Falls Church News-Press 3-30-2023

March 30 - April 5, 2023

Shields Offers Budget With No Change In Tax Rate

by Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press

At the Falls Church City Council meeting Monday night, City Manager Wyatt Shields presented his recommended budget for Fiscal Year 2024 (beginning July 1) that proposes no change in the City’s real estate tax rate which now stands at $1.23 per $100 of assessed valuation. This comes despite the efforts by both the City government and the Falls Church City Public Schools (FCCPS) School Board to offer higher than usual compensation packages for their employees in the context of post-pandemic malaise, and heightened competition for quality work in the surrounding region.

The overall budget recommendation is to fund $118,382,643 in government ($48,346,511) and school ($49,583,251) services (the rest for debt service and capital reserves) for the City’s 15,000 residents in its 2.2 square miles, up 4.9 percent from the current year.

Deliberation on the proposed

F.C. School Board OKs Collective Bargaining

At its meeting this Tuesday, the Falls Church City Public Schools (FCCPS) School Board unanimously passed a resolution to grant public school teachers and staff collective bargaining rights, empowering them to

Spring Health & Wellness Issue

FCNP’s Spring Health & Wellness issue is here! Articles about how the Falls Church community is spreading awarness about fentanyl, as well as a local organization that promotes physical activity and community.

See PageS 7-10

organize and elect a union or association capable of negotiating labor contracts encompassing wages, benefits, and specific working conditions.

In 2021, the Virginia General Assembly authorized local governments to extend collective bargaining rights to pub -

lic workers. In April 2022, the Falls Church City School Board directed the Board Chair to establish a special school staff and management committee to develop a draft Resolution on Collective Bargaining for the Board’s consideration. The committee’s work resulted in a

March Madness, Sports & More

Don’t miss how a local basketball star leads his college team to the Final 4 in Houston. Falls Church Little League Kiwanis open their season and see what’s happening at Merdian High School as spring sports are underway.

See PageS 13, 14

22-page draft Resolution that was presented to the School Board earlier this month.

The Resolution maintains the School Board’s right to determine budgets and take necessary actions during emergencies.

FALLS CHURCH KIWANIS LITTLE LEAGUE kicked off their 75th anniversary season Saturday, March 25th. Despite the rain they were able to proceed with their opening cermonies and parade (pictured above). (Photo: Dave Crance)

Faces of Falls Church

Falls Church NEWS BRIEFS

F.C. Council Appoints New City Attorney: Sally Gillette Hankins

At their meeting this Monday, the Falls Church City Council appointed Sally Gillette Hankins as City Attorney. The position was vacated in the fall of 2022 when Carol McCoskrie retired.

“I am thrilled to be joining the City of Falls Church, and becoming part of this wonderful community,” said Gillette Hankins. “This opportunity is a perfect fit for my 25 years of combined experience in municipal law and urban planning. I am honored to have been selected for this role, and I look forward to the rewarding work ahead.”

Gillette Hankins’s experience includes town attorney for Purcellville, Virginia, where she negotiated an annexation agreement that resolved a revenue issue and developed and executed a program that generated one-time revenue of $900,000 through the sale of environmental credits. She previously served as Associate Attorney with Reed Smith LLP, where she focused on land use entitlements, development documents, and appeals.

Gillette Hankins graduated from the University of Texas at Austin School of Law. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Government from the University of Texas at Austin, where she also completed masters-level coursework in community and regional planning.

Gillette Hankins will start her position in mid-April. She will be taking over from Brian J. Lubkeman, who had been serving on an interim basis following the departure of McCoskrie.

Pandemic-Era Outdoor Dining Option Continued by F.C. Council

By a unanimous vote Monday, the Falls Church City Council approved changes to City ordinances dealing with restaurant outdoor dining regulations to codify most of the special changes adopted during the pandemic to enable local restaurants to offer alternatives to indoor dining for patrons.

Among other things, the new provisions allow for administrative reductions in required parking to accommodate outdoor dining.

Memoir Reveals Doobie Brothers’ Drummer from F.C.

A recent memoir by the two founders the Doobie Brothers reveals that the original drummer, John Hartman, was born in Falls Church. Authors Tom Johnston and Pat Simmons, both Californians who in 1971 formed what became a Hall of Fame, genre-crossing supergroup, spoke highly of Hartman in their 2022 joint history “Long Train Runnin’.”

“John Hartman was such a badass and ultimate showman,” wrote Simmons, calling him

“funny” and “clever” and “gracious.” Johnston credits Hartman, who finished high school in California, with help on album cover design. After several drummers had rotated in (often two at once) and played on the major hits, Hartman left in 1979. The group announced that he died on December 29, 2021, at the age of 71.

— Charlie Clark

F.C. Council Votes to Appoint 8 to City Volunteer Spots

Monday the Falls Church City Council voted to appoint three and reappoint five to City boards and commissions.

Reappointments included: Robert Young to the Economic Development Authority, Amy Crumpton and Tim Roche to the Urban Forestry Commission, Brian Bowdon to the Human Services Advisory Council, and Stuart Whitaker to the Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation.

