor, City of Alexandria.

State Senator Petersen Says Most of F.C. “Door-Knocked”

In his newsletter, State Sen. Chap Peterson, who now represents the City of Falls Church, reported that he’s now door-knocked most of Falls Church, which he says is “a key part of the ‘new’ State Senate 37th District.”

nonprofits.

Steve, who has been honored by the Chamber for meritorious human service, helped found Decorate-A-Vet and is a member of the Sons of the Legionnaires and the Falls Church Volunteer Fire Department. He is also a strong supporter of local businesses.

According to David Tax, who coowns Clare & Don’s Beach Shack and Lazy Mike’s with his sister Rebecca Tax, “Steve welcomed us with open arms. He showed me how being a business owner was better as a team sport. We care about each other’s success and wellbeing and will do anything to help one another. He set the standard.”

As Harry Shovlin put it, “there are two kinds of people in this world, givers and takers. Steve is a giver.”

Steve’s management style has prepared the business for the changes ahead. Kent Deeben, who owned a masonry company before joining the Sislers’ team a decade ago, will serve as the General Manager.

Long time employees Rodriga Requeno and Pedro Rodriguez will manage various aspects of the business and Connie Poling will continue to oversee WVA operations.

Each of them was hired and trained by Steve. As Kent said, “Steve is all about personal relationships. He instills a sense of loyalty and the desire to do one’s best. He has been preparing us for when he would retire, even though it happened earlier than we expected. He’s a real leader.”

While Steve has retired as CEO, he is still one of Sislers Stone’s 14 owners. He and his longtime partner Debra Neely will remain in Falls Church, when not visiting his mother. Sislers Stone is located at 7139 Lee Highway in Falls Church, VA. Sislers West and Shenandoah Stone Supply are located in Harpers Ferry, WVA.

Warner issued the following statement: “I write today with great news. The President has just signed into law the bipartisan Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022. The PACT Act is named after Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson, who died in 2020 from exposure to toxins during his military service. By expanding access to important health care resources and making investments at the VA to help provide that care, this law promises to meet critical needs within our veteran community.

“Without getting too far into the nuts and bolts, the law specifically provides for the expansion of VA health care to 3.5 million combat veterans, adds burn pit and toxic-exposure related conditions to the VA’s list of service presumptions, strengthens federal research on toxic exposure, and allocates funds to build-out 31 new major medical facilities – including one right here in Virginia – that will help us to more consistently provide veterans with the timely and quality care that they deserve.

“What we are doing here is simple: taking care of those who have taken care of this nation. We must continue working to ensure that our service members are backed by a country that is ready, willing, and able to properly support them when they are done with their service. That’s why I’m proud to have cosponsored legislation that expanded VA coverage to veterans exposed to herbicide and voted to expand the list of medical conditions associated with Agent Orange exposure and championed legislation that expanded veterans’ access to mental health services.”

N.Va. Elected Leaders Confab Set for Aug. 25

The Northern Virginia Elected Leaders Summit hosted by the Arlington Virginia Chamber of Commerce is slated for August 25.It “offers the region’s business leaders the

He reported that “at the end of August, I’m traveling to the Republic of Korea to visit the George Mason University campus in Incheon, first authorized by my SB 712 in 2010. George Mason has positioned itself as a leader in international studies and this exciting new campus is key to its 21st century growth. As the Chair of the Korean campus Advisory Board, I will be meeting with the ROK Ministry of Education to expand our school’s scope and mission. Looking forward to my first trip outside the U.S. in many years.”

Va. Corporation Commission Adds Risk to Offshore Wind Project

Rejecting an agreement that its own staff reached with Dominion Energy Virginia, the State Corporation Commission has imposed at least some level of financial risk on the utility’s shareholders should its $10 billion offshore wind project fail to match the company’s promised performance, according to the Jefferson Journal.

“Lest you think that means the ratepayers can relax, the final order issued August 5 once again highlights all the things that could go wrong with the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW), scheduled to be fully operational by 2027. The regulators also wash their hands of any responsibility and record for posterity that the Virginia General Assembly made them approve this,” the Journal reports.

“The project, which still faces federal reviews, but which is beloved of the Biden Administration, calls for 176 turbines and three substations to be constructed 27 miles off Virginia Beach. Generated electricity will then come ashore, and 17 miles of major transmission upgrades will be built to feed it into the grid. The nameplate value is almost 2,600 megawatts but that is misleading, as the company is only promising a 42% capacity factor –less than 1,100 megawatt of average output over time,” the Journal reports.

STEVE SISLER at Sislers Stone.

(Photo courtesy: Debra Neely)

Movie Company Called ‘Good Operator’ By Mill Creek

it now operates in Delray Beach and Naples, Florida, Cary, North Carolina and Fredericksburg, Virginia.

Joe Muffler, the point person for Mill Creek in dealings with the City, told the City Council this Monday that Paragon “is a very good operator with a very good product.”

The timetable at this point is to have the lease buttoned up by September 30, building permits granted by December 31 and the complex to be open to the public by the end of 2023 at the latest.

The new terms with the City being considered now include subsidies to help the theater get off the ground that would come entirely from ticket and meals sales related to the project and not a dime from the public.

Roughly, revenues from ticket sales taxes up to $360,000 and meals taxes up to $150,000 would be applied to the subsidy. $3.6 million will be held in escrow and 16 certificates of occupancy for residential rental units will be held back pending the successful execution of the deal.

It is estimated that upon completion there will be 350,000 customers of the the-

aters annually.

The revenues that will accrue from this to the City includes what will be yielded in meals taxes from the eight restaurants now set to operate in the Founders Row project.

Restaurants set to go soon include Elle Bird, Chasin’ Tails, Roll Play Grill and Nue. Another four, Kyu Ramen, Kyo Matcha, Club Pilates and 4Ever Young, are committed to coming in later.

The Covid pandemic killed an earlier deal that Mill Creek, operating as Founders Row Holdings LLC, struck with a movie operator that went out of business because of the pandemic.

Muffler quipped that he thanked Tom Cruise for his blockbuster “Top Gun” hit this summer that returned millions to movie theaters.

The Council formally adopted two resolutions unanimously to move the process along pending final approvals at its Sept. 12 meeting. They involve changing the 2015 approved concessions to accommodate the needs of the new operators.

With Mayor David Tarter and Council member David Snyder absent, it marked the first meeting chaired by Vice Mayor Letty Hardi.

rancor parents brought to other systems in the region, as well as the Falls Church system’s small size and outstanding reputation.

Fall sports teams are well into their practice regimens, the outdoor ones having to take care for the oppressive heat we’re having, and next week begins the routine from new teacher orientations to the convocation when Superintendent Dr. Peter Noonan kicks everything off, this now being his sixth year on the job here, with what will surely be a memorable address to the entire system’s administrative, teacher and staff ranks.

Noonan was on hand for the season’s first official Falls Church School Board meeting Tuesday night at the Council chambers in City Hall. While some are still masking and two board members “attended” virtually, it was a fully functioning meeting, replete with a short “closed session” but the main purpose was to welcome the new principal for Oak Street Elementary.

A half-hour reception with a lot of sugary desserts to welcome Karim Daugherty as the new prin-

cipal was held before the formal meeting, and her appointment was ratified by an unanimous vote during the meeting.

A press release from the schools’ communications chief John Wesley Brett accompanied the ratification which touted the “extensive search” of the board’s appointed search panel that decided on Ms. Daugherty.

It turns out they didn’t have to look far, as Ms. Daugherty has served for the last nine years, and 16 years overall, as principal of the Beech Tree Elementary School in the very nearby Sleepy Hollow area just across Route 50 from Falls Church in Fairfax County.

Her long familiarity with Falls Church includes her ongoing devotion to Anthony’s Restaurant, having recently celebrated its 50th anniversary now just outside the City itself, and the Falls Church system’s incorporation of the International Baccalaureate curriculum from top to bottom (as in K-12).

Based on her knowledge of the Falls Church system, she hailed the “strong sense of collaboration” that characterized the system’s functioning during the recent pandemic “while other systems were fraught

with divisiveness,” she told the board in brief remarks. When she learned she’d been selected, she was “giddy as a child,” she reported.

She said in a statement, “I am both honored and thrilled to serve the Oak Street Community for years to come, continuing to learn and grow as an educational leader. Falls Church City Public Schools believes

every student is capable and deserving of an International Baccalaureate education, and so do I.”

in 2000. She served as assistant principal of Beech Tree Elementary in 2006 before being appointed principal in 2013. She was named the Fairfax County Federation of Teachers’ “Top Rated Principal” in 2018 and has received five Fairfax County “Outstanding Principal” nominations. She is finishing her ninth year as principal of Beech Tree

Biden’s Remarkable Summer Charles M. Blow

Media narratives are driven by trajectory.

Things get better or worse. People rise and fall. Maybe there is an upstart sensation who threatens the establishment. Maybe there is a spectacular fall from grace.

Maybe there is a comeback. Regardless of the story, the direction of movement is what matters.

Joe Biden got caught in one of those narratives: that things were going badly and people were losing confidence. Then, of course, the polls backed up that narrative, which provided a patina of proof.

But the truth is that news narratives and polls are symbiotic.

The narratives help shape what people believe, which is then captured by the polls, and those polling results are then fed back into news narratives as separate, objective and independent fact.

“Joe Biden can’t catch a break” was a neat narrative. Every new disappointing data point fit snugly within it.

But reality doesn’t play by media rules. It is often much more nuanced.

As legendary football coach Lou Holtz once put it: “You’re never as good as everyone tells you when you win, and you’re never as bad as they say when you lose.”

Biden has had some bad months, to be sure, but there is no way to get around the fact the last month or so has been stellar for the administration.

On the economic front, as of Wednesday, gas prices had fallen for 50 consecutive days, down 86 cents from the record average high of $5.02 on June 14, according to CNN.

The jobs market has also shown incredible resilience. Friday’s jobs report alone far outpaced expectations.

There are challenges. According to the Bureau of La -

bor Statistics, inflation increased “9.1 percent for the 12 months ending June, the largest 12-month increase since the period ending November 1981.”

This doesn’t invalidate that Biden has had a good month; it only underscores the complexities of any news story.

