Falls Church News-Press 8-3-2023

August 3 - 9, 2023

Beyer Hails Tahirih ProImmigrant Group Here

by Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press

U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, whose 8th District of Virginia includes the City of Falls Church, appeared at a special meeting of the Falls Church-based chapter of the Tahirih Justice Center last Thursday to accept appreciation for his work to include the immigration-justice seeking organization in a substantial federal funding request and to hear updates on the non-profit organization’s work.

“It was a unique moment for us” to have the Congressman there, said Casey Carter Swegman, public policy director for the Tahirih office here, which is its headquarters for the D.C. Metro area and one of five urban centers in the U.S.

The organization supports women and girls who come as immigrant survivors of genderbased violence, offering free social services, from direct representation to emergency shelter, food and healthcare, community outreach and training.

Continued on Page 3

See Finalists Page 12

by Sam Mostow, Phebe Fahmy & Catherine Kane

(Editor’s Note – The following article is the result of a collaborative effort by three college interns who worked at the News-Press this summer.)

We — the summer interns at the Falls Church News-Press — have spent the past 10 weeks reporting and writing stories that appeared on your doorstep every Thursday. It’s fulfilling work, and a way for us college students to gain experience in an increasingly rare breed of media: an independent local newspaper.

It’s impossible to work at a newspaper for a period of time,

quirks, and not be aware of the perils facing newspapers in the 21st century. We are quite fortunate at the News-Press , with its independent ownership, but we acknowledge others are not so lucky.

According to Northwestern University’s Local News Initiative, over 2,500 newspapers have disappeared in the United States since 2005, accounting for more than onequarter of printed publications. During the Covid-19 pandemic, more than 360 shut their doors. As of June 2022, there were 6,380 newspapers in the country; 1,230 were daily and 5,150 weekly.

lished extensive reporting into the topic over the course of the summer. The series examined why newspapers are struggling and followed a bill, which passed through the Senate Judiciary Committee, that hopes to address the problem. While bills, such as the Journalism Competition and Preservation Act in the United States and Online News Act in Canada, are passing through legislatures and becoming laws in some places, technology companies that will be most impacted, namely Google and Facebook, are refusing to cooperate, removing news features instead of negotiating to share revenue.

young reporters, trying to make a career out of the “dying industry” we are entering can be discouraging. With how newspapers are shrinking around the country, and many forms of journalism along with it, the future of newspapers can appear bleak.

Social media became more prominent as the 21st century progressed, leading to advertisers investing more in digital advertisements, as opposed to print. According to Tonda Rush, general counsel for the National Newspaper Association who spoke to the News-Press for an

Continued

DEMOCRATIC NOMINEE for the Virginia State Senate Saddam Salim (left) held a campaign kickoff rally in Fairfax City Sunday that drew a large crowd from around his district that includes the City of Falls Church. Salim upset veteran lawmaker Chap Petersen in the Democratic primary in June to advance to the general election in November.

Falls Church NEWS BRIEFS

News-Press Book Can Now Be Pre-Ordered on Amazon

Author Charlie Clark’s new book, slated for release in mid-October, can now be preordered on Amazon.com. The book, entitled, “The Life and Times of the Falls Church News-Press,” is 160 pages and is being published by the History Press. It is for sale as a paperback with the preorder guaranteed price of $24.99.

Yard Waste Stickers Not Needed in Coming Week

According to an announcement from the Falls Church City Hall, yard waste stickers will not be needed on properly-bundled brush for this week’s and the August 9 collections.

Properly preparing and bundling brush for the collection involves the following: brush must be cut in five-foot lengths with no individual branch or trunk larger than six inches in diameter; brush must be securely tied with cord or twine that is strong enough to hold the material together; brush may be neatly stacked in a container, 30 gallons or less in size, labeled “brush;” each bundle or container must not exceed 50 pounds or be too large or bulky to be loaded safely by one person into the collection vehicle; brush must be placed at the curb by 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday (or after 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday); brush must be stacked at the curb, avoiding sidewalks and storm drain openings wherever possible, and not in the gutter; brush may also be placed in paper yard debris bags.

Christopher Fay to Retire from Homestretch After 17 Years

Homestretch, a Falls Church-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering homeless families and survivors of domestic violence in Virginia to become self-sufficient, announced the retirement of long-time executive director Christopher Fay after 17 years at the helm of the organization.

To lead the organization as the new executive director, Homestretch has appointed experienced non-profit leader Barfonce Baldwin, who will continue the decades of Homestretch success and progress in providing life-changing services for homeless families in the DMV region.

Under Fay’s leadership, Homestretch has earned numerous awards for its outstanding track record of equipping families with the skills, knowledge and hope to escape poverty and homelessness. Fay is noted for focusing Homestretch on achieving consistently successful long-term outcomes for the families it serves, as proven by rigorous outcome studies of Homestretch graduates to ensure long-term

success.

Baldwin has a wealth of experience leading successful nonprofit organizations with a focus on homelessness and domestic violence, including most recently serving as regional executive director for the Tahirih Justice Center.

In retirement, Fay plans to write and speak about Homestretch, and return to his prior livelihood of illustrating children’s books.

Virginia Hospital Center Draws Complaints from Neighbors

Mysterious yellow signs appeared last month in Arlington at N. George Mason Dr. stating that the County Board and Virginia Hospital Center were “Unfair to Neighborhood.” After inquiries on Nextdoor, High View Park resident Tanya Graham explained that the dispute involves construction of the hospital’s new high-rise Outpatient Pavilion and its construction crews’ compliance with the site plan.

The hospital didn’t respond to News-Press calls, but a statement from the county says it is “closely monitoring” the situation and that staff have responded to residents’ concerns via email. “Zoning Division staff have attended all community meetings held between the neighbors and VHC,” Communications and Engagement Specialist Elise Cleva told the News-Press. “All lighting in the VHC parking garage is now in compliance with the site plan conditions, with all non-emergency lighting in the garage now set to motion detection. All non-emergency lighting in the VHC outpatient building, which is still under construction, will be on motion detection prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy. The site is still an active construction site, with a plan in place for removing construction-related garbage. The county is ensuring compliance with site plan conditions and other regulations and is assisting where needed. Arlington County notes the responsiveness of VHC to community concerns.” –

Charlie Clark

Conversion of New Tysons High Rise to Residential OK’d

The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors has agreed to let a planned office building near the Spring Hill Metro Station become an apartment high-rise instead.

At a public hearing on July 25, the board unanimously approved American Real Estate Partners’ City House proposal, a move that both the county and developer hope will catalyze change in a largely dormant part of Tysons. The proposed project sits on part of the 31.5acre Spring Hill Station Demonstration Project approved in 2011. City House will bring a 410,000 square foot high-rise residential building with up to 410 multifamily units.

Beyer Hailed at Tahirih Center for Survivors of Gender-Based Violence

Continued from Page 1

“We are lucky in Falls Church to have a congressman who supports us both morally and politically,” Swegman said of Rep. Beyer, whose current funding request for the organization is over $1 million. With a staff of over 100 covering five U.S. urban centers, over 25 years Tahirih has trained and educated 13,934 frontline professionals and community members, including judges, police officers, healthcare staff and social service providers, and assisted nearly 30,000 women, girls and other survivors seeking access to justice. It has welcomed more than 158,000 users to Tahirih,org and more than 25,000 users to PreventForcedMarriage. org.

In Falls Church, the organization has a working relationship with Welcoming Falls Church, headed by Paul Boessen, who attended last week’s meeting with Beyer held at the Tahirih offices in Seven Corners.

Though not an immigrant, himself, nor a woman, Beyer told the meeting, he has a sister, three daughters and a wife, and importantly, an influential grandmother

who was an immigrant who grew up on a chicken farm in California. Within a generation, she raised a daughter who became a graduate of the University of California.

His more recent connection with the issue is the result of the fact that the Falls Church-based automobile dealership established by his father and that he shared ownership with his brother, Mike, until he recently sold off his share, have had two-thirds to three-fourths of its employees being composed of persons who were born other than in the U.S., from places like India, Iran, Russia, Vietnam and the subAfrican continent.

“These employees work very hard, they send money back home to their families, and their children do well here,” Beyer said. “They come with nothing, and within a generation, like my grandmother, are graduating their children from universities.”

The event last week was also an occasion for the organization to celebrate Judge Jon Tigar’s court ruling, with Tahirih as a plaintiff in the case, striking down the U.S.’s asylum ban. Charlotte Gillingham, litigation counsel at the Tahirih

center, stated, “The court’s decision today is an important step toward ensuring that survivors of gender-based violence, and all immigrants fleeing persecution, are able to exercise their right to seek asylum with dignity and fairness and without fear of being sent back in harm’s way.”

