Tonight, Thursday, Sept. 26, the first of two face-toface encounters between the two candidates seeking to fill an unexpired term on the Falls Church City Council will be held, starting at 8:00 p.m. in the Senior Center room at the F.C. Community Center, 223 Little Falls St., behind City Hall.
According to the event sponsors, the F.C. League of Women Voters (LWV) and the Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPIS), both candidates who have qualified for the ballot, Laura Downs and John Murphy, will be present to share their views on why they should be elected to fill the vacancy.
Open for free to the public, the audience will be invited to submit questions to the candidates in writing.
The two candidates are on the ballot in the election that is already underway. With Nov. 5 the official election day, early voting and mail-in options are
Continued on Page 3
MUSIC IS THE MEDICINE
F. Benton
The main sanctuary pews were hardly full at North Arlington’s Rock Springs United Church of Christ last Sunday afternoon, but those who did show up were confronted with a mighty challenge coming from an otherwise unassuming professor of New Testament studies.
Dr. Greg Carey from the
Lancaster Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania systematically laid out what confronts all major mainstream religions, and society in general, in this century with what ought to be recognized as perhaps our greatest crisis ever.
It goes by the name of “Christian Nationalism,” a fairly recent term coined as a shorthand for identifying the way in
which a fundamentalist movement operating under the cloak of Christianity evolved since at least the 1970s when it first took on a political form to now be spearheading the attempted reelection of Donald Trump and the frighteningly anti-democratic, pro-tyranny contents of the Heritage Foundation’s infamous Project 2025 report.
Dr. Carey spoke calmly but
with grave conviction about this movement to hijack his faith which has evolved to a magnitude that confronts all civilization with a huge stumbling block to its very survival.
For many who have been aware on some level of how the conservative wing of Christian faith in the U.S. has been
Continued on Page 4
MERIDIAN HIGH SCHOOL musicians were at City Hall last weekend to greet attendees arriving at Farmer’s Market. Students appeared at various locations around town hoping to raise funds for a trip to Atlanta where they are scheduled to perform. (News-Press Photo)
JCA Virtual 50+ Employment Expos
NEWS BRIEFS
Megan Dotzler Hired as New F.C. Library Director
Falls Church City Manager Wyatt Shields announced Tuesday that, in consultation with the Library Board of Trustees, Megan Dotzler has been hired as the new Library Director for Falls Church’s Mary Riley Styles Public Library.
“It was clear through the recruitment process that Megan Dotzler will bring deep experience and a welcoming ‘people first’ mindset to leading the Mary Riley Styles Public Library,” Shields said in a statement. Dotzler joins the library from the Arlington Public Library in neighboring Arlington, where she was head of Central Library youth services and before that branch manager for Arlington’s Aurora Hills location. Prior to Dotzler’s time with Arlington, she was the assistant director of the Memorial Library in Acton, Massachusetts.
Dotzler earned her dual master’s degree in children’s literature and library science from Simmons College in Massachusetts. Marshall Webber has been serving as the interim library director since September 2023 and will continue in this role until Dotzler assumes office on October 7, 2024. “I am grateful to Marshall for serving as interim director for almost a year,” added Shields. “Marshall is a mainstay of the library –supportive, kind, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable – and I know I speak for all of us in the library community in our appreciation for his dedication and leadership.”
CBC Announces New Logo Design Contest
Celebrating its 65th Anniversary, the Citizens for a Better City (CBC), the nonpartisan civic organization in Falls Church, founded to provide information about and promote engagement with local government, has launched a contest to update its decadesold logo.
While initially focused on Falls Church City Public Schools students, in response to expressions of interest in participating from other City residents, the contest has been expanded to include the community at large. Contest details and instructions can be found on CBC’s website. The deadline for submissions is October 24th and the winning design’s creator will be awarded $500.
Voting to select the new logo, restricted to CBC members, will take place between November 4-13.
U.S. Journalist ‘Burn Out’ At All-Time High in U.S.
More than half of journalists in the U.S. considered quitting their job this year due to exhaustion or burnout, according to a new report by Muck Rack.
The report, which was released Tuesday, examines the state of work-life balance in journalism. Muck Rack surveyed 402 journalists in August and found that 40 percent have previously quit a job due to burnout. That statistic, along with the finding that 56 percent of journalists have thought about quitting this year, was “staggering,” said the report’s author, Matt Albasi.
“It means we have to have half as many journalists in the wings waiting to move in next year,” said Albasi, a data journalist at Muck Rack. “And we’re going to lose all this institutional knowledge if these people actually do leave.”
This is the first time Muck Rack has surveyed journalists about burnout.
The journalists surveyed reported that their primary sources of stress include their workload, salary and the expectation that they always be “on.” Nearly two-thirds of respondents said they work more than 40 hours a week, and the vast majority, or 80 percent, said they work outside regular business hours at least once a week.
At work, many said they were juggling multiple projects at once. More than 60 percent said they work on more than four stories a week.
New Study Confirms Link of ‘Head Impacts’ to Dementia
“Repetitive head impacts” (RHI) affect millions worldwide every day who participate in tackle football and other contact sports, according to a new medical research study released through the CTE Center at Boston University (CTE stands for Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy).
An evolving body of evidence suggests an association between RHI exposure and an increased likelihood of developing neurodegenerative disorders and dementia later in life, it noted, adding while “the exact pathophysiological processes leading to neurodegeneration are unknown, postmortem studies demonstrate that progressive dementia following RHI exposure is associated with an accumulation of tau proteins in the brain long recognized as associated with Alzheimer’s.” It goes on to state that “there is a need to improve our understanding of why proteins accumulate in the brain following exposure to RHI.”
already available. In Falls Church, according to Voter Registrar David Bjerke, more than 300 votes were cast on the first day of voting last Friday in his office at City Hall, and another 55 ballots were received as of yesterday through the mail.
That means that fully five percent of registered voters in the City have already cast their ballots. The number is up dramatically from last year, as well. The 300 total votes cast so far compares to the 200 cast when the pandemic was still a factor, Bjerke noted.
Both Downs and Murphy have been spotted sitting in at City Council meetings in the last two weeks.
Downs comes to the race as the elected former chair of the Falls Church City Schools board. Murphy, a board member of VPIS, has served as chair of the Board of Zoning Appeals.
A second direct encounter between the two candidates is set for Tuesday, Oct. 15, at the monthly luncheon meeting of the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce at the Italian Cafe.
The current vacancy on the
Council was caused by the sudden resignation of Council member Caroline Lian, who was discovered to have failed to provide full information about her employment when she filed to run for the office.
The term for that seat will expire at the end of 2025, meaning that it will again be contested along with two others next year in the November 2025 local election. In that race, the seats currently occupied by Vice Mayor Deborah Shantz-Hiscott and Council member David Snyder will also be contested.
Meanwhile, a new potentially controversial local issue on zoning changes to allow or encourage “accessory dwelling units” in the backyards of single family homes in the City was the subject of a public information “open house” last night at City Hall, and it will be presented again this Sunday, Sept. 29, at 2 p.m. at the Mary Riley Styles Public Library.
At last Monday’s Falls Church City Council meeting, a number of citizens showed up to comment on the Greening of Lincoln Avenue issue and the bike master plan proposal, neither of which
is going to be finalized anytime soon. Concerns for Lincoln Avenue came from citizens who live on the street, including the prominent Mike Curtin, nationally recognized head of the D.C. Central Kitchen, concerned about plans to reduce the number of public parking spaces under the plan.
On the bike plan issue, Brian Pendleton, president of the Falls Plaza Homeowners, expressed concern for the proximity of the proposed routes to homes along the way, while others spoke in favor of the plan to devise a safe bicycle route from the center of the city to the secondary schools campus at the far west end.
City Manager Wyatt Shields recognized the recognition the City received from the Virginia Municipal League for its communications effort around its East End Small Area Plan, noting that City senior planner Emily Bazemore developed and championed the effort. The effort was aimed at overcoming misinformation about the City’s plans for the Eden Center, one of the most active commercial centers of the VietnameseAmerican community on the East
Coast. The fears of a gentrification that would displace the center were addressed by four pop-up informational events held to dispel such fears at the Eden Center.
City Attorney Sally Gillette reported on the formation of a “conflict of interest working group” composed of the city manager, clerk and attorney to establish protocols to encourage awareness and support for state conflict of interest guidelines, and to address the difference between statutory conflicts of interest and what are often called politically motivated “appearances” of conflicts.
City chief financial officer
Kiran Bawa presented the Fiscal Year 2024 year end financial report which showed, among other things, robust increases in revenues from meals taxes and interest rate-sensitive investment revenues, resulting in another year of a net surplus for the City of $449,000. While tax revenues over budget was $1,890,000, $993,000 of that was needed to replenish the “unassigned fund balance” policy of 17 percent of annual revenues, and the 50-50 revenue sharing agreement with the City schools left $449,000 for a net surplus.
‘Christian Nationalist’ Movement Said to Be a Hijacking of Faith
morphed into a battering ram for Trump and the insidious “unitary executive” policies contained in the Project 2025 report, this arch-authoritarian, socially-fascist offensive has been wholly underestimated and allowed to fester and grow in the name of religious freedom.
Thinking persons perhaps scratch their heads in amazement at how people avowedly morally grounded in faith could be veritably worshiping Trump at this stage in our history, and at best are left to write it off as a “cult-like” response, which, of course, it is. But as Dr. Carey spelled it out plainly, it has a lot more behind it, and is far more toxic to our culture than just some people falling under the spell of a single charismatic leader.
Some groups have begun to come together to tackle this phenomenon from within the faith community, such as the Public Religion Research Institute led by Robert P. Jones, the author of the best-selling “The End
of White Christian America,” the Christians Against Christian Nationalism, the non-Southern Baptist “Baptist Joint Committee,” and the Americans United for the Separation of Church and State. Some of these groups have been opposing the rise of Christian Nationalism for decades when the problem was identified as the “Christian Nation Thesis.” J. Brent Walker, former executive director of the Joint Baptist Committee and a member of Falls Church’s Columbia Baptist Church, and City resident Holly Holliman and others have been identifying and combating this for years.
director Amanda Tyler appeared on the MSNBC news network to assert, “We need to normalize speaking out against Christian Nationalism” as a “gross distortion of the teachings of Jesus” aimed at “teaching the Bible as an authoritarian text.”