On the legislative front, in June, Biden signed the most significant federal gun safety legislation in nearly 30 years.

Two weeks ago, his big spending bill, Build Back Better, which everyone thought was dead, was resurrected in the trimmed-down form of the Inflation Reduction Act.

Now, all Democrats have cleared the way for the bill to move forward in the Senate. These developments don’t erase legislative disappointments like the failure of the voter protection bill or the police reform bill, but they are victories nonetheless.

There are foreign policy wins, like the killing of al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahri in Afghanistan and the overwhelming vote in the Senate in favor of expanding NATO to include Finland and Sweden, a direct reaction to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

And the Russians have suggested that they are open to discussing a prison swap to free Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan, both of whom are still being held in Russian custody.

Here, again, there are challenges. For instance, tensions are heating up with China, particularly after a visit to Taiwan by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Then, there is the uber issue of the Supreme Court striking down the right to an abortion. This was a gutting disappointment to liberals, and many have accused the White House of not reacting strongly enough.

But it appears that the issue has roused some otherwise disinterested or dispassionate voters and may help Democrats to hold off a massive wave of Republican wins in the midterms.

We need look no further than Kansas, a state that voted

Our Man in Arlington

By Charlie Clark

Got a home owning problem or a beef over county services?

Ombuds Ben Aiken may be your man (person). “In the last several years, we’ve been using ‘Ombuds’ rather than the ‘Ombudsman’ title to avoid gender-exclusive perceptions about the job,” said the eight-year, multi-position county employee whose official title, he told me, since autumn 2018 has been director of constituent services.

Aiken has weighed in on individuals’ issues from a community’s shortage of pool lifeguards to a neighbor whose view got blocked by a fence. But the majority of queries are generated in-house. His team that includes two administrative specialists receives “about 300 requests via the county board each year,” he says. “Several hundred more are generated through contacts to the county manager’s office or from referrals by other departments.”

After a triage, the responses are managed in coordination with appropriate agency staff. “Most of the help is already available, it’s just a matter of finding it,” he says.

Topics range in complexity from a basic question that involves just “a link to the website to investigating policy concerns that require actions by the county board. We are also assigned special project management duties, such as the recent implementation of the Route 29/ Langston Blvd. naming.”

Top attention-getters at the (703228-3120) phone and the county’s Report-a-Problem/Request-a-

Service Tool include:

Traffic, parking and roadway safety; construction and quality of life/“nuisance” enforcement; policy or service delivery changes (including park advocacy and combatting climate change); and public safety issues such as police presence to address property crimes.

The ombuds helps “anyone regardless of their standing as a resident, business, or visitor to the county,” Aiken says. “Many challenges faced by businesses are also faced by residents.” The county had a business ombudsman (Shannon Flanigan Watson, before she became deputy county manager), who was replaced by Katelyn Thomas, who reports to Aiken. (Still separate is the county board auditor).

“I think Aiken is both likable and effective,” says former county board member John Vihstadt. “My sense is that the business ombuds, by contrast, has been a revolving door of nice people who lack clout and empowerment to be truly valueadded.”

Aiken studied urban planning at Virginia Tech before receiving a master’s there in public administration. He worked two years in the Alexandria City budget office before migrating to Arlington as a budget analyst. Before becoming ombuds, he consulted gratefully with predecessors Robert Sharpe and Brian Stout.

His office maintains good relations with the Chamber of Commerce and coordinates with county communications staff. Its work “is generally done to help inform or explain the existing pro-

cess rather than identify recommendations for improvements,” Aiken says. “As we see recurring themes in complaints, we work in partnership with communications staff to make existing information more accessible.”

The callers “are generally civil,” Aiken says, “but we also take pride in our customer-service approach — to work with individuals who are upset through care, empathy and active listening.”

Any chronic complainers?

“Some express opinions more often than others,” he acknowledges. “We may disagree with someone on resolution, but our goal is that interactions end peaceably. We will not entertain personal attacks, abusive language, or threats toward staff.” ***

Aug. 13 will bring a memorial service for an unassuming Arlingtonian who became a civil rights pioneer. Ronald Deskins, one of four African-American students who in 1959 integrated Stratford Jr. High (the first school in “massive resistance” Virginia to do so) died June 16 in Winchester at 75.

“There were no public displays of affection or animus,” he recalled of the integration during a 2016 panel discussion, but a few people later “made it their business to try to make our lives miserable but didn’t succeed.” Deskins went on to be a star athlete at Washington-Lee (now Liberty) High and a firefighter integrating the Fairfax force.

Halls Hill historian Wilma Jones said the John M. Langston Civic Association extended condolences to the Deskins family and will have representatives at Saturday’s tribute at the Annandale Fire Station.

We Stand With Joe

Here’s the thing, the major media, including the all-news cable channels like CNN and MSNBC, is controlled at the top not by the democratic masses in the U.S., but by the scions of international financial capital. Despite the sentiments of individual reporters and commentators, when it comes to shaping the overall narrative of news coverage, the scions prevail. There is plenty of documentation of interlocking directorates and so forth that show this. This is without counting openly propagandistic elements like Fox News.

From the standpoint of this “big picture,” one can discern a steady bias that has to be wrestled with daily to get anything like a true picture of what’s going on. Those who don’t attempt to apply this lens to what they see and hear on the “news,” are prey to falling victim to all the slants as presented. In general, there is a definite prejudice, for example, against President Joe Biden. He’s a tough cookie, he’s had to be for the length of his remarkable political career, and he’s stood up very well against the relentless barrage of negative characterizations of his age, his speech (he has fought against an impediment his entire life) and his inability to simply wave a wand and get his way in Washington.

In this context, the past two weeks have seen a remarkable and blistering array of positive achievements for which the President can take credit. That is why, despite all the attempts to degenerate him, we stand firmly with Joe.

The latest was yesterday’s news of the cooling off of inflation in July. And the biggest of all is the anticipated House vote and signing of the Inflation Reduction Act later this week. It will make Biden one of the most legislatively successful presidents of the modern era. With it, in his first year and a half, he will have achieved the following: the American Recovery Act at $1.9 trillion, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act at $550 billion, this week’s Chips and Science Act at $280 billion and the Inflation Reduction Act at $700 billion.

That’s a nearly $3.5 trillion agenda. The scope is equally impressive: the pandemic and its economic fallout, highways, bridges, broadband, rail, manufacturing, science, prescription drug prices, health insurance, climate change, deficit reduction and tax equity.

He has also expanded NATO, passed a new gun safety law and passed a bill he signed just yesterday to address the effects on veterans exposed to toxic burn pits. Five out of seven of these laws — all but the two biggest, the American Recovery Act and Inflation Reduction Act — earned notable Republican support.

There’s not much debate anymore over whether Biden has been a consequential president. In the long run, his first 18 months may be remembered as akin to LBJ’s when it comes to moving an agenda through Congress. Joe achieved it despite two bouts with Covid.

Not too shabby! In fact, we’d say downright amazing.

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Response to Article on Va. Tech Development

Editor,

Thank you for stirring up memories of the Kisling Tract Development. As Paul Harvey would say, “Now, the rest of the story.” The U. Va — Va. Tech building was completed $400,000.00 below the estimated cost. U. Va - Tech group decided to use that money to enhance technology education in the George Mason Middle & High School Building by constructing a distance learning room that could be used by the GM students as well as adult students at night or on weekends.

A computer room was built adjacent to the distance learning room. Another “dollar benefit” was introduced by the Universities which would allow school system employees to take $35,000.00 worth of courses each year to meet their continuing education requirements to maintain their teaching licenses and or to obtain a masters degree. This money allowed our school board to stop providing funds which were usually allocated during our meet and confer process. I believe that this process of largess continued for the first twenty years lease agreement.

Using only old math skills: $400,000 for the 6th grade center tech upgrade + $700,000 ($35,000 x 20 = $700,000) = 1,100,000 in course payments. $1,100,000 added to $20 lease payments. My knowledge extends only for the first twenty years of the lease, 1995 — 2015; I retired in 2000.

Harry Shovin Falls Church

Praise for Falls Church Glass Collectors

Editor, Two teens saw a recurrent need

and formed a service for recycling glass here in Falls Church.

They saw a need, filled the gap and are helping the environment — and they’re earning an income, too! Kudos to these Falls Church teenagers.

Mrs. Jean Jonnard Falls Church

Western Drought Causing Water Shortage

Editor,

The drought in the Western U.S. has been accelerating for 20 years and the water supplied by the Colorado River to two major reservoirs has decreased to near record low levels. Lake Mead is at 28 percent capacity and Lake Powell is at 27 percent capacity. About 40 million people in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming, Arizona, California and Nevada rely on this water supply. Next year significant cuts will have to be made to the water supplied to these states.

Climate change has worsened drought conditions in the Western U.S. Average temperatures have increased 2 to 3 degrees Fahrenheit in recent years. In Phoenix, the hottest city in the U.S., the average Summer temperature has increased 3.8 degrees since 1970. Phoenix is trying to lessen the heat impact by planting tree canopies, expanding the light-rail system and painting roadways white.

A combination of actions is necessary to lessen the impact of the drought, including a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, increased use of renewable energy sources and conservation and rationing of water. Studies should be conducted to evaluate the feasibility of transporting water from the oceans and major rivers by pipeline and constructing more desalination plants.

Donald Moskowitz Londonderry, NH

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The Strong Arm of Justice & Truth Descends on Mar-a-Lago

no clue what the search was searching for.

The angry ferocity of the GOP’s reaction to the FBI’s raid of Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence, plunging in to condemn it without the slightest knowledge of what the Justice Department’s justification for the search involves, is the latest evidence of the pervasive guilt that is now eating away at the psyches of all those who are screaming the loudest.

It is a furious effort to deflect and divert attention away from the (as yet unknown) content of the search toward the screeching and howling of a wide array of Republicans who have become apoplectic in terror at the consequences of this latest move.

Before anyone who may be inclined to be sympathetic with the Trump cause in this case jumps to any conclusions, they would best hold their fire until more comes out about the evidence of criminal behavior that had to pass muster with a federal judge to justify the search.

