Falls Church News-Press Novemeber 27th

No pardons are necessary and there’s no need for vegetarians to go into hiding this Thursday: the News-Press offers up some tasty meat-free Thanksgiving Day options.

SEE PAGE 25

Dianne Feinstein is not sure she’ll ever be able to watch the movie “Milk,” even though she’s in it. There is 1978 footage of a stricken Feinstein in the opening minutes of the new Gus Van Sant biopic of Harvey Milk.

SEE PAGE 11

In “Milk,” Sean Penn stars as Harvey Milk, the first openly gay man elected to public office in the U.S. The following year, both he and San Francisco mayor George Moscone were shot to death by city supervisor Dan White (Josh Brolin).

SEE PAGE 26

The lights are out and the doors are locked again in the vacant 360 S. Washington St. office building in downtown Falls Church, as it awaits demolition. It’s hard to imagine that earlier this month, the ground floor space of the old structure was teeming with life and activity, the temporary Falls Church headquarters of the Obama for

President campaign.

One Falls Church city councilman said the space, because of its vitality and success in contributing to the election of Obama, should be revered as “hallowed ground” as a future, new affordable housing project will eventually occupy it.

The office space may be shut down, but the mild-mannered, seemingly unassuming young man who commandeered the hundreds of volunteers who

worked out of it is just getting started.

Kyle Lierman is only 21, slender and with a year and a half still to go before finishing college. But in the minds of the many who worked at the campaign office he directed, he’d be a prime candidate for a marble statue, straddling a horse, wearing a fancy hat, with a sword hoisted in the air. He’s Continued on Page 5

A massive $3.2 billion shortfall walloping the current and next fiscal year budgets in Virginia will take a deep toll in state funding of localities, Falls Church’s two representatives in Richmond, State Sen. Mary Margaret Whipple and State Del. Jim Scott, told the F.C. City Council Monday night.

The two lawmakers were at the meeting to receive Falls Church’s annual legislative agenda, its wish list for new laws in the upcoming legislative session, which will begin in early January.

Whipple cautioned the Council that there “should be no sugar coating” obfuscating the impact of the state’s budget shortfall, due to the sharp economic downturn that has impacted most parts of the state more than the Northern Virginia region.

She said that while the emphasis will be on one-time, and not structural, reductions in spending, she noted that more than half of the state budget provides aid to localities, and that K-12 education will not be exempt from cuts.

Scott noted that both he and Whipple have backgrounds in local government, making them sensitive to the impact of cuts.

For one thing, delaying the opening of new state prisons will add greater burdens on local jails.

Otherwise, Falls Church has less dependence on state funding than jurisdictions in the southern part of Virginia, some of whom Continued on Page 4

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November 27 - December 3, 2008

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Despite the almost breathtaking initiative coming out of Falls Church’s City Hall last week to move with warp-speed to pitch the City to the new Congress, in Washington for orientation, and the legions applying for 7,000 jobs with the new administration, no mention of the effort was made at this week’s City Council meeting. The City’s Economic Development office had intersected the ferment on Capitol Hill with an attractive, eye-catching full-page ad in The Hill newspaper, outlining the benefits of living in Falls Church and welcoming new people moving to the area to consider moving here. In the best spirit of small-town Falls Church, a local business owner and resident, Matt Smith of the Smith-Gifford marketing firm, was drawn into the action, and quickly produced the ad pro bono, himself a firm supporter of the City’s taking such bold marketing initiatives. It was a proud day for Falls Church, as reported in last week’s News-Press. City residents saw their government willing to step “out of the box” to act on their behalf in an effort to buoy the City’s tax base and ease pressures on individual taxpayers. Leaders of neighboring regional jurisdictions had their jaws drop at the audacity of hope, if you will, that little Falls Church displayed. In Washington, the buzz was created that certainly will, in coming weeks and months, pay off for the City.

But some at City Hall are perhaps leery that the ad did not result in phones ringing of their hooks immediately when it appeared. It is a typical reaction from people who are new to the world, and realities, of advertising. We’ve dealt with that a lot over 17 years at the NewsPress, since advertising is our “bread and butter.” There is almost never a one-to-one relationship between an ad and a response, unless the ad includes a coupon for a free toaster. An ad begins a process that produces results over time. It’s one reason that we advise our customers never to advertise just once, but to do it on a regular basis, to be successful. In the case of the City’s ad last week, however, the one-time shot was an exception, creating a disproportionately powerful impact because of its extraordinary uniqueness.

Still, the same ad should be used economically in a wide variety of other ways in the next period. Some would argue that’s only spending more money in an already-tight budget environment.

But the debate, nationally, on the role of marketing in a recession suggests that tough economic times are exactly when the bold and brave advertise to gain a competitive edge. The News-Press was founded in the throes of a deep recession in 1991. There were visionary advertisers who saw in the News-Press an affordable, special opportunity. They prospered over the period since then, because they were the first to step forward. Some who advertised in the first-ever edition have been in the News-Press every week to the present. They’ve been the biggest winners.

dents to be alert to pending developments.

Joan Lewis, President League of Women Voters of Falls Church

The Falls Church News-Press is published weekly on Thursdays and is distributed free of charge throughout the City of Falls Church and the Greater Falls Church area. Offices are at 450 W. Broad Street #321, Falls Church, VA 22046. Reproduction of this publication in whole or part is prohibited except with the written permission of the publisher. ©2008 Benton Communications Inc. The News-Press is printed on recycled paper.

Editor, The League of Women Voters has learned that Atlantic Realty plans to change the design concept of the recently approved City Center South, due to rising construction costs.

It appears that the new plan is significantly different from the one approved as a Special Exception. We understand that in such circumstances the process is reopened and the whole proposal is re-evaluated under the guidance of the Special Exception Ordinance.

The new design concept should be considered as carefully as the original design

was. Our citizens, who will be impacted by the changed design, must have ample time and notice of the revision approval process. The City Council, Planning Commission, and other involved bodies should hold open meetings, with adequate public notice. Elevations and other graphics should be available at the library and on the City’s website. Every effort must be made to ensure a thorough, proper, and deliberate review of the design revisions.

This is an important issue now, as it was several months ago. The League of Women Voters urges Falls Church resi-

Editor, As I read the news about extreme cutbacks in neighboring school systems to offset current and projected budget shortfalls, I am grateful to know that the Falls Church City school system remains in good financial shape. This is largely due to the fact that our community does not rely on state funding to the extent that larger school systems do. Instead, this community continues to support the schools in the same fashion that

it did nearly 60 years ago when the schools were established.

The Falls Church City founders had a great idea when they decided to take ownership of an issue they knew couldn’t afford to be short-changed: our children’s education. I’m so proud to live in a community that continues in that tradition by fully supporting our schools and by giving our children the security and resources they need to compete in a global marketplace.

Matt Smith, Chairman Business in Education Partnership

Editor, The mayor has done it again!

More Letters on Page 6

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get two-thirds of their operating funds from Richmond.

But Scott warned that the current Republican majority in Richmond, representing the poorer regions of the state, will push to further limit state support to education in Northern Virginia jurisdictions by redefining the formula for educational support.

They will push to limit support to cost-of-living (COL) teacher and staff salary adjustments by having Richmond define the COL limit, instead of individual jurisdictions. That will hurt Northern Virginia disproportionately, Scott said, because the cost of living is higher here than in other parts of the state.

As far as Falls Church’s legislative priorities, he said he was not optimistic that legislation will pass banning guns in public buildings, but that support for a statewide smoking ban, at least in restaurants, may be growing.

But he lamented the practice,

November 27 - December 3, 2008

in the House of Delegates, of Republicans defeating measures they don’t like “unceremoniously” in sub-committee votes of 3-2.

With elections due in November 2009 for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, all state delegate and a third of state senate seats, Democrats are focusing on “the 51-21 rule,” he said, which means achieving majorities in both the Senate and House of Delegates.

In an interview with the News-Press Monday, Scott said that while Democrats need to pick up six Delegate seats to achieve a majority, they will be targeting 10 races in the fall.

He said that the state’s GOP leadership believes it can hold onto its majority even if three Northern Virginia delegates are unseated next November. GOP lawmakers at highest risk of being dumped are Del. David Albo, Del. Tim Hugo and Del. Tom Rust, all currently representing districts in Northern Virginia that went heavily for President-elect Barack Obama

this month. Rust’s district went 63 percent for Obama, Albo’s 60 percent for Obama and Hugo 55 percent for Obama.

Among the other seats Democrats feel they could capture in November are Del. Bob Marshall’s in Prince William and Del. Joe May in Loudoun County.

Long before next November, however, elections in January and June are also considered critical to many. In January, a special election to replace Congressman-elect Gerry Connolly as chair of the Fairfax Board of Supervisors will be held, and Democratic Supervisor Sharon Bulova will be running against Republican Supervisor Jack Herrity.

In June, there will be primaries for the November election, and for governor, Democrats will choose among three rivals: Del. Brian Moran, State Sen. Creigh Deeds and former Democratic National Chair Terry McAuliffe.

In the Falls Church area, it is reported that Del. Bob Hull will

Don't know 10% No 31%

be challenged in a Democratic primary by Fairfax County School Board member Kaye Kory. Hull has represented the 38th District since 1992.

The legislature that is seated as a result of next November’s election will be in charge of redesigning all the state’s legislative, including U.S. congressional, districts following the 2010 U.S. Census.

Yes 59%

November 27 - December 3, 2008

Revisions to F.C. City Center Plan Mulled Falls Church City Manager Wyatt Shields confirmed at the City Council meeting Monday that Atlantic Realty, which received approval earlier this year for the construction of a $315-million City Center project, is considering modifications to its originally-approved plan. Shields said that current economic conditions are driving the firm to mull a downsizing of the project. He said lowering the major residential building by two floors and also reducing the size of the “active adult” condominium building are being considered, and that contrary to earlier indications Marriott was slated to build the hotel component, “they still need to recruit a hotel,” Shields said.

The matter is expected to be taken up by the City Council at a work session on Dec. 4, and all proposed changes will be subject to public scrutiny and review, he said.

Survey: F.C. Student Drug Use Near National Average Judy Becker, coordinator of student services at Falls Church’s George Mason High School, reported to the F.C. City Council Monday the results of the 12th annual Pride Questionnaire filled out by 986 students at Mason and the Henderson Middle School in September. With the confidentiality of the answers assured, she said, results indicate the alcohol and marijuana use at the high school are slightly higher than the national average, and at the middle school they are slightly below the national average. Tobacco use at both schools is significantly below the national average, she added. The most dangerous findings, she said, were the number of high school students who reported drinking and driving, and the trend toward binge drinking by students indicating they drink not to get intoxicated, but to the point of passing out.

Despite reports that heroin use among high school students in Northern Virginia is on the rise, she said instances of that problem are “very low” in Falls Church schools.

She said that drug and alcohol use levels are lower among students whose parents take a firm position against their use. Among the steps being taken to address the problems, she said, was the formation of the Falls Church Alliance for Youth, the hiring of a substance abuse counselor at the high school, and the formation of a new group, the Parent Coalition.

F.C. Photo Red Lights to Switch Back on ‘09 With the Virginia legislature reversing its earlier opposition last winter, the City of Falls Church will resume its use of “photo red lights” to fine motorists that are photographed running red lights. City Manager Wyatt Shields told the City Council Monday night that the four intersections in the City’s 2.2 square miles will see their cameras operational by “early next spring.” The City made a major investment acquiring the equipment and operated the system for three years before the legislature refused to extend a law permitting their use in 2006.

The Falls Church system includes a video component to confirm that a motorist willingly entered an intersection after a light turned red. Shields said violators are fined $50, but that the violation is not included on a criminal report nor does it result in moving violation “points” impacting insurance rates.

Ed Strait Feted by F.C. City Council One of the City of Falls Church’s most important and influential civic activists, former City Councilman Ed Strait, was hailed by the Falls Church City Council Monday on the eve of his move out of the City limits to the nearby Goodwin House retirement community. A resident of the City since 1958, Strait served three four-year terms on the City Council from 1974-78 and 1980-88. He also served as president of the Village Preservation and Improvement Council, and was a long-time member of the Citizens for a Better City, the Chamber of Commerce, City Democratic Committee and others. Mayor Robin Gardner declared Nov. 25 “Ed Strait Day” in Falls Church.

News-Press Annual Holiday Party Dec. 15 The 18th annual Falls Church News-Press Holiday Party will be held Monday, Dec. 15, at the Center for Spiritual Enlightenment, 222 N. Washington St., from 5:30 – 8 p.m., it was announced yesterday. The annual event, which is free and open to all friends of the News-Press, will again feature live music by an ensemble of musicians from George Mason High School and catering by Ledo Pizza.

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November 27 - December 3, 2008

Whether it’s because you’ve burned the last four turkeys, or simply become too tired to endure another family feud over how to carve the thing, the News-Press has the holiday dining scoop for those of you who want the cooking done for you this year. From traditionalists on a budget to sports lovers with an appetite, there’s something for everyone, even the Turkey Day Scrooges.

Thanksgiving favorites with all the trimmings can easily be found for $35 and under. For just $22.95 a person, Clyde’s (8332 Leesburg Pike, Vienna) will be serving up the works – turkey, sausage sage stuffing, green beans, whipped potatoes with gravy, mashed sweet potatoes and traditional cranberry sauce, along with a slice of either apple, pecan or pumpkin pie topped with a dollop of whipped cream or served a la mode.

When asked about the amount of customer traffic he usually sees on a holiday typical of in-home dining, General Manager Rich Hilliard said most of the time slots in the middle of the afternoon have already been booked. “Last year, we fed over 1,000 people. It was packed here,� said Hilliard.

A shortened version of Clyde’s edible turkey tour is available for kids under the age of 10 for $12.95. To make reservations, call 703-734-1901.

Also try: • Seagar’s Restaurant

(1767 King St., Alexandria) is featuring a Thanksgiving Day buffet from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. and a three-course dinner from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m., each at $24.95 per person. From pancakes to fruit pastries and roasted turkey to prime rib, the buffet is sure to leave patrons stuffed. Seagar’s dinner spread will include corn and squash soup, roasted turkey, pumpkin cheesecake with a gingerbread crust and more.

For reservations, call 703-6472000. • Piola (1550 Wilson Blvd., Arlington) will be putting an Italian spin on traditional holiday cuisine. At $31 for adults or $14.95 children ages 5-11, Piola’s Turkey Day menu consists of butternut squash soup, pizza and pasta and Piola’s famous pumpkin gnocchi, but its ending is all-American – apple pie. For more information, call 703-528-1502.

For patrons with a little more cash to burn who are looking for a truly elite experience, 2941 Restaurant (2941 Fairview Park Dr., Falls Church) is offering a three-course ($75) and six-course option ($105), fully-equipped with flowers, candlelight and a lavish spread of entrees like Yellow Fin Tuna Tartar and East Coast Halibut.

Despite the pricey fee, MaĂŽtre d’ Rachid LaKroune said, “We’re already expecting 550 people, so it’s going to be a busy day to say the least.â€?

The restaurant will also give patrons the opportunity to support Homestretch Inc., a Falls Church-based organization that assists the local homeless com-

munity. Apple pies will be sold for customers to take home, with proceeds supporting the cause. “Pies are being sent to the shelters as well,� said LaKroune, who noted 2941 brought some pies over to Homestretch last week.

To partake in the upscale flavors of pine nut black truffle vinaigrette or Muscat wine gelĂŠe this holiday, make reservations by calling 703-270-1500.

Also try: • The Grille at Morrison House (116 S. Alfred St., Alexandria) will be offering Thanksgiving favorites with a touch of class in the form of a five-course prix fixe special for $85. Diners can expect apple parsnip bisque, oyster po’boy, rock fish with a clam chowder cream sauce, clams stuffed with potato spinach, turkey with cranberry sauce and pumpkin bread pudding. To make reservations, call 703838-8000. • Adour at St. Regis (5015 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C.) is planning to serve a traditional four-course meal from 2:30 – 8:30 p.m. for hungry folks with $90 to spare, $45 for children ages 6-10. Their theme, “Designed with Wine in Mindâ€? will allow diners to order from a wine pairing menu by the decanter, but that will cost you extra. Reservations for this spirit-filled event can be made by calling 202-509-8000. • Our editor’s pick is The Palm (1225 19th Street NW, Washington, D.C.), which is offering a three-courser at fixed prices of $42-55, depending on your main dish choice of either roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham or crab-stuffed lobster. For more information, call 202-2939091.

Whether you’re a Cowboys or a Seahawks fan, chances are you’re one of many sports buffs that are thankful for two very important things this year – beer and HDTV ‌ and family, of course. During this Thanksgiv-

Winter YOGA Begins January 5th

BARTENDERS Brian Griffin, left, and Johnny O’Kane, right, practice their pouring skills for the inevitable bar rush that ensues Thanksgiving night each year at Ireland’s Four Provinces in Falls Church. (Photo: News-Press) ing’s after hours, local sports bars and pubs are opening their doors for drinking and sports enthusiasts alike, some of which are even offering Turkey Day specials.

Though its kitchen will be closed, Ireland’s Four Provinces (105 W. Broad St., Falls Church) will be serving up cottage and shepherds pies when it opens its bar from 6 p.m. – 1:30 a.m., business permitting. “We had a great crowd last year. When we opened, there were actually people outside waiting to get in,� said Manager Patrick Dunnegan. “I think people are just kind of like ‘OK, we’ve done the family thing and now it’s time to do my thing.’�

For more information on how to score a TV-friendly game seat, call 703-534-8999.

Also try: • For $18.95, customers can get a traditional turkey platter with gravy and stuffing at Velocity Five Sports Bar (8111 Lee Hwy., Falls Church), which will be open 4 p.m. – 2 a.m.

Velocity boasts over 50 plasma flat screens and a rich amount of seating. For more information, call 703-207-9464. • Grevey’s Restaurant & Sports Bar (8130 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church) will be serving their Turkey Special for $21 – fully loaded with slices of good, old-fashioned bird, dressing, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans

and cranberry sauce. Grevey’s opens at 4 p.m. and closes at 2 a.m. on Thanksgiving. For more information, call 703-560-8530.

Whether this “thankfulness� bit just isn’t in your plans or you’re unable to make it home for the holidays, local food establishments are making sure your appetite isn’t left out in the cold – and they’re not even breaking out the turkey bells and whistles to rub in your face.

Deliverers of an American staple, Pizza Hut (1216 W. Broad St., Falls Church) will be open for pick-ups and deliveries from noon – 8 p.m. “Usually, we close every year, but this year we’ve just had too many customers already asking if we plan on being open.

We figured if they’re asking, we can probably get some good business,� said Manager Harbreet Singh. “It’s going to be just like any other day.�

Also try: • Harvest Moon (7260 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church) will be open from 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. Cuisine: Chinese. For more information, call 703-573-6000. • Hoang’s Grill and Sushi Bar (502 W. Broad St., Falls Church) will be open for lunch from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cuisine: Pan-Asian. For more information, call 703-536-7777.

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November 27 - December 3, 2008

NEW YORK TIMES NEWS SERVICE

Jan. 20, 2009, will be a historic day. Barack Obama (Columbia, Harvard Law) will take the oath of office as his wife, Michelle (Princeton, Harvard Law), looks on proudly. Nearby, his foreign policy advisers will stand beaming, including perhaps Hillary Clinton (Wellesley, Yale Law), Jim Steinberg (Harvard, Yale Law) and Susan Rice (Stanford, Oxford D. Phil.).