She said the movement “is an attack on our religious freedom just as much as it is an attack on the religious freedom of our neighbors who practice different faiths or those who don’t claim a faith tradition.”
seven aspects of society that believers should seek to influence: family, religion, education, media, arts and entertainment, business, and government, totally disregarding the U.S. Constitutional mandate for the separation of church and state.
Dr. Carey cautioned that the effort to subvert the U.S. government is already well organized for the aftermath of this November’s presidential election, including the fact that as many as three members of the U.S. Supreme Court are heavily influenced by this. Continued from Page 1
But it has been very slow in coming, with a big reason being what the pastor of the Rock Springs Church identified Sunday, that some members of her congregation were opposed to the idea of Sunday’s forum on grounds that it violated the commitment to a free, nonjudgmental exercise of religious freedom.
Still, this June, the Baptist Joint Committee’s executive
Tyler said, “It’s incumbent on Christians to take their place in the public square to advocate from their faith-based perspective against Christian Nationalism…We are seeing the foundation of religious freedom under attack by Christian Nationalism right now.” Tyler is having a book on the subject coming out next month.
Sunday, Dr. Carey said that another name for this movement is “Dominionism.” He said that under that name, there is a doctrine of “Seven Mountains Dominionism,” that was begun in 1975 and asserts there are
Increasingly this movement has adopted a posture of “spiritual warfare” against democracy and the U.S. government, picking up on expressions by Trump ally Roger Stone, who said he “saw demons over the White House,” and so-called “postmillennial” doctrines that claim it is the mandate of the faithful “to bring God’s reign to earth.”
These heresies have led to the assertion that Trump is “God’s anointed one,” or messiah, and that violence is justified to take the reins of government by force.
Dr. Carey noted how these themes were prevalent during the January 6, 2021 siege of the Capitol, and current slanders against Vice President Kamala Harris as having “Jezebel’s spirit.” Then there was Lt. Gen.
Michael Flynn who accused Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of being a demon, herself.
DR. GREG CAREY, professor of New Testament at the Lancaster Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania, reported on the ‘Christian Nationalist’ movement at the Rock Springs United Church of Christ in North Arlington Sunday. (News-Press Photo)
SENIOR LIVING
The Machine Channels Pink Floyd at Their Best in F.C. Concert
by Nicholas F. Benton
Last Saturday night in Falls Church, a capacity crowd was treated to the best replication anywhere of the mesmerizing music of Pink Floyd in the performance by The Machine, in its first appearance here since the pandemic. It was a magnificent show, as veritably anything associated with the sound and lyrics of that titanic Pink Floyd band almost has to be. In various iterations, Pink Floyd has been performing since the late 1960s until quite recently and one of its original members, the ingenious lyricist Roger Waters has been doing separate tours performing the same music under his own name.
As for The Machine, its first show last weekend here in almost a decade was without one of its two co-founders, lead singer Joe Pascarell, who died suddenly in January 2022. The other co-founder going back to its founding in 1988, drummer Tahrah Cohen, was there, and was brilliant, as were all four of the musicians in their own rights, bassist Chris DeAngelis, lead guitarist Ryan Ball and keyboard maestro Scott Chasolen.
While the band has gone through a considerable number of musicians since it turned its attention solely to Pink Floyd music in 1988 (that’s over 30 years ago!), one of its most
loyal, and singularly talented components who was here last time, as well, is Chasolen, a New Jersey native now living in New York.
Chasolen, who studied jazz and contemporary music at the New School in New York, had a very powerful role in the creation of that profound Pink Floyd sound last weekend, which warmed up to become almost indistinguishable from the original about a third of the way into the first half of the show.
To Pink Floyd aficionados, all their songs performed were familiar, all 222 of them that have been recorded, with many “sing along” lines, as in the “Wish You Were Here” case, and such was how it was last Saturday.
This writer’s favorite, “The Gunner’s Dream,” has not been performed by The Machine in almost 20 years, but another song off the same heavily anti-war themed final Pink Floyd album done in the early 1980s, “The Final Cut,” was, one entitled “Your Possible Pasts.”
The imagery and poetry in the Waters lyrics to that one are completely transporting, in his oft repeated, as in the famous “Comfortably Numb” that closed the show this Saturday, theme of how things were more honest and direct before we were forced to become part of the adult world.
From “Your Possible Pasts:”
“She stood in the doorway, the ghost of a smile haunting her face like a cheap hotel sign, her cold eyes imploring the men in their macs for the gold in their bags or the knives in their backs. Stepping up boldly, one put out his hand. He said, ‘I was just a child then, now I am only a man.’ Do you remember me? How we used to be? Do you think we should be closer, closer, closer?”
Chasolen, who is a prolific songwriter in his own right, with 12 original songs being released this fall, told me prior to the show Saturday that his life is so much better now that he is out and about performing with The Machine, and other tribute bands like Ulu and Beginnings, including one he, himself, is in the process of forming to do the works of Phish.
But it was during the Covid pandemic that I got to know Chasolen and how extraordinary he really is. He turned his apartment bedroom into a concert hall for usually better than 100 folks of all ages who tuned in via Facebook or his website almost every night to listen to his incredible keyboard sounds, including a lot of brilliant improvisations. He often also brought his guitar in and, of course, his own voice.
He played and sang hour upon hour in that first year of the pandemic beginning in March 2020, and had stories about the stuffed platypus
Meridian Boys Volleyball Picks Up Win, Field Hockey Stays Undefeated
by Ryan McCafferty
Another week of fall sports is complete at Meridian High School, and every Mustang squad has officially now put a marker in the win column thanks to the new boys’ volleyball team picking up its first wins (plural) in program history. They earned their maiden victory at Centreville on Tuesday, sweeping their opponent in three sets, and then backed it up with their first home win on Thursday against Langley in five sets. At 2-6 on the season now, they’ll try to keep the momentum going in a busy week in which they face Marshall tonight.
The girls’ team also saw some success, bouncing back from a 3-0 loss at home to Kettle Run on Tuesday as they turned the tables on Manassas Park on the road Thursday, sweeping them 3-0. Then
they took two of three matchups on Saturday in tournament play, beating Justice and Gar-Field but falling to Westfield. That brings their record to 6-7, and they’ll try to move above .500 this week when they travel to Millbrook tonight.
Football was back in action this week, finally playing its home opener against Culpeper County on Friday and falling 30-22. The boys competed hard and fought until the end, but ultimately dropped to 1-2 on the season. They’ll continue their home stand this Friday when they welcome Brentsville to town, looking to even up their record.
Field hockey continues to be the class of the field for Meridian’s fall programs, and after entering the week undefeated, they were able to keep it that way… sort of. After holding serve against Fauquier in a 1-0 slugfest on Tuesday, they played to a draw at Sidwell Friends
on Thursday, tying 1-1. That brings them to 7-0-1 for the season, and tonight they’ll play WashingtonLiberty.
Cross Country raced in the Oatlands Invitational on Saturday, a highly competitive event against nearly 100 other schools. Both the boys and the girls had some standout performances, with Michelle Malherio leading the girls in 205th place individually while William Anderson was 266th for the boys, but neither team was able to place very highly with the girls coming in 58th and the boys 85th.
Golf saw some action this week as well, competing against a handful of schools at Shenandoah Valley on Thursday. They’ll enter postseason play this week, competing at Shenandoah again Tonight. Finally, the competitive cheerleading squad saw its first action this week on Wednesday.
toy he named Hurley, that sat atop his piano (most may not have noticed, but Hurley was on the stage at the State Theatre last weekend).
Before he was done with his bedroom concerts, over a hundred stuffed toy platypuses were sent to him from fans and devotees. He named a number of them at first, but that eventually became too daunting.
What made it more fun was the fact he was watching the comments coming in electronically, and engaging in dialogues with them. He tolerated no politicking or taunts, but offered his sage thoughts on as wide a range of subjects as those who were writing in wanted to explore. Reflecting on that period with me last weekend, he repeatedly stressed how important the “community” that came around him was in his cluttered (with platypuses and instruments) bedroom many nights per week during the toughest days of the pandemic. His bedroom he named the “Platydome” and his online community was his “Platy-posse.” He even had Joe Pascarell show up and join in with him one night there. Scott’s one mantra to help see everyone through the pandemic was, and remains, “Music is the medicine.”
Coming October 24th
Falls Church News-Press
SCOTT CHASOLEN, keyboardist of The Machine. (News-Press Photo)
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A Governor Backs Local Newspapers
The following report by the Latina Media Collaborative was published by Editor and Publisher magazine this week:
“In a decisive move to strengthen ethnic and community media, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 1511 — authored by Assembly member Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles) — into law, mandating that state agencies develop plans to increase their advertising spending in media outlets serving California’s diverse populations. The law requires agencies to annually report on their progress to ensure transparency and accountability.
Sponsored by the Latino Media Collaborative, AB 1511 represents a key effort to direct the state’s advertising dollars towards ethnic and community media, creating a sustainable foundation for these outlets to thrive.
“California’s ethnic and community media are essential to keeping our diverse populations informed through independent journalism,” said Arturo Carmona, president of the Latino Media Collaborative. “This law ensures that state advertising investments will go where they are needed most, creating an economic lifeline for these media outlets while also connecting more Californians to critical state programs. This is an important first step in addressing the long-standing gaps in advertising equity, but more must be done to ensure the survival of these outlets.”
AB 1511 requires state agencies and departments that spend on marketing, advertising or outreach to develop a strategic plan aimed at increasing their investments in ethnic and community media that serve priority populations.
“As an advocate for independent, local and Black news outlets, I applaud the State Legislature and the Governor for recognizing that our publications have an indispensable role in the communication infrastructure of our great state,” said Regina Brown Wilson, executive director of California Black Media.
California’s ethnic media sector includes over 300 outlets that publish and broadcast across the state, providing trusted, community-specific information. These independent outlets are often financially vulnerable due to underutilization by government agencies and shifting advertising models. AB 1511 is designed to address these challenges by directing more state resources toward ethnic media, creating a foundation for their long-term sustainability.
“By signing Asm. Santiago’s AB 1511, Governor Newsom supports a long-overdue policy that California, as the epicenter of ethnic media in the country, must ensure that all public information and engagement should reach the state’s diverse and underserved communities in coordination with their trusted messengers,” says Sandy Close, executive director of Ethnic Media Services (EMS).
Julian Do, co-director of EMS, added, “It’s a powerful recognition that California’s future is best served when everyone is informed and included in public issue conversations at all levels.”