The freaked out Republicans are the last people to accept as having any claim on authority in this matter. They’re terrified and talking themselves into acting as if their howls of injustice are legitimate. They’re not, if only for the most obvious of reasons, which is that they have

They can only speculate themselves, and they’re hardly in the mood for doing that because a quick review of the kinds of evidence that FBI agents could find to indicate criminal activity is so wideranging in Trump’s case that it would be hopeless to even contemplate. Crimes by Trump? Where do we even begin?

But it can be hypothesized that certainly no trivial infractions are involved, because launching such a raid against a former U.S. president is so unprecedented.

It has never been done before, yet one can speculate that if the Civil War had not broken out when it did, such a search of the belongings of (then) former president John Tyler might have been warranted. That’s because Tyler actually took a formal position in the treasonous Confederacy once the war was engaged.

If we can assume, as I think is justified, that the FBI raid of Trump was due to matters of extreme consequence to the national interest of the U.S., then what they were after most likely had to do with classified materials of the most sensitive nature that could compromise, if in the wrong hands, the most serious of national security matters.

It is worth speculating, I believe, that these have to do with such vital U.S. interests that Attorney General Garland felt compelled to act in the quick and decisive way he did. In light of the highly sensitive nature of the documents being

sought, we may never know their exact contents for that very reason.

We do know that a federal judge who signed off on the search was convinced there was something of extreme consequence involved, or otherwise he would not have OK’d it.

All this goes to expose once again not only the treasonous behavior of Trump but the equally culpable, shameful behavior of the GOP leadership overall. Some of them may fear that evidence of their own deeply compromised personal behavior that accounts for some of their otherwise inexplicable political posturing could be involved.

OMG, Senator Graham might be thinking, what if there are certain photos that have now fallen into the wrong hands? Something akin to this might explain his and numerous of his GOP colleagues’ frantic reaction to the search.

Their only option in this case might be to fly into the arms of total denial, that cozy if empty place where reality, itself, can be denied. The security of a cult of truth-denying frenzy may be seen by some of them as their only resort now.

Deny, deny, deny. But they can’t be sure of what, exactly. Nonetheless, the hard reality must be that very serious matters of vital interest to the national security of the U.S. are involved here. It is far, far from frivolous, which is why the GOP leaders’ rush to denounce the FBI action is so treacherous.

But let them squeal, and let the hard arm of justice and truth strike nonetheless.

A Penny for Your Thoughts News of Greater Falls Church

By Supervisor Penny Gross

Pedestrian safety was the focus as more than 100 Culmore residents gathered for a community meeting last Thursday evening. A furious lastminute rainstorm deterred neither the residents nor the presenters from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and the Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT).

The meeting, held in English and Spanish, provided an opportunity for the state and county agencies to outline safety upgrades already in place, as well as planned improvements which will take longer to fund, design and implement.

A speed monitoring effort for two weeks in May, using a police speed trailer, showed that average speeds dropped from 36.5 mph — 22.5 mph in the immediate corridor.

A joint VDOT/FCDOT speed study this summer has completed data collection; initial evaluation of the data is anticipated this Fall. The current speed limit on Route 7 in the Culmore area is 40 mph, although it was pointed out by residents that at least one incorrect sign indicates 45 mph. VDOT officials said they would recheck existing signage and correct any errors.

Speed and safe pedestrian access were of major concern, especially after a resident was struck and killed last December as she stepped into a travel lane to traverse the frontage of the Liberty gas station where there is a lengthy gap in the sidewalk on the north side of the street.

During the past 20 years, VDOT and FCDOT have invested approximately $15 million in more than 18 pedestrian infrastructure projects along Route 7 from Seven Corners to Bailey’s Crossroads.

Much of that work was funded by transportation bond referenda approved by the voters and included sidewalks, curb ramps, signalized crosswalks and crosswalk upgrades.

In a few situations, private right-of-way needed for completion of a project was not available, or could not be made available. VDOT now has painted a solid “edge line” along the outer lane of westbound Route 7 near the Liberty station, which reduced lane width and created a hashed shoulder area; “Pedestrian Warning” signs also were added along the roadway.

Additionally, pedestrian crossing time was extended at the signalized intersection at Route 7

and Glen Carlyn Road.

Behind the Culmore Shopping Center, on Glen Carlyn Road, a new stop sign at Argyle Drive, and painted gore areas at the T-intersection, were installed.

The painted gore areas will improve sight distance (vehicles cannot park there) and provide more protection for pedestrians in the existing crosswalk. “Flex posts” will be installed along the painted gore areas for further safety protection. Medium-term projects under consideration include adding new sidewalk segments on both sides of Route 7.

Although sidewalks already exist, some are not convenient for easy use because of their offset nature or disconnection to bus stops and crosswalks.

The Culmore community has advocated for a pedestrian crossing mid-block between two signalized intersections; a scope of work for a study and design work for a consultant has been developed by FCDOT, but funding for implementation has not been identified.

A similar crossing was installed about 20 years ago on Route 50 near Graham Park Plaza (former Loehmann’s Plaza).

More than a dozen residents, including youth, spoke during the Q & A session following the presentations. They wanted more streetlights, safe walking routes to school and expressed appreciation for the depth of information and complexity that was presented.

VDOT will receive comments about the information presented at the meeting through August 26, 2022. Email comments should be sent to MeetingComments@vdot.Virginia.gov and reference “Culmore Pedestrian Safety” in the subject line.

Safety is everyone’s responsibility, not just county and state agencies, but all users of the transportation system, whether a walker, a cyclist, or a driver.

Using transportation infrastructure correctly and wisely saves lives and that’s another shared responsibility!

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

City of Falls Church CRIME REPORT

Week of August 1 — August 7, 2022

Larceny, E Broad St, between 10:30 PM, July 28 and 12:40 AM, July 29, unknown suspect(s) took a white “OKAI” electric scooter

Delegate Kaye Kory’s Richmond Report

Folks ask me why I find holding public office rewarding — how can any political work be positive and worthwhile in this increasingly divisive and nasty political climate? Sometimes the work of researching and developing legislation relevant to real life that also has a chance of surviving the legislative process, being signed by the Governor and ultimately implemented is not only a worthwhile effort which brings attention to an important issue in Virginia and elsewhere, but also actually helps real people. These ‘sometimes’ coupled with effective constituent service constitute a public servant’s job well-done.

This is true of my 2021 bill, HB 2331, Percentage of Income Payment Program (PIPP). It reduces the energy cost burden of eligible participants by limiting electric bill payments to no more than 10 percent of annual income if a household’s heating source is electricity, while requiring participation in energy efficiency programs and energy conservation programs. Any household enrolled in an assistance program such as SNAP (food stamps) or Dominion Energy Fuel Assistance, is likely eligible for PIPP. In December 2020, 377,487 households received food stamps and 34,487 received Fuel Assistance from Dominion and 18,152 households received Fuel Assistance from ApCo (Appalachian Power Company). In addition, the Department of Social Services approved 64,726 households for Cooling Assistance help with electric utility bills.

developed and fought to pass have been national firsts. Legislation providing menstrual products to incarcerated women at no cost; legislation allowing local governments to set up green banks (a funding mechanism encouraging renewable energy business) and legislation banning the sale of personal care products tested on animals. I have received inquiries from other state legislators about developing these measures in their states. Following up on the implementation of a landmark legislation is challenging and often leads to developing related legislation.

Because of my bill to supply incarcerated women with menstrual products at no cost, I visited prisons across the Commonwealth to see for myself if the bill was being implemented. During these visits, I learned that the bill was being followed, as well as about the healthcare inadequacies for incarcerated women. This led me to develop legislation mandating appropriate care for pregnant women and appropriate training for those who work with them in our prisons. I am proud to say that this legislation passed and led to further conversations with the Department of Corrections about family visitation regulations and accommodations. The importance of these supports for families with an incarcerated parent cannot be underestimated both in the success of released inmates reintegration into society and in improving the life outcomes for children of an incarcerated parent.

which had been left unsecured in front of a building

Fraud-Credit Card, Hillwood Ave, August 4, 12:34 PM, an incident of credit card fraud was reported.

Fraud-False Pretenses, W

Broad St, August 4, 1:11 PM, and incident of fraud by false pretenses was reported.

Drunk In Public, W Broad St, August 7, 8:53 PM, a male, 60, of no fixed address, was arrested for Drunk in Public.

These numbers demonstrate the great need for help with utility bills, a need that is growing rapidly as our climate changes. The combination of lowered utility bills and participation in energy conservation and efficiency has obvious economic, health and climate change benefits. Illinois was the only other state in the nation with a PIP Program when I began work on HB2331. This is on the radar of a number of states, especially Hawaii — which has the highest energy costs in the US. Both the legislature and state agencies have reached out to me asking for help to create a PIP Program. Virtual meetings have allowed me to meet and work with stakeholders in Hawaii to provide much-needed relief from high energy costs. This is an opportunity for Virginia to be a leader in a way that will positively impact many lives. Several other bills that I have

I had sponsored bills requiring facilities using animals for research to seek adoption for the animals still healthy and no longer needed by the researchers. All had failed to pass. While working on this legislation, I had founded and chaired the (Legislative) Animal Welfare Caucus. This group became an important mechanism for animal welfare advocates to coordinate their work. This led to joint efforts to free the beagles bred for research in cruel and illegal ways at the Envigo facility here in Virginia. I am very proud of the shut-down of Envigo and pleased that it has received wide publicity. I have personally benefited in a way that I didn’t expect — adopting a rescued Envigo beagle.

 Delegate Kory represents the 38th District in the Virginia House of Delegates. She may be emailed at DelKKory@house.virginia.gov.

Back To School 2022 Back To School 2022

Variety of Resources Available for Kids, Families Dealing with Stress, Anxiety at Start of School Year

BY ALEX RUSSELL FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

As another school year approaches, being aware of and acknowledging the psychological stress that many students face, especially now following two years of Covid-19, is crucial to understanding and alleviating many of these issues.

Amanda Sovik-Johnston, of Virginia Family Therapy, told the News-Press that “kids are going to have more anxiety than usual this school year.” In general, she said, “Kids work really hard to hold it together at school…when they get home, they are done using that ‘muscle’” that helps them behave properly within the confines of school. Tension and pressure can get released in the form of a meltdown.