The domestic policy team will be there, too, including Jason Furman (Harvard, Harvard Ph.D.), Austan Goolsbee (Yale, MIT Ph.D.), Blair Levin (Yale, Yale Law), Peter Orszag (Princeton, London School of Economics Ph.D.) and, of course, the White House counsel Greg Craig (Harvard, Yale Law).

This truly will be an administration that looks like America, or at least that slice of America that got double 800s on their SATs. Even more than past administrations, this will be a valedictocracy – rule by those who graduate first in their high school classes. If a foreign enemy attacks the United States during the Harvard-Yale game any time over the next four years, we’re screwed.

Already the culture of the Obama administration is coming into focus. Its members are twice as smart as the poor reporters who have to cover them, three times if you include the columnists. They typically served in the Clinton administration and then, like Cincinnatus, retreated to the comforts of private life – that is, if Cincinnatus had worked at Goldman Sachs, Williams & Connolly or the Brookings Institution. So many of them send their kids to Georgetown Day School, the posh leftish private school in D.C., that they’ll be able to hold White House staff meetings in the car pool line.

And yet as much as I want to resent these overeducated Achievatrons (not to mention the incursion of a French-style government dominated by highly trained Enarchs), I find myself tremendously impressed by the Obama transition.

The fact that they can already leak one big appointee per day is testimony to an awful lot of expert staff work. Unlike past Democratic administrations, they are not just handing out jobs to the hacks approved by the favored interest groups.

They’re thinking holistically – there’s a nice balance of policy wonks, governors and legislators.

They’re also thinking strategically. As Norman

Ornstein of the American Enterprise Institute notes, it was smart to name Tom Daschle both the head of Health and Human Services and the health czar. Splitting those duties up, as Bill Clinton did, leads to all sorts of conflicts.

Most of all, they are picking Washington insiders.

Or to be more precise, they are picking the best of the Washington insiders. Obama seems to have dispensed with the romantic and failed notion that you need inexperienced “fresh faces” to change things.

After all, it was LBJ who passed the Civil Rights Act. Moreover, because he is so young, Obama is not bringing along an insular coterie of lifelong aides who depend upon him for their well-being.

As a result, the team he has announced so far is more impressive than any other in recent memory.

One may not agree with them on everything or even most things, but a few things are indisputably true.

First, these are open-minded individuals who are persuadable by evidence. Orszag, who will probably be budget director, is trusted by Republicans and Democrats for his honest presentation of the facts.

Second, they are admired professionals.

Conservative legal experts have a high regard for the probable attorney general, Eric Holder, despite the business over the Marc Rich pardon. Third, they are not excessively partisan. Obama signaled that he means to live up to his post-partisan rhetoric by letting Joe Lieberman keep his committee chairmanship.

Fourth, they are not ideological. The economic advisers, Furman and Goolsbee, are moderate and thoughtful Democrats. Hillary Clinton at State is problematic, mostly because nobody has a role for her husband. But, as she demonstrated in the Senate, her foreign policy views are hardheaded and pragmatic.

Finally, there are many people on this team with practical creativity. Any think tanker can come up with broad doctrines, but it is rare to find people who can give the president a list of concrete steps he can do day by day to advance American interests. Dennis Ross, who advised Obama during the campaign, is the best I’ve ever seen at this, but Rahm Emanuel also has this capacity, as does Craig and legislative liaison Phil Schiliro.

Believe me, I’m trying not to join in the vast, heaving O-phoria now sweeping the coastal hautbourgeoisie. But the personnel decisions have been superb. The events of the past two weeks should be reassuring to anybody who feared that Obama would veer to the left, or would suffer self-inflicted wounds because of his inexperience. He’s off to a start that nearly justifies the hype.

It looks as if the U.S. is about to have a president, at long last, who gets it when it comes to jobs.

There doesn’t appear to be anything faint-hearted about Barack Obama’s plans to stimulate the economy, which hasn’t come this close to flat-lining since the 1930s. The president-elect’s recovery plan emphasizes job creation, and the path to that end winds through the nation’s long-neglected infrastructure.

Some of us have been beating that drum for years.

In a radio address on Saturday, Obama described his plan as follows: “It will be a two-year, nationwide effort to jump-start job creation in America and lay the foundation for a strong and growing economy.

“We’ll put people back to work rebuilding our crumbling roads and bridges, modernizing schools that are failing our children and building wind farms and solar panels, fuel-efficient

cars and the alternative energy technologies that can free us from our dependence on foreign oil and keep our economy competitive in the years ahead.”

The message is many years overdue. The hope is that it hasn’t come too late.

The idea that the nation had all but stopped investing in its infrastructure, and that officials in Washington have ignored the crucial role of job creation as the cornerstone of a thriving economy is beyond mind-boggling. It’s impossible to understand.

Impossible, that is, until you realize that bandits don’t waste time repairing a building that they’re looting.

The question now is whether the nation, in the midst of a full-blown economic emergency, can keep its cool and be smart as it marshals billions of public dollars for a new infrastructure initiative.

It won’t be helpful to have sparkling new bridges to nowhere being built from coast to coast.

The smartest step when it comes to infrastructure would be for the new administration to follow through on the president-elect’s campaign promise to create a national infrastructure bank Continued on Page 38

Everyone’s talking about a new New Deal, for obvious reasons. In 2008, as in 1932, a long era of Republican political dominance came to an end in the face of an economic and financial crisis that, in voters’ minds, both discredited the GOP’s free-market ideology and undermined its claims of competence. And for those on the progressive side of the political spectrum, these are hopeful times.

There is, however, another and more disturbing parallel between 2008 and 1932 – namely, the emergence of a power vacuum at the height of the crisis. The interregnum of 19321933, the long stretch between the election and the actual transfer of power, was disastrous for the U.S. economy, at least in part because the outgoing administration had no credibility, the incoming administration had no authority and the ideological chasm between the two sides was too great to allow concerted action. And the same thing is happening now.

It’s true that the interregnum will be shorter this time: FDR wasn’t inaugurated until March; Barack Obama will move into the White House on Jan. 20. But crises move faster these days.

How much can go wrong in the two months before Obama takes the oath of office? The answer, unfortunately, is: A lot. Consider how much darker the economic picture has grown since the failure of Lehman Brothers, which took place just over two months ago.

And the pace of deterioration seems to be accelerating.

Most obviously, we’re in the midst of the worst stock market crash since the Great Depression: The Standard & Poor’s 500stock index has now fallen more than 50 percent from its peak.

Other indicators are arguably even more disturbing: unemployment claims are surging, manufacturing production is plunging, interest rates on corporate bonds – which reflect investor fears of default – are soaring, which will almost surely lead to a sharp fall in business spending. The prospects for the economy look much grimmer now than they did as little as a week or two ago.

Yet economic policy, rather than responding to the threat, seems to have gone on vacation. In particular, panic has returned to the credit markets, yet no new rescue plan is in sight. On the contrary, Henry Paulson, the Treasury secretary, has announced that he won’t even go back to Congress for the second half of the $700 billion already approved for financial bailouts. And financial aid for the beleaguered auto industry is being stalled by a political standoff.

How much should we worry about what looks like two months of policy drift? At minimum, the next two months will inflict serious pain on hundreds of thousands of Americans, who will lose their jobs, their homes, or both. What’s really troubling, however, is the possibility that some of the damage being done right now will be irreversible. I’m concerned, in particular, about the two D’s: deflation and Detroit.

About deflation: Japan’s “lost decade” in the 1990s taught economists that it’s very hard to get the economy moving once expectations of inflation get too low (it doesn’t matter whether people literally expect prices to fall). Yet there’s clear deflationary pressure on the U.S. economy right now, and every month that passes without signs of recovery increases the odds that we’ll find ourselves stuck in a Japan-type trap for years.

About Detroit: There’s now a real risk that, in the absence of quick federal aid, the Big Three automakers and their network of suppliers will be forced into liquidation – that is, forced to shut down, lay off all their workers and sell off their assets. And if that happens, it will be very hard to bring them back.

Now, maybe letting the auto companies die is the right decision, even though an auto industry collapse would be a huge blow to an already slumping economy. But it’s a decision that should be taken carefully, with full consideration of the costs and benefits – not a decision taken by default, because of a political standoff between Democrats who want Paulson to use some of that $700 billion and a lame-duck administration that’s trying to force Congress to divert funds from a fuel-efficiency program instead.

Is economic policy completely paralyzed between now and Jan. 20? No, not completely. Some useful actions are being taken. For example, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the lending agencies, have taken the helpful step of declaring a temporary halt to foreclosures, while Congress has passed a badly needed extension of unemployment benefits now that the White House has dropped its opposition.

But nothing is happening on the policy front that is remotely commensurate with the scale of the economic crisis.

And it’s scary to think how much more can go wrong before Inauguration Day.

November 27 - December 3, 2008

There’s a lot about Pope Benedict XVI not to like, but a socalled “prophecy” attributed to him this week by Italian Finance Minister Giulio Tremonti on the current global economic meltdown resonates with a lot of truth.

The Bloomberg News Agency broke the news, picked up by news outlets all over the world, that Tremonti, speaking at a Milan university last week, quoted an article written 23 years ago by the pope, then Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, entitled, “Market Economy and Ethics.”

The pope wrote in 1985 that it is an “obvious fact of economic history that the development of economic systems which concentrate on the common good depends on a determinate ethical system,” adding, “it has also become obvious that the decline of such (ethical) discipline can actually cause the laws of the market to collapse.”

While the pope believes that ethics can be sustained only by strong religious convictions, ethics are also embedded at the core of fundamental Constitutional values, as translated by America’s founding fathers into purely secular institutions of government and economic growth.

Built on the root notion of the “self-evident truth” that “all men are created equal,” the early American system quickly moved to embrace universal public education. It promoted science and technology, reason over superstition, and national infrastructure development. Alexander Hamilton’s National Bank fueled the economic engine, subordinating the accumulation of individual wealth to national development goals for the general good.

Abraham Lincoln catapulted the nation forward into the Industrial Revolution and standing as the world’s foremost power by implementing a legislative package that included the Railroad Act, the Homestead Act, the Land Grant College Act and the Greenback Act, the latter designed to emulate the impact of Hamilton’s National Bank by directing the nation’s economic resources to purposeful and beneficial national ends.

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “New Deal” was designed to do a lot of the same things, yet again. Using the Reconstruction Finance Corporation, it directed economic stimulus toward the creation of jobs, a restoration of individual standards of living, and expansion of national infrastructure.

The ethical roots of the American experience were directed repeatedly toward economic policies that drove the nation to global preeminence, capable of spreading the same model throughout the globe.

But the “dark side” has also always been there, starting with the oligarchies of Europe that the American revolution fought against and defeated on North American soil. These oligarchic elites have tirelessly espoused the philosophies of “might makes right” and “social Darwinism,” using superstition and ignorance to subjugate disadvantaged people to their will, and have fought against all “American system” policies that coordinate economic policies to a general good.

Imperialist economic rape and plunder, natural resources hoarding and slavery have been its preferred approach for accumulating wealth in their hands, at the expense of everyone else. They’ve not only plundered, they’ve fought wars to prohibit independent economic development, keeping Africans, among other things, fighting genocidal wars among themselves while limiting them to digging for water with sticks, instead of building railroads, canals, dams and large-scale irrigation projects.

The continental U.S. is the product of ethical economics. The underdevelopment of the African continent is the product of the immoral aristocratic approach.

The removal of all regulations from the U.S. financial markets by the backers of the Bush administration, driving down real wages in this decade while building a house of cards of fictitious derivative values and exporting them like a virus around the globe, has brought the world to the brink of economic meltdown now.

Ironically, so much of this greed and destruction was foisted on the world through ostensibly religious conviction. Rightwing Christian operations like “The Family,” interwoven with neoconservatives gathered like moths to a flame around the infamous Sarah Palin-promoting Weekly Standard magazine and spouting “American exceptionalism,” have been at the cutting edge of the nation’s steep ethical decline.  Nicholas Benton may be emailed at nfbenton@fcnp.com.

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LOS ANGELES – Dianne Feinstein is not sure she’ll ever be able to watch the movie “Milk,” even though she’s in it.

There is 1978 footage of a stricken Feinstein in the opening minutes of the new Gus Van Sant biopic of Harvey Milk, her colleague on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors and the first openly gay elected official in American history. (Sean Penn soars as Milk.)

“I was the one who found his body,” the California senator told me Friday, on route from the airport to her home in San Francisco. “To get a pulse, I put my finger in a bullet hole. It was a terrible, terrible time in the city’s history.”

The movie, chronicling the rancorous California fight of gay activists against church-backed forces in the ‘70s to prevent discrimination against gays, is opening amid a rancorous California fight of gay activists against church-backed forces to prevent discrimination against gays.

Milk was gunned down by Dan White, who had served on the board with Milk and Feinstein.

White, an Irish Catholic former policeman and Vietnam vet, opposed Milk’s equal rights initiatives for gays. He resigned and immediately wanted his seat back, a move Milk helped persuade the mayor, George Moscone, to reject. White climbed through a City Hall basement window with a loaded gun and shot down Moscone and then Milk.

(In the infamous “Twinkie defense,” White argued that junk food had left him stressed out.)

I asked Feinstein, who became mayor after the tragedy, if she would see the movie.

“It’s very painful for me,” she replied. “It took me seven years before I could sit in George Moscone’s chair. It took me a long time to talk about it. I was only recently able to talk about it.”

This month, gays who supported Barack Obama had the bittersweet experience of seeing some of the black and Latino voters who surged to the polls to vote Democratic also vote for Proposition 8, which turned gay “I dos” into “You can’ts.” About 20,000 gay couples had exchanged vows before Prop 8 passed, backed by a coalition that included Mormon and Catholic opponents.

Now that donor information can be found on the Internet, gay activists have called for boycotts of anyone who contributed to the law’s passing, from businesses small (El Coyote restaurant in LA, where Sharon Tate had her last meal and Fabio and George Clooney nearly came to blows) to large (Utah ski resorts and Park City, Utah, theaters where Sundance movies are shown).

Feinstein felt sure that gays who have been married in the state since June are still married.

“You can’t redact it,” she said.

“You can’t blot it out. It’s so intrinsic to the Constitution that you cannot remove it by a vote of the people.”

Jerry Brown, the California attorney general who is also featured in the archival reels in “Milk” from his days as governor, agreed: “I believe those are valid,” he told me, saying that he will argue in the appeal before the state Supreme Court that there cannot be “a retroactive invalidation of these marital contracts.”

Brown harked back to the defeat of the Milkera Prop 6, which sought to root out gay teachers from California public schools. (“If it were true that children mimic their teachers, we’d have a hell of a lot more nuns running around,” Milk says in the movie.)

“Any time you take an issue that has such deep feelings connected to it and you frame it in terms of a political initiative,” Brown said, “you drain out some of the anger and convert it to an issue that people can approach in a more reasonable, open-minded way.”

Feinstein agreed: “I think as more and more people have gay friends, gay associations, see gay heroism, that their views change.”

The gays were outfoxed by their opponents.

In both Prop 6 in 1978 and this year’s Prop 8, the specter of children being converted to a gay orientation was raised. Feinstein said the TV ad of Prop 8 supporters insinuating that “gay marriage would be taught in school really hurt.” (“I can marry a princess,” a pigtailed girl told her mom in the ad.)

“I think people are beginning to look at it differently, I know it’s happened for me,” Feinstein said of gay marriage. “I started out not supporting it. The longer I’ve lived, the more I’ve seen the happiness of people, the stability that these commitments bring to a life. Many adopted children who would have ended up in foster care now have good solid homes and are brought up learning the difference between right and wrong. It’s a very positive thing.”

I e-mailed Larry Kramer, the leading activist for gay rights in the era that followed Milk’s, to get his read on Prop 8. (In 1983, I interviewed Kramer about the new scourge of AIDS, and he read me a list from a green notebook of 37 friends who had died.)

“DON’T WE HAVE THE RIGHT TO HAVE RIGHTS?” he e-mailed back, blessedly cantankerous. “I AM ASHAMED OF YOU THAT YOU HAD TO ASK ME THAT QUESTION.”

Page 12

On Sunday, New York Times Columnist Nicholas Kristof discussed religious and cultural extremism in Pakistan, where a new cabinet member, Israr Ullah Zardari, defended the torture-murder of five women and girls who were buried alive. The Times had another article on Monday about an all-girl rock band in Saudi Arabia that is forbidden from playing live concerts because of their gender.

At home, former Arkansas governor and pastor, Mike Huckabee, appeared on ABC’s “The View” and said that gay and lesbian equality was not the same as civil rights because homosexuals have not had their skulls cracked and were not hosed down by police. Apparently, he is unaware of the latest FBI hate crime statistics that show bias attacks based on sexual orientation making up 15.5 percent of all reported hate crimes.

In Rome, Pope Benedict XVI is being criticized this week for questioning the usefulness of Interfaith dialogue in a letter he wrote to Italian politician Marcello Pera. What the Pope fails to point out is that thanks to intransigent absolutists, like the pontiff, finding common ground is nearly impossible.

How can we expect interfaith dialogue when we can’t even have Interstate dialogue between two Mormon universities 45 miles apart because they have literally turned religion into a political football? When the secular University of Utah played its religious school rival, Brigham Young University (BYU), last weekend, the teams treated the End Zone as if it were the Promised Land.

“It’s like a lot of other rivalries, except for those at the extremes,” Michael Anastasi, managing editor of the Salt Lake Tribune told the New York Times. “For them, it’s not only that your school is weak, you’re going to Hell too.”

Two years ago, the rivalry was further soured after BYU quarterback John Beck threw a touchdown pass to receiver Jonny Harline, who sank to his knees – as if in prayer – to make the winning catch. Describing the “miraculous” play, another BYU receiver, Austin Collie, concluded it occurred because students at the religious school lived cleaner lives.

“Obviously, if you do what’s right on and off the field, I think the Lord steps in and plays a part in it,” said Collie.

If religious groups become fratricidal based on football allegiance, it seems there is little hope for genuine reconciliation with gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. We must still work to enlighten the flock where we can, but fundamentalist leaders will only transform their anti-gay views when popular opinion decidedly turns against them – as it did with race relations in the 1960s and 1970s.

The strategy for the GLBT movement has been to circumvent the ideologues and create change within mainline denominations. I wholeheartedly support such efforts and have contributed to them. Unfortunately, there is scant evidence to suggest that these religious institutions will thrive and form a substantial bulwark against fundamentalism.

In “America Theocracy,” author Kevin Phillips documents the steep decline of reasonable religion in favor of the rabble-rousing variety.

“Between 1940 and 1985 mainline Protestantism’s share of all U.S. religious adherents was steadily plummeting… Between 1960 and 1997 – the Presbyterian Church, The Episcopal Church, The United Church of Christ and the Methodists lost between 500,000 and 2 million members each. In the meantime, the Southern Baptist Convention added 6 million, the Mormons 3.3 million, the Pentacostal Assemblies of God 2 million and the Church of God (Tennessee) some 600,000.”

The implications are that the GLBT movement may be placing its eggs in a basket that is rapidly fraying. It seems that people are either gravitating towards religious extremism or secular humanism, with little appetite for mainline faith. The Internet also offers easy access to eclectic spiritual beliefs that one can follow without organized religion. So, the hope that mainstream religion, as we know it, will supplant anti-gay denominations seems far-fetched.

The trends of urbanization and the discrediting of corporate Republican-style religion will lead, in my view, to more people losing their faith. However, fundamentalist sects will continue to consolidate market share for those who feel estranged or displaced by modernity.

In other words, America will look much like Europe in the coming decades – with a secular majority and a small, but still vocal, fundamentalist minority. (Mostly Islamic in Europe.) I can hear objections from those who rightfully point out that America is more religious than Europe. But, Kevin Phillips reminds us that Europe was once was hyper-religious too – but circumstances change over time.