A guest at the event was Alcha Abdouilaye, a native of Niger, who attested in her remarks to the important work the justice center is doing.

In a related development, Barfonce Baldwin, with 15 years experience in this field, has accepted the post of executive director for the Falls Church-based homelessness organization, Homestretch, to replace the retiring Christopher Fay (see story, elsewhere this issue).

On its website, the Tahirih Justice Center states it “is a secular organization founded on the principles of the Bahai faith that affirms “we are one human family, we believe that the welfare of each of us is inextricably bound to the welfare of all.”

As such, the website stated, “We reject white supremacy, antiBlackness, racism, misogyny,

xenophobia, and other forms of oppression, and acknowledge the harm they cause. We believe that our laws and systems too often

benefit those with power and privilege and must be transformed to advance gender equality, racial justice and social equity.”

FALLS CHURCH’S U.S. REP. Don Beyer spoke to a meeting of the Tahirih Justice Center in Falls Church on immigration reform last week. (News-Press Photo)

FCNP Interns on Key Issue; What is the Future of Newspapers?

earlier story, most newspaper revenue comes from printed advertising, unless they are very large. Consequently, as the number of newspapers dwindles, so does the number of reporters.

“If you don’t have advertising and you don’t have reporters and you can’t pay your printer, then everything begins to get scaled back,” Rush said.

Local newspapers aren’t the only journalism entities facing layoffs and cuts. The Los Angeles Times cut 74 positions, making up for 13 percent of their newsroom, earlier this summer. The New York Times shuttered their sports section last month, replacing it with The Athletic, a subscription-based sports website originally funded by venture capital, which the New York Times purchased in 2022 for $550 million.

With that said, it would be irresponsible to ignore the positives. Most importantly, there are people around the country who are passionate about supporting local news-

papers and are creating innovative solutions to do so. The National Trust for Local News, a nonprofit organization, purchased Masthead Maine, which operates five daily newspapers and 17 weekly publications in Maine. Although it is too soon to determine how this purchase actually impacts those publications, it could signal a shift away from a profitfirst mindset and towards what the priorities of newspapers should be: Providing a community with honest, fair journalism.

Above all else, the world is filled with people dedicated to providing their communities with honest, fair journalism. All three of us work for publications at our colleges – The Flat Hat at William & Mary (Phebe), Summit Magazine at Macalester (Catherine) and The Collegiate Times at Virginia Tech (Sam) – which student volunteers operate. College newspapers and other student-run publications are labors of love; we devote our time to them out of a love for the craft and a belief that our work is beneficial to our communities.

Our investment into journalism at our schools, along with countless other students from around the country, is paying off. Last month, The Stanford Daily exposed their university president, Marc Tessier-Lavigne, for manipulating research data, forcing his resignation. The Daily Northwestern reported on rampant hazing in their athletic department, spanning across multiple sports, resulting in the head football coach’s firing. Without a source of local, community-based journalism, those who needed to be held accountable may never have been.

While the field is evolving, the appetite for public and corporate accountability continues to be voracious. Investigative journalism that sheds light on the inner workings of powerful institutions is a hefty, but worthy, investment. Creating a medium for which this reporting might be presented is the challenge of the next generation of reporters. There will always be a market for storytelling. And there will always be people – ourselves included – who will be there to tell those stories.

Trump Indicted!

“The president is indicted! Long live the president!” Borrowing from timeless shouted forms of news historically exhaled as medieval reports of a dead royal, we offer this one as our celebratory contribution to the news of these most recent days, that the Justice Department’s special prosecutor Jack Smith has finally lowered the boom on the nation’s most notorious crook, former President Donald Trump. Huzzah!

This has been so long in coming, beyond the obvious findings of so many investigations that this man Trump is one of, if not the, worst case of a head of state’s wanton disregard for democracy and the rule of law in American history. As one of the four counts of the indictment against him makes clear, his many crimes are not just against the “system,” or alleged actions against him, but against every single American person, and by extension, against every single living human being, or more broadly, sentient being, including household pets and pests, alike.

Dozens of editorials and commentaries by our editor, Nicholas F. Benton, sought to expose this grifter, this sociopathic con man, liar, and thug to the public since he first rode that escalator in the summer of 2015 to put his name forward as a presidential candidate. As Benton has also reported, this man was chosen by the hardline KGB-Putin faction in Russia as its chosen instrument to wage domestic war against the U.S. and its Constitutional form of government back in 1987.

One need only contemplate where this nation would be today had Trump been reelected, or been reinstated for a second term, in 2021. The reason all the stops were pulled out to achieve that result, despite seven million fewer popular votes in the November 2020 election, had to do with what was at stake not for him alone, but for his international faction in that race.

Not only would Ukraine have long been in the hands of Putin by now, with little or no resistance, but Russia would be poised to walk all over Europe, set to finish the job that Hitler failed to do in the 1940s, including the taking, militarily or otherwise, of NATO as a whole. This would have been achieved in tandem with Trump’s more aggressive dismantling of the institutions of democracy in the U.S., leaving the West helpless against the march of totalitarianism across the globe.

None of these outcomes are exaggerations, as much as some may try to argue (the same discredited voices who insisted that Trump would go quietly and not press for a coup after the 2020 election). No, just as the 2020 election resulted in a worst-case scenario, so would have a different outcome to that election.

It is only by embracing this unpleasant reality that the American people can be expected to step up, once again, to forcefully reject the Trump agenda, even if he’s (hopefully) behind bars before long. Few still think that will happen, but, again, not us.

Platform

1. Keep the news clean and fair.

2. Play no favorites, never mix business and editorial policy.

3. Do not let the news columns reflect editorial content.

4. Publish the news that is public property without fear or favor of friend or foe.

5. Accept no charity and ask no favors.

6. Give ‘value received’ for every dollar you take in.

7. Make the paper show a profit if you can, but above all keep it clean, fearless and fair.

Letters to E ditor

W&OD Intersections Needs Brush Cleared

Editor,

After five years riding NOVA trails and many miles covered, I think Falls Church City has some of the best with the split use trail. However, the crossings at Grove, West, Oak, Great Falls and Little Falls are among the busiest along the W&OD for cars and bikers. During the warmer months the brush takes over and blocks visibility. This is particularly bad at Grove where bikers build their momentum coming down the bridge but can’t be seen until the last five meters by cars coming from the north. As a driver I slowly inch across this crossing each day. Clearing the brush would increase safety.

Also, at the West-W&OD crossing the yellow left turn signal coming from the direction of Broad causes many cars to believe they have the right of way when the walk signal is active. I have been honked at several times when crossing this intersection with the walk turn signal. Many children cross this intersection on the way to school.

FCC has invested in and created excellent walk and cycle infrastructure. Safety can be

further increased by a couple of relatively inexpensive steps, clearing the intersection brush to increase visibility and disabling the yellow left turn signal on West. Thank you.

Bryan McCracken Falls Church Editor,

I strongly disagree with Mr. Dunn on his protest of the new Fairfax County proposal. Instead of the very disturbingly noisy and polluting leaf removal now practiced, rake as many leaves as possible to under bushes to provide shelter and food for insects such as lady bugs (as well as nutrients for bushes) and just mow: mulch leaves with your lawn mower (or ask your lawn service to do so, if you must) to provide good nutrients for the grass. The earth is burning due to our polluting habits. Please wake up and do your part to minimize this climate crisis in sensible ways. Citizens — rise up and be grateful to the “rascals.” They have my vote.

Cecilia Op de Beke Falls Church

105-Year-Old F.C. Resident Honored With Military Women’s Award

by Kylee Toland Falls Church News-Press

On August 17, Winifred “Winnie” Evans, a resident at Chesterbrook Residences Assisted Living Community, will receive the Military Women’s Memorial Award: Living Legend Proclamation. For Evans, this is just another achievement in her impressive over-a-century lifetime.

At 105 years old, Evans has experienced and accomplished so many feats that the title “Living Legend” may be the best description for the Falls Church resident. A former nurse, author and supporter of various causes, Evans has expressed “genuine joy and heartfelt appreciation” upon receiving the Military’s Women’s Memorial Award, according to her niece, Patricia Garrett.

“With enthusiasm, she exclaimed ‘I am overjoyed and thrilled to be acknowledged as a living legend,’” Garret recalled of Evans.

The granddaughter of Horace Bennett, a sergeant in the Civil War under the 54th Massachusetts Colored Infantry, Evans was born in 1917 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Growing up, she said the “most sig-

nificant influence” in her life was her mother, Rose, who emphasized the importance of a college degree in opening doors to “the world and achieving dreams.”