Rebecca Sharp, Executive Director of Special Services for Falls Church City Public Schools, stresses balancing out “what’s normal and behaviorally appropriate and what’s not” is an important distinction to make. When the anxiety “becomes debilitating, that’s when

it becomes something different.”

Sovik-Johnston outlines a way to distinguish between “benign” meltdowns and ones that suggest more help is needed: “I look at the duration, frequency and intensity of the meltdowns,” she said. Then, “when thinking about looking for more support, number 1 is calling the school counselor.” If talking with the counselor doesn’t improve the situation, consulting with a pediatrician is the next step. If that also doesn’t work, SovikJohnston suggests calling a therapist. (“There are one or two-hour coaching sessions to help parents” work through this kind of issue at home, which may preclude hiring a therapist, she said.)

Dan Russo, Resident in Counseling at the Falls Church Wellness Center, reminds parents that although school counselors are always a viable option, it’s important to remember that school resources, currently, are overrun.

“So many things, like anxiety and suicidal ideation, have unfortunately become more prevalent during the post-Covid era,” he said, adding to the workload carried by

many mental health providers and organizations. When asked about the benefits of one-on-one therapy versus group therapy, Russo says both are great resources for kids and their families and “ideally, you can have both” at the same time.

Group therapy, unlike individual therapy, helps “kids benefit and learn from the peer group aspect” of the situation, leading to an increase in “normalization and coping strategies.” Touching on after-school meltdowns, Russo explained when children are “vocal and expressive in the home life,” this is sometimes a good sign as this indicates “they’re in a good environment for that.” When kids are allowed to go through their “cycle of emotions in a home environment,” it helps them to feel “supported to express themselves,” building a stronger foundation of empathy and support “for each other in the family.”

Dina Berhan, Resident in Counseling at the Falls Church Wellness Center, underlined the “importance of routines” in a younger child’s life, adding that “transitions can be difficult” and

Berhan says parents can help their child “transition more easily” by speaking positively about the school experience in general. Including a “small fidget item in their backpack or an encouraging note in a folder or lunchbox never hurts,” he said.

Berhan also adds “doctors recommend routines for those who have trouble with getting quality sleep.” Sharp’s input corroborates this, as she states that “slowly backing up bedtime” for older students “can help…the more rested we are,

“as students get older, what their parents think becomes much less important and what their peers think rules the day,” so this means that “parents…have to work doubly hard to get students to open up about their concerns and worries.” She advises being “open to their ideas” and listening “when they do talk.”

Berhan points out that in helping a teen maintain a healthy sleep routine, parents should keep in

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Little City Offers Variety of Enrichment Opportunities for Kids of All Ages

BY ALEX RUSSELL FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

As the school year starts soon (Monday, August 22 for Fairfax County and Monday, August 29 for Falls Church City Public Schools), parents will again be looking for further ways to enrich their child’s educational experience while also helping them develop better communication skills with their peers and have fun in the process.

The Falls Church Recreation and Parks Department is currently holding registration for a variety of classes and events for kids during the fall. All classes are filled on a firstcome, first-served basis; registration deadlines usually fall one week prior to the beginning of a class. Featuring a range of themes, from history to digital 3D modeling to athletics, the Recreation and Parks Department’s classes fit a variety of age groups and interests.

“Little Athletes and Me,” for kids ages 2 — 3 introduces young children and their parents/guardians to sports and team-building activities, with a separate option for kids ages 4 — 6; “Hands-on History,” set on the grounds of historic Cherry Hill Farmhouse, brings kids ages 6 — 12

closer to history, highlighting the life and times of the Blaisdell family.

For kids ages 5 — 9 with an interest in singing and dancing, “Petite Pop Stars” is a dancer-led choreography and showmanship class, engaging students both physically and artistically; for older kids, ages 8 — 14, “Introduction to 3D Modeling” teaches students about computer-aided design software, as well as how to utilize different kinds of modeling methods to create personal avatars and name tags.

Most classes run mid-September to mid-November, during the week and on weekends. For more information about the fee-reduction program for eligible City residents, visit fallschurchva.gov/feereduction. For more information about the Falls Church Recreation and Parks Department, visit fallschurchva.gov/ recreation. For kids interested in computers and digital media, there are also many opportunities at Code Ninjas of Falls Church, which has two coding curriculums available all year round.

Cassidy Olimpo, Director of Marketing and Events for Code Ninjas, spoke about their Create Program “built specifically for ages 7 to 14,” which “allows kids to learn

how to code by making their own video games.”

“For kids that are new to coding, we start them off in basic block coding and then those skills transfer over into real JavaScript coding. Once they have a foundation of what coding is, we take it to the next level of JavaScript and then help them make their way into 3D animation coding.” Olimpo adds that kids get to learn “how to make the same games they play in the very popular Roblox platform, which is where we encourage them to code in Roblox Studio.”

The JR Program at Code Ninjas “is an all-visual coding program for ages 5 to 7.” The JR Program helps students “build an understanding of how writing code works” and reinforces “their knowledge with numbers, shapes and colors.”

Olimpo explains, “I usually like to tell our JR ninjas that coding is like putting a puzzle together; that without a piece of one code, your puzzle is incomplete. The JR program provides pre-readers a handson coding experience by building on their logic, problem-solving and social skills with other ninjas (students) and our Senseis (instructors).”

These programs provide an enriching environment for kids that

helps them learn new things — which can be applied later on in school, college and their careers — “without them even noticing they’re learning.”

Pete Baroody, of Baroody Camps in Falls Church, spoke about the variety of programs they have available this fall — “from STEM, sports, science, cooking to chess, art, pottery and drama.” In addition, Baroody Camps also offers a magic class, taught by magician Joe Romano. “He is an amazing magician and instructor,” says Baroody. “The kids love him and his programs. He has

been working with us for years and has been a huge part of many school communities.”

There is also Lego Engineering, which has seen Baroody Camps partner with Play-well Technologies, among others, “to provide opportunities to create and code robots with Legos.” These particular programs “keep kids engaged in creative learning opportunities from the start of class to the end.”

Ellen Selby of Creative Cauldron, a non-profit theater in Falls Church,

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A CODE NINJAS SENSEI (teacher) is seen here helping students with a stop-motion animation project. (P���� ��������: C������ O�����)

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Having Healthy Routines is Key to Reducing Stress During School Year

Continued from Page 9

mind that “scheduled wifi is a tool of the present,” something that can come in handy especially for teens who spend a lot of time on their phones or gaming consoles.

Daryl Washington, Executive Director of the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, recommends that parents help their child set up “that fall routine early.”

“Starting that transition a week or two ahead of time” is one of the ways “a parent can set up a child for success.”

Berhan reminds parents to “feel free to ask other parents or guardians” for advice with routines and when helping kids deal with big transitions. “Model the skill of validation, because new things can be both exciting and annoying” for both children and parents.

Maintaining a “pulse on things by asking ‘what made you laugh today?’ ‘If you could change one thing about today, what would it be?’ or ‘What is something you wish we could do together?’” is another way by which Berhan suggests parents can maintain a healthy link with their child, without resorting to the tired ‘How was your day?’

Keeping things in perspective for parents is crucial — as something small for adults, like having to go to class in a new building or learning how to open a locker, can be a huge, frustrating undertaking for a child. Sharp says sometimes, teachers and counselors spend time helping a child practice with a lock, as “lockers are a new thing to kids” going from 5th to 6th grade, for example.

“Another issue with younger students can be language. They may not have the words to tell us how they are feeling, so they show us. Helping to give them ‘the words’ is really important. This is when reading a story, watching a movie, or draw-

ing pictures about back to school can all be great help for little ones.”

Washington reminds parents that it’s perfectly all right to “call up the middle school and get a walk-through” of the building “before the first day,” in order to help a child feel more at ease when school starts.

Speaking about the new 988 hotline — “a national phone number that provides 24/7, free and confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress,” as summarized by the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, Berhan and Russo expressed a positive appraisal so far. “988 represents a “shift in public opinion,” Berhan says.

“The hotline may be a useful tool for identifying concerning vs. normal behaviors in a child’s development. Please be mindful,” she adds, “if immediate support is suspected, involuntary actions may occur to ensure safety via 911 services.”

Russo remarked “the program itself is fantastic,” especially in light of the “increased suicidality” in recent years. Referencing the kinks in getting a new system like this running smoothly, he stated “making the technology as simple as possible” and “creating an easy infrastructure” for the new system will further help in “reducing the stigma” surrounding mental health issues millions of people in the U.S. deal with every day.

There are still things to be mindful of with 988, he added. Virginia is one of the few states that have done or began work on legislation addressing 988 as a working system. One of the major ongoing concerns is funding, both on the state and local levels.

Sharp adds that support, especially in a small community like Falls Church, which draws people in need to resources in the local area can be a powerful, affirming process. “The social aspect can be very uplifting and grounding.”

Local Restaurant Harvey’s Makes Big Contribution To Falls Church Education Foundation

BY DEBBIE HISCOTT

Harvey’s donated $850 from the “Battle of Broad Street” event that will be used to support the Falls Church Education Foundation operations and the Family Assistance Fund.

Additionally, Harvey’s will donate $1 of each sale of the winning dish from the “Battle” — a bacon wrapped poblano pepper — through the end of August.

The Foundation’s Family Assistance Fund supports students and families in the Falls Church City Public Schools with assistance to address food insecurity, school supplies and to ensure students

arrive at school ready to learn. This may include emergency housing, healthcare or transportation. The Foundation budgets $50,000 annually and solicits funds specifically designated to support the Family Assistance Fund as a 100 percent pass through.

To respect the privacy of our students and families, the fund is administered by the school-based social workers who know our kids by name and by need. In the first year of the pandemic, we disbursed over $120,000, predominantly in food support. To learn more about the work of the Foundation, please visit our website atfcedf.org.

College-Bound: What Students are Doing to Prepare

by Kylee Toland Falls Church

As the summer comes to an end and schools are preparing for the arrival of young pupils in classrooms, it is also a time for certain Falls Church students to begin thinking about their next academic or career steps.

Normally, rising juniors and seniors are entering the time period in their lives when they decide what their career and academic interests are and where they could pursue those interests. For many, this means finding a university that offers a variety of majors and minors that suit one’s interests.