City Employees of Year for 2020, 2021 Feted by Council

The City of Falls Church’s Employees of the Year for 2020 and 2021 were feted by the F.C. City Council Monday, first at a special reception and then during the Council meeting itself. Emergency Management Coordinator Joe Carter and Deputy City Clerk Veronica Prince were so honored for the years of 2020 and 2021 respectively.

Carter was named for his work coordinating the City’s overall response to the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and Prince for her work handling the duties of her office through the pandemic and during a period of extraordinary commercial development in the City, in particular the West End project.

Fairfax Board Votes to Incentivize Affordable Housing

The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved a new policy last week to offer incentives to developers to replace the affordable housing lost to new development.

In effect, if a developer brings units to a site previously affordable for those making less than the area median income, the developer would be offered incentives to include an equal num ber of affordable units in the new development. Those incentives could include additional density, building height and financial assistance.

Andy Young, Falls Church Environmental Coordinator,

moved

to the City in 2014 with his wife and two daughters.

Passionate

for helping residents save and conserve without excessive sacrifice, Young is excited to be a part of making F.C. a more walkable, bikeable place to live. He also loves his easy commute within the City limits. (Photo: Brian Reach)

Let us know who in the community makes you smile or makes The Little City feel more like a home by emailing ktoland@fcnp.com. The News-Press reserves the right to use its discretion on who to feature.

School Board ‘Pleased’ With Collective Bargaining Resolution

The move followed similar actions taken by the Fairfax and Arlington County school boards earlier this year.

Under Virginia law, members of a bargaining unit cannot go on strike. The Resolution provides that negotiations must conclude by December 1st in order for the terms of a Collective Bargaining Agreement to be included in the subsequent year’s budget.

Falls Church City Public Schools (FCCPS) will recognize two bargaining units: Certified Employees and Non-Certified Employees. Employees within these units can choose an employee association to represent them through a majority vote. Once the School Board recognizes the election results, the selected association becomes the unit’s exclusive bargaining representative. Administrative employees and temporary employees are excluded from

The Weekly Diplomatic Reach

BY BRIAN REACH FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

Petersen Fails to Appear or Perform at Straw Poll Event.

the ‘incumbent.’”

22 percent of the vote. Sound familiar?

bargaining units.

Under the Resolution, once an employee organization seeks certification as the exclusive bargaining representative, a Labor Relations Neutral (LRN) will be selected to oversee the certification and election processes.

“We are pleased with the Collective Bargaining Resolution that was approved,” stated School Board Chair Laura Downs. “I want to thank the Collective Bargaining Resolution Committee members for coming together and working collaboratively. I would also like to acknowledge and thank Ms. Patricia Minson, FCCPS Chief Legal Officer, and School Board member Dr. Susan Dimock for their leadership and expertise, and for the countless hours they devoted to this endeavor,” said Downs.

For those interested in the discussions and updates that led to the vote, a timeline is available at www.fccps. org/collectivebargaining.

On Sunday, Fairfax County Democrats (FCDC) hosted their Pick Your Pony Straw Poll, where Northern Virginia Democrats meet candidates and cast an unofficial vote for the upcoming June primaries, at Mustang Sally Brewing Company in Chantilly.

195 voted in F.C.’s new Senate District 37 race, ranking the three candidates (Saddam Salim, Erika Yalowitz, and “incumbent” Chap Petersen) in order of preference

After just one round of voting, Salim won with 51.8 percent of the vote. Yalowitz placed second with 26.7 percent, while Petersen, who did not show up for the event, came in third with 21.54 percent.

“Democrats made it clear they want someone new in SD-37, as shown by the FCDC PickYourPony straw poll.” said Salim, whose victory was received with surprised cheers by the largely progressive crowd. “I was excited to receive almost double the votes of the second-place candidate and more than twice the votes of

As has been stated many times in this column and elsewhere, despite redistricting most Virginia districts strongly favor the incumbent party, so the primary is the real contest.

Petersen is a frequent source of lament from progressives due to his voting history, especially regarding gun control and LGBTQ+ rights, but also inflammatory stunts on hotbutton social topics like forming the “Redskins Caucus” or fighting mask mandates in schools.

Petersen is also well-funded, with enough money in the bank already to run one of the most expensive primary campaigns in Virginia history. Many predicted Petersen to sail into the new seat as an “incumbent,” even though 60 percent of its voters live outside his current district.

This year, however, a different past may be providing the prologue to this June’s primaries. Though first elected in 2001, Petersen has only run against a fellow Democrat in 2005, when he ran for Lieutenant Governor. Petersen spent $920,000 in that race, nearly as much as the three other candidates combined — and came in third place with under

Senate Primaries rarely draw 10,000 total voters — with only two candidates getting more than 10,000 votes in a single contest in the past decade. With more progressive and highly engaged voters, Petersen’s incumbency is looking far less safe.

“For Senate District 37, the choice is clear, and the momentum is

SADDAM SALIM, candidate for F.C. new Senate District 37, won Sunday’s straw poll with 51.8% of the vote, with “incumbent” Chap Petersen coming in a distant third with 21.54%. (P����: B���� R����)

budget will begin with a town hall at noon this Thursday at the F.C. City Hall, and final adoption by the Council will be May 8.