After her little sister Betty passed away due to a sudden illness, Garrett said Evans was determined to contribute in finding medical cures and assisting the sick.

“It was her deep desire to make a positive impact on the world through her nursing skills,” Garret said.

Evans received a B.S. in nursing from the University of Pennsylvania and a master’s degree from Catholic University. She then began to travel around the world and use her nursing skills to help those in need. During her time in Africa and Asia, Garrett said Evans encountered a multitude of challenges, such as traveling through remote villages with rough terrains to assist families medically.

“The fulfillment she experienced while delivering babies and providing aid to those in need brought her immense joy,” Garret said. “Yet, what truly made her efforts even more gratifying was the genuine appreciation and gratitude shown by

these families.”

Other inspirations for Evans’ accomplishments were former President John F. Kennedy’s call to serve America, which Garrett said led her to join the Peace Corps in 1962, and travel to Togo in West Africa. There she vaccinated thousands of children, which was recorded in the Congressional Record in 1964.

Garrett said Evans displayed a passion for writing poems and plays at an early age, leading to an interest in writing, which was something her high school teachers recognized.

Under pseudonyms, Evans authored several books and poems, such as the medical suspense novel “The Cult of the Green Mamba” and “Africa Once More With Feeling,” an anthology of poems reflecting her love for Africa as a nurse.

Garrett said Evans has expressed her goal to continue authoring poems and short stories.

According to Garrett, Evans’ involvement with the Women in Military Service for America Memorial was “driven by her recognition of the need to honor the courage and sacrifices of the many women who served their country.”

“My aunt, Winifred Evans, has been a great inspiration to me through her unwavering determination to conquer challenges and serve people globally,” Garrett said. “Her life has been nothing short of remarkable, as she served as a major in the Air Force, a Peace Corps volunteer, a professor at the University of New Mexico, and a charter member of the Women in the Military Monument.”

Seven years ago, one year short of turning 100, Evans had to undergo a right leg amputation. However, Garret said Evan’s strong spirit remained undeterred, and now skillfully uses a wheelchair to live out her impressive life.

“Her uplifting personality and determination to overcome challenges serve as a true inspiration to everyone who knows her,” Garrett said.

WINIFRED EVANS (left) with Brigadier General Wilma Vaught (right) of the Women in Military Service for America Memorial. (Courtesy: Patricia Garrett)

Thank You, Falls Church!

FINALIST - Best of Falls Church 2023

Globe Trotter Properties is the DMV’s premier property management company, with over 900 properties under management thanks to a long track record of referrals and repeat business. We help clients every step of the way, from preparing their property for rent and finding great tenants, to maximizing rental income and maintaining your investment.

Kerry Ross: Kerry@globetrotterproperties.com

Liberty Restaurant Group Brings

New Concept To Falls Church

by Brian Reach Falls Church News-Press

This month The Little City will welcome its newest dining experience, opening in the former Liberty Barbecue space at 370 W. Broad St.

The Falls, the latest addition to the Liberty Restaurant Group family, will feature an expanded menu — including some healthy and delicious sounding seasonal bowls — and a more refined interior than its predecessor.

The Liberty Restaurant Group, coowned by the Fedorchak and Normile families, includes The Liberty Tavern, Lyon Hall, and Northside Social Coffee and Wine in Clarendon, along with Northside Social Falls Church and The Falls here in The Little City.

“We love being in Falls Church, and really appreciate the community here.” said Stephen Fedorchak, co-owner of Liberty Restaurant Group.

Fedorchak says The Falls was inspired by feedback received directly from the community. After mentioning how, with the News-Press office within sight, I’ve had numerous lunches at Liberty Barbecue, he asked me for my feedback. I admitted that, though the food was always delicious, our weekly trips had me longing for healthier, more vibrant choices that were less meat-heavy (beyond the couple of salads offered).

Fedorchak grinned. “We’re listening to our guests,” he said, “and that’s exactly what we’ve done.” He said feedback from guests had been very similar, and described new entrees that sounded exactly like the healthier options I’d been longing for. I, for one, am most excited to try their Green Freekeh Bowl (pictured), topped with carrots, sugar snap peas, almonds, Granny Smith apple slices, and a sesame vinaigrette.

The expanded menu includes baskets

of freshly baked breads (including corn bread, biscuits, and cheddar chive scones served with whipped butter and honey), seasonal vegetables, and more seafood and poultry options than its predecessor. Cuisine will focus on the best quality, regionally sourced ingredients, fully leveraging the weekly Farmers Market that takes place just a block away in the City Hall parking lot.

Items further adding to the menu’s diversity include a red quinoa bowl, a slice of toasted coconut almond cake, and a summery-looking Pomelo Paloma prepared with El Silencio Mezcal.

For fans of Liberty Barbecue’s popular smoked meats, fear not: staying true to the location’s roots, the smoker will still be running at The Falls, offering menu options like Hoisin Glazed Baby Back Ribs, served with an heirloom tomato salad, and roasted summer squash topped with goat cheese crema).

Executive Chef Harper McClure (who you may recognize from his appearance on Iron Chef America), Executive Pastry Chef Bridie McCulla, and Chef de Cuisine Wilson Giron combine considerable experience and talents to lead the kitchen at The Falls.

The Falls will be open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, with brunch served on weekends, and breakfast service on the horizon, which Fedorchak says is needed, evidenced in part by bustling crowds at nearby Northside Social.

The Falls will continue to provide efficient “to-go” service featuring the full menu, offer a wide range of personalized catering options and event space — including a new 36-person private dining room.

The refreshed ambiance at The Falls will feature a fully renovated space, ensuring a comfortable feel for all guests, suitable for a wide variety of occasions, whether special or casual.

Doors will open later this month.

EXPANDED CUISINE at The Falls, opening this month, includes freshlybaked breads (left), and features seasonal veggies in entrees like the Green Freekah Bowl (right), topped with carrots, sugar snap peas, almonds, apple slices, and a sesame vinaigrette (Photos: Scott Suchman)

Meridian Theater Teacher Brings F.C. Musical Skills to D.C.

D.C.’s Rorschach Theatre’s “Angel Number Nine,” adapted from the 2013 James L. Rogers III novel of the same name, features a familiar F.C. face in its production crew. Shawn Northrip, Meridian High School’s theater and film studies teacher, composed the music for the show.

“It was a blast,” Northrip said. “It was great to have a creative outlet and get to sit down with my guitar and just make some noise.”

“Angel Number Nine” tells the story of a mid-’90s rock band in Richmond, focusing on the lead singer and how she faces her “personal demons” when touring in her hometown. Having written 10-minute plays and creating music for stage readings at the theater, Northrip was approached by Rorschach’s coArtistic Director Jenny McConnell Frederick to compose for the production.

“I figured if I hung out with them long enough, eventually

they would offer me a mainstage production,” Northrip said with a laugh. “I read [Angel Number Nine] and called [Frederick] and said, ‘It seems like it’s right in my wheelhouse.’”

Composing the music for the production came “quick and slow” for Northrip, as he said looking for a guitar riff is “always a first” for him. Northrip also took inspiration from Roger’s novel, as it included “evocative descriptions” of the songs played by the fictional band.

“I’m sure they could have gotten a younger composer,” Northrip said when talking about being selected for the role of composer. “But I actually lived through the ‘90s and played in a rock band in the ‘90s.”

Being a composer for this production and other shows has had an impact on Northrip’s career as a theater teacher, as he said the experience he has gotten from composing and writing “feeds into” how he teaches his students.

“It’s just nice to kind of have a fresh experience,” Northrip said. “I’d like to be the kind of

theater teacher that doesn’t just exist in the classroom… I want the students to feel like I’m someone who knows what I’m talking about because I actually practice what I preach.”

Since “Angel Number Nine” opened on July 7, Northrip said some of his colleagues and former students have come to see the production in support of him. The “best thing” from Meridian High School to make its way into the show is alum and Northrip’s former student CC Meade.

“What an honor it is to be sharing the space with someone whose work I encouraged for so long, and now to be able to see her as my peer and colleague,” Northrip said.

Although “Angel Number Nine” wrapped up its production this past weekend on July 30, Northrip said he hopes another chance to compose music for an outside show will occur.

Throughout this experience and others, Northrip said his favorite part of composing, for this show and others, is the moment that “something just starts

sounding and feeling right” when trying to build a song toward a theme or story.