State agencies must report annually on their progress, with the Department of General Services tasked with creating a reporting template by Dec. 1, 2025. The bill’s provisions will remain in effect until July 1, 2028, ensuring that these vital investments continue for the next several years.
“Display ads are the lifeblood of community newspapers. The passage of AB1511 creates a win-win for both ethnic media and the state,” said Martha Diaz Aszkenazy, publisher of the San Fernando Valley Sun/el Sol Newspaper
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Editor,
What’s the pseudo-bus stop on the northeast corner of Broad Street and Lee Highway for?
One of those white “Little City” shelters cropped up on that corner in front of the new, still unopened Whole Foods. I stood there one day, hoping it was a relocated bus stop. The bus driver kindly stopped to pick me up, cautioning “this is not a bus stop.”
It would be good if it was.
If it was a bus stop, it could pick up passengers for the 28A, 2A, and 803. Right now, the nearest 28 stops are either on the far side of Four Provinces or further down Lee (a signpost with no seating). The 2A and 803 stop is on the southeast side of Broad and Lee.
Combining them would be beneficial because the 28A reliably and regularly shows up during rush hour. The 2A and 803 have more infrequent schedules. To the 2A and, even more so, the 803, one could also apply Dickens’ words from the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come: “He’ll appear in his own good time.”
Stop consolidation would benefit public transportation commuters, though likely further bottleneck that intersection. What say ye, Falls Church?
John M. Grondelski
Editor,
What happened to the spirit of the Little City? I missed the last two weekends of the farmers market; when I pulled in to the parking area on the corner
of Park and Little Falls, I was dismayed to find many signs stating “No Parking Farmers Market!”
I have parked there for countless years, and find it sad with parking that is already tough in the city. Hope to see some resolution.
Joan Schrager Editor, Neighbors, for those of you who are tired of raking leaves (and for the most part, who isn’t except those living in apartments and condos), there can be a much easier way to take care of the leaves than raking. I still rake leaves occasionally but for the most part, I now just leave the leaves in a lot of the yard or I mow them once or twice, and then throw them in the bushes. Much easier and faster than raking. By mowing the leaves, it also compacts them so they seem to take up 1/10 of the space. The mulched leaves are free and I don’t have to get my van dirty hauling compost back from a gardening store or getting free mulch at the Falls Church City Recycle Center in my bags or containers in the spring. It’s not all or nothing. You don’t have to do this with all of your leaves. Try leaving some this year, and maybe more next year. If you can’t leave them all, just leave some!
You also save tax dollars for the leaves that the city doesn’t have to collect, and it makes the streets cleaner and safer.
You can get all of your questions answered at the Falls Church Forward Q&A session October 20 at 2:00 p.m.
Shirley Connuck
Poe’s Old ‘Manuscript’ in a New Bottle Appears For Fall Season
by Mark Dreisonstok
American horror master Edgar Allan Poe’s first published short story, “MS. Found in a Bottle,” with MS. standing for “manuscript,” is at first glance a tale of the sea. However, mystery, the imagination, and ghosts soon take center stage. The 1833 work has recently received a fitting audio drama treatment by Markiewitz Audioworks. The twenty-five minute production features atmospheric sounds of seagulls, waves, and sea-storms, as well as splendid narration, bringing to life this lesser-known Poe story for audiences of today.
Jason Markiewitz, namesake and director of Markiewitz Audioworks, is featured as the narrator, a seafarer who finds himself working on a cargo ship pulled ever onwards in storms towards Antarctica. There he is catapulted to the mast of a tall ship, possibly the legendary Flying Dutchman, if we take into account a reference to “an old weather-beaten Dutch navigator” and the strange men aboard the ship who “[bear] about them the marks of a hoary old age” and appear not to notice the narrator. Here the protagonist
begins writing a manuscript about his strange adventures, to be tossed in a bottle into the sea if circumstances indicate he may not survive the ordeal.
This audio work is a tour-deforce one-man performance by Mr. Markiewitz, who variously plays the roles of narrator, the old Swede (briefly companion to the narrator), ship captain, and ghost crew voices. The production is further enhanced with a thrilling music score by Hayden Folker, in addition to the afore-mentioned sound effects. All this renders this new adaptation of “Manuscript Found in a Bottle” a film for the ears in a theatre of the mind.
Taking on a Poe tale comes naturally for Mr. Markiewitz. He recently wore a period costume for the Nevermore High School Prom Nite 1849, the theme for last year’s Black Cat Ball at the International Edgar Allan Poe Festival. “I have been an Edgar Allan Poe fan since I first read ‘The Cask of Amontillado’ in fifth or sixth grade. I grew up a fan of Vincent Price as well, and he acted in quite a few movie adaptations of Poe’s works.” Not surprisingly, the producer and star of the
new “Manuscript Found in a Bottle” has also offered an audio production of Poe’s “Cask of Amontillado” as well as “The Tell-tale Heart” and Poe’s poem “The Raven.” Each of these works is appropriate for the approaching Halloween season!
Mr. Markiewitz also produces other audio productions (some Christmas-themed) and stars in “Wavefront: Split Second,” an audio drama of Jack Ward’s Mutual Audio Network in Nova Scotia. Mr. Markiewitz explains that the production “follows two artificial intelligence entities’ as they debate the future of humanity. While one wants to end humanity, the other presents factors for him to reconsider.” Reminiscent of Poe, that story also ends with an unexpected twist!
Beyond audio production acting and producing, Mr. Markiewitz also leads an interesting life in other ways. He started his audio drama company during the Covid shutdown when he was starring in a stage production in Sacramento, California, of “The Dinner Party.” He is a 25-year U.S. Air Force officer who has acted on stage and in film for several decades, dating back to his first stage production while he was stationed in
Italy. He was a long-time resident of Virginia, having been stationed at Langley Air Force Base.
Mr. Markiewitz’s many travels and experiences appear to have heightened the fervor of his acting and production talents, witnessed in “Manuscript Found in a Bottle.”
Indeed, the narrator in the original Poe story journeys ever onwards and at one point on the ghost ship sees “spread out […] the word DISCOVERY.” Listeners can discover this delightful new audio production of “Manuscript” for themselves by visiting MarkiewitzAudioworks.
JASON MARKIEWITZ IN Gothic period costume at the Black Cat Ball, International Edgar Allan Poe Festival. (Photo: Courtesy)
Support for Ukraine Is The Measure of All
Nicholas F. Benton
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
Over the course of the last two years, the world has been presented with a decisive test of whether or not it supports the principles of democracy and the advance of all of humanity toward a better life, or tyranny and repression. That test has been defined by nothing less than the Russian invasion of Ukraine. It is a unique clarifier.
President Biden spoke decisively on that issue in his speech to the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York this week. His eloquent remarks included the following, as I quote from the manuscript:
“There will always be forces that pull our countries apart and the world apart: aggression, extremism, chaos, and cynicism, a desire to retreat from the world and go it alone.
“Our task, our test, is to make sure that the forces holding us together are stronger than those that are pulling us apart, that the principles of partnership that we came here each year to uphold can withstand the challenges, that the center holds once again.
“My fellow leaders, I truly believe we are at another inflection point in world history where the choices we make today will determine our future for decades to come.
“Will we stand behind the principles that unite us? We stand firm against aggression. Will we end the conflicts that are raging today? Will we take on global challenges like climate change, hunger, and disease? Will we plan now for the opportunities and risk of revolutionary new technologies?
“Each of us in this body has made a commitment to the principles of the U.N. Charter, to stand up against aggression. When Russia invaded Ukraine, we could have stood by and merely protested. But Vice President Harris and I understood that that was an assault on everything this institution is supposed to stand for.
“And so, at my direction,
America stepped into the breach, providing massive security and economic and humanitarian assistance. Our NATO Allies and partners in 50-plus nations stood up as well. But most importantly, the Ukrainian people stood up. And I ask the people of this chamber to stand up for them.
“The good news is Putin’s war has failed in his — at his core aim. He set out to destroy Ukraine, but Ukraine is still free. He set out to weaken NATO, but NATO is bigger, stronger, and more united than ever before with two new members, Finland and Sweden. But we cannot let up.
“The world now has another choice to make: Will we sustain our support to help Ukraine win this war and preserve its freedom or walk away and let aggression be renewed and a nation be destroyed?
“I know my answer. We cannot grow weary. We cannot look away. And we will not let up on our support for Ukraine, not until Ukraine wins a just and durable peace [based] on the U.N. Charter.”
After these remarks, President Biden also spoke to the terrible situation in the Middle East, reiterating America’s support for a “two state solution.”
I, for one, think it is critical to point out the connection between the Russian aggression in Ukraine and conditions in the Middle East. It is clear that Putin ordered his puppets, Hamas, to commit the atrocities of last Oct. 7 in Israel in order to divert attention and resources from Ukraine. Sadly, it has worked with the unwitting cooperation of Netanyahu. And the major media has fallen in line by criticizing Biden for not having come up with a workable solution there, as if it is almost solely his responsibility.
In Germany, the revival of a pro-Nazi right wing in the eastern part of that country comes with, not surprisingly, a stiff opposition to support for Ukraine.
How obvious does this have to be? The shared strategic interests between Putin and right wing political forces in Europe and the U.S. can speak only to the effectiveness of covert Russian operations in the West. Ukraine is the measure. That makes it all relatively easy to assess, despite the howls of pro-Putin dissemblers to insist it is not so simple. But it is that simple.
The enemy stands exposed.
City of Falls Church CRIME REPORT
Week of September 16 — 22, 2024
Shoplifting, W Broad St, Sept 15, 9:15 PM, an unknown suspect stole merchandise without paying. The suspect is described as a black male in his late 20s, approximately 5’9’ in height, wearing a gray sweatshirt, black pants, gray shoes, with a gray hat and earrings. (Delayed report)
Commercial Burglary/Destruction of Property, W Broad St, between 10:00 PM on Sept 15 and 9:08 AM on Sept 16, an unknown suspect used a rock to smash the glass door of a business and stole merchandise. Investigation is ongoing.
Simple Assault, Wilson Blvd, Sept 16, 11:59 AM, victim reported they were assaulted by a known suspect.
No Valid Operator’s License, Haycock Rd, Sept 17, 3:32 AM, a female, 33, of Reston, was arrested for No Valid Operator’s License.
Driving on Suspended License, E Broad St, Sept 17, 12:10 PM, a female, 23, of Arlington, was arrested for Driving on Suspended License.