As Shields, along with FCCPS Board chair Laura Downs and schools’ superintendent Dr. Peter Noonan, stated Monday, this budget proposes a 5.25 percent growth for general government expenditures, not including debt service (there being no new debt proposed for the coming year except for the sewer fund), and a 5.25 percent increase to the local funding for the public schools.

The 5.25 percent number is above the 4.2 percent increase anticipated in December, when “guidance” for the City departments and schools was set. But the real estate assessments that were provided in February came out, the expected revenues for the coming year became considerably higher, boosting the expected revenue increase.

Under the recent years’ commitment to revenue sharing between the City operations and schools, each component has come in with about $250,000 in added revenues. On the school side, it was noted that the added funds would go to employee compensation, and that this would help boost the schools’ compensation level to almost match the regional average.

“It doesn’t put us ahead, but into

New

the mix of regional compensation levels, to within 95 percent to 100 percent of the regional average,” Dr. Noonan said. The final decision may be modified when a major compensation study is expected at the School Board’s next meeting on April 18.

At Tuesday’s School Board meeting, a final vote to approve collective bargaining for the system was adopted unanimously, and it was noted that should bargaining for three-year contracts put estimated costs above the agreed upon revenue sharing, that a process would need to be developed to sort that out.

In addition to compensation increases, the School Board voted to include six weeks of paid parental leave to new parents, and the same level of employer paid health benefits afforded full time employees will be available to part time employees as well. The schools’ advertised budget includes a step increase, a cost of living adjustment, a bonus for those at the top of the salary scale, pending the results of the compensation study..

With a projected enrollment next fall of 2,552, the system is the largest employer in the City with more than 500 employees, and is ranked the best school system in the state.

On the City side, Shields’ budget proposes merit pay increases of six percent, same for general employees and the police.

Shields noted in his remarks Monday night that “Growing With Vision” is the new watchword for the

City in its budgeting.

“We are in a period of growth, which presents both new revenues for the City as well as new budgetary needs,” he said. “‘Growing with Vision’ means upholding excellent government services, sustaining award-winning City schools, executing a transformative capital plan, and advancing the community priorities in the Council’s two-year work plan, the city’s Comprehensive Plan. It means investing in the City’s workforce to meet challenges and focus on high-level service to the community.”

With no proposed change in the tax rate, the average homeowner’s real estate tax bill will increase $364 or 3.4 percent due to a rise in the assessed property values.

The proposed budget includes increases of other tax rates:

– An increase of 50 cents in the personal property tax (or “car tax”) rate for a total of $4.80 per $100 of assessed value; however, a projected decrease in assessed value of vehicles will result in an average

City Budgeting

decrease of 8.8 percent in the bill;

– An increase of three percent in the sanitary sewer rate to $10.48 per 1,000 gallons to keep up with inflation, which equates to about $16 per year for an average household;

– An increase of 4 percent in the stormwater fee to $20.05 per 200 square feet of impervious area, which equates to about $11 per year for a household.

The Capital Improvements Program (CIP) provides a plan for investment in City schools, parks and fields, library, government facilities, transportation, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure.

The six year CIP totals $154 million, and provides funding for transportation ($93 million), sanitary sewer ($24 million), facilities and parks ($23 million), and stormwater improvements ($12 million).

The CIP relies heavily on federal and state grants. No new taxpayer supported debt is proposed until FY2027 in the General Fund and debt issuance is planned only for the Sanitary Sewer Utility Fund

in FY2024 to be paid by developer connection fees.

New initiatives in the proposed budget stem from the opportunities and challenges that come with growth. Examples include funds to allow the Mary Riley Styles Public Library to open for two additional weekend hours, an additional school resource officer, two new positions related to construction management, additional traffic camera enforcement, neighborhood traffic calming, new sidewalks, and adding to the Affordable Housing Fund.

Two Town Hall meetings include today’s, Thursday, March 30, at noon, and a second one is slated for Wednesday, April 26 at 7 p.m. Both are open to in-person attendees and virtual attendees.

Public comment is open at the City Council’s regular meetings, including April 10, April 24, and May 8. The City Council’s work sessions do not allow for public comment but are open to the public: April 3 and May 1.

Are You a Giver, Or a Taker?

An individual can effectively evaluate his or her relationships with others on the basis of a very simple test question: Is the other person in question a net “giver” or “taker” in your life?

Of course, exceptions are made for dependents, children, the elderly and the many others in our society who are in one way or another disabled and in need of care. Pets are a whole other story.

Here’s a story our editor has told often, and it pertains to a real event: A number of years back, at a party in a friend’s new home, where the surroundings were generally unfamiliar, he parked on the side of a road with no sidewalk but a ditch next to it, instead, not uncommon for this area. He parked too far off the road onto a rain soaked shoulder, and found that at the conclusion of the party, he was unable to drive out.