“There’s usually a moment where a song starts feeling like a song,” Northrip said. “And it’s

usually the moment long after you’ve written it, and hoped it’s great, that you’re in a space with musicians playing it and it starts feeling like a moment of music.”

by Kylee Toland Falls Church News-Press

“ANGEL NUMBER NINE,” produced by Rorschach Theatre, featured music composed by Meridian’s very own theater teacher Shawn Northrip. (Photo: Ryan Maxwell)

Best of Falls Church Finalists

Therapist

Jessica MacNair

Sunstone Counseling

Center for Cognitive Therapy

Camp

Congressional Camp

Camp Rodef Shalom

FC City Camps

Pinecrest

Creative Cauldron

Orthodontist

Dr. Berman & Masoud

Orthodontics

Dr. Scholar

Merrifield Orthodontics

Ophthalmologists

Point of View

Anh Nguyen

Peter Ellis

Northern Va Ophthalmologist

Mark Falls

Builder/Remodeler

Foxcraft Design Group

Zimmerman Homes

TriVista USA

Cottage Street Homes

Greenbuilt

Architect

Moore Architects

Lee Design Studio

Dubro Architects

TriVista USA

MGMA Design

Landscapers/ Garden services

Merrifield Garden

Rimble Landscaping

Meadows Farms

All Green

Rainbox Landscaping

Property Management

Lig Residental

Peake Management

Globe Trotter Properties

Buzzuto

Pet Services

Falls Church Animal Hospital

Dude’s Dog House & Spa

Polite Dog

Dogtopia

Posh Pets

Live Entertainment State Theatre

Ireland’s Four Provinces

Dogwood Tavern

Clare and Don’s Beach Shack

Virginia Dream FC

Hair Salon/ Barbershop

Neighborhood Barber Shop

Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids

Nash Hair Design

Kess Hair & Skin Care

Perfect Endings Hair Design

New Business

Skin Lab Med Spa

Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids

The Polite Dog Ellie Bird

Physical Therapists/ Chiropractor

Avalon

Ascension Chiropractic Advanced Kinetics

Dry Cleaners

Spectrum

Classic Cleaners

Hillwood Cleaners

Zips Cleaners

Specialty Store

Disturbingly

Delicious Foods

Doodlehopper

Dominion Wine and Beer

Browns

Stylish Patina

Gym/Fitness/Yoga

Tinner Hill Cross Fit

Balanced Female Fitness

Honest Soul Yoga

Mind Over Mat Pilates

Club Pilates

Nail/Day/Skin Spa

Rex Day Spa

Skin Lab Med Spa

Nails For You

Nail Bonita

Grace Nails

Auto

Beyer Integrity

Smokeys Garage

Falls Church Auto Repair

AA Automotive

Home Improvement

Browns

LIG Residential

Marshall Roofing, Siding & Windows

House Doctors

Foxcraft Design Group

Retirement Community

The Kensington

Goodwin House

Sunrise

Vinson Hall

Founders Row

Dentist

Nova Premier Dental

Drs. Love and Miller

William V.

Dougherty III, DDS

West Broad Dental

Growing Smiles

School

Congressional

Grace Christian

Academy

Meridian

Saint James Catholic School

Pinecrest School

Kenwood School

Real Estate Agent

JD Callander

Chris Earman

Alison Miller

Tori McKinney

Susan Tull O’Reilly

Real Estate Group

Rock Star Realty

McEnearney

The Gaskins Team

JD Callander & Ed Blanchard Team

Peake Realty Group

Doctor

Primedocs

PMA Health

Virginia Health Care

Northern Virginia

Pediatrics

Solano Spine & Sport

Chiropratic

Mortgage/Bank

PNC

Burke & Herbert

Wells Fargo

Julie Andre UNFCU

Truist

Professional Services

Broad Street Partners

Glass House

BlueHuki

Arden Financial

Diener & Associates

CPA’s

Favorite Little City

Experience

Farmers Market

Memorial Day

Harvey’s

Tinner Hill

Taste of Falls Church

Lunch Spot

Harvey’s

Northside Social

Café Kindred

Ireland’s Four Provinces

Lazy Mike’s Deli

New Restaurant Chasin’ Tails

Roll Play Viet Grill

NUE:

Elegantly Vietnamese

Kyo Matcha

Ellie Bird

Bar/Brewery

Dogwood Tavern

Solace

Dominion Wine & Beer

Ireland’s Four Provinces

Audacious Aleworks

Outside Dining

Clare and Don’s

Beach Shack

Dogwood Tavern

Harvey’s

Northside Social

Ireland’s Four Provinces

DON’T FORGET TO VOTE

bestoffc.com

Treats and Sweets

Bake Shop

Happy Tart

Sweet Frog

Baked Goods By Jessica Little City Creamery

American Dogwood Tavern

Ellie Bird

Harvey’s

Lazy Mike’s Deli

Clare and Don’s Beach Shack

International

Yayla Bistro

Maneki Neko

Haandi Indian Cuisine

Plaka Grill

Panjshir

Koi Koi Sushi & Roll

Brunch

Ellie Bird

Harveys

Kate’s Crepes

Café Kindred

Ireland’s Four Provinces

Northside Social

Contest Rules

The Early Demise of Gay Prince Eddy’s Impact on the Great War

spite what some of his detractors saw as evidence of shortcomings, but today we’d recognize ways in which his inborn creative gay sensibilities were being expressed.

Chapter 2 of a New Book (Serialized)

It has been my ongoing study of the alternative identity and disposition issues of non-male-supremacist gay men in Western culture (see my book, “Extraordinary Hearts: Reclaiming Gay Sensibility’s Central Role in the Progress of Civilization,” Lethe Press, 2015, twice No. 1 best seller under Gay Studies at Amazon, and hailed by the late gay pioneer Larry Kramer) which led me to obvious for me questions about the relationship between the life and premature death of a young gay member of the British royal family known at Prince Eddy, in line to become King of England and, in the wake of his death at age 28 in 1892, the unfolding of terrible events came to savage the civilized world over the subsequent half-century and longer.

Eddy, as I shall call him in this work (though more properly known as Prince Albert Victor Christian Edward Windsor, Duke of Clarence) insofar, as he was born to be a future king, was being groomed under the watchful eye of his grandmother, Queen Victoria. She wished him to be an elegant and kind monarch, quite unlike his brutish father, Victoria’s eldest son, who became King Edward VII, who ruled from 1901 to 1910, or Eddy’s younger brother, who became King George V, ruling from 1910 to 1934.

Eddy, by all accounts, was “different” in ways we, in this day, can much better appreciate. Everything about the descriptions of his demeanor and behavior growing up underscore the fact that he was gay, exhibited gay sensibilities and was not interested in the trappings of the male chauvinist culture that defined that day (and this). It is the dominant male chauvinist culture that can be properly blamed for the unspeakable excesses that led to the two world wars and related horrors, the Spanish flu epidemic and genocide in Nazi Germany.

Eddy, as the young man who would become king, was immensely popular with the British public, de-

In this context, it cannot go unnoticed that the Rev. John Neale Dalton, the man hired to be his personal tutor in Eddy’s youth, had as perhaps his closest friend none less than Edward Carpenter, who became the period’s greatest proponent of a fledgling, new appreciation of the virtues of homosexuality and generally regarded among historians of the LGBTQ movement as an early, seminal pioneer.

Carpenter, as a young Cambridge graduate, himself had been offered the job earlier by Queen Victoria in 1871, but turned it down as his career was undergoing a major change toward the so-called “New Thought” movement arising in that time.

The parameters of the “New Thought” movement would not have been approved as suitable for a mentor of Eddy (nor his younger brother) by the Queen, But in Dalton, himself likely gay, it filtered directly through by way of Dalton’s long and ongoing close friendship with Carpenter, initiated when both were students at Cambridge. Late in life, Dalton wrote that Carpenter’s “tireless campaigning for some sort of socialisthomosexual brotherhood left an enduring influence on my mental and moral outlook.” Dalton was Eddy’s primary mentor for 14 years until Eddy’s untimely death.

The “New Thought” movement of the latter half of the 19th century was powerful and fully in sync with the emergence of the Gilded Age of invention and economic growth, the Art Nouveau and Romantic movements in the arts and music, Hindu mysticism, and the socialist ideals of William Morris. It advocated a kinder and gentler world, and Prince Eddy was clearly a choice candidate for it, unlike either his father or younger brother.

Queen Victoria, Eddy’s grandma, was reportedly “especially indulgent toward Eddy. She considered his manners charming, his consideration for servants admirable and his lethargy (i.e. laid back style-ed.) soothing.

She was delighted to see that he was showing no signs of emulating his father’s restless and licentious way of life” after spending a period of his early teens with his brother at sea.