“As the 21st Century began,” writes Phillips, “none of the Western countries in which Reformation Protestantism bred its radical or anarchic sects nearly five hundred years earlier – England, Scotland, Germany, Switzerland, and the Netherlands – still had congregations of any great magnitude adhering to that theology.”

November 27 - December 3, 2008

Children with life-threatening illnesses that receive health care through Medicaid often rely on the emergency room for basic treatment. Unfortunately, it’s a costly, disruptive way to treat a child with a deadly disease.

Unlike sick adults, seriously ill children often experience a higher volume of ups and downs in their health condition. Physicians and medical researchers have found that the best way to treat them is through an individualized program of continuous, comprehensive, coordinated, cost-effective, hospice-style care; something unfortunately Medicaid does not cover.

Currently, nearly 30% of the children in the United States who have life-threatening conditions qualify for Medicaid.

These children are forced into a system that will only treat them on an emergency basis, sending them home to wait until their next health emergency— clearly not the best way to care for these children, nor the most cost effective.

But efforts to change this flawed approach are on the horizon. One such proposal, modeled on a program developed by Children’s Hospice International, is reflected in legislation (HR 6931) I have introduced giving states the option to provide continuous, coordinated care through the Children’s Program of AllInclusive, Coordinated Care (ChiPACC). The program provides each enrolled child an individualized treatment plan that manages services from

providers across the health care spectrum while avoiding relying on more expensive and often scary emergency room visits.

Under the traditional Medicaid model, individuals can receive only “hospice” services and only after their doctors give them a prognosis of six months to live. Children, however, are much more likely than adults to go in and out of terminal phases multiple times.

No family should be forced to give up curative care for their child in order to receive services that are predicated on accepting that their child has no more than six months to live. ChiPACC addresses this problem by combining medical and support services currently available in Medicaid with counseling, respite, and

other care that have previously only been available as hospice services.

With appropriate comprehensive and coordinated services under ChiPACC, many emergency episodes can be avoided or anticipated and managed. Children would receive care in their homes instead of in hospitals, so that even when they require critical care they can enter the hospital through the front door instead of the emergency room, significantly reducing health care costs.

More than one million children and their families stand to benefit from the ChiPACC program. ChiPACC is available today in some states through a complicated Medicaid waiver process. The legislation I introduced this Congress and plan to reintroduce in the next would make Medicaid a state option. Currently, Florida and Colorado have programs in operation, while New York and California are planning to initiate their programs this fall.

It’s a great initiative that can save lives. I plan to pursue it aggressively next year in the new 111th Congress.

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November 27 - December 3, 2008

No matter what language, “thank you” is an appropriate and thoughtful phrase at any time of the year. As we celebrate the traditional American Thanksgiving rituals of family and food, let’s take a moment to give thanks to so many who help make our community a better place nearly every day.

• A great big “Thank You” to Fairfax County police officers who keep our streets safe and protect our neighborhoods. Fairfax County is renowned as one of the safest jurisdictions for a county of its population in the entire nation. Fairfax County taxpayers support well-trained, well-equipped police officers, and should be rightfully proud of the job they do for us 24/7.

• Similarly, “Thank You” to the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department. They also are there for us 24/7, responding to fire calls in highrises at Skyline, or leading the 4th of July parade in Lee Boulevard Heights. Mason District is blessed with six fire stations, three of them owned by volunteers, so first responder help is just minutes away.

• “Thank You” to our faith communities who provide services for the needy in our community, mostly on a volunteer basis. Food and shelter for homeless persons, rent assistance for families, food pantries, and child care programs are among the many opportunities that congregations identify and step forward to help. We are indeed “our brother’s keeper.”

• “Thank You” to park volunteers such as Tim Dokken who has spearheaded the removal of

Page 13

invasive plants and the redesign of Bel Air neighborhood park in Falls Church, and Ray Hubbard who arranged to have a crumbling stairway rebuilt on a walking trail at Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Annandale Community Park. The new steps make the walk much safer, and reduce erosion into the stream.

• This was a huge year for elections, and the many election officials and volunteers who staffed Mason District’s 28 precincts, plus the absentee in-person site at the Mason District Governmental Center, deserve a big “Thank You” for their long hours of work to ensure that the voting process worked fairly and equitably, and that there were few glitches in tallying the final vote.

• Paper or plastic? As we seek a greener environment, “Thank You” to all those organizations who provide fabric bags as giveaways for toting groceries and other consumables. I guess I really don’t mind the advertising logos on the bags; reducing paper and plastic in the waste stream is the important thing.

• Finally, “Thank You” to the drivers who slow down in school zones, who actually stop before turning right on red, who maintain their patience behind someone waiting to turn left, and who don’t toot their horn the second the signal changes.

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

For Week of November 18 - 24, 2008 Larceny, 500 blk. Roosevelt Blvd., between November 14, 3:00 p.m. and November 17, 7:30 a.m., unknown person(s) stole a reversible plate compactor valued at $4,360.00 from a rear parking lot.

Larceny, Shoplifting, Syms, 1000 E Broad St., November 19, 2:14 p.m., police arrested a male, 45, of Alexandria, VA and a male, 29, of Washington, VA for stealing $149.00 worth of merchandise.

Incident to the case, Suspect Dowden was also arrested on an outstanding warrant for Failure to Appear (Arlington County).

Fraud, BB&T, 191 W Broad St., between October 29 and November 21, unknown person(s) cashed a $1600.00 check belonging to the victim.

Destruction of Property, 600 blk. S Oak St., November 21, 10:36 p.m., unknown person(s) kicked the victim’s plants out of

the ground destroying them.

Larceny, Shoplifting, Virginia ABC Store, 167 Hillwood Ave., November 21, 8:07 p.m., unknown person(s) entered the establishment and stole (1) bottle of Vodka Belvedere and (2) bottles of Tequila Patron Anejo. Incident to the case, on November 2, 5:25 p.m., the suspect(s) stole (1) bottle of Remy Martin V.S.O.P. Cognac and (1) bottle of Tequila Don Julio Reposado.

Drunkenness, 200 blk. N

Washington St., November 22, 10:50 p.m., police arrested a female, 37, of McLean, VA for DIP. Drunkenness, 6700 blk.

Wilson Blvd., November 23, 1:30 a.m., police arrested a male, (unknown age), of Washington, DC for DIP. Driving under the Influence, 1000 blk. W Broad St., November 23, 4:38 a.m., police arrested a male, 24, of Falls Church, VA for DUI. Burglary, Commercial, Taco Laredo, 306 Hillwood Ave., November 23, between 3:00 a.m. and 1:56 p.m., unknown person(s) entered the establishment and stole $400.00 cash.

Drunkenness, 126980 100 blk.

Hillwood Ave., November 23, 11:50 p.m., police arrested a male, 29, of Falls Church, VA for DIP. Larceny from Building, 100 blk. Greenway Blvd., between November 12 and November 13, unknown person(s) stole a package containing (2) Redskins Football tickets (Incident reported on 11/24/08).

The Senate Finance Committee held its annual retreat last week in Fredericksburg. This is the first year that I’ve been a member of the committee, but all members of the Senate are invited to attend, so I think I have reported to you about the retreat for a number of years.

This year the news was the gloomiest ever.

We heard from a panel of economists and regional experts including Ray Owens, Senior Economist for the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond and John McClain, Senior Fellow and Deputy Director of the Center for Regional Analysis at George Mason University. Virtually every indicator of the economic outlook was down: personal income; industrial production; employment; manufacturing; trade; retail; housing prices; equity markets – everything you’ve been reading about or hearing on the evening news.

Because of the federal presence here, Northern Virginia is faring a bit better than other parts of the state although we have experienced the most dramatic changes in the housing market.

After the introductory panel, Senate Finance staff turned to explanations of how the economy is affecting state revenues and the budget outlook. More gloom! As Becky Covey of the staff said, “The economic picture has become clearer and uglier.”

She went on to say that most economists agree that we have been in a “slow motion” recession since the beginning of the year but the financial meltdown and resulting credit freeze have pushed the recession into high gear, creating a consumer con- severe loss 1 in18:40 12/13/01 fidence.

The poor economy means

that revenue to the state is down, with job and market losses affecting personal income tax revenues; reduced home sales and values affecting the recordation tax; and reduced retail activity leading to lower sales tax revenue. Corporate income tax is indirectly related to income measures because consumer spending and business activity go hand-in-hand.

As the revised revenue forecast is adopted, caution is in order.

One piece of good news for Virginia is that our AAA bond rating has been affirmed, with rating agencies citing the Governor’s prompt response to reduced revenue this summer when he instituted costcutting measures early in the fiscal year.

Nevertheless the economy is much worse now than it was at the end of August and further measures are called for.

Senate Finance staff now recommends total biennial revenue adjustments of $3.2 billion over this year and next.

The Governor will be adopting a revised revenue forecast and presenting proposed changes to the budget to the General Assembly in December.

Then our work will begin in earnest. A series of regional meetings is scheduled for the Senate Finance committee in early January and the Session will begin on January 14th.

No area of the budget will be exempt, even K-12 education and social services, though great care will be taken to make the least harmful cuts possible.  Senator Whipple represents the 31st District in the Virginia Senate.Dolev She may AB State85 be emailed at district31@sov. state.va.us

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Local Arlingtonian Pens New Novel Arlington author Suzy Beamer Bohnert has a new book available titled “GameDay Goddess: Learning Basketball’s Lingo,” which is available on Amazon.com (www.amazon.com) and Barnes & Noble (www.bn.com).

Published by B&B Publishing, “Game-Day Goddess: Learning Basketball’s Lingo” documents the action seen on television or heard on the radio and the essentials of the game.

This handy reference book

November 27 - December 3, 2008

covers the most important phrases and words used in basketball games at the professional and college level. For more information about the book, visit the author’s web site at mysite.verizon.net/vzeug7mn/, which also features reviews of all her books and the cover of her current basketball resource.

Free Popcorn Munching With ‘Charlie Brown’ Elementary-age children are invited for free popcorn and a viewing of the movie “A Charlie Brown

Thanksgiving,” at 4 p.m. on Nov. 26 at the Arlington Central Library (1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington). For more information, call 703-228-5990.

Thanksgiving ‘Trot’ Invites Willing Runners Area residents are invited to participate in the 5-mile 33rd Annual Alexandria Turkey Trot run at 10 a.m. on Nov. 27 at the Cora Kelly Recreation Center (3600 Commonwealth Ave., Alexandria). Participants are asked to bring at least two nonperishable food items to the race to support local charity group ALIVE!.

Top runners will win prizes, too. Registration is required and costs $10 for children ages 12 and under, $15 for teens and adults ages 13-21 and $20 for adults ages 22 and over.

Participants can register from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. before the beginning of the race.

PASSING THE GAVEL, outgoing president of the Falls Church Citizens for a Better City (CBC) Jody Acosta, right, handed over the CBC’s top leadership post to Deb Gardner, left, at the CBC’s annual meeting and dinner Saturday night. (PHOTO: NEWS-PRESS)

Stifel and Capra Caters to Hungry Shoppers

SCOTT SUROVELL, chair of the Fairfax County Democratic Committee, spoke at a victory gathering of hundreds of activists and contributors to the Democrats’ sweeping victories in the county on Nov. 4, including wide margins for President-elect Barack Obama and new Congressman-elect Gerry Connolly. The troops were rallied to support Sharon Bulova to fill Connolly’s vacated Fairfax County Board chair seat in January. (PHOTO: NEWS-PRESS)

Stifel and Capra (210 Little Falls St., Falls Church) invites Black Friday shoppers in for a break from the Black Friday craze with coffee and snacks during regular store hours, starting at 10 a.m. on Nov. 28. The event is free and open to the public. Stifel and Capra will be offering various sales throughout the day. For more information, call 703-533-3557.

Arlington Library to Host Interactive Story Time “Stop in for Stories” is a fun, free and interactive program with stories, songs and crafts for

all ages at the Arlington Central Library (1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington). There is no registration required for this ongoing program; Nov. 28 at 11 a.m.

Free parking is available at the library. For more information, call 703-228-5946.

will be hosting a holiday meal and entertaining soldiers and friends with parlor games. The event is hosted by the Falls Church Victorian Society and is free and open to the public.

For more information, call 703248-5171.

Civil War Vets Come to Life at Cherry Hill

Gift-a-Day Giveaway at ‘Impulse’

The Cherry Hill Farmhouse (312 Park Ave., Falls Church) will be temporarily taken back in time from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Nov. 29, when a troupe of actors will portray actual Falls Church residents from the Civil War era. The residents

Stop by Impulse (502 W. Broad St., Falls Church) everyday to enter in a drawing to win a free daily gift. One entry per person is allowed per day.

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November 27 - December 3, 2008

e-mailed. No purchase is necessary to enter. The drawings will take place through Dec. 23. For more information, call 703-5327899.

Online Site Offers Holiday Giving Alternative A nationally-known web site, SupportOurTroops.Org, is asking locals to support the over 60 troop-related groups across America who send care packages to the troops. Those interested can visit to SupportOurTroops. org, and click on the Christmas 2008 Care Package Icon.

This resource allows access to the groups offering to send care packages, lists items the troops have principally requested and care box rules.

AHC’s Annual Holiday Appeal Helps Needy AHC, Inc.’s Annual Holiday Appeal is now underway. AHC (N. Fairfax Dr., Arlington) is a private, nonprofit organization that aims to provide affordable housing to those in need. Donations are being accepted to the Annual Holiday Appeal program, which will support 1,800 families, children, teens and seniors.

Page 15

Donations of winter clothing and supplies or gift cards are also being collected by AHC for families.

To donate money to the Holiday Appeal program, visit www.ahcinc.org. For more information on donating clothes or supplies, call Jennifer Cavaliere at 703-486-0626 ext., 154.

McLean Rotary Club Member Receives Award Rotarian W. Glenn Yarborough, Jr., received a Rotary District 7610 Foundation Award for his work in supporting the Rotary International Foundation.

Yarborough is the principal and CEO of WGY & Associates, LLC, a McLean-based government relations firm. The award was presented by Rotary District Governor Chuck Davidson and former District Governor Sandy Duckworth. For more information, visit mcleanrotary.org.

Drop-In Computer Practice Held for Seniors This Senior Adult drop-in computer practice is an ongoing program at the LangstonBrown Community Center

HONORED AS THE WINNER of the Wayne and Jane Dexter Community Service award presented annually by the Falls Church Citizens for a Better City (CBC) at the CBC annual dinner Saturday was Edie Smolinski, right, embraced by long-time CBC activist Sally Phillips.

Smolinski has served Falls Church community efforts for over 30 years, including as president of the CBC and of the F.C. League of Women Voters, along with working for the ’07 Relay for Life. (Photo: News-Press) & Multipurpose Senior Center (2121 N. Culpeper St., Arlington). The next opportunity to take part in this program is at 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 3.

Registration is required through the Senior Adult Office, along with a payment of an annual registration fee of $15 for Arlington residents and $35 for non-residents. Registrants will also receive a bi-monthly program guide and be eligible for the Senior Adult Travel program. Applications are available by calling 703-228-4744.

McLean Church Welcomes Speakers on Going Green

SHAUN VAN STEYN, center, displays his photograph that was auctioned to News-Press owner Nicholas Benton. It was among scores of other works of fine art auctioned at the annual Whitman-Walker Clinic benefit in Washington, D.C. on Nov. 14. Van Steyn is flanked by Simon Van Steyn, left, and Liz Day, right. (Photo: Courtesy Shaun Van Steyn)

A free public Faith and Public Policy breakfast will take place at Lewinsville Presbyterian Church (1724 Chain Bridge Road, McLean) on “Environmental Stewardship in our Churches and Homes” at 8:30 a.m. on Dec. 6.

Joe Volk, Executive Director of Friends Committee on National Legislation, will speak about the faith-based principles in the committee’s decision to renovate their offices into the

first certified green office buildings on Capitol Hill.

Mark Turner, Founder and CEO of Green Spur, a Partner with West Group, will describe the technical features of the first carbon-neutral house being constructed in the mid-Atlantic Region in McLean. For more information on the program, call 703-356-7200.

Alden Theatre Presents ‘A Christmas Carol’ The Alden Theatre at the McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean) will be performing “A Christmas Carol” in musical form, based on the story by Charles Dickens.

This version of “A Christmas Carol” originally opened in December 1994 at the theater at Madison Square Garden. The creative team behind the show’s success included Lynn Ahrens and Alan Menken, with choreography created by Susan Stroman.

The show will be held Dec. 12, 13, 18, 19 and 20 at 8 p.m.

Matinee shows will be Dec. 14

and 20 at 2 p.m. Tickets will cost $19 for adults, $13 for groups of 10 members and more and $17 for seniors, students and McLean residents. For more information, call the Alden Box Office at 703-790-9223.

Exhibition Opens at Black History Museum A display of miniature dollhouses by Sharon J. Frazier and Linwood M. Smith is now open to the public at the Alexandria Black History Museum (902 Wythe St., Alexandria) from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Tuesday – Saturday.

The exhibit will feature more than a dozen buildings, including a log cabin, a one-room schoolhouse, a church, a barbershop, a stone home, a hair salon, a florist, a medical building and an attorney’s office – all at a 1:12 scale.

Some of the buildings are directly inspired by Alexandria’s Parker-Grey neighborhood.

The exhibit will be open through Jan. 24, and admission costs $2. For more information, call 703-838-4356.

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Page 16

November 27 - December 3, 2008

Openings Virginia Commerce Bank will open its Falls Church branch in the West Metro Plaza at 7115 Leesburg Pike on Dec. 15. The branch will be open Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m; and Saturday , 9 a.m. – noon. Established in 1988, VCB is a full-service, community bank headquartered in Arlington with over $2.6 billion in assets. The Bank serves the Northern Virginia and Fredericksburg markets with 26 branches, a mortgage lending office and an investment services department. For further information about Virginia Commerce Bank visit VCBonline.com.

News Falls Church-based Curtiss-Wright Flow Control (CWFC) announced the promotion of David J. Linton, President of Curtiss-Wright Flow Control, the Flow Control segment of Curtiss-Wright Corporation, to the newly created position of Co-Chief Operating Officer of New Jersey-based Curtiss-Wright Corporation. Linton brings 26 years of diversified experience in aerospace, defense and technology markets to his new position. As President of the Flow Control segment, Linton aligned an extensive product portfolio within core markets of defense, power generation, oil and gas and general industry and expanded the business from nine to 32 operating facilities. For more information, visit www.cwfc.com.

Long & Foster Insurance Agency, Inc., the insurance arm of the Long & Foster Companies, has acquired two independent insurance agencies: Falls Church-based MY Insurance Agency (712 W. Broad St.) and Fairfax-based Cryst & Associates (4041 University Drive). Both offices will close and the newly acquired companies will operate from Long & Foster’s corporate headquarters at 14501 George Carter Way in Chantilly. Cryst & Associates is a multiline, middle market agency founded by Linda Christ in 1990. Christ has joined Long & Foster Insurance Agency, Inc. as a Senior Commercial Lines Producer.

MY Insurance Agency has served a large Hispanic speaking clientele since 1999 and has offered a broad array of personal insurance coverages. Long & Foster’s Insurance Supervisor, Latino Division, Anna Martinez, assumes the duties previously handled by the firm’s former owner Marilyn Yanez, who is no longer in the insurance business.

Events

NEW AT EDEN CENTER! CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT

Saturday, November 29, 2008 3:00-5:00pm FACE PAINTING Rain or shine Bring the entire family, and stay for dinner at one of Eden Center’s fine restaurants!