While it was clear what his predicament was, almost all other party goers simply walked past him as he tried to get his car to move, but only waved or smiled, unwilling to help. Except for one person, that is, a friend but not a best friend. His immediate impulse was to provide some of his own human energy to the situation. He got in front of the car, and as the driver slowly accelerated, began to push. It was not easy. As it was lightly raining, this fellow, in fact, slipped and fell more than once in his effort, getting his party clothes dirty in the process. It was an unforgettable sight for our editor behind the wheel, looking through his windshield to see this Good Samaritan grunting and shoving, and then suddenly disappearing below the hood, having slipped to the ground…more than once.

Well, of course the effort was eventually a success. The fellow refused, of course, any compensation for his struggle. It was a good deed, in and of itself, but if anything, his reward was in the fact that our editor never forgot what he did, and retold the story often, including in this editorial. If anyone wants to know who we’re talking about, they should ask us.

A small and insignificant event, to be sure. But in the grand scheme of things, the kind of event that can define an entire life.

It goes with the territory that being in the newspaper business most people one encounters are “takers.” That’s not necessarily a bad thing. We are providing a valuable service for the public and people should be encouraged to take advantage of it, as we have encouraged for over 33 years, helping small businesses, for example, to peddle their wares through affordable advertising, but obviously also much much more.

But for us, when it comes to the big picture, on matters of legacy and such, we look to givers, not takers, for friends and allies with whom to shape the future.

P�������

1. Keep the news clean and fair

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

3. Do not let the news columns reflect editorial content

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

5. Accept no charity and ask no favors.

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

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

L������ �� E �����

Learning From Our Past

Editor,

Thanks to your two journalists — Brian Reach and Charlie Clark — for their wellresearched and well-written articles on important aspects of our community’s history.

Mr. Clark’s careful investigation theorizes as to why we can find a “Lincoln Avenue” in a southern town such as Falls Church. In doing so, it also details one specific example of 19th century allyship in the testimony of a Union soldier in support of William Henderson — a Black man assaulted by a conductor for entering the train before a white passenger. Mr. Reach’s story presents a readable history of the post-war Vietnamese diaspora in relation to current concerns within that community around the future of Eden Center, especially considering the history of broken promises from Arlington and Falls Church.

Both stories were fascinating. Mr. Reach’s investigation also emphasizes the importance of good communications these days, something that seems lacking for Eden Center over the past 15 years. In that light, it’s good to learn that our Deputy Mayor, Letty Hardi, has promised that now “we are listening.”

Phil Christensen

Column on ACCF Resolution Vote

Editor,

Charlie Clark should dust off his reading glasses and read the documents he writes about. Clark’s 3-24-2023 column contains outdated information and inaccuracies regarding the Arlington County Civic Federation’s (ACCF’s) recently approved resolution to restore the Arlington Way.

It’s no secret that Arlington County treats its own residents as annoying pests whose concerns can easily be dismissed in time-wasting efforts the county

calls “public engagement”—a process that solicits residents’ feedback only to ignore any comments not wholly supportive of the predetermined outcome that staff and the Arlington County Board have already reached.

Arlington’s residents of color are frequent targets of governmental disrespect. To wit, one need read only one of the many published letters written by Portia Clark and Robin Stombler (of the Green Valley Civic Association) decrying the disrespectful way their community was treated by local government in the Four Mile Run Valley and Jennie Dean Park planning processes. Or listen to Wilma Jones’s impassioned defense of her neighborhood before Arlington’s Planning Commission in response to the county’s dismissal of her community’s concerns in the planning of a new Virginia Hospital Center building.

Yes, the approved ACCF resolution was long. Left out was the fact that the final draft had incorporated ALL points contained in the NAACP’s “substitute” resolution—an attempt to satisfy the NAACP’s everevolving demands. Also omitted from Clark’s column was the fact that the 100+ pages of residents’ anecdotal evidence was revised, vetted and ultimately separated from the resolution into a stand-alone report—in yet another failed attempt to address NAACP concerns. This report was NOT part of the resolution ACCF members voted on.

ACCF members overwhelmingly approved the resolution to restore the Arlington Way because it had teeth, offering 6 specific remedies to correct the county’s failed “public engagement” process—something the NAACP’s “substitute” version lacked.

Excessive deference and passivity have merely fueled Arlington County government’s contempt for its own citizens. Greater obeisance and pathetic attempts to curry political favor won’t reverse this corrosive dynamic. Instead, Arlingtonians must take back their community by making better choices at the ballot box.

Suzanne Smith Sundburg

Clark

FDA Policy Change Welcomed As Student Overdoses Rise

by Brian Reach Falls Church News-Press

On Wednesday, the FDA approved the over-the-counter distribution of Naloxone — often referred to by the brand-name Narcan — in nasal spray form. This is a welcome development coming during a time where school officials and leaders have been scrambling to intervene amidst a recent spike in opioid overdose in minors — and when Fentanyl, a synthetic opiate 50-100 times stronger than morphine, is being increasingly found laced into other drugs, which are increasingly finding their way into the hands of minors.

Within the Fairfax Health District (FHD), which includes Falls Church, Fairfax City, and Fairfax County, non-fatal overdose incidents in minors have increased dramatically in recent years, from 12 in 2021 to 27 in 2022 — and there have been 9 more in just the first two months of 2023. Data on overdoses specific to minors in Arlington County and Alexandria were not immediately available. However at least two separate youth overdose incidents are known to have occurred in

Arlington, including one fatality, and both acknowledge experiencing the same increase.