As for the usual diversions of male dominated culture, “Eddy really has no inclination that way,” wrote his mom to Victoria.

(To be continued)

Our Man in Arlington

By Charlie Clark

The surge in home prices, particularly in North Arlington, was a major promoter of the Missing Middle zoning changes that kicked in last month. But it has exerted another, unintended and surprising, effect on public schools.

What had been a largely steady rise in the 28,000 student population in the past two decades — requiring the opening or expanding of six schools since 2019 — is leveling off. Projections for 2022-32 show a 4.2 percent decline.

But here’s the kicker: The decline of birth rates among families (coupled with some defections to private schools during Covid) is disproportionately hitting expensive North Arlington, where some schools are using only 85 percent of their capacity while South Arlington schools are bursting, in one zone at 122 percent.

One school that has seen a drop in enrollment, Nottingham Elementary (built 1951), was tagged in late June for conversion to “swing space,” to temporarily accommodate students and faculty while their home school is renovated.

Parents — and future parents — in the Nottingham zone are angry and organizing.

Steering the tough decisions is Lisa Stengle, executive director of planning. Though the demographers are keeping an eye on the impact of Missing Middle zoning and the Langston Blvd reimag-

ining, “Missing Middle’s impact will probably be pretty neutral for a while,” she told me, despite fears among some about overcrowding. “It will probably bring some students, but they will fit within what we’ve got and be spread across neighborhoods.”

Citing a new pre-Capital Improvement Plan report and a board work session June 29, Stengle said times have changed since the school population from 2009-2019 grew 41 percent, gaining a record 7,800 students. “Right now we’re seeing it reduced slightly to 27,455 pre-Covid. My office projections for the short-term expect a small increase to 28,000 in 2025, but in the longer-term, to 2032, a decrease to about 27,000.”

Swing space, she says, eases renovations at other schools, thus saving money. After examining 61 possible sites, staff concluded that closing Nottingham fits the bill for a projection to balance the North Arlington school buildings at 97 percent capacity use. That’s because Nottingham’s enrollment (419) is low and flat through 2027-28; 140 of its 420 students are within the walk zones for Discovery and Tuckahoe elementary schools (which have unused space), and because Nottingham’s five trailers could help with swing space, the report said. The change, following boundary changes, would begin in 2026-27.

Scrambling to oppose the move are a Neighbors for Nottingham group (387 on its Facebook page). Another at www.

swingspaceAPS.com has distributed fliers to area homes. And imploring the board to reconsider is a Nottingham-based School Board Advocacy Committee.

“The proposal lacks sufficient data around what schools will be impacted by these proposed improvements, how traffic and transportation will be addressed across the county and what the retention plan is for teachers and staff at the affected schools,” spokeswoman Erin Weinstein, a Nottingham parent, told me.

“It lacks transparency and equity and has not seriously taken into consideration any less disruptive alternatives to dismantling thriving neighborhood schools within Arlington.”

After “table sessions” for the public beginning this month, the school board will meet Aug. 3 and Sept. 15 for feedback before an Oct. 12 vote. It’s “going to be very emotional,” said school board member Mary Kadera, who was a PTA president when McKinley school was slated for closing in 2019. “We don’t take the decision lightly. There’s anxiety and concern. We are members of this school community, but also members of larger APS. We try to be good members of both.” Her advice: “Reserve judgment, look at data, interrogate the rationale, and be thoughtful about engagement before rushing to a conclusion.”

Adds Stengle: “No one wants to close a school. If we’re wrong about the impact of Missing Middle and Plan Langston, we can convert this back. We don’t want to do what we did 50 years ago and give away all these buildings.”

Nicholas F. Benton FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

O ering Clear aligners and traditional braces options for children and adults.

Now open 5 days a week for your convenience, with the introduction of our new associate Dr. Natasha Bharucha.

Dr. Berman is the former President of the Virginia Dental Association.

Dr. Masoud is the former Director of Orthodontics at Harvard University.

$250 o new full treatment with Clear

As a dentist and prosthodontist my specialty is in the esthetic and functional rehabilitation of the entire mouth. Whether from decay, accidents, or cancer, I can correct those issues through the use of dental implants, surgical procedures, dentures and orthodontics. I correct problems with the jaw and align the teeth to create an even bite. When needed I will coordinate a treatment plan involving a team of highly specialized dental/medical practitioners from the greater Metro Area. I also care for your entire family’s oral needs, from cleanings to llings and look forward to having you join our dental family.

Dr. Peterson Huang is a Dual Board Certi ed Prosthodonitst, dedicating 11 years to honing his craft.  He grew up in Vancouver, Canada. After obtaining his dental degree from Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, he received his Certi cate of Specialist in Prosthodontics and a Master of Science from the University of Maryland, where he is a Clinical Assistant Professor on the Dean’s Faculty. Dr. Huang is also a sta member in the Department of Surgery, INOVA Fairfax Hospital and is a member of the Tumor Board as well. Dr. Huang lives in Falls Church, where he also has established his dental practice.

Community News & Notes

anniversary on September 9 from 4:00 p.m. — 6:00 p.m., at the PRS Headquarters in Oakton, VA.

Speakers will include Delegate Marcus Simon of Falls Church, who has worked on improving mental health services in Virginia, and Daryl Washington, Executive Director of the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB).

For more information on the event, please call NVMHF at 703853-1970 or send an email to info@ novamhf.org.

Register for 2 FCEF Fall Events

The Falls Church Education Foundation is planning two events for Fall 2023.

NoVa Mental Health Foundation Celebrates 30 Years

After three decades of helping Fairfax and Falls Church City

residents with serious mental illness access resources they would otherwise be denied, the Northern Virginia Mental Health Foundation (NVMHF) will celebrate its 30th

The first event is the annual FCEF Run for the Schools on Sunday, September 24. Registration is open at potomac.enmotive.com/ events/register/2023-fcef-run-forthe-schools-5k-1-mile.

The second event is The Little City Scramble golf tournament on Wednesday, October 4 at Westfields Golf Club in Clifton, VA. This event will support the Falls Church Education Foundation and Mustang Athletic Booster Association. Registration is open at fcedf.networkforgood.com/events/49883-2023-thelittle-city-scramble-golf-tournament.

If anyone is interested in sponsoring multiple events, please contact Debbie Hiscott (dhiscott@ fcedf.org) for discount information.

The FCEF Gala & Auction is happening in May 2024 and sponsorship opportunities are available for this event, too.

Alexandria Law Firm to Give Out 700 Backpacks

Alexandria law firm Blaszkow Legal, PLLC, is proud to roll out Project Backpack — 2023. The firm has “adopted” John Adams Elementary School, and is hosting

a Backpack Giveaway event on the school’s campus, at 5651 Rayburn Avenue, Alexandria on August 12 from 12:00 p.m. — 2:00 p.m. The staff at Blaszkow Legal, will appear at that time to give out free backpacks, each filled with important school supplies, to the entire student body, more than 700 students.

According to the US Census, as well as city demographic information, more than 10 percent of Alexandria families have a household income under $50,000. Statistically, the average family will spend over $600 a year on back to school supplies.

Goodwin Living Named one of VA’s Top Employers for Interns Goodwin Living, a faith-based, not-for-profit senior living and health care services organization in the National Capital Region, has been selected as a recipient of the 2023 Top Employers for Interns Award

VETERAN AND RETIRING teachers who served at Falls Church’s George Mason/Meridian High School gathered for an informal lunch together last Friday at Harvey’s restaurant in downtown F.C. (Photo: Chris Pikrallidas)

by the Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership (V-TOP). Goodwin Living is one of 21 organizations recognized in the region and the only senior living organization recognized in Northern Virginia.

The Goodwin Living paid internship program opened in March 2022. The program offers cohorts year round and in each session, interns are assigned a resident mentor, attend skill development workshops, and complete individualized projects with guidance from senior leadership and advanced teams. Internships are offered across senior living service lines, including health care, marketing, finance and brain health.

St. Mark English ESOL Program Coming This Fall

English classes for all levels of English learners are offered in person at St. Mark Catholic Church (9970 Vale Rd, Vienna, VA) from 8:00 p.m. — 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning September 26 through December 5. Extra classes in conversation, writing, and citizenship are offered 7:00 p.m. — 7:45 p.m. the same evenings..

Registration in person for the Fall 2023 term is Tuesday, September 19, and Thursday, September 21 at St. Mark. English classes, offered at all levels, are $25 per term.

Conversation, writing, and citizenship classes are $10 per term. Cost of the textbook is extra. For more information, call Monica at 703-9809380, or visit stmarkesl.org or email stmarksesl@gmail.com.