No Valid Operator’s License, Wilson Blvd, Sept 17, 7:05 PM, a female, 30, of Fairfax County, was arrested for No Valid Operator’s License.
Shoplifting, Hillwood Ave, Sept 17, 8:48 PM, two unknown suspects stole merchandise without paying.
The first suspect is described as a young Hispanic male wearing a black T-shirt with the word “cookies” printed on it, jeans, and black shoes.
The second suspect is described as a young Hispanic male, wearing a black and white zip-up jacket, black
pants, black shoes, and glasses.
Shoplifting, S Washington St, Sept 18, 12:31 AM, an unknown suspect stole merchandise without paying. The suspect is described as a black male wearing a white T-shirt and blue jeans.
No Valid Operator’s License, Roosevelt Blvd/Wilson Blvd, Sept 18, 8:46 AM, a male, 24, of Fairfax County, was arrested for No Valid Operator’s License.
Simple Assault, Wilson Blvd, Sept 18, 10:10 AM, victim reported they were assaulted by a known suspect.
Larceny from Building, Wilson Blvd, Sept 18, 1:40 PM, an unknown suspect took the victim’s cell phone from their workstation. The unknown suspect is described as a black female in her 30s, approximately 5`7” to 5`9” in height, wearing a burgundy color PINK brand sweatshirt, gray sweatpants with white stars, black socks, white sandals, gold earrings, and a black backpack.
No Valid Operator’s License, Madison Ln, Sept 18, 10:17 PM, a male, 41, of Burke, was arrested for No Valid Operator’s License.
Shoplifting, Hillwood Ave, Sept 19, 2:54 PM, an unknown suspect stole merchandise without paying. The suspect is described as a black female wearing a gray tank top and gray leggings.
Destruction of Property, W Columbia St, between 11:00 AM on Sept 18 and 6:00 PM on Sept 19, two victims’ vehicles were keyed.
Reckless Driving, E Broad St, Sept 20, 1:34 PM, a male, 46, of Woodbridge, was arrested for
Reckless Driving.
Larceny from Motor Vehicle, Wilson Blvd, Sept 20, 6:40 PM, an unknown suspect distracted the victim while they were loading groceries into their vehicle, then stole the victim’s purse from the front seat of the vehicle. The suspect is described as a Hispanic male, approximately 5`7’ in height, muscular build, wearing a black sleeveless construction vest with an unknown color shirt underneath, black pants, and a baseball cap.
Public Intoxication, Park Ave, Sept 20, 11:37 PM, a male, 58, of the City of Falls Church, was arrested for Public Intoxication.
No Valid Operator’s License, W Annandale Rd/S Washington St, Sept 21, 10:24 PM, a male, 32, of the City of Falls Church, was arrested for No Valid Operator’s License.
Larceny from Building, W Columbia St, Sept 21, 11:56 PM, an unknown suspect stole a fire extinguisher from a building. The suspect is described as a male, slim build, wearing all black clothing and a facial mask. Driving Under the Influence, W Broad St, Sept 22, 2:40 AM, a male, 31, of Sterling, was arrested for Driving Under the Influence.
Throwing Missile at Occupied Dwelling, Rowell Ct, Sept 22, 5:39 PM, victim reported an unknown suspect threw a rock over a fence towards an outdoor dining area, striking the victim in the neck.
Public Intoxication/Trespassing, S Washington St, Sept 22, 8:47 PM, a female, 42, of Lorton, was arrested for Public Intoxication and Trespassing.
Fall Health Guide
Coming October 17th
Hidden Thriving Arts Hub in the Heart of Falls Church
by Mark Dreisonstok
There is a hidden art hub in Falls Church, yet the artists who have studies there desire to be less hidden to their neighbors in Falls Church!
Located in Art and Frame of Falls Church, these artists recently held an open house exhibition at Studios at 307. The new studio is actually a repurposed office building that was long vacant but now has studios of some twenty local artists and artsrelated businesses, such as the frame stop and a dance studio. During the open house, there were a variety of artworks on display, ranging from a more traditional approach to art to abstract art, and needle and wet felting “painting with wool.” We were able to view some of these artworks and speak with some of the artists.
Stuart Allison Hindle’s oil painting “Prague: Mala Strana Across the River” depicts a quaint view of the Czech capital Prague from the bird’s eye view perspective. Red terracotta tile roofs covering warm toned yellow and orange buildings give the viewers a feeling of comfort for those who have lived in Europe or who have a longing to visit Europe. Another
artwork currently on display is her landscape painting of the Jefferson Memorial surrounded by cherry blossoms. Artist Hindle paints the Potomac River in an Impressionist style with visible blue and pink brush strokes, unifying the whole painting pleasantly.
In preparation for the coming winter months, Mara L. Flynn takes us to the far North for “Fjords in Winter,” an acrylic painting in which the artist brings forth a sense of chill and solitude with her cold blue colors and vivid shapes as she presents the fascinating world of Fjords. Meanwhile, swirls upon swirls in creamy ice cream colors mark the paintings on Dara Friel. Her abstract artworks such as “Nautilus” play off a limited color palette, but the colors she uses are very striking, eyecatching, and welcoming. Children’s book illustrator and occasional writer of children’s stories Zara González Hoang displayed some of her artistic sketches for upcoming children books, including one with an engaging image of a flying owl with outstretched wings.
Cynthia K. Miller started in the field of recreation, was then a director at the YMCA, worked in
human resources, and was active in leadership development. When she retired, she was drawn to express herself through art. She told us how she used to play in the field during childhood, push down the grass to make secret places, and was finally inspired by these memories to create her artwork “My Secret Garden.” Her painting of nature is abstract art, but she has concrete explanations and encourages us all, through our own personal lens, to recall the fond memories of youth.
Some Dave Curtis’ paintings resemble Salvador Dali’s style, and one even is a portrait of the Surrealist master. An interesting untitled work of his shows classical, Egyptian-style ruins with realistic columns on the right, a tank and a war plane in the center, and two rather large insects to the left. There is no title, as for many of the Curtis works, but based on the insects, the activity, and the suggestions of a honey comb in the lower left, we might suggest “Busy As A Bee!”
While most of his paintings today are in the Surrealist style, one of Mr. Curtis’ older, more traditional works recalls Sir Percivale, seeker of the Holy Grail. The artwork shows a cas-
tle which turns into a skeletal structure. Nailed claws branch out from the trees like thorns. The knight at the center of the image is facing the fruit tree which has extending roots connected to another skull. These seemingly unrelated items are indeed related with connection between the tree roots and ground. A woman in the painting who is seen spinning will, when touched by the knight, turn into dust, according to Lord Tennyson’s “Idylls of the King,” on which the painting based. We were fortunate to meet
many of the artists in their studies. Photographer Shaun van Steyn, however, was not there the day we visited, but his photographs were very much present. We especially enjoyed “Reflections, Washington, D.C., in which we saw the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial photographed in images in Impressionistic blue water.
We encourage Falls Church residents to visit this vibrant new hub in the art of Falls Church and to support this worthy endeavor.
See more photos online: fcnp.com
DAVE CURTIS’S PERCIVALE. (Photo: Courtesy)
‘Fasten Your Life Jacket, It’s Going to Be a Rollicking Ride’
by Patricia Leslie
Who would have ever thought William Shakespeare could be so much fun? The Shakespeare Theatre Company’s artistic director, Simon Godwin, has reshaped the master’s 1594 “Comedy of Errors” into a 1990s version for a fast romp in a Greek village, the likes of which can’t be beat for laughs and jokes.
It can be a family event, sure to entertain everyone with its constant motion, moves, dancing and finger puppets that “talk.” This light musical will take some of the scary out of the bard’s dialogue with “small cheer and great welcome makes a merry feast.”
The tale is his shortest and one of his earliest, about twins separated as infants in a shipwreck along with their parents and baby servants who happen to be twins, too. (The latter twins, both named “Dromio,” rhymes with Romeo. This is, after all, Shakespeare, winking and nodding.)
The father of the twins, “Egeon” (Timothy D. Stickney) speaks to Duke Solinus (Eric Hissom) about his lost son at sea whose brother “Antipholus of Syracuse” (Christian
Thompson and the play’s dance captain), now grown up, has left Syracuse to search for his sibling.
Like their servants, both lads share the same name, as only Shakespeare can write. (Without the same names, no play!)
Egeon and his wife, Emilia (Amanda Naughton) had adopted the Dromios at birth until the sea separation divided the family in half: One group went one way and the other, the other, and if you are still following, fear not for understanding comes to she who waits.
Hoping the lost “Antipholus” is still alive and searching for the other Antipholus of Syracuse in Ephesus, Egeon is soon found to be in the wrong place at the wrong time and sentenced to death. (He was from Syracuse and not allowed in Ephesus.)
Meanwhile, Antipholus of Syracuse is also searching for his lost brother in Ephesus, accompanied by his manservant, “Dromio of Syracuse.” (Alex Brightman and David Fynn are the “Dromios” who look remarkably similar and steal the show with their acrobatics and comedy, at times, seeking audience guidance.)
After all are ashore in Ephesus, the mistaken identities are soon known to the audience but not the residents who confuse the four twins throughout the show. Are you surprised?
Asks Antipholus of Syracuse: “Am I in earth, in heaven, or in hell? Sleeping or waking, mad or welladvised?”
Ceci Calf’s scenic design of the enchanting seaside village left me almost feeling waves splash as I bobbed in my audience seat on a small boat to watch the onshore action.
Musicians wander about the stage in the background, playing their instruments, including Pearl Rhein who speaks as Angela, plucking the strings on her violin, and, at different times, a small keyboard she holds. (Applause to casting director Danica Rodriguez.)
The births of the Antipholi are portrayed effectively in slow motion with their mother behind a transparent curtain to perfectly timed lighting (by Stacey Derosier). The town’s “red light” district and colored backgrounds during the musical pieces are especially memorable.
Sex, money, ropes, and a chain
are all part of the fun but this is rated “G” to offend no one.
It’s all in a day’s adventure in the world of Shakespeare and a farce of a time! Lost and found.
You can go home again.
The cast includes Ro Boddie (also fight captain), Jacob Brandt, Kimberly Dodson, Cloteal L. Horne, Ralph Adriel Johnson, Camilo Linares, Paige Rammelkamp and Shayvawn Webster.