Falls Church City Public Schools

(FCCPS) officials say they welcome this morning’s FDA decision to expand access to Naloxone. “We are excited about this change — it opens access and removes barriers to this life-saving medication.” said Rebecca Sharp, Executive Director of Special Education at FCCPS, “As a school division we will be consulting with our partners at the Health Department and our school administrators, and reviewing our policies and regulations.”

In neighboring Fairfax County, every school has trained staff to administer Naloxone, which is in every FCPS building as of November 2022. “We take substance abuse disorder very seriously at Fairfax County Public Schools,” said Providence District School Board representative Karl Frisch, who said priorities have included fentanyl testing strip availability, access to Narcan, improved curricula, hiring more prevention specialists, and exploring establishing a “recovery high school.”

First used to treat opioid overdose

as an injectable in 1971, Narcan can quickly reverse an overdose and restore breathing, a common cause of overdose fatality. It does so by binding to the same receptors opioids need to bind to in order to cause their effect. First responders and healthcare providers have regularly carried Naloxone for decades. Narcan itself is safe enough to be administered to newborn infants — it only gets in the way of the opioids. Despite this, due to its classification as a prescription drug, students have not been permitted to possess Narcan, and distribution to students has not been allowed.

“All of our secondary staff have been trained to use Naloxone and administrators and school security coordinators all have Naloxone on them,” said Frank Bellavia, Director of Communications for Arlington County Public Schools, who said school clinics are stocked with Narcan and boxes are currently being installed with Narcan around schools. Though Bellavia says the FDA change this morning was a welcome one, “Virginia Code says that only staff can carry Narcan,” so a change will need to come from Richmond before students are allowed to possess Narcan.

Ensuring training and supply for Naloxone has been the most recent FCCPS effort in the fight against opioid overdose. Last week, the Meridian High School PTA hosted a REVIVE training that drew over 115 parents and students. FCCPS uses the REVIVE model, Virginia’s Opioid Overdose and Naloxone Education (OONE) program, which trains people on how to recognize and respond to an overdose using Naloxone.

Sharp says all FCCPS Secondary Administrators, Coaches, and Health Aides have been provided REVIVE training, with the remainder of secondary staff being trained in the coming weeks. FCCPS also plans to continue providing REVIVE programming for parents and students (with permission). Dates for

future training will be made available through the FCCPS Morning Announcements daily e-newsletter as well as on the FCCPS website.

Though Sharp outlined a comprehensive list of efforts ranging from mental health mitigation to educating student leaders (including on Narcan administration, once legal to do so), she says the most important mitigator remains unchanged over the years. “The most important strategy there is in our toolbox as parents and educators is talking,” she emphasizes, encouraging parents to talk to their children, know who they interact with, and monitor their social media and phone conversations. “This is a community issue that is going to take all of us together to protect our students.”

Bike Falls Church Promotes Health and Community

by Kylee Toland Falls Church News-Press

For residents of all ages looking for a way to stay active and get to know others in their community, a local organization is combining these two factors to promote bike infrastructure in the Little City.

Bike Falls Church, founded by Andrew Olesen, began in December of 2021 and allows its members to bike around Falls Church while also focusing on local issues, such as safer streets and sustainability. Olesen said he began the organization after moving to the Little City a few years ago and getting involved with the Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation (CACT).

In December of 2019, Olesen and a few other members from the CACT and the Environmental Sustainability Council went on a bike ride, which Olesen said ended with the conclusion that there was a lot of potential in Falls Church for people to get around on bicycles.

After noticing the city was a “small place” with 25 mph speed limits and “not a lot” of bike infrastructure, Olesen said he started the organiza-

tion as a way to bring people together to engage in biking, while also voicing their thoughts on “active transportation” in the city.

Bike Falls Church is open to everyone agewise, with Olesen saying the focus of the organization is to promote the city as a place “for people of all ages and abilities to be able to ride bicycles.”

“We really want the voices that we’re hearing from our membership to represent the city in terms of ages, genders, socio-economic and racial groups,” Olesen said.

Becoming a member is “very informal,” as people can sign up for a mailing list to receive transportation updates in the city, attend meetings and participate in rides around Falls Church. “Pop-up” traffic gardens across the city are set up for younger members to ride their bike around a simulated street with roundabouts and stop signs.

One member of Bike Falls Church, Tim Stevens, has lived in the city for over 30 years and has been biking even “longer than that.” Stevens said he has always looked for some kind of biking advocacy organization that would focus on the local jurisdiction.

Although he was “pretty active” in biking before joining the organization, Stevens said Bike Falls Church has been beneficial for him as it allows him to join others and advocate the improvement of bike infrastructure and safety. He said he recommends others to join the organization because it is a positive and productive way to produce changes that improve biking around the city.

“I’m just really happy to see a group that gives us an opportunity for advocacy and joining with others to do that,” Stevens said.