Stifel & Capra “Art & Ornament for your Wonderful Life”

Special Weekend hours!

Friday, November 28th 10am to 2pm Saturday, November 29th 10am to 2pm Sunday, November 30th 12 to 4pm one of a kind gifts, good conversation and easy parking Always: Mon – Sat 10am to 2pm 210 Little Falls Street, Falls Church

703-407-0770 www.StifelandCapra.com Local Art - Vintage Treasures-Artisan Jewelry-Unique Gifts-Home

Solano Spine & Sport Chiropractic is continuing its food drive collection in partnership with the Professional Football Players Mother’s Association to benefit the Capital Area Food Bank through the end of November. Nonperishable food items can be dropped off at 313 Park Ave., Suite 100A. For more information, visit www. solanospine.com.

PNC Bank in Falls Church is hosting an autograph signing party with Washington Wizards Player Nick Young from 5 - 7 p.m. on Thurs, Dec. 4. A raffle will also be held for two tickets to see the Wizards and a $125 gift certificate for Argia’s. PNC Bank is located in The Read Building located at 402 W. Broad Street.

The Greater McLean Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 12th Annual Reindog Show presented by Wylie Wagg from 8 – 9:30 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 6 at the Langley Shopping Center at 1362-1398 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. Last year, 200 participants and their canines together participated in the canine costume contest with prizes from Wylie Wagg and local businesses, photos with Santa and more. Celebrity judges include Peggy Fox, WUSA News Anchor. The Reindog Show collects food & other donations for Homeless Animal Rescue Team, a non-profit organization helping unwanted pets find permanent homes since 1990.

The entrance fee for the Reindog Show is two cans of dog/cat food. The first 150 attendees receive a goodie bag courtesy of sponsors. For more information, visit www.mcleanchamber.org or contact Katharine Ryan at kryan@mcleanchamber. org or call 703-356-5424.

Clay Café Studios, Mike’s Deli @ Lazy Sundae and the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce are hosting the 8th Annual Family FUNdraiser to benefit the Falls Church Emergency Homeless Shelter from 7 – 9 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9.

For $25 per person, attendees can paint an ornament, mug, or plate and enjoy food from Mike’s Deli@Lazy Sundae and Clare and Don’s Beach Shack. RSVPs are required by calling Clay Café at 703-534-7600. Clay Café is located at 101 Maple Ave. in Falls Church.  The Business News & Notes section is compiled by Sally Cole, Executive Director of Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. She may be emailed at sally@fallschurchchamber.org.

November 27 - December 3, 2008

Last week the Virginia Commission on Energy and the Environment held a day long meeting to hear testimony on the future role of electricity in the commonwealth. Representatives of the various power companies serving the state testified as to their plans and their commitment to reaching the state’s goal of reducing electricity consumption by 10 percent by 2022.

As it turns out, this goal turns out to be murky as nobody ever said what the 10 percent should be based on – 10 percent of current consumption so that the state is actually using 10 percent less 14 years from now, or 10 percent less than what 2022 consumption would be if no efforts to conserve electricity were undertaken. In the latter case the state could actually be burning considerably more electricity in 2022 as the state’s population is expected to grow and it is likely that a lot of electric or plug-in hybrid cars will be refueling off the electric grid by then.

The most interesting presentation of the day, however, was made by a non-profit group called the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE). This group believes that making the most efficient use of the electricity we already generate is the best and cheapest way to gain more electricity.

While converting over to more efficient electricity consuming devices (such as compact fluorescent bulbs) is not free, the Council cites studies that replacing end user equipment, adding insulation, etc. can cost anywhere from one half to one quarter the cost of installing and fueling new electricity generating capacity. This includes wind generated electricity which gets its energy for free.

It turns out that ACEEE recently completed a detailed 170 page study of electricity consumption in Virginia and concluded that with a maximum effort, the commonwealth could save as much as 31 percent of its current electric consumption while still doing all the things we do today. They also cite policy achievable savings of 19 percent, or possibly 27 percent with more aggressive policies, which are deemed a more realistic goal rather than an all out efficiency effort. Either of these numbers amounts to some serious savings which when combined with

conservation measures such as turning off power suggests that there are ways to survive and prosper while using considerably less electricity than we use today.

Part of the problem in Virginia is that it has had relatively inexpensive electricity due to readily available supplies of coal in the state and in nearby West Virginia and two large nuclear reactors that have been functioning for many years. In this situation, consumers, businesses, and governments do

not have a particularly strong economic incentive to turn off lights, adjust thermostats and buy more expensive, yet more efficient, devices. As a result, Virginia consumers use a lot of electricity. The average residential customer now consumes 14,000 KwH per year which is 25 percent above the national average and the average commercial customer has increased consumption by 50 percent in the last eight years. As a result, Virginia ranks 38th out of the 50 states in terms of efficient use of electricity.

All this is about to change.

The cost of new generating capacity has been rising steadily. Cheap Appalachian coal is running out. Regulatory boards have recently given the power companies substantial rate increases, are beginning to contemplate increasing the cost of electricity during high demand periods and possibly even reversing the concept that the more you use the cheaper it gets. Although oil, coal and natural gas prices are currently in a slump due to a multiplicity of factors, over the long run they have no place to go but up and up. The limitations on carbon emissions could send electricity prices to unheard-of levels. In this environment, conservation and efficiency become the only viable option, for, in coming decades dwindling supplies of liquid fuels and eventually natural gas are going to leave us with electricity as the only viable way of powering our civilization.

The ACEEE recommends to Virginia policymakers a suite of 11 policy recommendations that the council feels the state

Page 17

has the power to implement and which combined will result in energy savings of 20 percent or better and savings of roughly $2 billion for electricity consumers over the next 14 years. There are, however, numerous cultural and regulatory barriers to increased efficiency. For example, why should the landlord pay for more efficient lighting and air conditioning when the tenant pays the electric bills directly?

Over half the savings from increased energy efficiency will come from industrial and business consumption and only a third from residential. The advent of smart meters and electricity prices based on time of day consumption will likely be in place within the next ten years. If the rate structure puts a very high premium on electricity consumption during peak hours, a little consumer education should be enough to encourage washing and drying late in the evening and setting air conditioners to higher settings on summer afternoons.

Most of the policy recommendations to achieve higher efficiency are simply adjustments and tightening to existing laws, codes, policies, and rate structures. For example leaving office and other lighting on all night when no one is there is a prime example of egregious waste of dwindling resources.

Redrawn regulations, rate structures and building codes can do much to reduce or eliminate such waste.

Some of the energy efficiency problem is the relationship between the state and federal governments. Most state building codes that have great potential for saving energy are modeled after the national code. Here again you have the problem of who is paying for the building and who pays for the energy.

It is obviously to the benefit of builders to keep their cost of construction to a minimum and argue vigorously that their industry and the economy will be destroyed by energy efficiency standards. This, of course, is a problem for the Congress to sort out. Amidst all the bluster about “energy independence” the proper decision makers will soon figure out that tougher codes and regulations are the quickest and cheapest way to make progress towards this goal.  Tom Whipple is a retired government analyst and has been following the peak oil issue for several years.

November 27 - December 3, 2008

Where are the Wizards going?

I mean, the first and obvious answer is “down.” After a 1-10 debut this season — tied for the worst start ever by the franchise — and the firing of Head Coach Eddie Jordan, you don’t need to get Miss Cleo on the phone to know the Wizards’ playoff chances are vanishing rapidly. Gilbert Arenas is still injured and his newly-debuted wax statue has made more of a contribution to the District since he signed a six-year, $111 million contract this offseason.

In fact, that wax figurine could have played better defense than the Wizards did on Saturday, when Washington lost to the New York Knicks, 122117, a new low point in a remarkably disappointing season. Four Knicks scored in double digits and they won using only seven players in the game a day after trading away their top two scorers. Those moves were meant to free up salary cap space for already famous free agent summer of 2010 that includes headliners like LeBron James, Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade.

And that’s the really scary part. When the Wizards reupped Arenas and Antawn Jamison this offseason, they weren’t building for the future.

They were playing to win now.

And now, they’re 1-10.

Whoops.

Other teams, like the Knicks, have already admitted that this season and next are essentially forfeit. Their commitment is to 2010 and no sooner. The front offices for those teams are literally okay with stinking like hot garbage until then.

The Wizards are trying to win and they still started 1-10 against teams that are selling off their best players.

Ouch.

Call it 20-20 hindsight, but it’s ludicrous not to question what the Wizards were thinking when they re-signed Arenas and Jamison. In retaining the pair, GM Ernie Grunfeld and the front office clearly believed they could contend for an Eastern Conference title this season and the next. They believed that the pieces were already in place.

They believed it was just a matter of time before the Wizards broke through in a conference where two teams with losing records made the playoffs last year.

Or not.

The 1-10 start doesn’t make the off-season signings bad deals.

What made them poor decisions is that the front office saw a championship-caliber team where there was no sign of one.

Since the Wizards assumed their current look with Caron Butler’s arrival in 2005-06, Washington has finished fifth (42-40), seventh (41-41), and fifth (43-39) in the weaker Eastern Conference.

The numbers, much like Miss Cleo’s tarot cards, don’t lie. This is not a championship roster.

This is a perennial .500 team.

Yes, when Arenas, Jamison and Butler have been healthy at the same time the results have been better. Of course, over the last three seasons at least one of them has missed 95 of those 246 games.

This team needs something more. It needs a low post presence (fifth fewest rebounds in the league this season). It needs a point guard (sixth fewest assists). But where will it come from? There’s some cap flexibility, but a mid-level player like Roger Mason, Jr. or Matt Barnes is not going to fix this team.

As Arenas already stated publicly, a lottery pick is always welcome consolation for an awful season, but will a rookie (18-year-old PG Ricky Rubio?

19-year-old PF Blake Griffin?) be enough to push the Wizards over the top next season?

JaVale McGee and Nick Young (first-round picks in 2008 and 2007 respectively) have shown promise this year.

However, they’ve also made some rookie mistakes that cost the Wizards games. Lottery picks aren’t immune from errors of inexperience either.

To this point, it seems the contracts given to Arenas and Jamison have put the Wizards in a tough place. This isn’t to say Arenas or Jamison didn’t earn their money, but it is an indictment of the team’s road map for the next few years. The present is not working and the future looks little better. Cue the crystal ball.

Even if you assume Arenas returns to form in 2009 and beyond, Butler’s contract comes up 2011 and he will almost certainly command max money.

Can Washington afford him too?

And while the Wizards balance the contracts of their Big Three, they’ll be missing out entirely on the big free agent class of 2010. These look like dismal days ahead.

So where to, Wizards? How can things possibly get better this year? Next year? The year after?

With or without Eddie Jordan, the question remains.

Where are the Wizards going?  Mike Hume may be emailed at mhume@fcnp.com.

Page 19

The George Mason High School Boys Varsity basketball team handled Falls Church High School in their first action of the season on Friday evening, outscoring the Jaguars in five of the six periods.

The Mustangs played an uptempo, scrappy game in which the offense was raw but aggressive. Meanwhile, the defense picked up the slack by swarming Falls Church shooters and cutting off passing lanes. The team overcame inconsistent outside shooting and a lack of an out of bounce play by hustling and playing a physical game on defense and in transitions.

Head Coach Chris Capannola explained that the inconsistent shooting was the result of a few butterflies due to the fact that it was their first time facing off against another team and because they only had two prior weeks to practice.

“The shooting was expected, but not acceptable,” said Capannola. “But [the shooting] will get better, they were all a little antsy.”

The normally sharp-shooting Josh Brew never got in a rhythm offensively but played a tenacious defensive game,

coming up with several takeaways and barely allowing any open shot attempts.

“Josh is a high energy guy,” said Capannola of his point guard. “When he’s shooting well while also looking to pass first he’s great.”

Brew, a senior, was selected as a member of the preseason All-Region team; an honor given to players who are projected to have standout seasons.

Another player expected to have a big season is 6’7” center Jordan Cheney. Cheney, a junior showcased his new and improved down low game in the scrimmage. He was one of the team’s leading scorers as the offense seemed to also go through him. He was also a major presence on defense, showing that he has gotten stronger as well as gained confidence since last winter. “[Jordan] really needed to show he could be the man down there, and he really was,” said Capannola.

Junior Yates Jordan, another preseason selection for AllRegion saw his first live action in a full year after suffering a foot injury during the summer, preventing him from taking part in any basketball activity.

In limited action, Jordan did not seem to be completely back

to his old self, though he noted that he felt he had not lost anything on his vertical jump.

Probably the most memorable moment of the evening was when 250+lb senior center Andrew Lieber soared through the air to make an acrobatic block on a Falls Church forward.

“He rose up like a bird in the sky and landed a punishing blow to the ball. Oh, and the guy’s face,” joked junior guard Michael Wolfe on his teammate’s play.

Overall, Capannola and the players were content with their effort and aggressiveness on defense, but remained focused on getting their outside shooting game back on track before the start of the season.

“We did a lot of things well, and I think we did an okay job executing some of our plays,” noted the a forementioned Lieber. “This team has some high expectations, and moving forward I think we can fulfill them if we put our minds to it.”

After a promising showing against Falls Church, Mason looked to build on their success in their second and final scrimmage against Thomas Jefferson High School on Tuesday, but results were too late for press time.

Page 22

November 27 - December 3, 2008

Not getting the scoop on news in the Falls Church and the Northern Virginia area before your friends? Don’t feel left out at the water cooler! Pick up a copy of the Falls Church News-Press, hitting the streets every Thursday, all over the DC Metro area at the locations below!

IN FALLS CHURCH CITY

Falls Church News-Press (929 W. Broad St.) • East Falls Church Metro (2 locations) ** • West Falls Church Metro ** • U.S. Post Office ** Falls Church City Hall • Falls Church Community Center • Mary Riley Styles Public Library • George Mason High School • Thomas Jefferson Elementary School • Mt. Daniel Elementary School • Kaiser Permanente• Northern Virginia Grad Center • Starbucks (West End Plaza) • Starbucks (Broad Falls Plaza) • McDonald’s ** • Giant Food • Long John Silver’s • Ireland’s Four Provinces • Foxes Music • International Motors • Sisler’s Stone • Burger King ** • Quizno’s • Pizza Hut • N. Washington at Columbia St.** • Falls Church Animal Hospital • Broad at S. Washington ** • Kennedy’s Food • Eckerd Drug • 7-Eleven (Broad & West St.) • 7-Eleven (Washington & Greenway St.) • 7-Eleven (E. Fairfax St.) • Sunoco • Broad Falls Apartments • Quik Copy • Stacy’s Coffee Parlor • Point of View Eyewear • Panera Bread ** • Hollywood Video • The Unity Club • BB&T Bank • Stratford Motor Lodge • Kinko’s • Jerry’s Subs and Pizza • The Original Pancake House • Anthony’s Pizza • Applebee’s • 7 Stars • The Medicine Shoppe • CVS (200 blk. W Broad) ** • Clay Cafe Studios • Park Towers • Rite Aid Tower Square • Columbia West Apartments • Merrill House Apartments • Foxes Music • Beyond the Garden Gate • State Theatre • Sunrise Retirement Home • Oakwood Apartments • Hillwood Mart • Original Pancake House**

RT. 29 TO MERRIFIELD

Magruder’s • Mobil (Rt. 29 & Graham Rd.) • Safeway ** • National Funeral Home • Merrifield Garden Center • Taco Bell • Eckerd Drug (across from Merrifield P.O.) • Bubba’s Barbecue • Einstein Bagels (Gallows Rd.) • Hogan & Sons Goodyear • Aldo’s Restaurant • Giant Food (Gallows Rd.) • Dominion Deli

ROUTE 50 / ARLINGTON BLVD.

Lohmann’s Plaza CVS • Sign of the Whale • Celebrity Deli • U.S. Post Office (Rt. 50 at Annandale Rd.) ** • Westlawn Market** • Chili’s • Falls Church High School • Providence Rec Center • Bill Page Honda & Toyota • Brinkley’s Restaurant • CVS • IHOP • Unique Boutique

SEVEN CORNERS

U.S. Post Office • Master’s Touch Salon • Long & Foster • Munson Hill Apartments • Mailboxes, Etc. • Sun Trust Bank • Starbucks • Shopper’s Food Warehouse • Oakwood Apartments • Olympus Gym • Grand Market • 24-Hour Laundry • UPS Store • Madison Apartments • JEB Stuart High School

BAILEYS CROSSROADS / SKYLINE

U.S. Post Office (Culmore Center) • Borders Books • Panera Bread ** • Trader Joe’s • Best Buy ** • Just Tires • Ruby Tuesday’s • Malibu Grill • Safeway • Cici’s Pizza • Lone Star • McDonald’s (Skyline Mall) • Madison Apartments • Mason District Goverment Center • Safeway • Woodrow Wilson Library • Starbucks • Harris Teeter • Goodwyn House

PIMMIT HILLS

Pimmit Hills Library • U.S. Post Office • Ledo Pizza • Trader Joe’s • Whole Foods ** • Idylwood Towers • Peachtree Towers • Starbucks • Marshall High School • Pinetree Plaza

ARLINGTON ARLING

Clarendon Metro ** • Ballston Metro ** • Courthouse Metro ** • Aladdin’s Lamp (Lee-Harrison Center) • Unique Boutique • Metro Diner (Rt. 29)** • CVS at Sycamore/W’msberg ** • Lost Dog Cafe (Westover) ** • Rosslyn Metro • CVS (Lee-Harrison Center) • Rite Aid (Chesterbrook) • Safeway (Chesterbrook) • Weichert Realty (Chesterbrook)

WASHINGTON D.C.

Farragut West Metro ** • Starbucks at DuPont Circle ** • DuPont Metro • Tomato Restaurant (DuPont) • Farragut North Metro • 19th & L • McPherson Square Metro (**--Black box outside location)

www.FCNP.com

Page 24

November 27 - December 3, 2008

Walk-In Clinic Students Fly Kites as Part Of Unit on Afghanistan Freshmen at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (6560 Braddock Road, Alexandria) traveled to West Potomac Park on Nov. 18 to fly handmade kites as part of a unit on Afghanistan that blends literary, cultural and technological knowledge. The students have been studying the history of Afghanistan as well as learning its role in current events.

Students are also exploring differences in religions, differences in cultures and the effects of multiple wars on the country.

In their English classes, students read Khaled Hosseini’s “The Kite Runner,” a story about Afghani culture from the 1970s to the present time. They also saw the movie based on the book.

While they were reading, they learned about aerodynamics, physics and materials fabrication in their Technology and Design 9 class. Using this information, the students created their own kites and decorated them as personal statements.

Local Students to be in Macy’s Day Parade The students listed below are part of the 474-member Marching Royal Dukes that will represent James Madison University in the 82nd Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Nov. 27 in New York City. With its largest membership in JMU history, the marching band is one of ten bands performing in the Thanksgiving tradition.

Jillian Becker, Eileen EderMoreau, Stephen Lee, Julia Schoelwer, Jonathan Seipp,

all of Arlington; Lauren Allison and Kristopher Pourzal, of Falls Church; and Tyler Jerrell of McLean will be in the band.

NBC will begin broadcasting the parade at 9 a.m. The JMU band will perform “Sing, Sing, Sing” in Herald Square along the parade route.

This year’s performance will mark the marching band’s second appearance in the classic holiday parade. In 2001, the Marching Royal Dukes represented JMU in the 75th anniversary Macy’s parade. The Marching Royal Dukes date to 1972 when JMU established a football program.