Other members of the creative team are Nancy Renee Braun,
choreography; Alejo Vietti, costumes; Christopher Shutt, sound; Michael Bruce, composer; Charles G. Lapointe, hair and wigs, Robb Hunter, fight choreographer; Lisa Beley, voice coach; Julia Marks, assistant director; Laura Smith, production stage manager; Becky Reed and Stephen Bubniak, assistant stage managers.
“Comedy of Errors” has been extended twice at the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Klein Theatre, 450 7th Street, NW, Washington, D.C.
Pages 12-15
SENIOR LIVING
SENIOR LIVING
Suitable Housing For Seniors Include Many Local Options
by Brian Reach Falls Church News-Press
Area seniors currently seeking suitable housing options for retirement may be surprised to find a variety of options available to them here in The Little City, which may facilitate a comfortable lifestyle if they choose to stay, whether renting, owning, or seeking additional care.
Senior homeowners may seek smaller, more manageable spaces to reduce costs and maintenance, while still allowing them to maintain their independence. By downsizing — especially with home prices at all-time highs — seniors may also free up equity to provide additional funds for retirement expenses. If downsizing or selling, talking to a realtor — sooner, rather than later — is key to a successful outcome.
Tori McKinney, CEO and realtor with Falls Church-based RockStar Realty Group, says it’s never too early to start a conversation with your realtor. She says a realtor can help navigate the process, both with the sale of your home and the purchase of a
new place — and can even help you determine what that new place looks like (detached home, townhouse, condo, rental).
Moving out after a lifetime in a home, McKinney stresses, is a multi-step process. “Decluttering a lifetime of possessions is no easy task,” she said. “It takes time to sift through things and determine what to keep/pack, donate, sell or toss. I like to call it the ‘pre-pack’ before the ‘full-pack’ on moving day.”
After getting things down to a minimum, additional time should be spent on minor repairs, painting, and staging — before listing the house on the market. Once the heavy lifting is over, McKinney says, “you’ll be ready for the next chapter in the book of life — and how exciting is that?”
For seniors who prefer to remain in their homes as they age, in-home care services are a great option. Aging in place allows seniors to maintain their independence while receiving the care they need in a familiar environment. Home Instead, one such provider based in Falls Church, offers personalized in-home care services, ranging from assistance with daily tasks
like bathing and meal preparation to companionship and specialized care for conditions like dementia. This enables seniors to remain in their homes longer while receiving necessary support. More details can be found on their website at homeinstead.com.
For seniors seeking the convenience and community aspects of senior living, options in The Little City include The Kensington Falls Church (thekensingtonfallschurch. com), a senior living community that provides both assisted living and memory care services. The Kensington offers a warm and welcoming environment, along with various amenities and activities throughout the year promoting wellness and social engagement. Communities like The Kensington are ideal for those who want to remain in the community while benefiting from the support and convenience of assisted living.
A well-regarded option outside the city for seniors includes Falcons Landing (falconslanding. org), located in Sterling. Originally formed as the Air Force Retired Officers Community (AFROC) and previously offered only to
GS14 federal employees and above (and their spouse or surviving spouse), Falcons Landing now offers assisted living apartments regardless of military affiliation at their West Falls and Johnson Centers — and have extended independent living eligibility to all qualified former military personnel and government employees, with additional exceptions for those with special relationships with government agencies associated with the national defense community. Falcons Landing provides numerous amenities for its members, along with social opportunities and a vibrant community atmosphere — and long-term care nursing, short-term rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and memory care for those who require a higher level of care.
For seniors on limited/fixed incomes or seeking affordable housing, the City of Falls Church provides several assistance programs. The Affordable Dwelling Unit (ADU) program offers a limited number of residential units at reduced rates for both rent and purchase, and prioritizes seniors aged 62 and older. The ADU
program can be a valuable solution for seniors looking to secure housing at below-market prices without leaving The Little City. Information about the ADU program is available at the city’s website, fallschurchva.gov/adu. The city also offers a Rent Relief program for seniors, which provides once-yearly grants ranging from $700 to $1,700 for residents aged 65 and older or those with disabilities, with the amount determined based on the recipient’s income. For more information on this program or to apply, residents may visit fallschurchva. gov/rental-assistance, or contact Falls Church Housing and Human Services via email at hhsinfo@ fallschurchva.gov, or by calling 703-248-5005.
As 2024 rings in another record-breaking year for retirement — with an average of 11,000 Americans turning 65 every day through December (according to an Alliance for Lifetime Income report) — demand will likely only increase for expanded housing options for seniors who want to continue calling The Little City home in their Golden Years.
SENIOR LIVING
Falls Church Senior Center Offers Community Programs
by
The Falls Church Community Center’s Senior Center is buzzing with exciting activities this fall, offering a diverse array of programs for seniors to enjoy while engaging with one another. Whether one is interested in physical fitness, educational opportunities, live music, or simply connecting with others, there’s something for everyone at the Senior Center.
One of the most anticipated new programs this fall is a walking group, combining the benefits of exercise with the beauty of local parks. Seniors can enjoy the crisp fall weather as the new city van takes participants to various parks in the area for walks that provide not just fresh air and light exercise, but also a chance to socialize with peers and explore nature. This is an excellent opportunity for those looking to stay active without the intensity of more strenuous activities.
The Senior Center is also offering a range of educa -
tional classes, in partnership with Marymount University, designed to inform and empower seniors on a variety of topics. One standout course is “Thriving in the Digital World: Preventing Scams and Fraud.”
With technology playing a larger role in daily life, this class provides valuable insights into how to stay safe online, avoid scams, and protect personal information in an increasingly digital world. Also coming this fall is the course “Temperance Fiction.”
Another crucial upcoming program is “Saving Claire: A Fall Prevention Program.” As falls are a leading cause of injury among seniors, this course focuses on practical ways to prevent accidents at home and in public spaces. This is a must-attend for those wanting to ensure their well-being and maintain independence.
For a blend of education and entertainment, the “Lunch and Learn Series: Food, Health, and The Climate” offers an engaging look at how our food choices impact both personal health
and the environment. This series invites seniors to explore the connections between diet, wellbeing, and sustainability while enjoying lunch with fellow participants.
The fall season also brings exciting opportunities for those who enjoy music and social gatherings. At the end of October, the Andrew Acosta Trio will perform at the Senior Center, bringing their signature sound of roots, folk, and bluegrass music for a festive atmosphere.
New recreational activities this fall include badminton and pickleball, both of which are perfect for seniors looking to stay active in a fun, low-impact way. Badminton is a great way to improve reflexes, hand-eye coordination, and mobility, while pickleball — a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong — has gained tremendous popularity among seniors for its social and physical benefits. The Senior Center will even host a fall pickleball tournament in November, where participants
can test their skills in a friendly, competitive setting.
For seniors who enjoy intellectual and creative pursuits, Literature Sharing and Storytelling Groups will offer a lively space to share favorite books, discuss stories, and create new narratives with fellow literature enthusiasts.
Participation in Falls Church Senior Center events requires membership to the Center. Membership lasts for one year and is free for City of Falls Church residents, and only $12 per year for non-residents. The
membership year runs from September 1 to August 31, so now is the perfect time to join. Seniors interested in joining the Center may do so by calling the front desk at 703-248-5027.
This fall’s Senior Center lineup promises a hub of activity and engagement for area seniors, offering several programs catering to a variety of interests. For more information, or if you have any questions about joining or specific programs, contact Senior Center director Tracy Browand at tbrowand@fallschurchva.gov.
Brian Reach Falls Church News-Press
Community News & Notes
Cox Charities Awards Nearly $50k to N.Va Nonprofits
This month local telecommunications provider Cox Communications announced that seven local nonprofits had each been awarded $5,000 in Cox Charities grants, funded and selected entirely by Cox employees.
The seven organizations to receive grants from Cox include BetterALife, a food pantry in Purcellville; Bringing Resources to Aid Women’s Shelters (BRAWS), a nonprofit supporting women in Vienna; Computer CORE, an Alexandria organization providing no-cost computer training and equipment; Empowerhouse, a Fredericksburg-based organization supporting survivors of domestic violence and their children; Food for Neighbors, a hunger-fighting organization based in Herndon; Hopecam, a Reston-based organization helping kids with cancer overcome social isolation and stay engaged through technology; and Kids R First, another Reston-based organization that provides children from families with limited means with a full year’s worth of custom
school supplies.
Cox also awarded $10,000 to area nonprofits through Cox Conserves, the company’s sustainability initiative. Fairfax County Park Authority’s Wonder Wagon received $5,000 to support their mission in connecting communities to nature where they live. The mobile nature center promotes environmental and nature-based educational programs to underserved areas of the County.
An additional $5,000 was awarded to local nonprofits on behalf of the winners of the inaugural Fairfax County Park Authority “Outstanding Employees” program to recognize dedicated employees who make the parks a safe, educational and entertaining destination for residents of Fairfax County. The five winners were recognized at the Lake Accotink Park Celebration Day in August, and each received a $1,000 donation made in their name to the local nonprofit of their choice.
“Scenes in the City” Plein Air Festival Is This Saturday
Fitting the bill for those looking for a family-friendly
event to welcome fall this weekend is the “Scenes of the City” Plein Air Festival, sponsored by Falls Church Arts, on Saturday, September 28, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the grounds of City Hall (300 Park Ave., Falls Church), across from the Farmers Market.
Artists hit the streets of historic Falls Church to paint outdoors beginning on September 13 and had fifteen days to complete their entries. On Saturday, all participants will display their paintings for judging beginning at 8:00 a.m. A Quick Draw competition, open to all levels and all ages, will take place from 8:00 a.m. — 11:00 a.m. Awards for the festival and the Quick Draw competition will be announced at 12:00 p.m., by juror Tricia Ratliff.
The Plein Air Festival also includes a People’s Choice Award, which is determined by the highest number of votes cast for a painting by the public on the closing day of the festival. Visitors may attend the festival, vote for the People’s Choice Award, and browse or buy the art on display. Paintings purchased on September 28 may be taken home at the conclusion of the event.
In 2023, awards topped $6,000 and were made possible thanks to a number of local sponsors. This community-building and family-friendly event is free and is open to the public. To learn more, visit fallschurcharts.org.
MGNV Presents Free Soil Health Webinar on Friday
Did you know that soil acidity — the pH of your soil — can affect the availability of soil nutrients to your plants? Did you know the basic elements needed for the health of the human body are the same ones that your vegetable plants need, too?