As for how a membership with Bike Falls Church can benefit someone, Olesen said there is evidence that “low-level” activities, such as biking, can improve one’s physical and mental health. The organization also comes with an environmental benefit, as it promotes bike transportation instead of gasoline-powered vehicles.

“It’s really inspiring to meet a community of neighbors who care about this place,” Olsesn said. “One of the reasons that I started [Bike Falls Church] was to look for some way to be more connected and more involved.”

Future goals for the organization include a growth in membership, which Olesen said he hopes will reach about 300 members in a year or so. Additional bike infrastructure, such as bike lanes, are also hoped by the organization to be built by the city in a few years. Lastly, Olesen said he hopes the

organization will host more events that can educate the community on the benefits of bicycling.

“Bicycling is often seen as recreation for children,” Olesen said, “so we hope through events and education that people will see that bicycling is just another mode of transportation.”

BIKE FALLS CHURCH allows its members to partake in physical activity, as well as advocate for local issues (Photo: Andrew Olesen)

Drs. Love

&

Miller, PC

Melanie R. Love, DDS, Mark A. Miller, DDS FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Drs. Love and Miller provide a family practice with special emphasis on healthy and beautiful smiles for adults and children. We have created a warm, caring environment that allows our patients to feel comfortable and safe. We take time to listen to our patients so that we can truly understand their individual needs and goals for their dental health.

Both doctors graduated from the Medical College of Virginia and have been practicing together in Falls Church for over 25 years. We are proud to have served the community in ways beyond dental care.

New patients are warmly welcomed in our practice. Dr. Love and Dr. Miller along with our amazing staff are grateful for the trust and support shown by the Falls Church community.

We are appreciative of our patients’ continued con dence in our ability to maintain proper safety measures, allowing us to care for their dental health.

Israel’s Mass Demonstrations Now Signal U.S.’s Best Hope Nicholas F.

Benton

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

Yesterday, Virginia U.S. Senator Tim Kaine issued the following letter to his supporters:

“Throughout my ten years in the U.S. Senate, I’ve fought to end the decadeslong 1991 and 2002 authorizations of military force.

“Presidents of both parties have misused this policy to justify military action without consulting Congress. And today, I’m proud to announce that the U.S. Senate has passed my bipartisan legislation to end the unnecessary and outdated Iraq Authorizations for Use of Military Force.

“It’s been a long time coming. And I’m thankful to my colleagues in the Senate, especially Indiana Senator Todd Young, who has helped spearhead this legislation with me.

“Most importantly, I’m thankful to the men and women who bravely served our nation in the Gulf War of 1991, the Iraq War in the 2000s, and all of our service members who have and continue to proudly wear the uniform of our nation.

“Thank you for standing with me in the fight to restore Constitutional checks and balances — and ending these Authorizations of Military Force once and for all. When President Biden signs this legislation into law, it will be thanks in no small part to your support.”

Ah, Tim Kaine! Remember him? It’s genuinely painful to think about how he, as the Democratic Vice Presidential candidate, and Hillary Clinton were robbed of the White House in 2016 thanks to that horrible announcement by then FBI Director James Comey a week before the election.

In perhaps the most egregious abuse of the power by the FBI aimed at interfering in the outcome of a major election in U.S. history, Comey threw the outcome of that election, which until that moment had become a lock for Clinton over Trump, into complete chaos and disarray. Eight days later Trump won the election despite coming in short by two million popular votes.

Of course, Comey completely

changed his tune when it became clear to him, and it didn’t take long after Trump was installed, what an evil SOB that Trump actually was.

The FBI’s role, including its lack of reaction to the January 6, 2021 insurrection at the Capitol, has been nefarious at best in recent years, given a deep divide within the agency, and other U.S. intelligence agencies, between a marked majority of those who are honest law enforcement professionals and those who’ve clearly been noodling, engaging in acts on behalf of Trump and his ongoing effort to overthrow the U.S. Constitutional government.

Trump’s rally in Waco, Texas, last weekend evoked images of Armageddon, which is not only his personal reaction to the imminent criminal charges about to rain down on him, but is also his 2024 campaign theme, a desperate, last-ditch call to arms for a movement that is actually ideo-religious in nature.

But lest anyone think that this is about Trump alone, it is far from it. Sadly, there is still a large component of the superrich in the U.S. that wish him the best, even if they are too afraid to take the lead in any public way.

These are the one percent of the one percent of the nation’s richest, made that way through policies in the last 40 years that have sharply tilted the nation in their favor, and who can now operate politically in the dark thanks to the Citizens United ruling.

Yes, it is wrong completely to judge the political environment in the U.S. in terms of Democrats versus Republicans, or “Maga Republicans.” It needs to be measured in dollars, and achieved political clout (such as in the Supreme Court’s most distorted political slant since before the Civil War).

No matter what the polls show, it is where the money is coming from that will determine our electoral outcomes from now on, and by that measure, our nation’s future is dire.

Now we must turn to the Israeli public’s response for hope. Just as millions of Americans in cities all across the U.S. turned out the day after Trump’s inauguration in January 2017, so they are going to need to do so in the coming period if our democracy is going to have any shot at surviving.