Membership in the Marching Royal Dukes is open to all JMU students, regardless of their academic majors. About three-quarters of the band members are not music majors. For more information, contact Eric Gorton at 540-568-3674 or at gortonej@ jmu.edu.

Students Work at Hoop Dreams Charity Show The West Potomac Academy (6500 Quander Rd., Alexandria) fashion design and professional television production students worked behind the scenes at Fashion Forward, a fashion show to benefit the Hoop Dreams Scholarship Fund, Nov. 21, which was held in the Shadow Room (2131 K St., NW, Washington, D.C).

West Potomac fashion design students worked alongside professional designers, models and celebrity guests, under the direction of their academy course instructor, Maggy Francois, to style and fit models, do hair and make-up and set up backstage materials.

Professional television students, under the direction of

their academy instructor Nancy Mantelli, took footage of the event and conducted interviews. In post production, students continued to work with the Hoop Dreams organization and iKY Clothing to produce promotional pieces for the Hoop Dreams Scholarship Fund and iKY Clothing. For more information on the event, contact Maria Kappel at 703718-2753 or maria.kappel@ fcps.edu.

(Photo: Courtesy Jennifer Seavey)

703-538-1505

HOURS: Weekdays (except Tue) Saturday Closed

---> 9 am - 8 pm ---> 10 am to 6 pm ---> Tue & Sun

No Appoinment Necessary Most Insurances Accepted

F.C. High ‘Band Aides’ to Hold Meeting Parents supporting the Falls Church High Band are invited to a “Band Aides” meeting at 7 p.m. on Dec. 2 in the Band Room of the Falls Church High School (7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church). The meeting is open to all parents, and will discuss current upcoming issues such as preparations for the next concert on Dec. 17 and fundraisers for new marching band uniforms. For more information on the meeting, call John Davenport at 703-207-4222 or visit www.jaguarband.org.

Thomas Jefferson Hosts Parent Coffee Meeting Thomas Jefferson Elementary (601 S. Oak St., Falls Church) will hold a parent coffee meeting at 9 a.m. on Dec. 2 in the conference room of the school. Principal Vincent Baxter will be available to discuss concerns between parents and other school issues. The meeting is free and open to parents. Attendees are invited to bring baked goods, but are not required. For more information, call Barbara Cooper at 703241-5661.

Marshall Boosters Club Holds Holiday Tree Sale

EMILY GALE AND KRISHNA PAI showcase a “Kite Runner” kite made during their cross-curriculum unit on Afghanistan.

at

920 West Broad Street Falls Church

Marshall’s Booster Club will hold a Christmas Tree sale open from Nov. 29 – Dec. 15 in the front lot of George C. Marshall High School (7731 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church).

This will be the largest Boosters fundraiser of the year, and the event will be hosted

by Marshall Elves – Marshall students and Booster parents.

The Booster Club will be selling Christmas trees and other holiday decorations. The proceeds will go directly to supporting the students’ activities and sports teams at Marshall High. The lot is open on weekends from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Monday – Friday, 5:30 – 8 p.m. For more information, call 703-714-5400.

Please join us for worship & fellowship.

FREE

Breakfast with Santa December 6, 9:30 to 11:30 am

9:00 am Celebration Service 11:00 am Traditional Worship Service Nursery Available–Both Services

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

3022 Woodlawn Avenue Falls Church, VA 22042 703. 532.6617 www.htluther.org

November 27 - December 3, 2008

For healthier eating at the Thanksgiving smorgasbord or to let some turkeys see the light of day, a meat-free repast is easier than ever to bring home or enjoy out this Thanksgiving day It’s the carnivore’s nightmare: the turkey, the keystone of the holiday table upon which so much tradition hinges, is gone.

In its place, a suspiciously similar counterfeit, a plump, meaty roast.

But, alas, this is no bird. It’s a concoction of beans and proteins, mashed and processed, spiced and baked, and, in honor of the turkey’s traditional place in the American mindset, they call this bird-bean Tofurky.

The faux meat roast is a savory blend of a tofu-wheat protein and spices that comes pre-cooked, and can be prepared within an hour. Tofurky is a 100-percent vegan product as well.

This imitation meat is the sincerest form of flattery to the fabled holiday bird, and friends to both the thousands of turkeys spared the knife and the appetites that expect some meat on the dish.

In addition to the roast, the Tofurky line of products includes a complete package for the Thanksgiving dinner table: a “giblet” and mushroom gravy, herbed brown and wild rice stuffing, apple potato dumplings and “wishstix” – your vegetarian wishbone to finish the meal with even the simplest of holiday traditions.

Turtle Island Foods (www. tofurky.com), which has produced the bird-like roast since 1995, estimates 275,000 or more Tofurkies will replace the gobbler’s throne on the table.

Tofurky is one frontline warrior in a vegetarian line-up that is making inroads onto the holiday table.

Nowadays, the Thanksgiving menu is awash with vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes.

National grocery chains such as Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods, which cater to crowds looking for high-end quality fares, offer Tofurky. Select Whole Foods also carry other roasts like the Celebration Roast and the Veggie Turkey Breast.

Check with your local Whole Foods to see whether it carries these alternatives.

The faux turkey doesn’t come to the table alone, either. Many natural food stores, again including Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods, provide vegetarian recipes to the staple Thanksgiving accompaniments – vegan butternut squash casseroles, mushroom tarts and soups.

Vegetarians, vegans and the

Page 25

C

ompassion over Killing offers some easy ways to replace animal-based products with healthy veggie alternatives on their website, www.cok.net/feat/thanksgiving.

Here is a sampling of their delicious recipes:

Savory Stuffing

Makes six to eight servings. ► 1/4 c. vegetable oil ► 1/3 c. diced onion ► 1/2 c. chopped celery ► 4 c. soft bread cubes ► 1/3 c. raisins ► 1/4 c. cranberries

►1 c. vegetable broth ► salt and pepper, to taste ►1 tsp. basil ►1 tsp. garlic powder ►1 tsp. oregano

Instructions 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. 2. In a large skillet, heat the oil and sauté the onion and celery until tender. (About 5 – 7 minutes.)

curious can discover more options and how to prepare vegetarian meals from Trader Joe’s (www.traderjoes.com) or Whole Foods (www.wholefoods.com) online, or by heading to their local store and inquiring within.

Jackie Zovko, of the Pimmit Hills Whole Foods, encourages shoppers to visit the instore “Holiday Table,” where a knowledgeable employee can guide shoppers and their questions through the store’s wares.

The resources for planning and preparing a Thanksgiving feast, however, are not limited to the high-end chain stores.

According to Erica Meier from the pro-vegetarian animal rights group Compassion Over Killing, “It’s never been easier to enjoy Thanksgiving feasts in the D.C. Metro region., eating in or dining out.”

Vegetarian groups across the Metro region are sponsoring events during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. The Vegetarian Society of D.C. is holding one of the area’s largest events, with their annual “Life-Affirming Thanksgiving Dinner” on Nov. 27, this year at the Hyatt Regency in Bethesda, Md. For additional veg-friendly dining events, diners can check out a calendar of events at www.

VegDC.com.

Meier also refers inquisitive home cooks to Compassion Over Killing’s web site, www. cok.net/feat/thanksgiving, for more information about meatless feasts and veggie recipes.

(Check out the sidebar on this page for several examples.)

For the kitchen-weary closer to home in Falls Church, eating the Thanksgiving feast without

cooking remains an option, too, with all the traditional (veggiestyle) fixings.

In a festive spirit, Sunflower Restaurant, the Falls Church area’s completely vegetarian dining establishment, is assembling a special repast for its Thanksgiving Day diners.

Sunflower’s chefs are furnishing a tofu turkey for their holiday table, with an organic whole wheat bread stuffing inside, packed with walnuts, pecans, cranberries and seasoning.

Organic brown rice and mashed Okinawa purple yams accompany the main dish, with a choice of gravy – a creamy, warm mushroom or a spicy black pepper dressing. The complete meal is $12.95.

In addition to the nutritional Thanksgiving fare, Sunflower’s diners can choose from their extensive menu, which ranges from vegetarian and vegan appetizers to dessert. Tofu is one of several options, too, alongside other protein-rich faux meats, including tempeh, also made from soybeans, and seitan, a wheat gluten.

There are plenty of reasons for diners to forgo the turkey and processed foods this Thanksgiving, out of compassion for the birds or their own waistlines.

Regardless of the rationale, the resources and the means to make or find a vegetarian or vegan Thanksgiving dinner are readily at hand.

For the especially compassionate, you can adopt a turkey this Thanksgiving and provide for the animal’s welfare. Visit www.adoptaturkey.org to learn about more ways to let the turkeys enjoy the holiday season, too.

3. Pour the sautéed vegetables into a casserole dish, then add the remaining ingredients. Toss well, making sure the bread cubes are soaked in the vegetable broth. Bake for 45 minutes.

No-Meat Gravy Makes four servings.

► 3 tbsp. soy margarine ► 1 c. flour ► 1 c. nutritional yeast ► 1 tsp. onion salt

► 1 tsp. poultry seasoning ► 2 c. vegetable broth ► dash of pepper

* You can substitute the broth with one vegetarian bouillon cube dissolved in two cups of boiling water.

Instructions 1. Melt the soy margarine in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour, nutritional yeast and seasonings, stirring quickly with a whisk.

2. Add the broth, stirring until well blended. Continue cooking and stirring for 5 minutes, or until thick.

Classic Pumpkin Pie Makes 6 – 8 servings.

► 1 1/4 lbs. soft or “silken” tofu ► 1 tbsp. ground cinnamon ► 1 16-oz. can pumpkin puree ► 1 tsp. ginger ► 3/4 c. maple syrup ► 1 tsp. ground nutmeg ► 3/4 c. sugar ► 1 9-inch pie shell ► 1/3 c. unbleached, all-purpose flour

Instructions 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. 2. Blend all of the ingredients, except for the pie shell, in a blender or food processor until smooth. Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie shell and bake for 30 minutes. Turn down the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for another 30 – 45 minutes, or until filling is set.

Page 26

November 27 - December 3, 2008

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Biopics are tricky things.

Filmmakers who undertake them are required to balance narrative flow with documented real-life experiences. They often take liberties with the truth, distorting or shaping it to help them reach a means to the film’s end.

Biopics are fact seen through the gauze of fiction.

The best biopics locate an epic dramatic sweep within their subjects -- think David Lean’s Lawrence of Arabia or Richard Attenborough’s Ghandi -- while even the more outlandish entries into the genre (anything by Oliver Stone) still manage to not only inform us about their chosen subjects but fully, deeply engage our interest.

So where does that leave “Milk,” the biopic of Harvey Milk from director Gus Van Sant? Somewhere in the middle.

Van Sant is an idiosyncratic filmmaker, an individualist who in his brief 20-year career has produced works of genius (“Drugstore Cowboy,” “My Own Private Idaho”) and works that border on the unwatchable (“Gerry,” “Even Cowgirls Get

Harvey Milk .............. Sean Penn Cleve Jones .......... Emile Hirsch Dan White ............... Josh Brolin Scott Smith . ........ James Franco Jack Lira . ................ Diego Luna Anne Kronenberg . .... Alison Pill Danny Nicoletta . Lucas Grabeel Focus Features presents a film directed by Gus Van Sant. Pro-

the Blues”). You never quite know what you’re getting with a Van Sant movie – and that is part of the fun. But in taking on an iconic figure such as Harvey Milk – the first openly-gay elected official in America, whose assassination in November of 1978 provided him a martyr-like status for a civil-rights battle being waged today more fiercely than ever – Van Sant wades into waters beyond his abilities.

That’s not to say he does a bad job with “Milk.” He does a cautious job. And Van Sant’s own innate, stylistic detachment – his films aren’t really what one would call warm, fuzzy, emotive affairs – keeps “Milk” from attaining its full potential as a rousing, rich drama. It’s

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2 percent when it should be whole.

Nonetheless, that 2 percent comes in the form of Sean Penn, who vanishes into the role of Harvey Milk so completely that you forget you’re watching a star. Penn is like Meryl Streep in that regard – able to transcend his own persona and convincingly become someone else. Few actors can manage this effectively – even fewer with a figure specifically drawn from history. There’s never a moment you don’t doubt he’s Milk. Penn is the film’s binding, its transforming force, and he makes up for the weak spots in Van Sant’s directing.

Many of the problems with “Milk” are structural. Van Sant can’t seem to decide on a tone.

He opens strongly with archival footage of a bar bust as gay men, faces covered in shame, are herded into police vans.

The movie quickly establishes the relationship between Milk and Scott Smith (James Franco, marvelously understated and looking like a ‘70s porn star), and their move from New York to San Francisco, where the 40year-old Harvey is galvanized into political action. The early portion of the movie documents Milk’s relentless and ultimately victorious political fight to get elected to San Francisco’s Board of Supervisors. The latter half documents Milk’s efforts to quash Proposition 6, a nasty little bill that would have outlawed gays from teaching in public school.

The Proposition 6 fight brings the movie to life, and Van Sant, who utilizes archival news footage throughout “Milk,” uses it to best effect here, with shots of Anita Bryant leading her moral crusade against homosexuality.

We’re not only watching a turning point in the gay movement, but the birth of a Moral Majority nation.

In light of the recent events in California, which passed Proposition 8, overturning the state’s acceptance of gay marriage, Milk’s historical importance cannot be underestimated.

The movie, which is more polit-

November 27 - December 3, 2008

Page 27

that’s exhausting in its relentless violence and its ingenuity in inventing new ways to attack, defend, ambush and annihilate. Stars James McAvoy as a meek office worker initiated into The Fraternity, a secret society of assassins.

Mindless, heartless, preposterous, and very well done as a high-tech action thriller. With Angelina Jolie, Morgan Freeman, Terence Stamp.

Rating: Three stars.

Opening in Theaters

A

this feels more like a Thanksgiving picture, where the families are always miserable. Rating: Two stars.

USTRALIA (Epic romance, PG-13, 165 minutes). An Australian “Gone With the RANSPORTER 3 (Action, PGWind,� a sweeping romantic melo13, 105 minutes) is a perfectly drama and broad family entertainacceptable brainless action ment. With Nicole Kidman as a thriller, starring the steely eyed, taciBritish society figure, Hugh Jackman turn Jason Statham, who makes his as as rough-hewn cattle drover, deliveries on time and with no quesand Brandon Walters, wonderful as tions asked, except this time, when he the young Aborigine who narrates. starts caring for his cargo (the delightGorgeous film, strong performances, fully freckled Natalya Rudakova). exhilarating images, a powerful but Two stunt sequences of remarkable sometimes uncertain consideration complexity and reckless foolishness. about Australian racism. Rating: ROLAND (MACAULAY CULKIN) (LEFT), MARY (JENA MALONE), Rating: Two a )half stars.

AND CASSANDRA (EVAand AMURRI IN UNITED ARTISTS' COMEDY Three stars.

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"SAVED!" Š 2004 - UNITED ARTISTS - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

F

OUR CHRISTMASES (Comedy, PG-13, 82 minutes).

Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon get trapped having to visit the households of their four divorced parents, which are so dysfunctional,

ically motivated than it is dramatically solvent, can be viewed not only as a rallying cry, but as a reminder that there is a better way to fight the enemy, and that’s by not shying away from one’s gay roots. Harvey makes his Proposition 6 fight about people -- gay people, specifically. There is never an instant where Milk wavers in his pride as a homosexual man.

Where “Milk� falters is in stronger development in the relationship between Milk and Dan White (Josh Brolin), the smoldering, homophobic supervisor who killed not only Milk but San Francisco Mayor George Moscone (Victor Garber). There is no enlightenment into White’s character, at least not beyond the surface variety, and it robs the climactic assassination of its full, dramatic potential.

Brolin’s performance, moreover, is far too one-dimensional, but this is probably the fault of Dustin Lance Black’s screenplay, which tries to be all things to all people and ends up being scattershot and underdeveloped. Movies like Brokeback Mountain have a narrative arch and muscular dramatic build. “Milk� has forward momentum, but little else, as it tries to pack in too much in the way of history and politics.

Van Sant restrains himself from deploying signature touches -- though there is one involving a phone, Milk’s protÊgÊ Cleve Jones (Emile Hirsch) and a gaggle of shirtless, chattering boys. It feels out of place. Van

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ANTED (Action, R, 110 m., 2008). Slams the pedal to the metal and never slows down. Here’s an action picture

Sant wavers in tone between documentary and drama and it’s this uncertainty with how to handle the material that shortcircuits Milk’s overall impact.

It may be that Van Sant, who is gay, was so in awe of the subject matter, so overwhelmed by the task at hand, that he simply couldn’t cope. He couldn’t be Gus Van Sant -- he had to be respectful of the subject matter -- so his filmmaking personality scatters itself here, there, everywhere.

A colleague offered an interesting observation: Van Sant chooses to shoot the film in earthy, muted, muddy browns.

There’s none of the colorful vibrancy that typified the late ‘70s and specifically how one might have imagined San Francisco. Visually, the film has a dour, uninviting feel.

Here’s ultimately what will happen: Gay people will flock to “Milkâ€? and will herald it a classic. They will be galvanized by it, moved by it. Those who lived through the era will remember a time gone by and note, quietly or not, how far we’ve come. Younger gays will learn that, even if the movement isn’t yet where it needs to be, it’s vastly further ahead than it was only 30 years ago. And all will mourn the loss of a gay American hero. ď ľ Randy Shulman is senior film critic and Editor-in-Chief at Metro Weekly, a GLBT newsmagazine in metropolitan Washington.

T

HE X-FILES: I WANT TO BELIEVE (Thriller, PG-13, 104 m., 2008). Requires no familiarity with the television series, leaving us to piece together the plot.

And when I say “piece together,� that’s exactly what I mean. Mulder and Scully (David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson) join in the search for a missing agent, aided by an elderly priest (Billy Connolly) who may be a psychic. With creepy villains, horrible fates, barking dogs, severed body parts, it’s insidious -- working like thrillers used to work before they were top-heavy with special effects. Rating: Three and a half stars.

S

TEP BROTHERS (Comedy, R, 95 m., 2008). Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly play 40ish sons who still live at home, eating melted cheese nachos and watching TV. When their parents (Mary Steenburgen and Richard Jenkins) get married, they become stepbrothers and have to share the same room. This leads to violence and language so extreme it seems out of proportion to any comic purpose. I felt a little unclean. Rating: One and a half stars.

T

HE LONGSHOTS (Sports comedy, PG, 94 m., 2008).

Based on the true story of 11year-old Jasmine Plummer, from the Chicago suburb of Harvey, who in 2003 became the first female to play quarterback in the Pop Warner football tournament. Starring Keke

Continued on Page 28

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Continued from Page 27 Palmer (“Akeelah and the Bee�) and Ice Cube as a niece and her uncle, who teaches her all he knows about quarterbacking. Sidesteps many of the usual cliches of the genre, is warm and touching. Rating: Three stars.

T

HE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: PRINCE CASPIAN (Fantasy adventure, PG, 140 m., 2008s). A solid second film, based on the legendary C.S. Lewis books, “Prince Caspian� provides good action and excellent special effects, though the storytelling is a bit muddy in the opening sequences, especially for those unfamiliar with either the Lewis novels or the first “Narnia� film released in 2005.

Rating: Three stars. (Bill Zwecker)

November 27 - December 3, 2008

panzee astronauts rocketing to a galaxy, as they say, far, far away.

There they encounter strange life forms and the evil Zartog, who has captured an earlier space probe. Not in the same science fiction league as “Wall-E,� but successful, with lots of whiz-bang action and some witty dialogue. Rating: Three stars.