This Friday, September 27 at 10:00 a.m., Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia (MGNV) will host a free webinar discussing soil health. The webinar will be presented by Kirsten Conrad, agriculture natural resources extension agent for Arlington County and the City of Alexandria, who will offer some easy lessons on how to achieve optimal conditions to maintain soil fertility for healthy plants. Conrad will also explain the soil nutrient analysis services available to residents through the Virginia Cooperative Extension that can help.
MGNV holds free webinars every Friday. Register at mgnv.org/rsvp-for-public-education-classes for a link to participate.
Mid Autumn Moon Festival Celebrates Vietnamese Culture
The parking lot and sidewalks of Eden Center came alive on September 14 as the VietnameseAmerican community gathered for their annual Mid Autumn Moon Festival celebration.
For over four decades, the bustling shopping center has been the go-to spot for those looking to experience Vietnamese culture and cuisine, recognized as the largest Vietnamese commercial center and largest Asian mall on the east coast of North America.
This year’s Moon Festival offered a perfect blend of cherished traditions and fun; modern twists kept both young and old entertained. The star of the show was, of course, Mooncakes! Kim Phung Bakery, a local favorite that’s been dishing out these treats at the Eden Center for 31 years, went all out, whipping up over 500 mooncakes in a mind-boggling 35 flavors — from the clas-
VIRGINIA DREAM FC continued their undefeated 2024 UPSL Fall Season with an epic 14-0 victory this past Saturday, remaining alone atop the UPSL DMV South Table with just four games remaining in the season. (Photo: Epic Footage Studios)
THE EDEN CENTER came alive on September 14 as the Vietnamese-American community gathered for the annual Mid Autumn Moon Festival celebration. (Courtesy Photo)
sic lotus to an adventurous roast hen shark fin.
The festival wasn’t just about eating delicious food. Visitors were treated to a cultural feast of the senses, with kids and adults alike getting swept up in the magic of traditional folk tales and mesmerizing cultural dance performances. For those looking for a bit of friendly competition, the mooncake eating contest added a dash of modern fun to the mix.
“We’re all about bringing our culture to life in ways that speak to everyone,” said Minh Pham, the festival’s organizer. “ It’s like building a bridge between the old and the new, helping our Vietnamese American community stay connected across generations.”
The Eden Center was a sea of vibrant colors as families strolled around, many with children dressed in traditional Vietnamese outfits, taking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Vietnamese heritage.
Pham and his team went the extra mile this year in securing the aesthetic, bringing in over 2,000 red paper lanterns — straight from Vietnam. The lanterns, handed out to attendees throughout the day, weren’t just decorations, they were little pieces of home.
So, if you missed out this year, mark your calendars for next September. Whether you’re a Vietnamese American, a culture enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good festival, Eden Center’s Moon Festival is an experience you won’t want to miss. For more information and to stay informed about upcoming events, find the Eden Center on social media or visit edencenter.com.
Four Upcoming Little City Concert Shows Announced
Little City Concerts, a local nonprofit that provides musical performances paired with social justice themes and charitable fundraising, has announced several upcoming shows for the coming months.
On October 19, the one-act immersive chamber opera by Ashi Day, “Waking the Witch,” will come to F.C., featuring Ming Sang Kim and Balance Campaign; on November 23, the District5 woodwind quintet will perform “To Hell and Back: A Winter’s Journey;” on January 11, 2025, pianist Sophia Subbayya Vastek will perform “In Our Softening;” and on April 5, 2025, LCC Commission recipient and drummer and composer, Keith Butler, Jr., performs his new work with his quartet, Seysew.
All concerts are held at The Falls Church Episcopal (166 E. Broad St., Falls Church). Admission is $25 (free for students and youth). For more information, visit littlecityconcerts.org.
National Public Lands Day Celebrated on Saturday
On Sept. 28, Virginia’s state parks will celebrate National Public Lands Day (NPLD), the nation’s largest single-day volunteer effort for public lands.
Held every year on the fourth Saturday in September, NPLD highlights the vital impact of public lands and brings together hundreds of thousands of volunteers across the country, fostering community and teamwork.
In Virginia, the state park system offers 43 parks, totaling roughly 80,000 acres, for public benefit. Each park relies heavily on volunteers for everything from trail maintenance to interpretive programs. In 2023 alone, volunteers across the state donated 218,147 hours of service, equivalent to 104 full-time employees.
For NPLD, Virginia State Parks is hosting more than 30 volunteer opportunities, including invasive species removal, beach and trail cleanups and habitat restoration. Parks will also offer a range of environmental education activities, such as guided hikes, bird surveys and tree identification programs.
For a complete list of NPLD events, please visit virginiastateparks.gov/public-lands-day.
“We’re proud to celebrate National Public Lands Day, a special opportunity for individuals, families and communities to come together in appreciation of the natural beauty and rich history our parks offer,” said Virginia State Parks Director Dr. Melissa Baker. “This day of service honors the vital role public lands play in our lives, from preserving wildlife habitats to offering spaces for recreation. We invite everyone to experience the outdoors and help protect these treasured landscapes for future generations.”
Volunteers should dress for the weather and the project and bring water, insect repellent and sunscreen. Standard parking fees, such as trailhead parking, will be waived at most state parks for NPLD. The parking fee at Grayson Highlands and the admission fees for Natural Bridge and Southwest Virginia Museum will not be waived.
Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about
Virginia State Parks activities and amenities, or to reserve one of their more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the reservation center at 800-933-PARK or visit virginiastateparks.gov.
VADOC Announces Lowest Recidivism Rate in Decades
Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) director Chad Dotson announced today that, for the 11th straight year, Virginia has achieved one of the lowest recidivism rates for re-incarceration in the nation.
Data from the VADOC shows that the Commonwealth’s 19 percent three-year reincarceration rate for State Responsible (SR) inmates among the FY2019 cohort is the second-lowest in the United States, tied with Minnesota.
The 19 percent recidivism rate is Virginia’s lowest in more than 20 years and improves upon the 20.6 percent rate from FY2018. This marks the 11th consecutive year that Virginia has had the lowest or second-lowest rate of recidivism in the nation.
Virginia measures its three-year re-incarceration rate by waiting at least four years to allow all court information to be received and logged. The recidivism rate is compared to 33 other states that have made their com-
parable recidivism rates publicly available.
South Carolina had the lowest comparable recidivism rate (18.5 percent) for FY2020. When comparing the 2019 cohort alone, Virginia’s recidivism rate is the lowest in the nation for that year, as of December 4, 2023. However, South Carolina has already released its FY2020 cohort rate, which is lower than Virginia’s FY2019 rate.
“I am pleased to see that Virginia’s recidivism rate has dropped yet again,” said secretary of public safety and homeland security Terrance “Terry” Cole. “This shows that so many returning Virginians are making the most of their opportunities to succeed, and that our public safety agencies are working hard to keep Virginia safe and improve lives in the process.”
“These numbers showcase that the Virginia Department of Corrections is a leader in the corrections field,” said director Dotson. “Our dedicated employees work around the clock to provide long-term public safety for the entire Commonwealth, and focus on proven, effective programming and re-entry services for the inmates and probationers in our custody and under our supervision.”
Full reports may be found on the Virginia Department of Corrections website at vadoc.virginia.gov.
MEMBERS OF THE City of Falls Church Democratic Committee (CFCDC) and electeds who attended the annual Kennedy-King Dinner in Crystal City this month included (pictured, left to right) CFCDC student rep. Ashwin Colby, F.C. commissioner of revenue Tom Clinton, State Del. Marcus Simon, State Sen. Saddam Salim, current CFCDC chair Jeff Person (foreground) and past chair Cindy Cunningham (far back), former State Sen. Dick Saslaw, and Nicholas Benton. (News-Press Photo)
LOCAL NONPROFIT organization Comunidad, based in Seven Corners, kicked off its fall programming this week. (Courtesy Photo)
School News & Notes
TEACHER KENNY LONG and ASL students at MHS celebrated Deaf Awareness Month in September. (Photo: Chrissy Henderson)
MUSTANG PRIDE was on full display at an action-packed Community Kickoff Tailgate at Meridian on Friday. (Photo: FCCPS)
WELCOMING WEEK kicked off last week with a talk featuring author Sindya Bhanoo (right). (Photo: Serena Binkowski)
MUSTANG TRACK AND Field took on “the hill” while competing against over 80 schools at the Oatlands Invitational on Saturday. (Photo: FCCPS)
MERIDIAN SENIOR Katherine Steyn (center) was honored by Dr. Peter Noonan (right) with the FCCPS Superintendent’s Certificate of Commendation on Tuesday. (Photo: John Wesley Brett)
LAST YEAR’S LITTLE CITY Scramble is enjoyed. The annual golf outing returns October 9, with proceeds supporting Mustang Athletic Boosters and Falls Church Education Foundation. (Photo: FCCPS)
MHS Aux Gym: 121 Mustang Alley
THIS WEEK AROUND F.C.
THURSDAY
SEPTEMBER 26
Eighth Annual Women's Conference
Rep. Don Beyer's Eighth Annual Women's Conference, titled "The Time is Now," with special guest Rep. Abigail Spanberger. Free registration at tinyurl.com/ FCNP0924wc. GMU Arlington Campus (3351 Fairfax Dr., Arlington, VA), 7:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.
Falls Church
Candidate Forum
The F.C. League of Women Voters and the Village Preservation and Improvement Society host a forum with both candidates for city council. A panel will ask questions about each candidate's positions on city affairs. The audience will be able to submit questions. Free and open to the public. Falls Church Community Center (223 Little Falls St., Kenneth R. Burnett Bldg., Falls Church), 8:00 p.m. — 9:30 p.m.
FRIDAY
SEPTEMBER 27
MRSPL Used Book
Preview Sale
Preview sale (limit five items) for this weekend's semi-monthly Used Book & DVD Sale, Saturday through Monday. Get great bargains on books, compact discs, and DVDs for all ages. Proceeds support library programs and services. More at mrspl. org. Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Upper Floor Conf. Rm., Falls Church), 1:00 p.m. — 5:00 p.m.
SATURDAY
SEPTEMBER 28
Falls Church
Farmers Market
Shop the market every Saturday! City Hall (300 Park Ave., Falls Church), 8:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m.
'Scenes in the City' Plein Air Festival
Vote for the People's Choice Award, view and purchase artist works. Free and open to the public. Rain date October 12. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 9:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m.