Our Man in Arlington

By Charlie Clark

The days are numbered for the Ballston Macy’s (near the Hecht Co. Parkington site in 1951) at the central Arlington intersection of N. Glebe Rd. and Wilson Blvd.

In December, the county board signed a deal with construction firm Insight Property Group (headquartered across the street) to demolish the department store and build a 16-story complex with 555 residential units, a grocery store and retail slots, plus some “workforce housing.”

Coming at a time of furious county government and nonprofit action to boost the supply of housing, the project required tricky policy tradeoffs: the construction company is exchanging a modest-income apartment complex it owns in South Arlington for permission to build pricier ones in Ballston.

The reconfiguring “demonstrates the adaptability and resilience of our commercial market by re-envisioning an office product as residential,” said county board Chair Katie Cristol. “And by drawing, for the first time, on the transfer of development rights tools envisioned in the Columbia Pike Neighborhoods Form Based Code plan, it will also preserve both the affordability and historic resource of one of the Pike’s signature garden apartment complexes, the Haven Apartments. All together, these actions represent gains for Arlington’s goals in transitoriented development, historic preservation and retaining our affordable homes for lower-income neighbors.”

After some negotiating with officials and the community, the company agreed on a first-of-its-type deal to make a dozen of the new apartments officially affordable, I’m told by Sarah Davidson, a principal at the Insight Property Group (which is also building the new Whole Foods mixed-use complex in Falls Church at Broad and Washington streets). “We hope to be in a position to start construction in the second quarter of 2024, and take 36-38 months.” Macy’s—which has been closing stores around the country due to pandemic-related sales drops—is the only retailer affected, she said, and will depart sometime early next year. Costs are still uncertain, but will top $200 million, she said.

The transfer of density rights to the apartments near Columbia Pike (805 S. Florida St.) will preserve 100 percent of 118 units (listed on the county’s historic resources inventory) as affordable according to area median income, 80 of which are two-bedroom, and seven of which contain three.

“The most significant conversation during planning involved access,” Davidson said. Currently there’s no way into the “superblock” of Ballston Quarter from Glebe Rd. moving eastward. So planners will add a left-turn entrance from Glebe in the space currently an alley. Additional parking will be built for residents, though some of the current parking complex will be dedicated to employees of the building. The new structure also received bonus density by promising LEED gold certification for energy efficiency.

“The community will benefit,” she added. “We not only support Ballston Mall with a grocery anchor, but will bring more traffic to the whole corridor.” The presence of a Harris-Teeter across Glebe Rd. is not a problem, she said.

The Ballston BID, with its 942 businesses and 15,000 residents, is unworried by Macy’s departure. “Even through the pandemic, our resident population continued to grow as new apartment buildings opened, and there are an additional 2,500 apartment units in the pipeline,” said CEO Tina Leone. Ballston has the region’s top three densest census tracts. “Those merchants in Ballston Quarter will only benefit from people choosing Ballston as their new home right on site.”

***

The wrecking ball is headed for the Key Bridge Marriott Hotel on Rosslyn Circle.

Though purchased in 2018 by developer KBLH with plans for a partial reconstruction, its hotel operations folded in 2021 during the pandemic. Last week, county officials condemned the property as unsafe, sending crews to evict the unhoused people occupying it during cold months. Specialists in care for the homeless were part of the “whole of government” action.

The site is the former home to a Howard Johnson’s, the Cherry Smash plant, and Arlington Brewing Co., not to mention the trolley and D.C. streetcar turn-around site. Also site of the Yorktown High School ’71 10th year reunion.

A Penny for Your Thoughts News of Greater Falls Church

By Supervisor Penny Gross

Mark Twain’s reputed quote,“Whiskey is for drinking; water is for fighting,” reflected the politics of the West in the 19th century, where compacts about water availability and usage often were shared between political jurisdictions, corporate interests, and farmers and ranchers. The basis for some of those compacts continues to this day, where record low river flows are affecting tens of millions of people, especially in the American Southwest. The West depends on hydroelectric power (dams) to a far greater degree than in the East, where the majority of electrical generation is coal, gas, and nuclearpowered.

Nonetheless, the DMV region also relies on partnerships to manage and provide clean drinking water to a growing population. A veritable acronym salad includes the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin (ICPRB), the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC), the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water), the Fairfax County Water Authority (FCWA), and the Upper Occoquan Sewage Authority (UOSA), and the Washington Aqueduct, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). These various public organizations and utilities have worked together for decades to assure that local residents, businesses, visitors, and federal government installations have clean, reliable water on demand.

It hasn’t always been that way. Post-World War II, there were multiple small water providers, many relying on groundwater wells as their source. As the area grew, more dependable

sources were needed, and the Fairfax County Water Authority was created. Later, Loudoun Water and the Prince William County Service Authority joined the regional partners. The primary water supply is the Potomac River, which provides 78 percent of water to the system, and 100 percent of the water to the District of Columbia and Arlington County, via the Washington Aqueduct. Regional water supply agreements include the Potomac Low-Flow Allocation Agreement (LFAA), which allocates water to the metro area suppliers when flow in the Potomac is insufficient to meet demands. To avoid triggering the LFAA, the Water Supply Coordination Agreement coordinates system operations among the suppliers.