To prepare for this next step, Falls Church students are finding ways inside and outside of school to help them get ready academically and professionally. Sheri Mural is the College and Career Specialist at Meridian High School, a Falls Church City Public School. Her role is to work primarily with juniors and seniors to help “navigate their post-high

and talk about their institution, while students can “ask targeted questions and get detailed information.” Last year, there were about “150 colleges and universities” that had opportunities to “connect with [Meridian] students” through college visits in the fall.

Mural also helps students “build a diverse college list,” which balances out the schools they have a good chance of being admitted into, or “reach schools” that have small percentages of students who gain admission. She also provides advice on how students can “put together their extracurricular activities,” filling out the Common Application — an undergraduate admission application that allows people to apply for over 1,000 colleges and universities in the United States — what application essays “should look like” and who to get recommendations from.

Throughout the year, Mural works with the Student Services

thinking process on their postsecondary plans.” She also helps students who are not on the “college-bound path” and has invited representatives from each military branch to talk about the different career paths within the various branches.

Although standardized testing is still a part of the college application process, Mural said it is “just one component” and that the “test-taking landscape has changed.” This is due to many colleges and universities being “testoptional,” which means SATs and ACTs do not have to be submitted for an application to be considered for admission. For students who are looking at universities that do review test scores, Mural said Test Preparation sessions are offered for rising seniors. These sessions are offered as early as the end of August, so students have the option of sending their test scores by the early action deadline on November 1.

To say whether the application

MERIDIAN HIGH SCHOOL offers different ways to help students be prepared for their next step; whether it be educational or not. (Photo courtesy: Sheri Mural)

and universities, allowing the main common application essay to be submitted to however many institutions a student decides to apply to. However, the “test-optional” choice that some institutions offer has made it “easier for students to feel that they can apply to multiple colleges and perhaps have a better chance of being admitted.” From an admissions standpoint, a vast increase in the applicant pool can cause the university’s selectivity to go up, making it more difficult for students to be admitted into the schools they are

to help students prepare academically.” Tutoring and private college counselors can help students work on a “one-on-one basis” to achieve academically, prepare applications and “polish essays.”

In Mural’s opinion, the college application process can be “navigated without those additional financial expenses for families,” and there is “an abundance of resources in [Meridian’s] school building to help students feel confident” after submitting an application.

For more information about resources, visit the Meridian High

BACK TO SCHOOL 2022

Back To School: Important Dates to Know for Students, Families and Staff

by Kylee Toland Falls Church News-Press

With summer drawing to a close, Falls Church City public schools are gearing up for the arrival of students and staff to begin yet another eventful school year. But before the first day of classes begins, however, some schools have upcoming dates and events that are helpful to students and their families, as well as staff members.

John Wesley Brett, the Director of Communications for Falls Church City Public Schools, recently provided a list of dates and events for incoming students and staff. Starting in mid-August until the first day of school on August 29th, these dates focus on student orientations, staff accomplishments and much more.

According to Brett, the new year “begins in earnest” next Monday and Tuesday, Aug. 15 and 16, as the five Falls Church schools welcome new teachers for orientation.

Brett stated that while it is currently unknown how many new teachers are beginning their first year at the school, the big news comes with the arrival of new Oak Street Elementary principal Karim Daughtery.

Daughtery was a former principal at a Fairfax County elementary school and is joining Falls Church City Public Schools this fall. A meet and greet for Daughtery was held on this Tuesday at City Hall. This meet and greet was introduced by Falls Church City Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Peter Noonan and included a formal introduction of Daughtery as the new principal, as well as various highlights of her

career.

Next week, on August 17 to the following Monday, returning teachers will report to work to prepare for the new year. This includes setting up their classrooms and other plans and activities to get ready,” based on the specific school.

Tuesday, August 23rd will have Falls Church City Public Schools hosting their annual staff breakfast and convocation. Brett said this is a meeting where “Superintendent Peter Noonan shares his vision for the coming year,” as well as a time to celebrate employees who reached service milestones. That afternoon and following day on August 24 will be a system-wide Professional Development time for all staff, not just teachers.

On the Thursday and Friday before the first day of school on August 29th, Brett said staff “will be working at their various work sites, schools and the central office” in preparation for the following Monday.

For younger students attending Mount Daniel Elementary School, there will be a “Meet the Teacher” event for Kindergarteners all day on Friday, August 25th, and for first and second grade students from 2 p.m. — 3 p.m. the same day.

For the neighboring Fairfax County Public Schools, the first day of class begins on August 22nd, a week before the Falls Church schools. New teacher training occurs from August 8 to the 15, with a staff development day ending out the week on Friday, August 12. The week before students arrive for their first day is filled with two school planning days, two teacher workdays and one staff development day.

KARIM DAUGHTERY ( right), the new principal of Oak Street Elementary, and the schools’ John Brett (left) greeted the News Press’ Nicholas Benton (seated) at this Tuesday’s School Board meeting. (News-Press Photo)

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Several Places Providing Fall Pogram Fun

Continued from Page 10

spoke about their Learning Theater programs which take place in the fall and offer activities for kids in grades K — age 14. Learning Theater is “basically…an umbrella term” which includes a variety of programs.

Learning Theater Ensemble, for example, is for kids ages 8 to 14 who work on creating “an original musical from a fairytale/folktale”; Learning Theater Studio Jr, for grades K to 2nd, “is a movement and imagination game-inspired

workshop where kids make friends and explore the basics of storytelling through music and games.”

Learning Theater Studio for grades 3 to 5 is a “class [that] introduces kids to the basics of theater with acting challenges and improv games”; Learning Theater Studio for grades 6 to 8 is a class that was set up “to get kids ready for the stage with essential vocal and physical exercises, acting challenges” and it culminates with “a final performances for parents and families.” Selby explains that this studio class is “a great skills class” that is not “as intense as the

ensemble.”

Creative Cauldron also has “a more advanced Musical Theater Workshop for teens” which will result in a “hybrid professional and student Halloween musical” titled ‘Ichabod: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,’ written by Matt Conner and Stephen Gregory Smith, two Creative Cauldron luminaries. Training workshops and rehearsals begin September 6 and will run through October 30th. Students in grades K to 12 are encouraged to audition. In total, the cast will include five professional adult actors and ten Musical Theater Training Ensemble members.

In terms of the methodology, Selby stated they “take kids’ input” when beginning work on a production, “especially since we have so many returners that some kids really grow up in our program. We’ve also been doing this so long that we now have a good shelf of scripts and scores we can go back to.”

“Basically, we choose a story in the public domain (like Peter Pan and Wendy) or well-known fairy tales (like Cinderella)...the kids’ input really comes in with shaping the story itself. We improvise with them the first few workshops and try to script characters that suit their strengths.”

Last season, Learning Theater put on a presentation of ‘The Adventures of Mr. Toad’ with some intricate costumes. Selby shared “our scenic and costume designer Margie Jervis makes these professional level costumes with her team of volunteers. Parents and kids are welcome to join in the making sessions” as “Margie really collaborates well with the kids’ ideas for their characters, even though it’s her vision that makes the incredible final product.”

“Laura [Connors Hull] and Matt [Connor] really keep raising the bar on what the kids can do as the program grew more and more popular through word of mouth.” Selby said.

LEARNING THEATER makes use of detailed costumes and masks for their productions. (Photo courtesy: Creative Cauldron)

BACK TO SCHOOL 2022

Honesty and Justice Drive Research Fellow’s Work at Marymount University

BY ALEX RUSSELL FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

Muzhgan Yarmohammadi is currently serving as a Research Fellow at Marymount University’s Center for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), which works to strengthen the university’s commitment to “promoting diversity and equity across the university and strengthening ties with diverse communities across the Greater Washington, D.C. area,” striving to create an atmosphere where “all Marymount students feel safe, accepted, included, needed, treasured and seen.”

Yarmohammadi, who comes from a background in women’s rights and advocacy work for people with disabilities spoke to the News-Press about her past, her journey to America during the Taliban takeover last year and her work at Marymount.

Her passion for civil rights and equal representation is tied to the life and experiences of women in Afghanistan, Yarmohammadi’s home country. She spent five years work-

ing at the National Democratic Institute (NDI) in Kabul promoting political participation for women; prior to that she worked with Handicap International. Between 2017 and 2021, her work focused on rule of law concerns as a Senior Program Officer at the United States Institute of Peace in Afghanistan. She explained that her experiences in Afghanistan were backdropped by decades of “involvement from the international community.”

“To secure back the 20 years of achievement,” Yarmohammadi states that “the fundamental issues of Afghanistan have to be tackled” especially following the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in August of last year. She believes that people in scholarly and political spheres should “focus more on women’s achievements in education, health…the enforcement of law in the country” and other signs of social progress that “just vanished” after U.S. withdrawal.

In the time since Yarmohammadi and her family transitioned to life in Northern

Virginia, there have been “more than 30 policies” passed by the Taliban and “they’re all against women’s rights.”

She stressed the importance of fighting the Taliban’s rigid, destructive governance and that it can be done in relatively small ways, here. The kind of fighting Yarmohammadi invisions “Can be carried out through different civil ways as well.”

“The Taliban does not have the people’s support” and they lack acknowledgement and “support from the international community,” adds Yarmohammadi. Remarking poignantly and with a historical eye, she states “history shows that tyrannical regimes don’t last forever.”

In addition to the conflict, she talked about a long history of improper “distribution of resources” and a lack of “healthy competition” among the various ethnic groups in the country. Making it easier for all kinds of groups to get involved in governance is a big segment of her focus and work.

About her role at Marymount,

she remarked that “since I joined…my involvement was on a small scale.”

“I contribute to some of the research that examines racial relations and the Marymount community.” She also attends discussions about “women and the politics of Afghanistan,” which inspires her to fill in the

‘bigger picture’ and tell truths that may or may not have been ignored or overlooked when discussing Afghanistan and its societal problems. Yarmohammadi shared that her team is “very supportive and appreciative” and working

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MUZHGAN YARMOHAMMADI, a research fellow at the Center for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Marymount Unioversity. (P���� ��������: M�������� U���������)

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Helping Women ‘Access Justice’ is Among Yarmohammadi’s Top Goals

at Marymount provides her with a unique “accessibility to a great wealth of information and resources.” She added that she had “support of the team at DEI” and they have been “encouraging me to write my story.” She has considered working on a memoir, “or short article” about her background, experiences and insight, with a lens on the “historical issues” in Afghanistan as well, specifically looking at the past 20 years.