Grand Opening: Elite Brow
The community is invited to the grand opening of Elite Brow Studio Falls Church, with great deals and giveaways including an AirPod and free eyebrow threading for the rest of 2024. Throughout the day enjoy $1 eyebrow threading, $2 eyebrow waxing, and half off all other services. For more information visit elitebrowstudio.com. Elite Brow Studio (6363 Seven Corners Ctr., Falls Church), 10:00 a.m. — 7:00 p.m.
Inova Children's Hospital Fundraiser
Come out to the Shack for to enjoy great food, listen to live music by the Blue Book Value Band, and support a great cause: the Inova L.J. Murphy Children's Hospital. This year's "Asher's FunDrive" blood drive and fundraiser is family friendly and open to the public. Clare and Don's Beach Shack (130 N. Washington St., Falls Church), 12:00 p.m. — 6:00 p.m.
Washington Sinfonietta: Schubert & Beethoven
Washington Sinfonietta presents Schubert's "Symphony No. 1" and Beethoven's "Symphony No. 3, 'Eroica'." $20 tickets ($15 for seniors and students, free for youth) available at the door or online at washingtonsinfonietta.org. The Falls Church Episcopal (115 E. Fairfax St., Falls Church), 7:30 p.m.
An Evening with Lea Salonga
Singer and actress Lea Salonga headlines the 2024 "ARTS by George!" benefit concert, performing songs she has made famous throughout her extraordinary fourdecade career on Broadway and in animated movie blockbusters, including Disney princesses from Disney's "Aladdin" (Jasmine) and "Mulan" (Fa Mulan). Tickets at cfa.calendar.gmu.edu. GMU Center for the Arts (4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, VA), 8:30 p.m.
SUNDAY
SEPTEMBER 29
Out of the Darkness Community Walk
Annual Fairfax Out of the Dark-
ness Community Walk, hosted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's (AFSP) National Capital Area Chapter (NCAC). Volunteers, participants, and supporters from throughout the region join thousands across the country to promote suicide prevention. To donate or join the event, visit afsp.org/Fairfax. Fairfax City Hall (10455 Armstrong St., Fairfax, VA), 12:30 p.m. — 2:00 p.m.
Accessory Dwellings Open House
Join city staff for a walkthrough of draft recommendations for possible updates to the city's accessory dwelling regulations. Free and open to the public. Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Lower Level Conf. Rm., Falls Church), 2:00 p.m. — 4:00 p.m.
MONDAY SEPTEMBER 30
Historic Architectural Review Board Meeting
Historic Architectural Review Board meets. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 1
Electoral Board Meeting
Electoral Board meets. City Hall (300 ParkAve., DogwoodA-B, Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 2
Ask the
Council Session
The public is welcome to meet with Council members and ask questions in an informal setting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Oak Room, Falls Church), 9:00 a.m. — 10:00 a.m.
THURSDAY OCTOBER 3
Historical Commission Meeting
Historical Commission meets. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.
LEA SALONGA, the voice of two Disney princesses, performs Saturday at GMU Center for the Arts. ( Courtesy Photo )
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLANNING COMMISSION CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA
The following was given first reading at the May 28, 2024 City Council meeting. A public hearing and possible recommendation for City Council action is scheduled for Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard.
(TO24-11) ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING CODE OF THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH CHAPTER 48 “ZONING,” ARTICLE V “SUPPLEMENTARY REGULATIONS,”
DIVISION 2 “OFF-STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS” TO EXCLUDE THE FIRST 1,000 SQUARE-FEET FOR NEW COMMERCIAL USE OFF-STREET PARKING REQUIREMENT CALCULATIONS
The proposed amendments to the Zoning Code would have the effect of excluding up to 1,000 square feet of commercial floor area from the City’s minimum parking requirement calculations.
The purpose of the proposed commercial parking relief is to expand the number of commercial uses that are eligible to occupy existing commercial buildings, so that existing commercial buildings may be more easily re-purposed over time.
All public hearings will be held in the Council Chambers, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia. All persons desiring to present their views on the items will be heard. Comments may also be sent to jtrainor@fallschurchva. gov. Remote participation information at www. fallschurchva.gov/pc. For copies of legislation and other information, contact Jack Trainor jtrainor@fallschurchva.gov. The City of Falls Church is committed to the letter and spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, call 571-421-7943 or e-mail jtrainor@ fallschurchva.gov.
PUBLIC NOTICE
The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) of the City of Falls Church, Virginia will hold a public hearing on October 10, 2024 at 7:30 PM in the Council Chambers, located at 300 Park Avenue, for consideration of the following items:
-Variance application
V1646-24 by Melissa Stevens, applicant and owner, for a variance to Section 48-263(5) to allow lot coverage of 27.6% instead of the 25% maximum allowed for a screened porch at 311C Grove Avenue, RPC# 51-216-082 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned R-1B, Medium Density Residential District.
-Variance application V1653-24 by Kimberly Sanchez, applicant, on behalf of Betty and Stephan Finley, owners, for a variance to Section 48-238(3)(a) to allow a rear yard setback of 28.4 feet instead of the 40 feet minimum to construct a screened in porch at premises known as 617 Laura Drive, RPC #52-604-011 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned R-1A, Low Density Residential. -Variance application V1654-24 by WF Apartments CL1 Lessee LLC, applicant and owner, for the following variances:
i. Section 48-1265(7) to allow 6 temporary banner signs totaling 1,351.7 square feet to exceed the area and quantity above the maximum permitted in the zoning district (one 20 square feet temporary sign); ii. Section 48-1265(7) to allow the abovementioned signs to remain for one year instead of the maximum time of 60 days; at the premises at 175 Haycock Road, RPC #51-221-018 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned B-2, Central Business and Mixed-Use.
-Variance application V1655-24 by Harjote Randhawa, applicant and owner, for a variance to Section 48-263(3)(a) to allow a front yard setback of 15.8 feet instead of the 25 feet minimum to construct a second-story addition at premises known as 1200 Lincoln Ave, RPC #52-214-026 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned R-1B, Medium Density Residential.
Public comment and questions may be submitted to zoning@fallschurchva.gov until 4:30 pm on October 10, 2024. Agenda and application materials will be available the week prior to the scheduled hearing at: http://www. fallschurchva.gov/BZA
Information on the above application is also available for review upon request to staff at zoning@fallschurchva.gov.
NOTICE OF RIVIAN AUTOMOTIVE, LLC HEARING ON OPERATION OF DEALERSHIP BY MANUFACTURER
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), under the Code of Virginia 46.2-1572(4) and 46.2-1573, is conducting a formal evidentiary hearing at the request of Rivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian), a Commonwealth-licensed manufacturer of electric vehicles. Rivian seeks an eligibility determination to be both a manufacturer and a dealer of motor vehicles in Arlington County, Virginia, or in the city of Falls Church, Virginia. According to Va. Code 46.2-1572(4), Rivian must establish that there is no dealer independent of the manufacturer available in the above-mentioned community or trade area to own and operate the franchise in a manner consistent with the public interest. The formal evidentiary hearing will take place on October 17, 2024, at 9 a.m. EDT at DMV Headquarters located at 2300 W. Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia 23269. Any party interested in this matter is invited to attend the hearing and provide relevant information. Please send an email to DMV at diane.adams-strickland@dmv.virginia.gov requesting the information to attend. If you have documentation you would like the hearing o cer and Rivian to review, please submit it to DMV at diane.adams-strickland@dmv.virginia.gov by 5 p.m. EDT on October 10, 2024.
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ATTN. AUCTIONEERS: Advertise your upcoming auctions statewide and in other states. Affordable Print and Digital Solutions reaching your target audiences. Call this paper or Landon Clark at Virginia Press Services 804-521-7576,
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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.
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T h e LGB T Q + R e ach
by Brian Reach Falls Church News-Press
NOVA Pride LGBTQ+ Soccer League Seeks Local Expansion
NOVA Pride Football Club (NOVA Pride FC), a first-of-its-kind LGBTQ+ and allies soccer club in the Northern Virginia region, is seeking to expand after a successful first season earlier this year, culminating in the August 10 Pride on the Pitch tournament in Chicago, where NOVA Pride FC — competing alongside four members of the Philadelphia Falcons (one of the oldest Queer soccer clubs in the U.S.) as The NOVA Falcons — went undefeated to win First Place in the recreational division.
NOVA Pride FC was founded in March by Nubion “Noobz” Thomas-Kennedy, the president of the club’s board of directors, which includes seven other LGBTQ+ soccer enthusiasts. The club’s mission is to “build a community that creates a sense of connection and belonging for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies who are 18 years old and up by providing a safe, inclusive, and fun space to play football (soccer).”
NOVA Pride FC currently plays pickups (open games) on Sundays at Gunston Park in Alexandria. Now that they’ve had their first big win, they’re seeking to expand, as the group has becoming too big for a single team — and Falls Church is on their short list for future locations.
All LGBTQ+ and allied adults interested in joining NOVA Pride FC — of all ages and levels of experience — are invited to complete the NOVA Pride FC Player Interest Form at tinyurl.com/FCNP0924np. Responses will help determine the scope of the coming season, though ThomasKennedy says players can sign up throughout the year to join their pickup games and participate in tournaments. Those who submit the form will be invited to join the group’s WhatsApp community, through which team games, events, and announcements are shared and coordinated.
For more information, follow NOVA Pride FC on facebook @novapridefc or visit linktr.ee/novapridefc.
The GOP has spent the last several years trying to create an enemy of LGBTQ+ people — and Trans and Nonbinary people in particular — using tropes and conspiracies that echo the anti-communist McCarthyism and Lavender Scare of the 1950s.
Any attempt to improve LGBTQ+ life is treated as an attempt to conquer, shame, or replace heterosexuals. Trans athletes are accused of stealing heterosexual accomplishments. Employment nondiscrimination is lamented as an attempt by inferior people to take jobs away from more qualified candidates. Bathroom access is weaponized as a desire to commit sexual assault. LGBTQ+ books are demonized as “indoctrination,” and LGBTQ+ teachers are labeled “groomers.” Anything remotely related to LGBTQ+ life is treated as adult
content of a sexual nature. Any attempts to be LGBTQ+ inclusive are painted as “woke” or extreme.
Protections for LGBTQ+ people are posed as an assault on, ostensibly, the heterosexual right to discriminate against them.