Volunteers are also needed. No experience is necessary to volunteer.

Around the World Cultural Food Festival is Coming

The seventh edition of the Around the World Cultural Food Festival, the largest outdoor cultural food festival in the Washington, D.C. metro area celebrating the rich intercultural diversity, will come back for the third year in a row to the beautiful waterfront park – Oronoco Bay Park in Old Town Alexandria, on Saturday, August 26th from 11:00 a.m. — 7:00 p.m., with more ethnic food vendors, artisans and crafters, and traditional performances.

Lizzie Borden Axe Throwing Contest This Weekend

On Saturday, August 5, the 13th annual Lizzie Borden Axe Throwing Contest will be held at the American Legion Post 130 (400 N. Oak Street, Falls Church). It is open to public and admission is free. Contest starts at 1:00 p.m.

“Dine Out for People with Disabilities” Tonight

After a two-year hiatis, it’s time to “shake the shack” once again on August 3.

Join Clare and Don’s Beach Shack in Falls Church for a rousing good time for a cause! Clare and Don’s Beach Shack is donating 10 percent of all food and drink sales from 3:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m., both in-person and take out, to The Arc of Northern Virginia.

Join a Welcoming Refugees Support Team

Welcoming Falls Church welcomed another family from Afghanistan to Falls Church this summer. They will welcome more families this fall, as Falls Church becomes known for welcoming refugees.

To get involved with Welcoming Falls Church, join a team of five to seven to welcome a family in September or October.

Connect with Ukrainian families in the community; the organization will have a back-to-school/fall kickoff picnic on Wednesday, August 16.

Learn more at the next monthly Welcoming Refugees Open Meeting on Monday, August 28 from 6:30 p.m. — 7:45 p.m. at

THE UNPRECEDENTED success of the new “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” movies have been augmented by promotions such as the lifesize Barbie “box” shown here, proudly displayed at Freddie’s Beach Bar by bartender Robert. (N���-P���� P����)

Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Upper Level Conference Room, Falls Church). They will welcome a guest speaker, Daniel Altman, co-founder of NoVA

Resettling Afghan Families Together (NoVa RAFT). Learn NoVa RAFT’s experiences, largely in Alexandria, and hear about what they’re doing in Falls Church.

Family and Cosmetic Dentistry

THIS WEEK AROUND THE DMV

THURSDAY AUGUST 3

Dine Out fOr

PeOPle with Disabilities

Enjoy a night of live music, great food, and raffle prizes! Ten percent of all in-person and take out sales will be donated to The Arc Northern Virginia. Clare and Don's Beach Shack (130 N. Washington St., Falls Church), 3:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.

shenanDOah run

Shenandoah Run performs folk music with a kick. The final free Summer Concerts in the Park Series event of 2023. Bring a blanket or chairs and a picnic dinner. Cherry Hill Park (312 Park Ave., Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.

sPace Jam: a new legacy

Enjoy a free outdoor movie, Space Jam:AnewLegacy(2021, 1h 42m, PG), on a larger-than-life outdoor screen. Mosaic District (Strawberry Park, Fairfax, Va), 7:00 p.m.

FRIDAY AUGUST 4

Kristina wOng, #fOODbanKinfluencer

Pulitzer Prize Finalist Kristina Wong dreams up the cool new fu

ture of emergency food distribution

with visitors. Cut and sew some pieces that will make their way into a massive fabric food bank installation while Wong enchants you with stories of her recent travels to food deserts across the country, or take a break from the manual labor and enjoy "FOODAOKE," hosted by Brian Feldman, with songs about food, supermarkets, and hunger. The REACH's Studio J at the Kennedy Center (2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC), 5:00 p.m. — 7:00 p.m.

griefcat

Griefcat performs as part of a weekly cabaret-concert series, weekends through August 26 Creative Cauldron (410 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church), 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY AUGUST 5

falls church farmers marKet

Shop the award-winning market every Saturday, year-round! City Hall Parking Lot (300 Park Ave., Falls Church), 8:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m.

arlingtOn civitians

OPen air flea marKet

Explore over 150 vendors selling a variety of goods over five levels of a 20,000 square foot parking garage. I-66 Parking Garage (N. Quincy St. and 14th St. N., Arlington, VA), 7:00 a.m. — 1:00 p.m.

wes iseli magic shOw

Wes Iseli and his family bring their magic show back to MRSPL to help close out their summer reading program! Get ready for a magic and illusion show loaded with audience participation, comedy routines, and animal effects. This show also includes several Vegas-style Illusions and will give you something to talk about for years to come! Tickets available at children's desk starting at 10:00 a.m.. Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Lower Level Conf. Rm., Falls Church), 11:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m.

authOr Q&a:

anDrew JOsePh white

Join Fairfax author Andrew Joseph White at Thomas Jefferson Library for a discussion of his acclaimed debut "Hell Followed with Us!" a post-apocalyptic coming-of-age tale about queer teenagers who band together to fight their oppressors. Thomas Jefferson Library (7415 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church), 2:00 p.m.

newsies Jr.

Inspired by the rousing true story: when powerful newspaper publishers raise prices at the newsboys' expense, the charismatic Jack Kelly rallies news

ies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions. Together, the newsies learn that they are stronger united and create a movement to fight for what's right. Tickets at bit.ly/ FCNP0823nw. James Lee Community Center (2855 Annandale Rd., Falls Church), 2:00 p.m. — 4:00 p.m.

PatricK albiOn

Latin and acoustic rock performer

Patrick Albion puts on a free concert as part of Mosaic Live, Saturdays through August 19. Mosaic District (Strawberry Park, Fairfax, VA), 6:00 p.m.

Dave Kline banD

Dave Kline Band performs as part of a weekly cabaret-concert series, weekends through August 26 Creative Cauldron (410 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church), 7:30 p.m.

JOhn caParulO

Comedian John Caparulo performs. Tickets at arlingtondrafthouse.com/events. Arlington

Cinema & Drafthouse (2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington, VA), 9:30 p.m.

SUNDAY AUGUST 6

KiDs anD family

Petting ZOO festival

Bring the whole family for an unforgettable experience meeting friendly, furry creatures along with face painting and arts & crafts kids can enjoy. Live music, moonbounces, and a full playground will ensure everyone has a blast! Dogs are welcome, whether onleash or in the off-leash dog park! Lots of canine goodies including Pup Cups and Kongs filled with peanut butter, so the entire family can enjoy a treat. Shipgarten (6579 Colshire Dr., Tysons, VA), 12:00 p.m. — 6:00 p.m.

MONDAY AUGUST 7

evening art critiQue grOuP

Join creative artists in a monthly discussion and critique group. If desired, bring a piece of art you’d like feedback on—something new or old, something in progress or complete—and a community of artists will share their thoughts. The meeting is open to all so invite your artist friends and feel free to join, even if you don’t have a piece to share this time. Email facilitator John Valenti at info@fallschurcharts. org with questions. Falls Church Arts (700-B W. Broad St., Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.

city cOuncil meeting

The City Council meets the second and fourth Monday of the month, with the exception of August and December when only one meeting is held. The public is welcome to address the City Council on any topic during the public comment period. Sign up to speak at fallschurchva.gov/ publiccomment. All members of the public may view the meeting at fallschurchva.gov/CouncilMeetings. The meeting may also be viewed on FCCTV (Cox 11, RCN 2, Verizon 35). Recorded video will be made available shortly after the meeting online

and on FCCTV. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Council Chambers/ Court Room, Falls Church), 7:30 p.m. — 11:00 p.m.

TUESDAY AUGUST 8

hOusing cOmmissiOn meeting

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

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 9

street life:

real life reimagineD

Our streets and neighborhoods have a vibe all their own, depending on the time of day, occupants, and activities that occur. Street life may reflect the hustle and bustle to some or a quiet, contemplative atmosphere of one person peering out a window or sitting in isolation. People, animals, plants, cars, buildings can serve as muses on the street. Artists were invited to interpret the theme broadly in this all-media exhibit, even to include an abstract representation that a neighborhood imparts. On display in the gallery through August 13. Falls Church Arts (700B W. Broad St., Falls Church), 11:00 a.m. — 6:00 p.m.

sOliD waste mgmt Plan

aDvisOry cmte meeting

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

citiZens aDvisOry cmte On

transPOrtatiOn meeting

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

aPPOintments

cOmmittee meeting

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

KRISTINA WONG dreams up the cool new future of food banks, this weekend at the Kennedy Center. (Photo: Sandy Morris)

A Penny for Your Thoughts News of Greater Falls Church

By Supervisor Penny Gross

Public libraries can provide a gateway to a wider world, whether a beginning reader, a new resident in a new country, a job seeker, or a retiree looking for new challenges. Today’s libraries provide more than reading materials on loan; they provide endless opportunities for all their patrons. Limiting individuals’ access to what they may enjoy, learn, or explore violates a basic tenet of American society – freedom.