She also hopes to get “more in touch with the student-run associations at Marymount” that carry out work pertaining to BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and people of color) and Dreamer (Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors Act) rights.

Having to put her education on hiatus — Yarmohammadi began a master’s program in International Relations, Peace Building and Diplomacy in 2019 — she is “looking at ways I can continue my education here.” Education as a whole is a sphere which she remains passionate about as it relates directly to her work with women’s rights

— women in Afghanistan can no longer receive higher education — and, with the near future in mind, has expressed keen interest in teaching at some point.

Yarmohammadi stated “this needs to be a lecture or a course.”

Teaching people in detail about this multifaceted subject would

be a “way forward.” Women in Afghanistan “want to bring back those achievements” that have since been broken down by the Taliban. She stressed the issue of women’s rights and social justice has to be seen in tandem with the political problems in Afghanistan. Honesty, transparency and

inclusion are cornerstones of Yarmohammadi’s experiences in both advocacy and education.

Talking about her country’s future, she stated women in Afghanistan “are still fighting for their rights.

They are now stronger, more committed.” Advocating for women’s rights and social justice in

Afghanistan remains one of her foremost goals in the years ahead. The Center for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is located in Rowley Hall, Suite 1004, at Marymount University (2807 N Glebe Rd, Arlington). For more information, call 703-908-7863 or email deictr@marymount.edu.

THE CENTER FOR DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION is designed to be a welcoming place, with a large “You Belong Here” mural greeting visitors to the Center (left) and a waiting area featuring the LGBT Pride flag. The Center is located at Rowley Hall, Suite 1004. (Photo courtesy: Marymount University)

Community News & Notes

ArtsFairfax Announces New Submission Call at Tysons

ArtsFairfax, Fairfax County’s local nonprofit arts agency, recently announced a partnership with Macerich, an owner, operator and developer of major retail and mixeduse real estate, to showcase local artists at Tysons Corner Center. This collaboration will enable the more than 22 million yearly visitors who explore Tysons Corner Center to discover the diverse creativity of visual artists from the Fairfax region. From now through the end of the year, artists and arts organizations based in Fairfax County and the Cities of Fairfax and Falls Church are invited to activate select retail storefronts and open spaces in the shopping center with art. For more information, visit artsfairfax.org/tysonscorner.

FCPS Seeks Representative for Advanced Academic Programs

Fairfax County Public Schools is currently accepting applications

for a Mason District representative to serve on the Advanced Academic Programs Advisory Committee (AAPAC). This is a volunteer position with a one-year term ending June 30, 2023. The AAPAC consists of a student representative as well as members nominated by community organizations and school administration. The committee meets one evening a month. Those interested in applying are advised to send a statement of interest and resume to Cristy Coffey at cmcoffey@fcps.edu no later than August 15.

Free and Reduced-Price Meal Application Back

For the past two years, the federal government has provided no-cost meals to all public school students without the need to complete the annual Free and Reduced-Price Meal application. The extension of the no-cost meals benefit to all students is expected to expire soon, meaning that families must submit an application and be approved to be eligible

for free and reduced-price meals for the upcoming school year. Learn more about the Free and ReducedPrice Meal program online at fcps. edu/return-school/food.

“Dog Days of Summer” Event At Harvey’s Registration Begins

Harvey’s, located at 513 W Broad St, Falls Church, will be launching a dog menu and host ing a dog beauty pageant. Visitors will be able to come with their dog and pick up a raffle ticket; dogs that are dressed up will get their owners two raffle tickets. Harvey’s will be raffling off three $50 gift cards. Acme Pie Company (2803 Columbia Pike, Arlington) will also be baking some special dog treats for all the dogs (while supplies last). Lost Dog and Cat Rescue will be on site with information about all the pets they have looking for their forever homes.

Attendees will be able to enter a pie eating contest to help raise money for Lost Dog and Cat. Those interested must RSVP by Saturday, August 13th to Thomas Harvey at thomas@harveysva.com Entry is $20. Whoever eats their whole pie the fastest will win a $50 gift card. There will also be beverages from Dry Fly Distilling and Lost Barrel Brew. “Dog Days of Summer” will take place on Thursday, August 18th, starting at 4 p.m.

GrandInvolve Seeks Volunteers to Work With Students

GrandInvolve, a nonprofit program that facilitates volunteer opportunities in 25 of Fairfax County’s Title I Elementary Schools, is currently seeking volunteers. Adult volunteers will be tasked with providing classroom assistance with math, reading and other tasks. For more information, visit grandinvolve.org. Information Sessions for prospective volunteers are scheduled via Zoom for Wednesday, Aug. 17 at 10 a.m. and Tuesday, Aug. 30 at 3 p.m.; email info@grandinvolve.org for a meeting link.

Support the Collect for Kids School Supply Drive

To ensure that children in the district are prepared for school,

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) and Educate Fairfax are again organizing the Collect for Kids effort, a collection of not-forprofit, for-profit and government entities providing school supplies to benefit students who otherwise might go without them. More than 56,000 (31 percent) FCPS students qualify for free or reduced-price meals and have trouble affording basic necessities. Contributions can be made online through Educate Fairfax. Donations will be used to purchase bulk school supply kits at highly discounted pricing. For more information, visit educatefairfax.org.

Immigration Legal Services at Dar Al-Hijrah

Dar Al-Hijrah, an Islamic Center in the Falls Church area (located at 3159 Row St, Falls Church), hosts immigration and legal services sessions the second Thursday of every month, between 9 a.m. — 12 p.m. The sessions include advice and counsel interviews with a volunteer attorney from Just Neighbors, a local partner providing immigration and legal services to lowincome immigrants, asylees and refugees in Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia. For more

information, visit hijrah.org or call 703-536-1030.

American Legion in Falls Church Thanks Harvey's, Local Scouts

American Legion Post 130 would like to thank Harvey's, located at 513 W Broad St, for their "great donation of delicious breakfast sandwiches" which they delivered to the Legion on Sunday, July 31st, for Post cleanup day. Post 130 would also like to thank all the volunteers and Scouts that "did an outstanding job and made it all possible."

“Be Wise, Immunize”: Required Immunizations for School Year

As the school year begins, parents are advised to check with their health care providers now to make sure their children are up to date on their immunizations. For more information, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website at fairfaxcounty.gov/health/immunization/locations for a schedule of clinics. It is important to request documentation of your child’s immunizations to provide to the school. More information on immunization documentation is available at fcps.edu/registration/general-registration-requirements/documents/ immunizations.

FALLS CHURCH'S NEW State Senator, Chap Petersen, seen here participating in the 12th Annual Lizzie Borden Ax Throwing Contest, hosted by American Legion Post 130. Kevin Strickler was the winner of the Silver Ax First Place Award. (Photo courtesy: Tom Clinton)

THE POLLINATOR GARDEN at Christ Crossman United Methodist Church (384 N. Washington St) has grown abundant in natural summer colors. (Photo courtesy: Monti Board)

FALLS CHURCH CALENDAR

FCNP Featured event

NATIONAL THRIFT SHOP DAY

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17

THE MOSAIC DISTRICT is offering a variety of weekly events, including "Yoga in the Park," which allows participants to practice yoga and enjoy the warm weather. (Photo courtesy: Alexa Garcia)

LOCAL EVENTS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11

ADULT AFRICAN DRUMMING FUNFARE. Rediscover your inner child and join Kofi Dennis in making steady-beat and rhythmic patterns with the African djembe drums and shekeres. Located at the Tysons-Pimmit Meeting Rooms 1 and 2 at Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Registration required. For more information, call 703-790-8088 (Option 4).

SALLY IMBRIANO IN "IT'S MY PARTY"

Friday, August 12 at 7:30 p.m. at Creative Cauldron. Help Sally Imbriano celebrate her birthday with beach balls, drink umbrellas, party games, and of course, a rocking set of songs! Come dressed in your best beachwear and let’s party the night away. Featuring fellow actor Ben Ribler, Elisa Rosman (keys), Dakota Kaylor (percussion), and Massimo Zaru-Roque (bass).

FRIDAY, AUGUST 12

VETERAN BENEFITS SEMINAR. An open invite to all Veterans to learn about the benefits available to them. The GFCVC will be Hosting a presentation from The Virginia Department of Veteran Services at the Falls Church Community Center at 5 p.m. at 223 Little Falls Street, Falls Church.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 13

FALLS CHURCH FARMERS MARKET. Every Saturday, the Farmers Market features fresh, local produce, meat, dairy, flowers, honey, and more. Covid-19 guidelines

observed. (300 Park Ave, Falls Church). 8 a.m. — 12 p.m.

FIRE SAFETY FAIR. Come join the Fire and Rescue Department for some fun games and activities to learn about fire safety. Located at Burke Center Meeting Rooms 116 and 117 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Burke Centre Library. The event will be held outside if weather conditions are nice.

AUGUST DEL RAY VINTAGE & FLEA MARKET. The DelRay Vintage Flea Market from 9am-2pm Mount Vernon Avenue & East Bellefonte Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301. Two lots of vendors selling vintage, thrift, antique, artisan, and more! The Alexandria Animal Welfare League will be on site with their WAGGIN' WHEELS mobile adoption unit from 9:30 a.m. — 11:30 a.m.

FILMS IN THE PARK. Strawberry Park in the Mosaic District is showing ‘Encanto’ as part of their Films in the Park series. Films start at 7 p.m., rain or shine.

ST. PHILIP 60TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION. St. Philip is turning 60 years old! To celebrate, Bishop Burbidge will be here for a bilingual Mass on Saturday, August 13 at 5:30 p.m

SUNDAY, AUGUST 14

FRESHFARM FARMERS MARKET. Located in the shopping district of the Mosaic neighborhood in Fairfax, this family-friendly market is the perfect spot to shop for locally grown fruits and vegetables, pastured eggs, dairy products, sweet and savory baked goods, kombucha, coldpressed juices, ice cream, handmade dog treats, and more.