W

surviving solar-powered robot, in a world so filled with garbage that humans have escaped into orbiting spaceships. Directed by Andrew Stanton, who wrote and directed “Finding Nemo,� it shares that film’s ability to appeal to the whole family, in a story that’s original, ingenious and touching. Rating: Three and a half stars..

ALL-E (Animated comedy, G, 98 m., 2008). The animated story of the last

(c) 2008 The Ebert Co.

H

ANCOCK (Action, PG-13, 92 m., 2008). Will Smith plays a Skid Row drunk with super powers and a super hangover, Jason Bateman is the PR man who wants to give him a new image, and Charlize Theron is the PR man’s wife, who starts looking at Hancock oddly the moment she sets eyes on him. And no wonder, as we discover the origins of this most confused of superheroes, who may save a man from being hit by a train, but ends up causing a train wreck. Sounds like slapstick comedy, but has an unexpected serious turn. Rating: Three stars.

F

RED CLAUS (Comedy, PG, 114 m., 2007). Vince Vaughn plays Santa’s older brother in a case of sibling rivalry. When he hits up Santa (Paul Giamatti) for a $50,000 loan to finance an off-track betting parlor, he walks into a crisis at the North Pole, and is just in time to save the day. With Rachel Weisz as Fred’s meter-maid girlfriend, Kevin Spacey as a mean accountant, and Ludacris as the elves’ favorite deejay. Oh, and Miranda Richardson as Santa’s wife. Rating: Two stars.

S

PACE CHIMPS (Animated adventure, G, 80 m., 2008) is a goofy animated space opera that sends three U.S. chim-

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Page 30

November 27 - December 3, 2008

Anthony’s Restaurant 309 W. Broad St., Falls Church • 703-532-0100 • Type of Food: Greek, American & Italian Cuisine • Features: Breakfast (Sat. & Sun. Only) • Hours: Mon. - Thur. -10 a.m. - 11 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m. -12 a.m., Sat. 8 a.m. - 12 a.m., Sun. 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Argia’s Restaurant 124 N. Washington St., Falls Church • 703-5341033 • www.argias.com • Type of Food: Italian • Washingtonian’s 100 Very Best Restaurants, Zagat Rated, Full Bar, No Reservations • Hours: Lunch: Mon. - Sat. 11:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Dinner: Mon. - Thur. 5 - 9:30 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 5 - 10:30 p.m., Sun. 5 - 9 p.m.

Bear Rock Cafe 2200 Westmoreland St. (Westlee Condominium Building), Arlington • 703-532-0031; Catering: 703-532-0118 • Type of Food: American • Features: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Kids' Menu, Alcoholic Beverages; Catering, Free Indoor Parking • Hours: Mon. - Sat. 7 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Bubba’s BBQ & Catering 7810-F Lee Hwy, Falls Church • 703-560-8570 • Type of Food: American/Family, Salads w/ Meat & Ribs • Features: Best BBQ East of Mississippi • Hours: Mon. - Sat. 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Dogfish Head Alehouse 6363 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church • www. dogfishalehouse.com • 703-534-3342 • Woodgrilled food, speciality ales • Hours: Mon. - Wed. 11:30 a.m. - 11 p.m., Thu. - Sat. 11:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., Sun. 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Harvest Moon Restaurant and Lounge 7260 Arlington Blvd. (Graham Center across from Loehmann’s Plaza), Falls Church • 703573-6000 • www.theharvestmoonrestaurant. com • Type of Food: Chinese • Features: Lunch / dinner buffets, banquet facilities up to 700 people • Hours: 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily.

Hoang’s Grill and Sushi Bar 502 W. Broad St., Falls Church • 703-536-7777 • Type of Food: Pan-Asian • Features: Single and Mingle Thursday Nights. • Hours: Mon. - Thur. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., Fri. - Sat. 11 a.m.

- 10:30 p.m., Sun. 11:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Hunan Lion 2070 Chain Bridge Road, next to J. Koons Buick Pontiac, Tysons Corner, Vienna, Va. • 703-7349828 • www.hunanlion.com • Zagat Rated Best Peking Duck in Town, Top 100 Asian Fusion Restaurants in USA • Type of Food: Chinese • Featuring: Banquet Facilities, Catering, Carryout • Hours: Mon. - Sat. 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Ireland’s Four Provinces 105W.BroadSt.,FallsChurch•www.4psfallschurch. com • 703-534-8999 • Type of Food: Irish • Features: Full Bar, Live Entertainment, Sunday Brunch • Hours: 11 a.m. - 2 a.m. daily.

Ledo Pizza Restaurant & Pub 7510 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church • 703-8475336 • Type of Food: Pizza & Pasta, American/ Family • Features: Full Bar, Wine Menu, 5 TV’sSports • Hours: Mon. - Thur. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Fri. - Sat. 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.; Sun. 12 - 10 p.m.

Narita Sushi & Rice Bowl 8417 Old Courthouse Road (accross from Residence Inn), Vienna • 703-893-2008 • Type of Food: Sushi • Features: Lunch & Dinner Box specials • Hours: Mon.–Thur. 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., 4 - 10 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., 4 - 10:30 p.m., Sat. noon - 10:30 p.m., Sun. noon - 9:30 p.m.

The Original Pancake House 370 West Broad St., Falls Church • 703-891-0148 • www.originalpancakehouse.com • Type of Food: American/Family • Features: Breakfast, Weekday Specials - Breakfast & Lunch • Hours: 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. daily.

Panjshir 924 W. Broad St., Falls Church • 703-536-4566 • Features: Authentic Afghan Cuisine • Hours: Lunch 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Dinner, 5 - 10 p.m.

Pilin 116 W. Broad St., Falls Church • www.pilinthairestaurant.com • 703-241-5850 • Features: Authentic Thai Cuisine • Hours: Mon. - Thurs., 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., 5 - 10 p.m., Fri. - Sat., 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., 5 - 11 p.m., Sun. 5 - 9 p.m.

Sea Pearl Restaurant 8191 Strawberry Lane, Ste. 2, Falls Church • www.seapearlrestaurant.com • 703-372-5161 • Types of Food: Contemporary American Cuisine • Features: Daily Happy Hour, Late Night Menu, Banquet Room • Hours: Mon. - Wed. 11 a.m. - 11 p.m., Thur. - Sat. 11 a.m.

- 2 a.m., Sun. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Sign of the Whale 7279 Arlington Blvd. (Loehmann’s Plaza), Falls Church • 703-573-1616 • Type of Food: American • Features: Seafood Night and Steak Night • Hours: 11:30 a.m. - 2 a.m., 7 days a week.

Sweet Rice Thai Restaurant 1113 W. Broad St. (next to Don Beyer Volvo), Falls Church • 703-241-8582 • Type of Food: Thai Cuisine • Features: Free delivery ($15 min., limited area) • Hours: Mon. - Thu. 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Dinner: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.; Fri. 11:30 am - 11 p.m.; Sat. Noon - 11 p.m.; Sun. Noon - 10 p.m.

Velocity Five 8111 Lee Hwy. (Merrifield Plaza, Lee Hwy. and Gallows Rd.), Falls Church • www.velocityfiverestaurant.com • 703-207-9464 • Type of Food: American Grille • Features: 50 HD TVs, Private Banquet Rooms, DJ after 9:30 p.m. • Hours: Sun. - Mon. 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.

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© 2008 David Levinson Wilk

Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudoku.org.uk

1

Across

expect.”

29. Spanish gold 5.

Silenceinofthe thenews ____"in 30. Heading 5. "The Peterson 37. Flip (out) 2003 10.

Richie's dad, to Fonzie 39. It may be pleaded 6. In a frenzy 13. Years and years and years 40. Thought 7. Medieval weapon 14. Stoudemire of the NBA 41. Retired Atl. crosser 8. Unbroken horse 15.

"Great!"

43. Overnight stop 9. Swell place?

46. Nervous giggle 10.Ski Lunar lander 16. lodge warmer 47. Come to light 11.

Movie critic Richard 18. Ancient theaters 48. Total, e.g.

12. Chic 19. ____ Friday's 15. Ingredient in some soaps 52. Egg-shaped 20.

17."American Excess Idol" runner-up Clay 53. Second bananas: Abbr.

21. gallon's 16 56. 251, to Caesar 23.AHaute couture icon 57. Prefix with graph or gram 25.Four-sided Ornate style 22. fig.

58. Part of MIT: Abbr.

26.

Mess up 24. Some Louisianans 60. Kind of therapy 27. You: Fr. 27. Folded treat 28. 1985 movie with the tag- 62. Special effects inits.

28. bed 63. Half of a tuba sound lineSoldier's “It is everything you’ve 31.

Cantankerous dreamed of. It is nothing you 4. General on a Chinese

1.

Narrow cut menu

11/30/08

© 2008 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Media Services. All rights reserved.

Last Thursday’s Puzzle Solved 32. "Currently serving" military status R A T E L A M A S A U S E R U N C L A D M I A I R S T R E A M H E A R O F T O R A T E A R T T A S H E F A C E O F F M I L A E A R E T U A N I M A L M A G N E T N Y P O S T P E R T I T S T Y L E E R A Q U A R I U M H U N T P S A L M S A I M E E A M S T E R B T E A M N A A N D S S T S A S O T T O

C F L A T

H I N D U

S T E A M

D I A N A

E S T O S

S M I L E

D A M O N G T O M

© 2008 N. F. Benton

November 27 - December 3, 2008

“Three measures of Gordon’s, one of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet.

Shake it very well until it’s ice-cold, then add a large thin slice of lemon peel. Got it?”

Ah, the Vesper, made in “a deep champagne goblet” at the instruction of James Bond.

The fictional spy’s beverage preferences always pop up when a new Bond film is released, so it’s time to again look at his recipes in relation to the recent debut of “Quantum of Solace,” starring Daniel Craig in a tale that takes up where his “Casino Royale” flick left off, cocktails and all.

The problem is, we no longer can make a Vesper according to writer Ian Fleming’s original specifications when he wrote the “Casino Royale” novel back in 1953. That’s because Kina Lillet doesn’t exist anymore, unless you happen to come across an old bottle that’s been hanging around somewhere.

However, I can vouch for Lillet Blanc. The herbal French aperitif wine shares some botanical properties with a good gin, but has less of a palate-punching effect. The original Kina Lillet was a bit more bitter because it was laced with quinine (Kina refers to the plant that produced quinine), so a drop or two of bitters might make your Vesper taste more like the original.

Lillet is far more popular in Europe than in the U.S. It has been around since 1887, originating in France’s Bordeaux where it still is made. It was created by brothers Paul and Raymond Lillet, distillers and merchants.

It is a blend of 85 percent wine and 15 percent fruit liqueurs soaked for 8-12 weeks in fruit alcohol, primarily made from various strains of oranges. That product is matured in oak casks.

Anyone who sampled Lillet before the late ‘80s and not since will find it quite different. Working with the Oenpology Institute at Bordeaux University, the Lillet makers updated the classic white version in 1987 and the red in 1990, decreasing the bitterness and sugar quantity and concentrating more on the fruit, thus lightening the product.

This makes Lillet more than simply something to add to a cocktail. In Europe it is most often served n a cocktail glass, slightly chilled, with the traditional orange slice garnish.

Of course, as with most iconic things, Lillet wasn’t always treated so nicely by the movie industry. The cannibalistic killer Hannibal Lecter, in “Silence of the Lambs,” drinks Lillet.

If that doesn’t turn you off, you can find Lillet at any decently stocked wine and spirits shop for about $16 for the 750ml bottle.  William M. Dowd covers the adult beverage industry online at BillDowd.com.

FALL IS HERE

DIAMOND CUTTERS MOWING SERVICE FALL CLEAN-UP • LEAF REMOVAL • • LEAF VACUUMING FROM CURB • • MULCHING & PRUNING • • LICENSED & INSURED • Small 21” Mowers Used Exclusively CALL TODAY FOR FREE ESTIMATE!

703-803-6190

Page 33

It’s common for beginners to set themselves up for disaster by misplaying hands before the flop. Then, they complain about their bad luck when they lose.

Well, bad luck has nothing to do with it. Rather, they likely committed a critical error by misplaying a pot against limpers who called their too small pre-flop raise.

Here’s an example from a recent tournament.

The blinds were 100-200 with a 25 ante. A beginner was in the small blind with pocket aces. He didn’t want to scare off the other players so he tossed in a very modest 300 chip raise.

Two players limped in and called, as did the big blind.

They correctly believed it was worth risking a mere 300 chips to try to crack any hand, even pocket aces.

Here’s the first tip: When any player shows interest in a hand by calling the initial bet, they almost certainly will call a tiny pre-flop raise, too.

Okay, so the rookie is now in a four-way action pot. He has exposed the strength of his hand by his pre-flop raise yet has failed to gather any information about what hands his opponents might have.

To make matters worse, he’ll need to act first after the flop.

The flop comes 10c-8d-5c.

This time he decides to make a stronger bet, throwing out 2,000 chips. The first two players fold but the next player shoves all-in for 10,000 more. The beginner calls.

His opponent turns over 8s5s to win the pot. The beginner moans about his back luck and berates his opponent for playing a bad hand.

Let’s dissect this hand.

I rarely use the term never when it comes to poker but I’ll use it here -- never make a stingy raise before the flop after someone has called in front of you. If you want to raise, make it meaningful.

With two players already calling the 200 chip big blind, a post-flop raise to around 1,000 would have been considered standard. But the beginner’s initial small raise only served to reveal that he had a decent hand.

With that knowledge, other players simply wouldn’t play the hand after the flop unless they’d caught a big piece of it.

Another error in the beginner’s play was that he raised from the small blind. It’s the worst seat at the table because you are forced to act first on every street after the flop.

Remember, position is a powerful tool. Avoid getting

tangled up in tough situations after the flop when you are out of position. That, of course, doesn’t mean you should automatically fold pocket aces. But make a sizable raise that protects your hand.

Professional players would never play this hand the way the rookie did. Instead, they’d punish limpers by raising large amounts before the flop, especially when they had position.

They’d use the power of position to isolate weak players and then try to outplay them headsup after the flop.

Say a weak player limps in for 200. A pro in position would raise the bet to 800 with a hand like J-9. He wouldn’t necessarily be hoping to catch a straight or a full house; he’s simply trying to knock everyone else

out of the hand and steal the pot away from the weakest player at the table.

Position in poker is similar to being the dealer in blackjack.

The dealer has a big advantage because if you bust, he wins. At the poker table, when a weak player busts by missing the flop, a skilled player will go for the win with an aggressive bet on the flop.  Visit www.cardsharkmedia. com/book.html for information about Daniel Negreanu’s newest book, More Hold’em Wisdom for All Players. © 2008 Card Shark Media. All rights reserved.

Page 34

November 27 - December 3, 2008

Yard Sales INDOOR YARD SALE Every Saturday 12

- 4pm. 2848 Annandale Rd # 125, Falls Church, Va 22042 between Lee Hwy & Rt 50

For Sale BUILDING LOT FOR SALE Heart of Falls Church City Residential, Level, 8150 Sq. Ft Great Schools, Metro, W.O.&D Trail

Shirley Nieves 703-690-3733 Re/Max Allegiance

GIFT IDEA! Records, tapes transferred to CD

tracks separated $18. VHS home movies to DVD with cool menu screen $12/HR 703-263-9212

HANDYMAN SERVICE Windows, doors, rotted wood, petdoors, lighting, fans, faucets, fences, bath, Flat screen TV installation and kitchen remodeling. Insured Free estimates. Call Doug (703) 556-4276 www.novahandyman.com HOUSE

CLEANING

SERVICE

Available 7 days a week. Week, biweekly, monthly or one time. Good references in Falls Church City.

10 years experience. For further information call me at 703-901-0596. Senior discount, Ask: Susy.

HOUSE CLEANING SERVICES. Low rates. Good references. Call Dolores 571/232-1091.

PET SITTING Going out of town?

Have a kitty you can’t medicate? Call Cattastic Pet Sitting Quality care for felines Over 25 years of experience Bonded and insured 703-899-5084

Public Notice

Help Wanted ADMINISTRATIVE AND BOOKKEEPING SUPPORT PERSON Candidate must have

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA

DENTAL HYGIENIST for general dentist

The legislation referenced below was given first reading on November 10, 2008; and second reading and public hearing will be held on Monday, December 8, 2008 at 7:30 p.m., Official Time, or as soon thereafter as may be heard.

proven administrative support experience, bookkeeping experience and basic accounting background. Preferable bilingual (English/Spanish).

Submit resumes to human.resources@mobile-servicesgroup.com in Falls Church (near Tysons Corner); part time hours; Call 703.533.1733 / email:tysondentist@ yahoo.com

DINING ROOM SERVERS NEEDED for upscale assisted living community in Falls Church / McLean. Weekend & Part Time positions available! Fine Dining service with quality food cooked from scratch using health oriented, natural & organic ingredients. Apply in person at Chesterbrook Residences, 2030 Westmoreland St, Falls Church, VA 22043 or email resume to Chef Bonita Woods at bwoods@cri-va.org.

DRIVERS: - Local CDL-A Career

Training Swift Transportation Trains and Employs!

Dedicated, Regional & OTR Fleets.

800-397-2423

LANDSCAPING WORKER Experience

preferred but will train. Full-time, part-time or flexible hours during weekdays and/or weekends but must be reliable. 703-615-7912.

LIFEGUARDS WANTED Certified life-

guards wanted for pool in Falls Church. Great Pay! Apply online at www.americanpool.com or 410-363-6800.

MAINTENANCE DIRECTOR for new

assisted living facility in Falls Church. Experienced in facilities operations including electrical, plumbing, grounds, and carpentry. Must have excellent organizational and supervisory skills. Ability to work with older adults essential. Fax resume to M. King at 703-531-0787. EOE.

For Rent HOME TO RENT IN FALLS CHURCH Professional Couple, 1 child, 1 well-

behaved dog excellent credit and references looking to rent a nice house in Falls Church City within FCC school district Starting December 2008, Call 707-834-8588 or jsmithmiller02@yahoo.com

HOUSING NEEDED Two Czech architec-

ture interns looking for apartment or two room to rent from Jan 1 till August 16/09. peet@seznam. cz 703-576-7322

(1) (TO8-15) Ordinance To Grant Real Estate Tax Exemption To City Center South Housing, LLC For City Center South Apartments For The Public Purpose Of Affordable Housing (Cindy Mester, Asst. City Manager) [1ST reading 11-10-08] (2) (TR8-53) Resolution For City Center South Apartments - Financial City Partnership (Cindy Mester, Asst. City Manager) [1ST reading 11-10-08] The ordinance referenced below was given first reading on November 24, 2008; and second reading and public hearing will be held on Monday, December 8, 2008 at 7:30 p.m., Official Time, or as soon thereafter as may be heard.

(TO8-17) An Ordinance To Amend The Budget Of Expenditures And Revenues, Appropriating Funds For The Fiscal Year 2008-2009 For Additional Grant Revenues: General Fund; School Operating Fund; School Community Service Fund; And School Food Service Fund; Water Revenue Fund And Sewer Revenue Fund And Approval Of The Capital Improvements Program. (John Tuohy, CFO) [1st reading 11-24-08] All public hearings will be held in the Council Chambers, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia. Copies of legislation may be obtained from the City Clerk’s office (703248-5014) or at cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov.

This location is fully accessible to persons with physical disabilities. Special services or assistance to persons with disabilities may be requested in advance. To speak at a public hearing, fill out a speaker slip and give it to the Clerk at the left front table.

Speakers will be called forward by the Mayor at the appropriate time.

News-Press Classifieds We are pleged 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 herby 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) 3679753.