The Eugene Public Library, built in 1906 as a Carnegie Library, was only a couple of blocks from my Catholic elementary school, so it was an easy walk for a fourth grader to visit after classes. The classic structure loomed large on a busy downtown corner; the children’s section was downstairs, perhaps a little dark but never scary or intimidating. I loved to read, and the library shelves provided many more titles than our nascent home library did. I remember favorites like Nancy Drew, but also a lot of biographies of children who became famous. One was “Ben Franklin, Printer’s Boy,” published by Bobbs-Merrill in a familiar orange binding that was the hallmark of the children’s series. I don’t recall many biographies of girls who grew up to be famous in that series, but the opportunity to bury one’s nose in a book in a quiet library was one that my friends and I treasured. Biographies still are my favorite read.

Nearly 2,000 Carnegie libraries were built across the country, funded by Scottish-American steel magnate Andrew Carnegie, to make libraries available and open to the public. Until Carnegie’s donations, most libraries were privately owned and operated, and open only to the wealthy elite.

After more than 50 years, the original Eugene library was replaced a few blocks further away by a modern structure with lots of glass and open reading space. After another 50 years, a third replacement library, with a large children’s area, was built in 2010, coincidentally across the street from my now demolished elementary school.

Across the city, another library played a large role in my education, as I worked my way through college as a student assistant at the University of Oregon Library, a magnificent classical brick structure built in 1937 on the main campus quad. Working at the circulation desk and shelving books in the stacks opened new worlds to me, and I admit to sometimes dawdling over a book before putting it in its proper place in the Dewey decimal system. The heft of a book, the tactile feel of the paper and the binding, and the aroma of old leather and aged pages sometimes are treasured by bibliophiles as much as what is written on the pages themselves. So many books, so many choices, so little time.

City of Falls Church CRIME REPORT

Week of July 24 - 30, 2023

Shoplifting, Wilson Blvd, July 25, 2:02 PM, three unknown suspects entered a business and took items of value without paying. Suspects described as: 1) female, blonde hair, with a long black dress, carrying a baby, 2) female, with olive skin, black hair in a bun, 140-160 lbs, wearing a light pink t-shirt and a long green skirt with white flowers and carrying a brown purse with a red thick strap, and 3) a dark tan female, with black hair in a bun, 110-125 lbs, wearing a dark pink shirt, with a knot in the front of the shirt, a long dark black skirt, and flip flops.

Shoplifting, Wilson Blvd, July 25, 8:36 PM, unknown suspect entered a business and took items of value without paying. Suspect described as a male wearing a blue shirt, khaki pants, with short black hair and black framed glasses.

Simple Assault, E Fairfax St/Douglas Ave, July 26, 4:30 PM, a male, 60, of no fixed address, was arrested for Simple Assault.

Stolen Auto, Roosevelt Blvd, between 8 PM, July 25 and noon, July 26, unknown suspect(s) took a 2018 Infinity Q50 from an apartment parking lot. Baltimore City police recovered the vehicle

It’s that freedom of choice, or lack of it, that troubles this library and book lover today. Growing up, no one ever told me I couldn’t check out a particular book or learn more about a particular subject that interested me. I never needed a note from my parents, and my biggest fear was paying a fine for an overdue book, not fear of what I might be reading. Libraries open the doors of opportunity for everyone, and libraries are welcoming to everyone, whether a first-time visitor seeking a picture book, a chiseled veteran looking for a vintage history of some long-forgotten battle, or a student just browsing to find something of particular interest. A picture book, a war history, a student quest – all are choices to be made, and no one person or group should have the right to censor or make choices for others. Andrew Carnegie’s choice was to make libraries, and the collections within them, available to a broader public. Those doors must remain open to all, and let patrons freely choose what they want to read, enjoy or examine.

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

on July 26 at a Muirkirk, MD, train station.

Identity Theft to Avoid Arrest, Wilson Blvd, July 26, 11:14 PM, a male, 42, of Springfield, VA, was arrested for Identity Theft to Avoid Arrest.

Tampering with Auto, E Broad St, between 6 PM, July 26 and 8:30 AM, July 27, unknown suspect(s) rummaged through an unlocked vehicle.

Larceny from Vehicle, Wilson Blvd, July 28, between 8:15 PM and 8:53 PM, an item of value was taken from an unsecured vehicle.

Tampering with Auto, Great Falls St, between 10 PM, July 29 and 8:50 AM, July 30, unknown suspect(s) rummaged through an unlocked vehicle.

Tampering with Auto, Dorchester Rd, July 30, 5:55 AM, unknown suspect rummaged through two unlocked vehicles. Suspect described as a male, mid-twenties, 6’, medium complexion, short twists braid hair style with facial hair. The subject was last seen wearing white sneakers, dark jeans, olive t-shirt and with a fanny pack worn over his shoulder and across his chest.

Stolen Bicycle, W Broad St, July 30, 11:47 AM, a known suspect took a Blue Mountain 10 speed

The summer heat is in full swing and the campaigns for the general election in November are heating up. With less than 100 days until we elect 40 senators, 100 delegates, and countless local offices, candidates are focusing on fundraising and getting their message out to voters. We are starting to see staggering amounts of money flooding into races across the Commonwealth, especially in the most competitive districts.

In preparation for the election, Republicans have made a surprising decision. They have launched a state-wide initiative to encourage their voters to use early and absentee ballots. Since the 2020 presidential election, Republicans have claimed absentee ballots and early voting gives an unfair advantage to Democrats and puts election integrity at risk. Just this year, Republicans introduced legislation to roll back these policies, making voting harder for people. Fortunately, those bills didn’t make it past our Democratled Senate Privileges and Elections Committee, but the bills’ intent was clear. Make no mistake, I am glad Republicans are finally supporting these policies. I only hope they will continue to do so in the future.

Governor Youngkin recently announced a change in the Department of Education’s model policies for transgender students. Calling these policies disappointing would be an understatement. Under Democratic leadership, our goals for education have been clear––foster a safe and welcoming environment for ALL students so they can succeed. Based on the new guidelines, Governor Youngkin does not share the same goal. This new policy places parents above all else, requiring students to receive parental permission for a teacher to use the name and/or pronouns that the student prefers. We know that not all transgender students have supportive families at home, and as a result, they are vulnerable to mental health and housing insecurity issues. School is meant to be a comfortable environment, where students can focus on what really matters: their education.

The policy also requires students to use the bathroom that matches the sex listed on their school record. If you recall, this issue made headlines years ago as conservative states passed laws

forcing people to use restrooms based on their sex assigned at birth. As a result, companies began pulling their business from those states. On a related note, Virginia once again fell short of winning CNBC’s Best State for Business, a title we held twice under Governor Northam. Interestingly enough, we lost points in the “Inclusivity” category. I hope Governor Youngkin will think twice about the greater consequences of implementing controversial policies like this in the future.

Continuing the discussion around education, last month the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) released a startling report. JLARC is a nonpartisan research committee that performs studies and provides recommendations to legislators in the General Assembly. Their new report examined our education funding formula, comparing our investment in K-12 education to other states.

The report found Virginia has been underfunding our schools for years. Specifically, we spend 14 percent less, or about $1,900 per student, than the national average. Most notably, our neighbors Maryland, Kentucky, and West Virginia are spending far more per student. This report does not come as a surprise to many teachers and students, who have recognized the need for more funding for years. JLARC estimated a budget of $3.5 billion in total funding would be needed to correct the issue. Like most things, the longer we wait to address the issue, the more costly it is likely to become. While this year’s budget has still not been settled, Senate Democrats are continuing to advocate for our proposed budget of $1 billion in additional direct aid to schools. On the other hand, House Republicans and Governor Youngkin are holding out for more tax cuts, offering a meager $400 million in additional school funding. As we await Governor Youngkin’s decision to send us into a Special Session to address the budget stalemate, I hope my Republican colleagues on the Conference Committee will consider this report’s findings when negotiations resume. It would be irresponsible for us to recognize this shortfall and refuse to take any action. Our teachers and students are counting on us.