TAI CHI CLASS. Scott Mathews has been studying the "37 postures of Chen ManChing" for more than 20 years. The form emphasizes posture, relaxation, and smooth continuous motion. This is a beginner's class, appropriate for students with little or no experience in Tai Chi. Located at the Sherwood Meeting Room at the Sherwood Regional Library from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 16

YOGA IN THE PARK. Take a moment to relax this summer by going to Yoga in the Park hosted by local fitness professionals. Complimentary for all levels – no registration required. Located in Strawberry Park in front of Angelika at the Mosaic District in Fairfax, VA, participants are encouraged to bring a mat, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and other outdoor accessories.

p.m.

NATIONAL THRIFT SHOP DAY, celebrated on August 17th, is all about supporting local thrift shops and raising awareness for charitable organizations. Thrift shops aim to help those most vulnerable in communities and give back to the needy. Known by a myriad of other names, thrift shops are also referred to as consignment stores, second-hand stores, resale shops and hospice shops. Volunteers willing to help out usually work at the shops, often sorting through donated items people drop off. These used pieces are then sold to the public, providing those in need a convenient service at an affordable price! Thrift shops reflected the department stores of the time in the 1920s. Initial impressions began to change after thrift shops stopped being known as “junk shops.” The Great Depression and World War II made thrift shops more viable as a more affordable option to full-priced stores. People warmed up to the idea of thrift shops as a way to find vintage items and niche goods, and ever since, the thrift shop has steadily shed its negative image. Falls Church is no stranger to thrift stores: Clock Tower Thrift Shop and Local Thrift are just a few of many popular thrift shops in the area!

(Photo: Charlene Sarmiento)

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17

ROOFTOP HITT SERIES. the Market Garage at the Mosaic District, a HITT class will be hosted by local fitness professionals. Located at 8925 Glass Alley in Fairfax, participants are encouraged to come 15 minutes prior to the class and bring outdoor accessories such as hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.

CRAFT AND CHAT. Get crafty and chat over a warm cup of tea. Bring a craft project from home, or work on one of the crafts provided, while enjoying a warm cup of tea with company. All sup plies provided. No registration neces sary. Located in the Sherwood Meeting Room at the Sherwood Regional Library from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

THE FIRE SAFETY FAIR held by the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department allows children to learn about fire safety at Burke Centre Library from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, August 13th. (Photo: Nancy Klein)

CRYS MATTHEWS has been hailed as the "next Woody Guthrie," while Heather Mae describes herself as a "social justice singer-songwriter" that uses her music to "speak out and build community." Both will be playing together on August 12th at Mason District Park for a show-stopping performance. (P����: C��� ��������)

LIVE MUSIC

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11

BIG HOWDY BAND. Fairfax County Government Center (12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA). 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

CATHY PONTON KING. Nottoway Park Location (9537 Courthouse Rd., Vienna, VA). 7:30 p.m.

p.m.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 12

CRYS MATTHEWS AND HEATHER MAE. Mason District Park (6621 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA). 7:30 p.m.

MARS RODEO. Royal Lake Park (5344 Gainsborough Dr., Fairfax, VA). 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

THE GIBSON BROTHERS. Grist Mill

Location (4710 Mt. Vernon Memorial Hwy, Alexandria, VA). 7:30 p.m.

THE NITEHAWKS SWING BAND. Lake Accotink

THEATER & ARTS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11

PROVIDENCE PRESENTS. As part of the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Summer Entertainment Series, the Providence District will be hosting an ongoing set of live music performances at Nottoway Park (found at 9601 Courthouse Rd, Vienna) and Graham Road Community Building (located at 3036 Graham Rd, Falls Church) on

Wednesday and Thursday nights, throughout the month of August. The upcoming shows at Nottoway Park are as follows — Thursday, August 11:

Cathy Ponton King (Roots, Blues);

Thursday, August 18: Yellow Dubmarine (Beatles Tribute Band); and Thursday, August 25: Billy Coulter (Roots Rock, Pop). The upcoming performances at Graham Road Community Building are —

Wednesday, August 17: Centro

Cultural Peru (Peruvian Dance); and

Wednesday, August 24: Caiso Steel Drum Band (Caribbean Music). Those wishing to volunteer at an event can

email providence@fairfaxcounty.gov. For more information, visit fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 12

2022 SUMMER CABARET SERIES.

Sponsored by Sislers Stone and produced by Creative Cauldron, the Summer Cabaret series is a summer-long celebration of music and musical theater. Every Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., now — September 17, audiences will experience some spectacular local talent from the DC area. Upcoming performances will feature Erin Granfield, Alan Naylor, Juliet Lloyd, Sondheim Reunions, Abby Middleton, Favorite Child, JChris, Sally Imbriano, DeCarlo Raspberry, Sarah Anne Stillers, Susan Derry, Wesley Diener and Kanysha Williams. Creative Cauldron is located at 410 S Maple Ave, Falls Church. For more information and tickets, visit creativecauldron.org.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17

AUDITION ANNOUNCEMENT: PROVIDENCE

PLAYERS Providence Players announces

Location (7500 Accotink Park Road, Springfield, VA). 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 13

BUMPER JACKSONS. Arrowbrook Centre Park (2351 Field Point Road, Herndon, VA). 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m

MARSHA AND THE POSITIONS. Trinity Centre Parkway (5860 Trinity Parkway, Centreville, VA). 7:00 p.m.

MS. NIKI. Ellanor C. Lawrence Park (5040 Walney Road, Chantilly, VA). 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

PERUVIAN CULTURAL HERITAGE NIGHT

‘CENTRO CULTURAL PERU.’ Ossian Hall Park (7900 Heritage Drive, Annandale, VA). 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

ROCKNOCEROS. Burke Lake Park (7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station, VA). 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

THE UNCLE DEVIN SHOW. Mason District Park (6621 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA). 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

TYLER HUGHES. Workhouse Arts Center at Lorton (9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, VA). 7:30 to 9:00 p.m.

BROOK YODER Clare & Don's Beach Shack. 130 N Washington St, Falls Church, VA 22046 5 p.m.

SUNDAY, AUGUSTS 14

CIRCUS NO. 9. Mason District Park (6621 Columbia Pike, Annandale,

7:30 p.m.

Saturday, August 13, 7:30 PM

SONDHEIM REUNION CABARET (PART 2!) Saturday, August 13, 7:30 PM

Another half of the Into the Woods cast reunites to sing Sondheim hits from shows like Sweeney Todd, Company, A Little Night Music, Merrily We Role Along, West Side Story, and more! (P����: C������� C�������)

auditions for its first mainstage production of the 2022-2023 season, “November,” by David Mamet, directed by Jayne L. Victor. Auditions will take place August 17 & 18 at

the Italian Café in Falls Church. Providence

Players is casting 5 roles (gender flexible).

No roles are precast, and all roles are open. All backgrounds, ethnicities wel-

come and encouraged to audition! All those auditioning for this production must be #vaccinated. Find more info at https:// bit.ly/3A3udGB.

AUCTIONS

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We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap. All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-8530. Toll free call (888) 551-3247. For the hearing impaired call (804) 367-9753.

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 W, WARREN COUNTY POWER STATION CASE NO. PUR-2022-00090

•Virginia Electric and Power Company d/b/a Dominion Energy Virginia (“Dominion”) has applied for approval to revise its rate adjustment clause. Rider W.

•In this case. Dominion has asked the State Corporation Commission (“Commission”) to approve Rider W for the rate years April 1, 2023, through March 31, 2024, for Rate Year 1, and April 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025, for Rate Year 2.

•For Rate Year 1, Dominion requests a revenue requirement of $105,597,000, which would decrease the bill of a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per month by $0.38. This proposed revenue requirement represents a $15,488,000 decrease from the annual revenue requirement currently in place.

•For Rate Year 2, Dominion requests a revenue requirement of $109,219,000, which would be an increase from the revenue requirement proposed for recovery in Rate Year 1 and increase the bill of a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per month by $0.08 from Rate Year 1.

•A Hearing Examiner appointed by the Commission will hold a telephonic hearing in this case on January 10, 2023, at 10 a.m., for the receipt of public witness testimony.

•A hearing on the Application shall be convened at 10 a.m. on January 11, 2023, in the Commission’s second floor courtroom located in the Tyler Building, 1300 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, to receive the testimony and evidence of the Company, any respondents, and the Staff.

•Further information about this case is available on the Commission website at: scc.virginia.gov/pages/CaseInformation.

On June 13, 2022, Virginia Electric and Power Company (“Dominion” or “Company”), pursuant to § 56-585.1 A 6 of the Code of Virginia (“Code”), and in accordance with the State Corporation Commission’s (“Commission”) February 8, 2022 Final Order in Case No. PUR-2021-00115, filed with the Commission a biennial update of the Company’s rate adjustment clause, Rider W (“Application”). Through its Application, the Company seeks to recover costs associated with the Warren County Power Station, a natural gas-fired combined-cycle electric generating facility, and associated transmission interconnection facilities located in Warren County, Virginia (collectively, the “Warren County Project” or the “Project”).

In Case No. PUE-2011-00042, the Commission approved Dominion’s construction and operation of the Warren County Project and also approved a rate adjustment clause, designated Rider W, for the Company to recover costs associated with the development of the Project. The Warren County Project began commercial operations in December 2014. In this proceeding, Dominion has asked the Commission to approve Rider W for the rate years beginning April 1, 2023, through March 31, 2024 (“Rate Year 1”) and April 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025 (“Rate Year 2”). The two key components of the proposed total revenue requirement for Rate Year 1 are the Projected Cost Recovery Factor and the Actual Cost True-Up Factor. The proposed revenue requirement for Rate Year 2 is comprised only of the Projected Cost Recovery Factor. The Company is requesting a Projected Cost Recovery Factor revenue requirement of $109,444,000 for Rate Year 1 and $109,219,000 for Rate Year 2. The Company is requesting an Actual Cost True-Up Factor revenue requirement of ($3,847,000) for Rate Year 1, which is to be returned to customers. Thus, the Company is requesting total revenue requirements for recovery of $105,597,000 for Rate Year 1, and $109,219,000 for Rate Year 2.