Email: fairhousing@dpor.virginia.gov.

Web site: www.fairhousing.vipnet.org

127093

CLNTS

1

$20 for up to 20 words

*127093*

word B/Wadditional DOLEV 22:03 1/15/02 WV50¢ each Add a box - $10

Deadline: 2 p.m. Tuesdays

(two days before publication)

Fill out our Classified Ad form online at www.fcnp.com Phone: 703-532-3267 • Fax: 703-342-0352 E-Mail: classads@fcnp.com Mail: 450 W. Broad St. #321, Falls Church, VA 22046 Please include payment (check or money order) with your ad or call us to arrange payment by credit card.

For public & legal notices, please email legalads@fcnp.com

The Falls Church News-Press accepts no financial responsibility for typographical errors in advertisements. Advertising which has minor discrepancies such as misspelling or small type transposition, but which do not affect the ability of the reader to respond to the ad will be considered substantially correct and full payment is required. The Falls Church News-Press is not responsible if the original copy is not typewritten or legible and clear. The Falls Church News-Press is not responsible for copy changes made by telephone.

WHAT A CHILD LEARNS ABOUT VIOLENCE A CHILD LEARNS FOR LIFE. Teach carefully. We can show you how.

Call 877-ACT-WISE for a free brochure or visit www.actagainstviolence.org.

Deadlines Every Tuesday 2 p.m.

Get Noticed! in the News-Press!

CLASSADS@FCNP.COM

NOTE TO PUB: DO NOT PRINT INFO BELOW, FOR I.D. ONLY. NO ALTERING OF AD COUNCIL PSAS. Act Against Violence - Magazine & Newspaper (2 1/1 6 x 2) B&W APARD2-N-05130-D “What a Child Learns” Line Work

Film at Horan Imaging 212-689-8585 Reference #: 127093

Weekly Classifieds are BACK On Line! www.fcnp.com

KATHLEEN CLARKEN BUSCHOW CITY CLERK

PRIME SUBLET OFFICE SPACE in Falls Church available for small business (1,837 RSF) Contact Syed @ 703-207-0933 ext 112 or sali@jdgcommunications.com

Services CHILD CARE Experienced childcare provider provides quality care for your infant in F.C. home. (703) 241-0605.

GIT RID OF IT For Removal of Junk,

Trash, Yard Debris, Appliances, Furniture & Estate clean-ups. Call 703-533-0094. We will beat most competitors prices!

GREAT CLEANING SERVICE Residential and Commercial, affordable rates, great references, excel-

lent job call Maria 703.277.1098/703.626.0665

NOTE TO PUB: DO NOT PRINT INFO BELOW, FOR I.D. ONLY. NO ALTERING AD COUNCIL PSA Earth Share - Newspaper 4 1/4 x 7 B&W EFARXN-N-09902-C : “Girl in Tree” 72 screen

November 27 - December 3, 2008

Professional services

Page 35

Professional services

cleaning services

Home imProvement

Mike’s Carpet Cleaning 5 Rooms deep cleaned only $98 •Stretching•Mold Remediation •Oriental Rugs•Upholstery•Pet Problems • 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage We Clean the White House!

Call Mike 703-978-2270

HENRY HASSAN, MSFM, EA

TAX ACCOUNTANT – IRS ENROLLED AGENT

YASMEEN HASSAN JONES PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT

Liberty Chem Dry

SMALL BUSINESS ACCOUNTING PAYROLL SERVICES INDIVIDUAL AND BUSINESS TAX PREPARATION BUSINESS CONSULTING

Superior Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Residential and Commerical

703-241-7771 www.hassansacctg.com

703-533-0239

6404-N SEVEN CORNERS PLACE FALLS CHURCH VA 22044

Walsh & Assoc.

PC Attorneys

•Injury cases & Death cases •Medical/Legal malpractice •Breach of contract •Commerical/Insurance • Car accidents Free Consultation 703-448-0073 Hablamos Español 703-798-3448

Drier. Cleaner. Healthier.™

Barber Shop & Hair Style (For men & women)

(571)641-3200 (Master Stylist)

Grand Opening Special

Licensed & Insured

703-858-4589 703-909-9950

$9.99 Men’s Haircut (Walk-In Welcome!) $18.00 Women Haircut by appointment Plus get 5 haircuts & get 6th FREE!

Wireless Home Server Networks

CGA IMMIGRATION ASSOCIATES Family and Employment Based Immigration Petitions Skyline Plaza Falls Church

703.578.3556 www.FallsChurchListingMap.com

See all of the Falls Church listings as soon as they hit the market!

RE/MAX Allegiance 5100 Leesburg Pike, Suite 200 Alexandria, VA 22302 mobile. 703-868-5999 office. 703-824-4800 ShaunMurphy@remax.net

703-532-3267 to advertise!

• Backup every home computer every night automatically wirelessly • View family photos, home videos, and recorded TV from any TV in your home • Listen to your music library from every room

Falls Church Computing 703-534-7976 Systems installed before Christmas from $1895

Benton & Potter, P.C. www.bentonpotter.com

The Way Mother Nature Cleans Fast One Hour Dry Time Deep Clean Pile Lifting Technology Safe for Children & Pets Pet Odor & Stain Removal Experts Convenient Appointments

(571) 330-3705

Driveways • Steps Sidewalks • Patios Small Jobs Welcome

Specializing in custom firplaces, patios, walkways, walls, driveways.

Small and large repairs.

Free estimates Licensed and insured.

All work guaranteed.

703-496-7491

703-652-0675

www.motternmasonry.com

A - Cleaning Service

We’ll help you find the perfect paint color!

since 1985

Insured, Bonded and Licenced Independently owned Commercial & Residential

703-892-8648

ArlingtonColorConsultants.com

lawn & garden Seven Brothers Landscaping Service

Spring Cleanup, mulching, mowing, edging, trimming.

Residential & Commercial Tree Service & Snow Removal

Serving Falls Church & Northern V.A.

In Falls Church 703-992-9255, in D.C. 202-416-1660

703-241-4990

Free Estimates

703-508-3976 or 703-323-9251

Weaver Enterprises

CSA 2009 Membership Community Supported Agriculture Fresh, local, wholesome, quality fruit & vegetables, flowers, more 1-240-353-8408 dffarms.com SWEET GARDEN LAWN CARE

LEAF CLEANUP AND REMOVAL *GUTTER CLEANING * MOWING * PRUNNING * MULCHING CALL ELDER 703.627.7723 FOR FREE ESTIMATES & GOOD REFERENCES.

VA License #2705 023803

ROOFING

DOORS

SIDING & TRIM

GUTTERS

WINDOWS

REPAIRS

703-560-7663

ShinerRoofing.com/FallsChurch JOSEPH HOME IMPROVEMENT Drywall • Paint Exterior / Interior, Bath & Kitchen Remodeling, Basements, Handyman, Moving, Clean Garage, All kinds of hauling

Joseph

Cell 703-507-5005 Tel 703-507-8300

Licensed Work

PROFESSIONAL CRAFTMANSHIP

pa i nti ng

Residential & Commercial Clean, prompt & friendly service with a history of repeat customers.

Experienced professional offers exterior and interior painting, old world quality

703 256-2271

www.imagepainting.com Licensed • Insured • Bonded

otHer services Make a Joyful Splash! with

Eileen Levy

703-241-8548

Create unique art masterpieces using acrylics, water-based oils, pencils and an innovative variety of tools and brushes.

One of the Oldest Masonry Companies in NOVA

Held at 111 Park Avenue Falls Church on Tuesday Evenings from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm Cost: $90 On-going monthly enrollment

www.a-cleaningserviceinc.com

•Yard Cleanup •Mulching • Edging • Trimming • Pruning • Planting & Removal • Lawn Care • Power Washing • Deck • Siding • Painting • Hardscapes • Other handyman services

www.FCNP.com

Free Estimates Call 703-503-0350 Licensed and Insured

MOTTERN MASONRY DESIGN

Government contract law, all areas of business and corporate law.

Ad Already In the Paper?

Get your ad on-line too!

Call today and ask about FCNP On-Line Advertising.

703-532-3267

ADDITIONS • GARAGES FOUNDATIONS RETAINNING WALLS KITCHENS & BATHROOMS TILE/HARDWOOD FLOORS WOOD TRIM/PAINTING • DRYWALL

Licensed and Insured. Free Estimates.

With Personal Service

1081 West Broad Street, Falls Church. Virginia 22046 Open 7 days! 10am-7:30

Since 1981

Direct Cleaning Services 12 Years Experience • Weekly • Bi Weekly • Monthly • Home • Apartments Great References

Home imProvement

Owned & Operated by The Cadle Family since the 1950s

Masonry Specialist, LLC

For All of Your Masonry Needs Custom Design, Installation, Repairs & Restoration

brick - fieldstone flagstone - concrete

Enroll on-line at www.creativecauldron.org Or call 571-239-5288

EP Henry & Belgard Pavers Patios, Walkways, Driveways Retaining & Decorative Walls

703-443-2308

See our web site for ideas, pictures & coupons: www.masonryspecialist.com All Work Guaranteed - Licensed & Fully Insured

Class A License #VA2705087240A

WILLIAMS REMODELING Carpentry, Painting, Electrical, Plumbing & Tiles Licensed and Insured Free Estimates & Senior Citzens discount Call:

571/263-6405 571/274-6831 (cell)

REMODELING & ADDITION, CERAMIC, TILE, FINISHED CARPENTRY, CROWN MOLDING, CHAIRS, DECK RAILS, STAIR, WINDOWS, DOORS, CONCRETE, SIDEWALKS, DRIVEWAYS, BRICK INSTALLED & REPAIRED

food & dining

Ledo Pizza Caterers Tysons Station • 7510 Leesburg Pike Falls Church, VA

(703) 847-5336

Phone # Cell Number

703-848-8322 703-901-2431

Pizza • Pasta • Wings • Subs • Salads • Desserts

Business & Service Directory 1 x 1” Ad 3 mo. = $220 • 6 mo. = $400 • 1 yr. = $725 1 x 1.5” Ad 3 mo. = $330 • 6 mo. = $600 • 1 yr. = $1100 1 x 2” Ad 3 mo. = $440 • 6 mo. = $800 • 1 yr. = $1450

1 x 2” 1 x 1.5” 1 x 1”

Page 36

Mayor Robin S. Gardner . . . . . . . . . .

Vice Mayor Harold Lippman. . . . . . . . . . .

City Council Nader Baroukh. . . . . . . . . . . .

Daniel Maller . . . . . . . . . . . . .

David F. Snyder. . . . . . . . . . . .

Daniel X. Sze . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Lawrence Webb . . . . . . . . . . .

City Manager Wyatt Shields. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Home Page <www.fallschurchva.gov>

November 27 - December 3, 2008

* Indicates TTY 711 Accessibility

city calendar

novemBER 27

City Hall, Community Center, Courts, DMV Select, Library, Schools, Senior Center, Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office Closed No Refuse, Recycling, or Leaf Collections Thanksgiving Day 28 City Hall, Courts, DMV Select, Library, Schools, Senior Center, Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office Closed Community Center Open No Refuse, Recycling, or Leaf Collections Thanksgiving Holiday (observed) 29 Farmers Market, 8 a.m.-Noon Civil War Thanksgiving Reenactment, Cherry Hill Farmhouse, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

DECemBER 1

2 3

4

5

The Week

703-534-8644 703-237-9089 703-992-9433 703-731-8433 703-241-0419 703-538-5986 703-532-1043 703-248-5004*

Special Collections Story Hour, 10:30 a.m.

City Council Work Session, 7:30 p.m.

Planning Commission, 7:45 p.m.

Story Hour, 10:30 a.m.

Economic Development Authority, 6:30 p.m.

General District Court in Session Falls Church Cable Access Board, 7 p.m.

Recreation & Parks Advisory Board, 7 p.m.

Story Hour, 7 p.m.

Architectural Advisory Board, 7:45 p.m.

Story Hour, 10:30 a.m.

Book Discussion Group, 7:30 p.m.

Second Half Real Estate Tax Due (Paid in Treasurerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office) FIRSTfriday Event

Leaf Collection Schedule City crews are collecting loose leaves through Dec. 24, 2008. Residents who wish to have their loose leaves collected by the City are advised to rake their leaves to the curb, but avoid gutters and sidewalks wherever possible. â&#x20AC;˘ Monday, Dec. 1 through Friday, Dec. 12. Areas south of Broad Street (Tuesday and Wednesday Collection Zones) â&#x20AC;˘ Monday, Dec. 15 through Wednesday, Dec. 24. Areas north of Broad Street (Thursday and Friday Collection Zones) Residents must keep all other collection material at least 5 feet away from leaf piles. Do not mix brush or other items with leaves. These items may injure City crews, damage equipment, damage private property, and cause delays.

For more information visit www.fallschurchva.gov.

provided as a public service by the city of falls church

Questions or Comments? City of Falls Church, Harry E.Wells Building, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church,VA 22046 703-248-5003 (TTY 711) The City of Falls Church is committed to the letter and spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act.This document will be made available in alternate format upon request. Call 703-248-5003 (TTY 711).

Thanksgiving Holiday Schedule COMMUNITY CENTER

CITY HALL

COURTS DMV SELECT OFFICE MARY RILEY STYLES PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHOOLS SENIOR CENTER SHERIFFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S OFFICE GEORGE LOCAL TRANSIT

REFUSE & RECYCLING COLLECTIONS

CLOSED Nov. 27 OPEN Nov. 28 CLOSED Nov. 27-28

NO SERVICE Nov. 27 REGULAR SERVICE Nov. 28 NO PICKUPS Nov. 27-28 For information about collections, call 703-248-5081 (TTY 711) or 703-248-5176 (TTY 711).

Travel Back in Time at a Civil War Thanksgiving Reenactment This Saturday Visitors are welcome to stop by Cherry Hill Farmhouse (312 Park Ave.) any time between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. to see what an 1862 Civil War Thanksgiving was like in Falls Church.

Spectators can watch costumed reenactors portray actual Falls Church residents from the Civil War era as they host the holiday meal and entertain friends and soldiers in the parlor with period games. Free admission. Donations appreciated.

This event is sponsored by the Recreation & Parks Division and the Victorian Society of Falls Church.

For more information, please call

703-248-5171 (TTY 711). 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 703-248-5077 (TTY 711).

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Register for the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Online Newsletter at www.fallschurchva.gov

Register to Receive Emergency Alerts

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FOR THE WEEK of

Classes and Events Classes & Activities Paid registration required. Call 703-248-5077 (TTY 711) for more information or visit www.fallschurchva.gov to register online.

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Make a Storyâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Sparkly & Shiny Things (Ages 4-6) Wednesdays Dec. 3 & 7, 2-4:30 p.m.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll read and make up stories; interact to music connected to the topic of that session.Each session has two parts to it.Your child will work on a project to take home at the end of the second part.

Tiny Tunes-Winter Wonderland (Ages birth-17 mos.)

Call for dates and times.

Come join all the winter fun in our special onetime Winter Wonderland class! Enjoy great stories and songs in English and Spanish, finger plays using American Sign Language and movement activities. This happy celebration of winter gives new students a chance to sample our program and returning students a bridge for the gap between fall and winter sessions.

Maddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Winter Holiday Parties (Ages birth-6) Call for dates and times.

Join â&#x20AC;&#x153;Miss Maddyâ&#x20AC;? of Music Together to celebrate the season with this special Holiday-themed program. We will include all the wonderful diversity of our Holiday season.This music and dance class for children and their adults will include instruments, fun activities, dancing and movement, and a few surprises!

Yoga For Fitness (Ages 18 & up) Tuesdays, Dec. 2-Jan. 13, 8-8:55 p.m.

This class introduces participants to fundamentals of yoga practice--including asanas (poses), breathing techniques, and body awareness--and is presented in a dynamic workout that includes stretching, strength-building, and complete relaxation. Participants work to safely and gently

increase or restore flexibility and range of motion, build stamina, and improve coordination and balance. No previous yoga experience necessary; all levels welcome. Mats available.

Teen Center Activities For more information,call 703-248-5307 (TTY 711).

Midnight Madness (Grades 5-7) Friday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m.-midnight Community Center Activities include games, tournaments, sports, a movie and more! Refreshments will be available for purchase. Once participants enter, they may not leave without a parent.

Dance (Grades 6-8) Saturday, Dec. 13 Community Center Enjoy a night of dancing, basketball and games.

Admission is $3 and refreshments will be available for purchase.

Winter Break Camps Dec. 29-31 Winter Break Camp registration has begun! 2008 Winter Camps will include: All American Sports Camp, The Doodlers Many Ways to Create Art Camp, and the Educational Theater Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Holiday Hilarity Camp.

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Extravaganza for Middle School Students Wednesday, Dec. 31, 7 p.m.-midnight Community Center Ring in the New Year with a DJ, games, prizes, food, obstacle courses and more! Early Bird discount is $15 and the price is valid until December 5. Regular registration thereafter is $20, and the fee for participants paying the day of is $25.

City of Falls Church Farmers Market Every Saturday from 8 a.m. - Noon

Growing Green Green Holiday Tips The amount of garbage in the waste stream increases about 25 percent during the holiday season.On average,an extra 100 million tons of trash is generated WEEKLY from Thanksgiving through New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day.Here are some ideas to keep your holiday green and your waste production to a minimum.

Green Decorating Tips â&#x20AC;˘ Use beeswax or soy candles instead of regular wax candles. â&#x20AC;˘ When replacing light strings, buy LED lights which use less energy and are safer. â&#x20AC;˘ Use a timer for outdoor lights. Set it to turn on at dusk and off at 10 or 11 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Go for high impact with fewer outdoor lights! Decorate one tree or put lights only around your door instead of the whole house.

Green Entertaining â&#x20AC;˘ Use fireplace logs that are made from eco-friendly materials.Java logs are made from used coffee grounds and natural vegetable wax and produce 10 times less creosote and carbon monoxide than wood. â&#x20AC;˘ Use plates and cutlery that can be washed and reused. â&#x20AC;˘ Try to buy food that is local and organic as much as possible. The Falls Church Farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Market is the perfect place to buy local!

Green Gift Giving â&#x20AC;˘ Reduce your gift list. Talk frankly with friends about the option of sharing an evening together or an event instead of exchanging gifts. â&#x20AC;˘ Give a service like a massage, free babysitting, skating or skiing lessons. â&#x20AC;˘ Make a food gift and pack it in a reusable tin or bag. â&#x20AC;˘ Give gifts like reusable shopping bags,â&#x20AC;&#x153;sustainableâ&#x20AC;?

Falls Church Recreation & Parks Division or organic clothing, and items made from recycled 223 Little Falls Street Falls Church, VA 22046 products.

703-248-5077* Reduce, Reuse, Recycle During the Holidays â&#x20AC;˘ Recycleextracatalogues,wrappingpaper,cardboard Phone Numbers 703-248-5125* boxes,and cans and bottles. Call catalogue compa- Open Gym/Weather Hotline Special Events Hotline 703-248-5178* nies and remove yourself from the mailing list.

Fax 703-536-5125 â&#x20AC;˘ Send e-cards instead of mailing holiday cards.

703-248-5020*/21* â&#x20AC;˘ Take foam packing peanuts to a mailing store for Senior Center reuse or store them in a box or bag for next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Center Hours Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. packaging.

Friday 8 a.m. - Midnight â&#x20AC;˘ Greeting cards can be reused as gift tags.

8:30 a.m. - Midnight â&#x20AC;˘ Make room for the new! Give clothes, toys and Saturday Sunday Noon - 6 p.m. housewares to charities before the holidays.