Senator Dick Saslaw’s Richmond Report

SERVICES

DIVORCE-Uncontested, $475+$86 court cost. WILLS-$295.00. No court appearance. Estimated completion time twentyone days. Hilton Oliver, Attorney (Facebook). 757-490-0126. Se Habla Espanol. BBB Member. https://hiltonoliverattorneyva.com. Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 888-6084974 FREE high speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs

The LGBTQ+ Reach

by Brian Reach Falls Church News-Press

O’Shae Sibley Murdered for Dancing

On Saturday, 28-year old dancer-choreographer O’Shae Sibley was stabbed to death at a Brooklyn gas station. A 17-year-old male suspect fled the scene and remains at large. Witnesses say a group of young men exited the gas station and harassed Sibley and friends for dancing to a Beyonce song while they filled up. Homophobic language was reportedly used.

Buttigieg Biography Book Banned?

Urbandale Community School District, which serves Des Moines, Iowa, has released a list of books it believes may violate education bill S.F. 496, signed into law in late May by Republican Governor Kim Reynolds. The list includes a children’s picture book, MayorPete, that tells the story of Transportation Secretary Buttigieg (at least through his 2020 Presidential bid). Just because he has a husband. Pence, Feeling Left Out, Chimes In

In an attempt to remain relevant in the fight for the 2024 GOP Presidential nomination, former Vice President Mike Pence announced that he would re-ban transgender people from the military if elected. Pence, thus far, has yet to qualify for the first Republican debate, scheduled for August 23.

WI Bill Would Make Alcohol Server Age 14

Citing a labor shortage, Republicans in Wisconsin are trying to lower the age for serving alcohol to 14. This despite,Democrats in the state pointing out myriad studies showing the presence of alcohol increasing the sexual exploitation of minors. But let’s focus on the real problems, like drag brunch, right?

HIV-AIDS Program Targeted by Right

The Family Research Council and other right-wing hate groups have begun a drumbeat of disinformation about PEPFAR (U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief). The organizations are opposing another fiveyear authorization of the program, as the Family Research Council calls the program “a massive slush fund for abortion and LGBT advocacy.” It seems that claiming abortions are being funded by a program (that clearly is not) is a new way to somehow get around to doing homophobia?

PEPFAR, created by President George W. Bush (yes, a Republican), pays for antiretroviral drugs, medical supplies, condoms, and education. The program is estimated to have saved over 25 million lives since its inception in 2003, as well as enable over five million babies to be born HIV-free to mothers living with HIV.

The program has nothing to do with abortion or the abortion conversation. It will, however, expire September 30 without reauthorization.

Hands Off the Missile Button

“We have drag shows taking place at Malmstron Air Force Base… I do not want someone who doesn’t know if they are a man or a woman with their hand on a missile button,” said Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-Mt.) after introducing an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would ban trans-related healthcare for servicemembers and their families. The amendment was not incorporated, and the NDAA was reauthorized.

Marjorie, Marjorie, Marjorie

After receiving backlash for showing naked pictures of President Biden’s son, Hunter Biden, at a public House Oversight Committee hearing, last week Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) defended her actions by posting on social media “The same people offended by this support genital mutilation of children, sexualizing kids with LGBTQ agenda books in school, support men dressed in drag showing their genitals to kids at parades and drag shows, and would give anything to have this kind of proof to use against [Eric Trump and Donald Trump, Jr.].”

Echoes From the Past

Earlier I ran across the welcoming speech for Virginia Pridefest 2010 in Richmond, delivered by then-President Amy Lockett, which includes:

“I think Pridefest has different meanings to different people. For me, Pridefest is a way to bring the greater community together and remind us that it’s okay ‘to be.’ So what does that mean? ‘To be.’ Sometimes when I watch the news or listen to a speech, I realize that I’m being talked about, that my right ‘to be’ is being discussed. And I think, how very surreal. People are deciding, and debating, whether or not I get to be. CNN will say ‘Next week we’ll be debating whether you get to serve in our military. Stay tuned, because at 4 p.m., you get to listen to people talk about why your love means less to them.’ How is that okay?

“Well, it’s not... what happens is that it becomes okay to listeners, viewers, families, children. We all become immune to the fact thatit’sthediscussionandthedebatingofthese thingsthatisoffensive. It causes a ripple effect through our community that is very damaging to our individual and collective sense of self.”

The speech referenced a then-recent survey of 191 employers, which found that 27 percent would refuse to hire, 26 percent would refuse to promote, and 18 percent would fire an individual perceived to be lesbian, gay, or bisexual.

The speech also pointed out that, since “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” passed in 1993, over 14,000 troops had been discharged as a result.

I also ran across the speech I gave at NCIS headquarters in Quantico, two weeks after the Pulse Nightclub shootings, as the keynote speaker for their 2016 LGBT Pride Month Celebration. In it I referenced a problem I thought was, naively, “on the way out”:

“Leaders that refuse to take responsibility for their hate-speech, and still don’t seem to realize that when they talk about bathrooms, tradition, or discrimination disguised as religious freedom – they are encouraging and endorsing the bullying of classmates and coworkers, the rejection of LGBTQ children and, yes, the murder of members of our community – not to mention perpetuating racism, misogyny, and Islamophobia.”

The debate itself is the offensive part; they win a battle every time they demonstrate that they can still, even in 2023, invoke a dusty trope about queer existance, and successfully engage folks in a public debate over queer existence and rights.

Critter

C ritter C orner

Just

CODY

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

F���� C����� B������� N��� � N����

Dine

Out for People with Disabilities Tonight

Clare and Don’s Beach Shack host the popular fundraiser for The Arc this Thursday, August 3 after a two-year hiatus. Ten percent of food and drink sales from in-person and take out will be donated to The Arc from 3:00 – 9:00 p.m. Also supporting the nonprofit, Big Tow will provide live music. Raffle prizes will be given from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Parking is available in the Kaiser Permanente garage after 5:00 pm on the upper decks.

Dogwood Tavern Oysters

Dogwood Tavern celebrates National Oyster Day this Saturday, August 5. There will be specials from the raw bar, oyster shooters and more. Live music will be provided by Dallas Smith at 9:30 p.m.

Raising Cane to Replace Dogfish

The building that once housed Dogfish Head Alehouse in Seven Corners Shopping Center will become the first Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers in Fairfax County. The restaurant will open in the middle or end of 2024. Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers was founded in 1996 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana by Todd Graves and there are now more than 700 locations in North America and the Middle East.

Eden Center Luncheon

The Chamber invites members and their guests to the annual lunch in Eden Center on Tuesday, August 15. The chamber will enjoy Vietnamese food and culture at Viet Foods, 6783 Wilson Boulevard at 11:30 a.m. The fixed-price lunch will be served family style and guests may pay on site. There will not be a planned program or speaker. Details are found on the Falls Church Chamber website: fallschurchchamber.org/events/details/chamber-event-networkingluncheon-at-eden-center-66000?calendarMonth=2023-08-01

Government Contracting Session

The Small Business Development Center is hosting a session for small businesses to learn how to market to the government. The Federal Government buys over $600 billion annually on goods and services with 23 percent of that allocated to small businesses. This presentation will help companies develop a marketing plan and strategy, prepare a winning capability statement, organize the website and more. Lisa Wood, Statewide Director of the Virginia PTAC, is the speaker. The Zoom link will be shared following registration here: clients.virginiasbdc.org/workshop.aspx?ekey=140430036.

Inova Fairfax Hospital is Top in Virginia

Once again, Inova Fairfax Hospital was named the top hospital in Virginia and the Washington, DC area by U.S. News and World Report. The 34th edition of the Best Hospitals recognizes the top 484 regional hospitals across a range of specialties and includes institutions like John Hopkins, the Cleveland Clinic and the Mayo Clinic. Inova Fairfax Hospital was noted for gastroenterology, neurology, pulmonology, and aortic valve surgery. It was ranked 18th in the country for obstetrics and gynecology, making it the only Virginia hospital to make the top 50 for a specialty. Virginia Hospital Center was ranked fifth best with Inova Alexandria Hospital and Inova Fair Oaks Hospital tying for ninth best in Virginia.

Northrop Grumman Counter-IED Tech

The U.S. Navy announced that the Northrop Grumman-built system for protecting assets from radiocontrolled bombs to be in the full operational capability phase, reaching the milestone ahead of schedule. This offers IED protection for soldiers, mobile ground vehicles and facilities or infrastructure. The production of the Joint Counter Radio-Controlled Improvised Explosive Device Electronic Warfare Increment One Block One System comes under the $505 million contract from Naval Sea Systems Command in July 2017.

 Business News & Notes is compiled by Elise Neil Bengtson, Executive Director of the Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. She may be emailed at elise@fallschurchchamber.org.