If the proposed Rider W for Rate Year 1 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 W for Rate Year 1 would decrease the bill of a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours per month by $0.38. The reason for this decrease in customer bills is that the revenue requirement presented for recovery over Rate Year 1 represents a decrease of $15,488,000 compared to the revenue requirement underlying the rates currently in effect. The corresponding Rate Year 2 impact would be an increase of $0.08 to residential customers from Rate Year 1 rates. The reason for this increase in customer bills is that the revenue requirement presented for recovery over Rate Year 2 represents an increase of $3,622,000 compared to the revenue requirement underlying the rates proposed to be in effect during Rate Year 1. The Company indicates it has calculated the proposed Rider W rates in accordance with the same methodology as used for rates approved by the Commission in the most recent Rider W proceeding, Case No. PUR-2021-00115.

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.

On January 10, 2023, at 10 a.m., the Commission will hold a telephonic hearing, with no witness present in the Commission’s courtroom, for the purpose of receiving the testimony of public witnesses. On or before January 6, 2023, any person desiring to offer testimony as a public witness shall provide to the Commission (a) your name, and (b) the telephone number that you wish the Commission to call during the hearing to receive your testimony. This information may be provided to the Commission in three ways: (i) by filling out a form on the Commission’s website at scc.virginia.gov/pages/Webcasting; (ii) by completing and emailing the PDF version of this form to SCCInfo@scc.virginia.gov; or by calling (804) 371-9141. This public witness hearing will be webcast at scc.virginia.gov/pages/Webcasting.

On January 11, 2023, at 10 a.m., in the Commission’s second floor courtroom located in the Tyler Building, 1300 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, the Hearing Examiner will convene a hearing to receive testimony and evidence related to the Application from the Company, any respondents, and the Commission’s Staff.

The Commission has taken judicial notice of the ongoing public health issues related to the spread of the coronavirus, or COVID 19. The Commission has taken certain actions, and may take additional actions going forward, that could impact the procedures in this proceeding. Consistent with these actions, in regard to the terms of the procedural framework established below, the Commission will, among other things, direct the electronic filing of testimony and pleadings unless they contain confidential information, and require electronic service on parties to this proceeding.

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, Dominion Energy Service, Inc., 120 Tredegar Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, or lisa.r.crabtree@dominionenergy.com.

On or before January 10, 2023, any interested person may file comments on the Application by following the instructions found on the Commission’s website: scc.virginia.gov/ casecomments/Submit-Public-Comments or by filing such comments with the Clerk of the State Corporation Commission c/o Document Control Center, P.O. Box 2118, Richmond, Virginia 23218-2118. All comments shall refer to Case No. PUR-2022-00090.

On or before October 27, 2021, any person or entity wishing to participate as a respondent in this proceeding may do so by filing a notice of participation at scc.virginia.gov/clk/efiling. Those unable, as a practical matter, to file a notice of participation electronically may file such notice by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the Commission at the address above. 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-2022-00090.

On or before November 17, 2023, each respondent may file with the Clerk of the Commission, at scc.virginia.gov/clk/efiling, any testimony and exhibits by which the respondent expects to establish its case. Any respondent unable, as a practical matter, to file testimony and exhibits electronically may file such by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the Commission at the address listed above. Each witness’s testimony shall include a summary not to exceed one page. All testimony and exhibits shall be served on the Staff, the Company, and all other respondents simultaneously with its filing. 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-2022-00090.

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 public version of the Company’s Application and other documents filed in this case, the Commission’s Rules of Practice, and the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing may be viewed on the Commission’s website at: scc.virginia.gov/pages/Case-Information.

VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY

D/B/A DOMINION ENERGY VIRGINIA

BACK IN THE DAY

25 & 10 Years Ago in the News-Press

Falls Church News-Press

Vol. VII, No. 20 • July 31, 1997

Council Explores Putting Community Center on Broad

The Falls Church City Council entertained a completely novel approach to constructing a badly-needed new Community Center at its work session Monday night. In order to give time to examine the new idea, the Council decided to pause from its schedule to move ahead with a more conventional approach.

C ritter C orner

Falls Church News-Press

Vol. XXII, No. 24 • August 9, 2012

F.C. Announces Talks With Fairfax On Sale of Water System Are Over

The City of Falls Church announced in a press release issued late yesterday that negotiations with Fairfax County and Fairfax Water for the sale of the City’s water utility have been discontinued. The City will continue to operate, its statement said, “a world class water system by delivering safe, dependable water.”

Critter Corner

strongly for Trump in 2020 but that last week voted even more strongly to keep the right to an abortion in the state constitution. Biden’s string of victories may not yet be enough to shift the narrative about him from spiraling to rebounding, but a fair read of recent events demands some adjustment.

The White House must also shift its messaging, from defensive to offensive. I’ve never truly bought the argument that Biden’s polling was bad because he simply wasn’t doing enough to tout his accomplishments.

There were some periods where the disappointments actually seemed to carry more weight than his achievements.

But that’s not the case now, and the administration must seize this moment and not be shy about shouting about its wins. This is one area in which Donald Trump succeeded: boasting. When he was cam -

paigning in 2016, he claimed that if he was elected, people might even “get tired of winning.” As he put it, people would say: “Please, please, it’s too much winning. We can’t take it anymore. Mr. President, it’s too much.” To which he said he would respond: “No it isn’t. We have to keep winning. We have to win more.”

He would go through his term bragging about how anything that happened on his watch was the biggest and best.

We now know that the Trump presidency was a disaster that nearly destroyed the country, but, if a failure like Trump can crow about all he did, even when the evidence wasn’t there, then surely Biden can find a way to do a little crowing of his own, particularly during one of the most successful stretches of his presidency.

Biden, you did it. Boast about it.

KILLER is an 8-ish year old rescue who’s been a resident of Falls Church for about two years. Killer enjoys spending time at Cherry Hill Park, getting Puppuccinos at Starbucks and hitting up happy hour at Solace Outpost. He can be found on Instagram at @killerbichon. He would love to make friends with more local pups!

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

Falls Church Business News & Notes

Invitation to Aqua Tots Ribbon Cutting

Aqua Tots has opened in Birch and Broad. To celebrate the new business, a ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, August 11, 5:00 pm. The public is invited to join City Council and the Chamber of Commerce for the ceremony and the reception immediately following.

Preservation Biscuits Promotion for Local Beagles

Starting Sunday, August 14, Preservation Biscuit Company is donating 100 percent of their new boneshaped dog biscuits and a portion of biscuit sales of The Queen—in honor of all the mama beagles out there—to Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation. They have accepted 56 beagles from the Envigo breeding facility who need critical care. Support the beagles—and all the homeless dogs and cats rescued through LDCRF while supporting Preservation Biscuit. The Biscuits & Beagles promotion runs through the end of the month. To order online and learn more about Preservation Biscuit Company, go to preservationbiscuit.com. To get involved with the beagle rescue effort, visit lostdogrescue.org/ beaglerescue.

Apple Federal Credit Union Expands — Ribbon Cutting Tuesday

Apple Federal Credit Union has opened a new branch in Bailey’s Crossroads, and the Grand Opening Event includes a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, August 16 at 11:00 am. Supervisor Penny Gross will lead the ceremony. A reception will follow, and staff will be available to answer questions. There will be drawings for prizes that include a 50” Toshiba TV, Xbox Series S, HP Laptop, Ninja Foodie Smart, Nespresso Coffee Bundle and more throughout the week. Drop by August 15-20 to enter to win the prizes and receive a free insulated tote bag, perfect for farmers’ markets and grocery stores. The branch located at 5701-D Columbia Pike is open Monday-Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturday, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Locals Land on Fortune Global 500

Fortune Magazine has named six Northern Virginia-based companies to the Global 500 list. Falls Church-based Northrop Grumman Corp. took the 399th spot. Freddie Mac, General Dynamics Corp., CarMax, Capital One Financial Corp., and Performance Food Group Co. were also named to the largest corporations by total revenue. Northrop Grumman expects full-year earnings in the range of $24.50 to $25.10 per share, with revenue in the range of $36.2 billion to $36.6 billion.

Childcare Survey for Businesses

In the midst of the state’s current labor shortage, the Virginia Early Childhood Foundation, the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, and the Virginia Chamber of Commerce are seeking to understand the impact of childcare availability on Virginia businesses. If you represent a business—large or small—in Virginia, please take the following short survey about the impact of childcare on workforce recruitment, retention, and employee productivity, and the strategies that employers are using to support access to child care for their workers. Survey results will inform policy recommendations for an improved childcare system to better address the labor shortage and keep Virginia competitive as one of the best places in the country to do business. Please respond by August 26 via the following link: https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/6958102/VAEmployers

GDIT Awarded $267M Contract

General Dynamics Information Technology Inc. (GDIT) was awarded a contract to provide the Army National Guard with an integrated network operations center from which the contractor will operate, maintain and secure a ranging enterprise network in an unclassified and classified environment around the clock. This network will provide soldiers with access to the internet and to connect securely to databases and other networks, while allowing the Army leadership access to tools for training, mission planning and execution. This is among the Department of Defense’s largest networks, with more than 124,000 users at 3,000 locations across the globe.

Business News & Notes is compiled by Elise Neil Bengtson, Executive Director of the Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. Contact: elise@fallschcurchchamber.org.

One level living in this Tremont Gardens bungalow! Updated kitchen with granite countertops, Samsung gas stove and refrigerator (2021), Bosch dishwasher (2016), double sink, and access to the laundry room with Samsung washer and dryer (2015). Large living room with fireplace, skylight, built-ins, and French doors lead to the deck and backyard. The 2nd and 3rd bedrooms, with hardwood floors, share a full bath. The primary suite has hardwood floors and a large walk-in closet with built-in organizers. The updated primary bath has a large shower, heated floors, and a skylight (2016). Skylights in bathroom and living room. The sunroom has built-ins, cathedral ceilings, ceiling fan, glass block windows, and French doors to the deck. The front yard is fenced and the backyard features a swing set/playground and oversized shed. Off-street parking for 4+ cars! This home is located in a very convenient location! Close to the City of Falls Church and Mosaic, with shopping, restaurants, and entertainment!

703-626-3257

merelyn@kayes.com

Buying or selling there is no substitute for experience.

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