Open Gym Hours Remember to respect, rethink, reduce, reuse and recycle Open Gym hours are updated on a bi-weekly basis over the holidays, as well as throughout the year. For and are also posted on the Open Gym Hotline, more tips,contact the Environmental Programs Specialist 703-248-5125*. All hours are subject to change. at kallan@fallschurchva.gov or 703-248-5176 (TTY 711). * Indicates TTY 711 Accessibility

November 27 - December 3, 2008

Page 37

ly Focus

Chairman: Ronald Peppe II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Vice Chairman: Susan Kearney . . . . . . . . . . .

School Board Rosaura Aguerrebere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Kathryn Chandler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Charlotte Hyland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Kieran Sharpe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Joan Wodiska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Superintendent: Dr . Lois Berlin . . . . . . . . . . .

government and the falls church city public schools

NOVEMBER 27-December 3, 2008

Outstanding Teacher Nomination Deadline Dec. 12 Only two weeks remain to nominate a great Falls Church City Public Schools teacher for the 2008-2009 Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher award.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, December 12th.

The annual award is presented by the Washington Post Company Educational Foundation to one teacher in each Northern Virginia school system that instills in students a desire to learn and achieve, understands the individual needs of students and demonstrates a thorough knowledge of subject matter and the ability to share it effectively.

The winner will be recognized at a reception and will receive a $3000 cash award from the

Post. The program’s goals are to recognize excellence in teaching, encourage creative and quality instruction, and contribute to improving education in the Washington metropolitan area.

Anyone can nominate a Falls Church City public school teacher for the honor. Additional information criteria and nomination forms are available at www.fccps.org.

Printed copies can be requested by calling the school division’s central office at (703) 248-5600.

Completed nomination packets are due in the central office by December 12, 2008. The central office is located at 803 W. Broad Street, Suite 300, Falls Church, VA 22046.

For more news about the Falls Church City Public Schools visit: www.fccps.org

In the event of inclement weather, the Falls Church City Public Schools will post closings or delays via the following methods: • The FCCPS (www.fccps.org)

Web

site

• Falls Church Community Television (Cox Channel 12, RCN Channel 2, Verizon Channel 35).

• Local commercial television and radio stations.

• The FCCPS Parent Information Line (703-248-5500 x 3113).

The primary consideration in making the decision to close school is the safety of all FCCPS students, staff and community members. If snow moves in overnight, the decision to open school on time, to delay the opening or to cancel classes is made and announced by 5:30 a.m.

If inclement weather begins during the regular school day, any decision to close school early will be communicated via the listed communication methods.

It’s Showtime!

It’s standing room only at the TJ Elementary School fall art show at Mary Riley Styles Library on Friday, November 21, 2008 . The annual exhibit gives students an opportunity to showcase their artistic and musical skills .

FCC-TV Spotlight: Claro!

Tune in to Falls Church Community Television (FCC-TV) to watch ‘Claro! English For Parents’. Claro is a series produced for native Spanish-speaking parents and families with children in the school system .Claro informs families about the culture and policies of the public schools while learning basic English Claro airs on FCC-TV at the following times: • Wednesdays at 5:30 p .m . • Thursdays at 12:30pm & 8:30 p .m .

FCC-TV airs on Cox Channel 12, Verizon Channel 35 and RCN Channel 2 . For more information about FCC-TV, or complete schedule of community programs on FCC-TV, visit www.fcctv.net or call 703-248-5538 .

BIE Partner of the Week Juls Rathje, Thomas Jefferson Elementary Julie Ramsay, Mary Riley Styles Library School Involvement: For the past three years, Juls and Julie have worked together to organize the Thomas Jefferson Elementary Art Show, which is held at Mary Riley Styles Public Library . Art is on display in the children’s room through mid-December .

Why Juls is a BIE partner: “As an art teacher, I am always looking for ways to showcase student artwork within the community . Working with Julie at the library cements the connection between art, music and literature .”

Why Julie is a BIE partner: “It is a highlight of the season to have the library full of students and families for the show’s opening . We also enjoy visitors who come when things are quiet to appreciate the students’ creative works .”

For more information about sharing your expertise through the BIE Partnership, visit www.fccps.org or contact Marybeth Connelly at connellym@fccps .org .

TJ music teacher Marie Harbison (cen- TJ students Christopher Callaghan (left) ter) leads the TJ chorus in song as par- and Nathan Xue proudly display their ents look on. ceramic mask creations.

Call for FCCPS Memorabilia The Falls Church City Public Schools will soon celebrate its 60th anniversary! In preparation for the celebration next year, the school division is seeking photographs of schools, school events and the general community since 1949 . Old play or sports programs, newspapers and school memorabilia would also help paint the picture of the school system’s history . If you’re willing to lend materials to the school system, please contact Beth Loftis at Central Office at (703) 248-5600 or email her at loftisb@fccps .org . All items will be returned to their owner .

MEHMS Book Fair Dec. 5th Here’s a great way to do some holiday shopping and support Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School at the same time . The fall MEHMS PTA book fair is set for Friday, December 5th, from 6-9 p .m . at Barnes and Noble, Seven Corners . Middle school musicians will perform throughout the evening and free refreshments will be available .

If you can’t attend the event, you can still support the cause . Just give the code “356865” at any Barnes and Nobel store in the country during the weekend of December 5th-7th and your purchases will be credited to the fall MEHMS PTA fundraiser .

For more information, contact Jane Cashin at (703) 534-5247 or by e-mail: cashinjl@hotmail .com .

Brigadoon Reappears, Witnessed by Hundreds

Foundation Footnotes FcEF-funded programs highlighted at Annual Meeting & Reception

At the Falls Church Education Foundation’s annual meeting and reception, Nov . 13th, FCEF Vice-Chair, Dick McCall, announced the Foundation has distributed $380,000 back to the Falls Church City Public schools for special programs such as artists-in-residence, teacher travel and professional development . Through the Foundation’s teacher grant program, over $35,000 has been awarded to fund 23 innovative programs reaching 3,000 students in all four schools . The Foundation also stewards several large funds which provide scholarship support for George Mason High School graduates and the Legacy Endowment Fund for future program needs .

The Foundation is registered as a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization . For information about the Falls Church Education Foundation, visit www.fcedf.org or contact Donna Englander at denglander@fcedf .org .

School content published in The Weekly Focus is written and edited by the Falls Church City Public Schools. For more information, contact the Falls Church City Public Schools Communications Office. Phone: (703) 248-5699 Fax: (703) 248-5613.

703-536-8638 703-536-7564 703-237-6993 703-536-3130 703-533-1248 703-248-5601*

* Indicates TTY 711 Accessibility

Snow Days—How to get the News Within the past week, some FCCPS parents have received an emailed solicitation from a paid subscription Web service called “School’s Out.” Please be aware that the FCCPS does NOT use this service for emergency or severe weather communications.

703-534-4951 703-532-0321

Brigadoon, according to legend, is a town which lies somewhere in the mist of Scotland, appearing only one day every 100 years . Last week, the fabled town and its characters appeared for a three night run at George Mason High School as the Mustang Theater and Orchestra reprised the classic Lerner-Loewe musical to the delight of hundreds .

SCHOOL CALENDAR DATES ARE SubjEcT To chAngE Testing 12/1-5 SoL for Transfer Students &

Students Retesting (gM) 12/8-10 SoL Expedited Retakes for

Transfer Students & Students

Retesting (gM) November 27-28 Thanksgiving Break (Schools closed/Day Care closed) 29 10:00 a.m. Mason @ Loudon Co. (Wrestling) December 1 5:00 p.m. Madison Co. @ Mason (Scholastic Bowl) 6:00 p.m. Athletic Booster Awards Night (GM) 7:00 p.m. Special Ed. Advisory Committee (TJ) 2 6:00 p.m. Marshall @ Mason (G Basketball) 8:00 p.m. Marshall @ Mason (B Basketball) 3 6:00 p.m. Mason @ Strasburg (Swimming) 7:00 p.m. Mason @ Marshall (G Basketball) 4 7:30 p.m. Mason @ Marshall (G Basketball) 5 10:00 a.m. Mason @ NOVA Classic (Wrestling) 6 9:00 a.m. Mason @ NOVA Classic (Wrestling 8 7:30 p.m. Gifted & Talented Advisory Board (TJ) 7:30 p.m. Athletic Boosters (GM) 9 7:00 p.m. School Board Work session 7:30 p.m. Briar Woods @ Mason (G Basketball) 8:30 p.m. Regular School Board Meeting (MD) Mt. Daniel School (TJ) Thomas Jefferson Elementary (MEH) Mary Ellen Henderson Middle (GM) George Mason High (CO) Central Office Check the FCCPS Web site for more calendar information. www.fccps.org

Deadline Monday for Curriculum Study Applicants Monday, December 1st is the deadline for parents and community members to volunteer to serve on two curriculum study committees . Next month, as part of its regular study of all academic program areas, the Falls Church City Public Schools will concentrate on the Career Technology Education and the Health/Physical Education curriculum .

FCCPS is in need of a parent from each of the four schools to participate in this comprehensive review process, as well as interested members of the community .

To volunteer or to obtain more information, contact Assistant Superintendant Gloria Guba, 803 W . Broad Street, Suite 320, 703-248-5607, or gjguba@fccps .org .

Committee member applications are available at www.fccps.org/cia .

Page 38

laz y The dog. c k q u i fox sly p e d jum e r o v lazy the g . d o is Now time the all for o d g o to cows

to come aid the ir of there. pa stu is Now e the timall for o d g o to cows to come aid the ir of there. pa stu

November 27 - December 3, 2008

Falls Church News-Press Vol lll, No. 37 • December 2, 1993

Continued from Page 10

that would not just raise money and invest in the nation’s infrastructure, but would also bring a measure of coherence to the myriad projects that need to go forward.

One of the reasons the U.S. is in such deep trouble is that it has stopped being smart – turning its back on excellence, sophistication and long-term planning – in its public policies and corporate behavior.

We’ve seen it in Iraq, in New Orleans, in the fiscal policies of the Bush administration, in the scandalous neglect of public education, in the financial sector meltdown, the auto industry and on and on. We’ve lionized dimwits. And now we’re paying the price.

If we’re going to rebuild the nation, with the hope of putting millions to work in the process, we should do it in the way that makes the most sense and brings the biggest bang for our megabucks.

Right now infrastructure projects go forward willynilly. They are often financed haphazardly and are subjected to the worst kinds of political influence.

Sen. Chris Dodd of Connecticut is sponsoring a

It is no the timw e for g o all o cows d to go to the aid of the ir pa stu re. *** **

Falls Church News-Press Vol VIII, No. 38 • December 3, 1998

bill that would create an infrastructure bank with a bipartisan board of directors and a chief executive to be appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate.

The board would streamline the process of reviewing and signing off on major infrastructure proposals. It would determine the value to the public of each project -- and its environmental impact. It would provide federal investment capital for approved projects and use that money to leverage private investment.

“Our major economic competitors in the 21st century are spending 7, 8, 9 percent of their gross domestic product on infrastructure,” said Dodd. “We’re spending almost nothing at all.”

The U.S. is moving from a period in which leaders spent money on wars and on lavish tax cuts for the rich, but not on investments in the nation’s future. That era of breathtaking irresponsibility must come to an end. Which means that now, with so much federal money soon to be available for infrastructure projects, it’s crucially important to spend the money as wisely as possible.

Investment in infrastructure right now is vital for two reasons. In a New York Review of Books article pushing the idea of an infrastructure bank, Felix Rohatyn and Everett Ehrlich

wrote: “Ultimately, we face a future of mass transit strained beyond capacity, planes sitting on tarmacs, slow traffic and wasteful sprawl, ports that lack the capacity to operate efficiently, and increasing numbers of bridges and dams that are obsolescent and dangerous to the public’s health and safety.”

That’s one reason. The other is that we’re never going to get out of this economic fix if we can’t swing open the doors to millions of new jobs.

Infrastructure investment is one of the keys to that objective.

So we’re going to do it. But will we be smart about it?

Springing along South spring street in Falls Church on Sunday morning, this domesticated deer dropped by its neighbor’s house for some gossip and green grass.

Although an entirely shy creature at heart, the female deer paused briefly to check out the home’s new siding and pursue the fresh flora in her neighbor’s garden. As construction increases in the Falls Church area, our wild wood dwelling friends are becoming more and more abundant in populated environs, and thus spotted, in the area’s suburban neighborhoods, as their own homes and natural habitats are fast dwindling. Although she likes passing by the lovely homes, she might like to visit the concrete jungle, but certainly doesn’t want to live there permanently.

Think the Real Estate Market Has Gone to the Dogs?

Ask Suzanne for the Real Scoop!

Suzanne can save you $, ask how!

-Scout

Suzanne Fauber, Realtor Buck & Associates, Inc. Call (703) 395-8741

Suzanne@Buckrealtors.com www.suzannefauber.com

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Thro w it up.

Pour it up It now is the time for all go od cows to go to the aid

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MEDICAL SPA

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Consult Tax Advisor ® 2007 Registered trade/service ervice marks are property of Financial Freedom Senior Funding Corporation Financial Freedom Senior Funding Corporation

November 27 - December 3, 2008

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ACCOUNTING

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Diener & Associates, CPA.. . . . . . . . . 241-8807 Eric C. Johnson, CPA, PC . . . . . . . . . 538-2394 Hassans Account & Tax Services . . . 241-7771 Mark Sullivan, CPA. . . . . . . . . . . 571-214-4511 Walsh & Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 448-0073 Hahn & Associates, PC, CPAs. . . . . . 533-3777 n

ASSISTED LIVING

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AUTOMOTIVE

Beyer Volvo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237-5000 Swedish Motor Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237-0988 n

BANKING

Burke & Herbert Bank & Trust Co.. . . 519-1634 BB&T . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241-3505 Acacia Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 506-8100 n

BARBER

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BUSINESS SERVICES

Jon Rizalvo, PAYCHEX . . . . 698-6910 x27045 n

CARPET CLEANING CATERING

Bubba’s Bar-B-Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 560-8570

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Point of View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237-6500

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FINANCIAL ADVISOR FLORISTS

Galleria Florist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 536-0770 Falls Church Florist, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . 533-1333

Just because you’re not famous doesn’t mean your pet can’t be!

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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REAL ESTATE

Merelyn Kaye . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .790-9090x218 www.helpfulmortgage.us . . . . . . . . . . 237-0222 Casey O’Neal - ReMax . . . . . . . . . . . 824-4196 Rosemary Hayes Jones. . . . . . . . . . .790-1990 Leslie Hutchison. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .675-2188 The Young Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .356-8800 Shaun Murphy, Realtor . . . . . . . . . . . 868-5999 www.TheJeffersonatBallston.com . . . 741-7562 Susan Fauber. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 395-8741

INTERIOR DESIGN JEWELRY

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LAWN & GARDEN

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Caliber Mower Service & Repair . . . . 691-2995 Dragon Fly Farms . . . . . . . . . . . 240-353-8404 Sweet Garden Lawn Care . . . . . . . . . 627-7723 Weaver Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 323-9251 Lawn Care Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 691-2351

PET SERVICES

Dog Trainer - Nicole Kibler. . . . . . . . . 593-6340 n

Bob Snyder - Life/Health/Disability . . 449-0117 State Farm Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . 237-5105

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MUSIC

Academy of Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 938-8054 World Children’s Choir . . . . . . . . . . . . 883-0920 Columbia Institute - Fine Arts. . . . . . . 534-2508 CARR Piano Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 750-2256 Foxes Music Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 533-7393

INSURANCE

www.ofallthebeads.com . . . . . . . . . . . 901-3738

MEDICAL

Dr Gordon Theisz, Family Medicine. . 533-7555 The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy. . . . 536-4042

IMMIGRATION SERVICES

design2follow llc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 534-1610

MASSAGE

Healthy by Intention, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . 534-1321 Massage & Hair Removal . . . . . . .571-282-4522 Sheraton Premiere Women’s Massage 403-9328

CGA Immigration Associates, LLC. . . 578-3556

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VA Outdoor Power Equipment . . . . . . 207-2000 EZ Tool Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 531-4700 Ace Tool & Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . 532-5600

EYEWEAR

HOME CARE

MASONRY

Mottern Masonry Design . . . . . . 571-212-1711

HEALTH & FITNESS

Arlington Color Consultants . . . . . . . . 241-8548 Masonary Specialist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 443-2308 Williams Remodeling . . . . . . . . . 571-263-6405 Andy Group Construction. . . . . . . . . . 503-0350 Joseph Home Improvement . . . . . . . . 507-5005 FC Heating & Air Service . . . . . . . . . . 534-0630 Shiner Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 560-7663 Image Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 256-2271 J & S Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 448-1171 The Vinyl Touch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 793-3111

DENTISTS

EQUIPMENT RENTAL/SALE

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Human Touch Home Health. . . . . . . . 531-0540

COUNSELING

Drs. William Dougherty, Julie D. Tran 532-3300 Drs. Mark A. Miller, Melanie R. Love . 241-2911 Dr. Nimisha V. Patel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 533-1733

GIFTS

Curves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 536-0140 Sacred Well Yoga and Healing . . . . . 989-8316

CONSTRUCTION

Wertime Financial Service. . . . . . . . . . 237-0003

Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning . . . . . . . . 652-0675 Mike’s Carpet Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 978-2270 n

COMPUTER SERVICES

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Stifel & Capra. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-0770

Carol S. Miller, LCSW . . . . . . . . . . . . 395-4980 Josette Millman, APRN . . . . . . . . . . . 855-0396

BOOK BINDING

BCR Binders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 534-9181

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FRAMING

Art and Frame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 534-4202

Alba Construction, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . 204-0733 n

Barber Shop & Hair Style. . . . . . 571-641-3200 n

CLEANING SERVICES

NADsys - Computer Sale & Repair. . . . . .534-3800 Falls Church Computing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .534-7976 Systems Management Technology . 891-1491 x14

ATTORNEYS

Bose Law Firm: Former Police. . . . . . 926-3900 Mark F. Werblood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 534-9300 Janine S. Benton, Esq. . . . . . . . . . . .992-9255

n

Direct Cleaning Services . . . . . . . . . . 858-4589 Pressure Washing/Deck, Siding. . . . . 980-0225 Liberty Chem Dry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 533-0239 A - Cleaning Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . 892-8648 Maid Brigade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 823-1922 Carpets, Ducts, Windows. . . . . . . . . . 823-1922

Sunrise of Falls Church . . . . . . . . . . . 534-2700 n

CHIROPRACTOR

Dr. Solano, solanospine.com . . . . . . 536-4366

ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES

Falls Church Antique Company . . . . . 241-7074 Antique Annex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241-9642 n

Page 39

TAILOR

Tailor Lee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 534-8886

TRAVEL

All Travel & Cruises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 970-4091 n

TUTORS

Your Computer Tutor . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204-2821 TCY Learning Solutions, LLC. . . . . . . 371-9067

Visit Us Online

Snap a pic of your critter and email it to: CRITTERCORNER@FCNP.COM OR mail it to Critter Corner c/o Falls Church News-Press 450 W. Broad Street #321 Falls Church, Va 22046

www.fcnp.com News•Photos•Online Polls•Sports and More

Page 40

November 27 - December 3, 2008

Have a Happy Thanksgiving The Kaye Team - Merelyn, Karin & Art Merelyn Kaye Selling Falls Church Since 1970

Life Member, NVAR TopProducer Member 20+ Million Dollar Sales Club Top 1/2% of all Agents Nationwide

Home 241-2577 Office 790-9090 X418 Mobile 362-1112

Just Google “Merelyn” For Your Real Estate Needs

1320 Old Chain Bridge Road McLean, Virginia 22101