Florida has been ground zero for antiLGBTQ+ politics in recent years, with laws banning discussion of LGBTQ+ issues (or exposure to Drag queens) around anyone under age 18, an all-out war between Gov. Ron DeSantis (R—obviously) and Disney over “woke” policies (primarily their public opposition of the “Don’t Say Gay” bill).
In mid-August, without a word, the state’s tourism marketing agency, Visit Florida, removed its LGBTQ+ Travel section. After refusing to comment for weeks, the CEO of the agency, Dana Young, offered only a short statement: “It’s fairly simple. Visit Florida is a taxpayer funded organization and, as such, Visit Florida — our marketing strategy, our materials, and our content — must align with the state.”
Visit Florida typically receives about $50 million in annual funding from the state, according to the Associated Press. This year their state funding totaled $80 million.
Though Visit Florida pulled its LGBTQ+ Travel section (and multiple other related pages) to retain state funding, it appears they were not pressured to remove other inclusive portions of their site, including pages dedicated to Hispanic or Black heritage travel, accessible travel, and visiting internationally. Also still present on the Visit Florida website is their page dedicated to nude beaches and nudist organizations.
The Inherent LGBTQ+ Pornography Of The Mind
At Equality Virginia’s 2013 Lobby Day, I decided that I was going to be the one to get Bob Marshall (at the time a Delegate from Manassas — and the “Marshall” in Virginia’s “Marshall-Newman” amendment to the state constitution banning gay marriage (which is still on the books). I turned my name badge around and walked right up to the counter, smiled my biggest smile, and introduced myself to his wife (who worked for him). She seemed to like me, and called him out of his office. He came out smiling, and I made sure he was shaking my hand when I mentioned I was with Equality Virginia.
The enthusiasm popped like a bubble, smiles vanished, and the handshake quickly ended. The delegate walked around the table we were standing next to, putting it between us. I questioned his opposition to employment nondiscrimination. He responded by raising the possibility of a gay man putting a picture of he and another man in his office cubicle — then, within a sentence or two, he was discussing how this promoted sodomy.
A picture of two men together — according to Bob Marshall — was pornography of the mind: the sodomy may not have been visible, but it was still there, and still dangerous.
That man thought a lot about sodomy.
Falls Church Business News & Notes
Washington Sinfonietta Season Opens
The Washington Sinfonietta opens the 2024—2025 season Saturday evening at 7:30 p.m. The program features Schubert’s Symphony No. 1 and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3, “Eroica”. The season continues with concerts on November 16, February 8, and June 14. The Annual Family Holiday concert will be on Sunday, December 8. All concerts will be performed at Falls Church Episcopal. Tickets are available online at washingtonsinfonietta.org/concerts and at the door.
Raising Cane’s Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting
The Falls Church Chamber is hosting the ribbon cutting and grand opening of Raising Cane’s on Thursday, October 3 at 8:00 a.m. The restaurant known for chicken fingers and Texas toast is opening at 6363 Seven Corners Center in the former Dogfish Head Alehouse site. The community is invited to join the celebration with the Lucky 20 Registration 7:00 — 8:00 a.m. A DJ will be in the parking lot until 7:00 p.m. and swag will be given throughout the day. Raising Cane’s, named for the founders’ dog Cane, has established a partnership with Lost Dogs and Cats Rescue Foundation.
Fight the Fall
Fyzical Therapy & Balance Center is raising awareness of the dangers of falling and the importance of fall prevention this month. September 23 through 27 is National Falls Prevention Awareness Week. To learn more on how you can Fight the Fall, visit Fyzical Therapy & Balance Center.
Anniversary Party
KiPS Family Gymnastics is celebrating its first anniversary. Visit KiPS in The Shops at West Falls Church on Saturday, September 28, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. for refreshments and open play time.
Supper Club at Godfrey’s
Godfrey’s is hosting its first Supper Club wine dinner on Tuesday, October 1 at 6:00 p.m. The five-course prix fixe menu crafted by Chef Godfrey will be complimented by expertly paired wines. Be among the first to taste two new selections. Seating is limited. Contact Gwenn for reservations at gwenn@godfreysbc.com.
Acton Academy Program for Parents
Acton Academy is offering a six-week introductory workshop designed to help parents understand themselves, their children, and their relationships from October 5 through November 9, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Based on Dr. Jane Nelsen’s “Positive Discipline” books, the program teaches children to be responsible, respectful, and resourceful by encouraging kindness and firmness in parenting. The course includes experiential activities and discussions on understanding children’s behavior, building connections, and focusing on long-term solutions. It runs on Saturdays October 5, 12, 19, 26, November 2, and 9. Parents may register via email to info@actonfallschurch. org. More information here: actonfallschurch.org/positive-discipline.
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.
In Memoriam: Robert “Bob” Jean Simpson
Robert “Bob” Jean Simpson Passed away peacefully after a long illness with his family and loved ones by his side in Medford, Oregon.
Bob dedicated his life to supporting and helping veterans. He served in the Marines as a Sergeant.
Bob served many terms as Commander for the American Legion Post 130 Falls Church.
He will be missed. Graveside service and burial will be Sunday. August 29, at National Cemetery (7482 Lee Hwy., Falls Church). Meet inside at 12:45 p.m.. Celebration of life immediately following at American Legion Post 130 (400 N. Oak St., Falls Church). Please bring a dish to share. (dishes can be dropped off before going to cemetery, if preferred)
Critter Corner
CAESAR THE PORTUGUESE Water Dog enjoys a frisky chase of his dog exerciser and companion called the Petrnr. After Caesar had a rough encounter at the dog park, Caesar’s owner Al Krachman looked for a safe way that Caesar could have a conflict free fun chase. He designed and fabricated the Petrnr, which is a variable speed dog exercising toy that can reach up to 40 MPH. Veterinarian approved, the Petrnr gives Caesar, his friends (and owners) a fun and safe chasing experience. The Petrnr will be used for Animal Shelter fundraising, and is also available to own through www. petrnr.net. (Courtesy Photo)
Just because you’re not famous doesn’t mean your pet can’t be! Please send in your Critter Corner submissions to crittercorner@fcnp.com.
Celebrating Citizenship: A Community Effort at Goodwin House
by Belen Quellet
Rita Siebenaler, a long-time reader of the Falls Church NewsPress and resident at Goodwin House Bailey’s Crossroads, approached the administration with an idea rooted in her family’s immigrant history. Her maternal grandmother left Ireland at the age of 19 to work as a maid in New York, navigating a path to U.S. citizenship that was much simpler and less costly than today. When Rita discovered that the current application fee exceeds $700, she was shocked by the financial burden it creates for many aspiring citizens.
Determined to help, Rita proposed that the staff at Goodwin House—who care for residents like herself—should receive assistance in their efforts to become U.S. citizens. She believed it was essential to create a community that values and supports everyone, no matter their role. Though her initial proposal wasn’t met with enthusiasm, Rita persisted. She knew this was the right thing to do, and
it paid off. The U.S. Citizenship Program was launched and has been running successfully for six years.
“The U.S. is a nation built by seekers,” Rita explained. “All of us, share a common legacy of people seeking better lives. By helping others, we’re honoring our ancestors and contributing to a stronger America.”
Rita’s vision quickly turned into action. Within two weeks, the Program was up and running, and $400 had already been raised to support the staff. But it didn’t stop at just financial assistance. It also connected staff members with residents who volunteered to tutor them as they prepared for the U.S. citizenship exam.
The response from the community was so positive that a “playbook, was developed to help other organizations replicate the program and offer the same support to their employees.
On September 18, The Goodwin Living Foundation held its latest Annual Citizenship Celebration. The event celebrated 15 staff members who recently became U.S. citizens through
WHAT IF...
the program. In the six years since its inception, the program has awarded 199 grants, and 107 individuals have completed the citizenship process.
Valerie Burke, Chief Philanthropy Officer of The Goodwin Living Foundation, delivered opening remarks at the event, emphasizing the significance of hosting the celebration around Constitution Day. “The timing highlights the importance of citizenship and the principles enshrined in our Constitution,” Burke said. “It also serves to foster a sense of community among new and existing U.S. citizens.”
Rob Liebrecich, President and CEO of Goodwin Living, also addressed the attendees, underscoring the essential role that immigrant staff members play in the success of Goodwin House. He shared that 40 percent of the organization’s workforce comes from outside the U.S., with one in four not being U.S. citizens. Liebrecich praised the sacrifices and determination of immigrants who seek a better life for themselves and their families, often facing great uncertainty. He also
highlighted the program’s resident-led tutoring initiative, which has contributed to lower staff turnover rates, keeping Goodwin Living’s rate at half the industry standard.
The heart of the event came during a panel discussion featuring three new U.S. citizens: Rambjet Kamara from Sierra Leone, Awetash Abdu from Ethiopia, and Ioana Munteanu from Romania. The panelists shared their journeys, reflecting on the emotional and logistical challenges they faced, from leaving family behind to navigating the complexities of immigration.
Rambjet’s story particularly moved the audience. She shared how, despite her best efforts, she struggled to save for the citizenship application fee, often having to spend her savings to support her mother and sister. She also found it difficult to study at home due to her busy schedule. However, the residents she cared for at Goodwin became her allies, turning into tutors who helped quiz her on the citizenship test questions during her workday.
The audience erupted in
applause when Rambjet recounted her most joyous moment: after seven years of separation, she was finally able to reunite with her son in the U.S. following her citizenship approval. Her voice was filled with emotion as she shared how much it meant to have her family together again.
All three panelists are now registered voters, a fact that they wore with pride as they spoke about the impact the U.S. Citizenship Program had on their lives. Ioana Munteanu reflected on the significance of having an organization that truly values its workers and their diverse cultural backgrounds, calling it a testament to Goodwin’s commitment to its community.
At the event, the melodies of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “America the Beautiful,” resonated with the values of courage, resilience, and unity that were echoed throughout the celebration. The U.S. Citizenship Program at Goodwin House continues to stand as a model for how organizations can uplift their employees and create stronger, more inclusive communities.
What happens when a community loses its local newspaper, such as has happened to almost 3,000 communities in the U.S. in the last decade? You don't want to nd out. But in short, the glue that binds a sense of identity and belonging among its citizens is loosened and begins to die.
Glib opinions contending that websites and the Internet will ll the void have simply been proven wrong. That mode of communication is fractured and inconsistent, attracting only a small percentage of the public. Enemies of democracy want less public participation and they gain enormously from the demise of a genuine local newspaper.