Additionally, a shared reservoir system on the Potomac –Jennings Randolph and Savage in West Virginia, Little Seneca in Maryland, and the Occoquan and Patuxent Reservoirs –provides backup supplies of water. It takes several days for water released from Jennings Randolph to reach the metro area, so water supply forecasts by experts are needed before a release is authorized. The region’s 1999 drought may have been the closest to “fighting” for water. Because each jurisdiction had its own regulations for water use, D.C. and Maryland residents along Western Avenue could watch neighbors watering lawns, while their own landscapes died. Fortunately, a regional drought plan was drawn up by the co-ops with the assistance of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG), so that friction shouldn’t happen

of Falls Church

REPORT

Week of March 20 - 26, 2023

Drunk in Public, S Washington St, March 20, 9:01 PM, a male, 34, of Chantilly, VA, was arrested for Drunk in Public.

Trespass, W Broad St, March 21, 11:39 AM, a

again. More water storage will be available in the future with the designation of the Steven T. Edgemon Reservoir, which can store billions of gallons of water in a quarry in southern Fairfax County; similar work to find a quarry site in Maryland is ongoing.

Water quantity and water quality are hallmarks of the co-op system, which always is alert to new problems. Most drinking water and wastewater treatment plants use the latest in technology to combat endocrine disruptors, chemical spills, pipeline leaks, etc. A more recent challenge appears to be PFAS and PFOAS, or Poly and Perfluoroalkyl substances, known as “forever” chemicals. PFAS chemicals make pots and pans non-stick, fabrics waterproof, and fire-fighting foam more effective. They also live in the environment forever. Earlier this month, the Environment Protection Agency released for comment its National Primary Drinking Water Regulation for PFAS and related substances. While this is an important step in the right direction, localities will need to pay close attention to the limits of science and technology that utilities struggle to meet, and take costs into account. It is well worth reminding decisionmakers that utility ratepayers also are taxpayers, so cost benefit analyses will be crucial to future decisions. Water is a precious resource, shared by all; its protection is up to all of us, too.

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

Broyhill Mansion to be Torn Down, Replacement Uncertain

by Charlie Clark Falls Church News-Press

The 70-year-old hilltop mansion built by area home builder M.T. Broyhill is set to be torn down, the News-Press has confirmed. The required signage for demolition permits was recently posted in front of the spacious white-brick home at 2516 N. Vermont St., angering neighbors, though the new owner says the plans of himself and his wife are still taking shape.

The mansion, once considered as a potential residence for the U.S. vice president, has 10 bedrooms and 11 bathrooms on 9775 sq. ft., and was owned in recent years by the Woodlawn Foundation of the Catholic Prelature of Opus Dei. It went on the market last fall and finally sold in January for $2.5 million to an entity called Family Home LLC.

The purchasers, Mustaq Hamza and Amanda Maldonado, said in interviews, however, that so far their experience in the neighborhood has been unpleasant, in part because of the county’s current divisions over the just-enacted Missing Middle zoning reform. That has led them to question what they say was their original goal of replacing the old home with their own “forever house.”

Madison Manor neighborhood while owning the Falls Church Montessori child development center, Hamza says. After prospering in the commercial daycare operating space, he decided at age 38 to explore new opportunities for entrepreneurship.

Neighbors the News-Press spoke to are upset about the pending demolition, the apparent speed with which the permits were granted, and speculation that the couple have a deal to construct townhomes.

“Everyone is in shock,” close neighbor Kathy Sibert told the News-Press . “There was no notification until they saw the signs and began receiving certified letters. There was no public hearing.”

Mary Rhoads, who grew up in the house before her mother died in February 2022, said, “Many of neighbors feel it’s disappointing to learn that a house that has so much history would even be considered to be replaced. I’m sure the family that bought it did what they felt was best. But it has two lots, and that will change the dynamics of neighborhood.”

male, 31, of the City of Falls Church, was issued a summons for Trespass.

Domestic Assault, S Maple Ave, March 25, 3:18 AM, a male, 28, of the City of Falls Church, was arrested for Domestic Assault.

Drunk in Public, S Maple Ave, March 26, 2:28 AM, a female, 33, of Laurel, MD, was arrested for Drunk in Public.

Hamza, 38, an entrepreneur who was raised in Fairfax County and is a Muslim of Sri Lankan descent, and wife Malodonado, a Puerto RicanAmerican currently raising their two children, both say they have encountered “vitriol” and “hostility” from neighbors who cut through the property and ask questions that imply “You owe us an explanation of what you’re going to do with the house.” Hamza interprets at least some of this as a reaction to his skin color, leading him to rethink. “I’m not sure I want to be in a place that doesn’t want me or people who sound like me.” It seems some neighbors, adds Maldonado, assume that he must be an agent or a worker “who couldn’t possibly be the owner.” Some promised to fight his plans.

The couple met at Howard University Law School, and previously lived in Arlington’s

Jeanne Broyhill, granddaughter of the original builder and daughter of Republican Rep. Joel Broyhill (who served from 1953-74), said her grandmother and father are “rolling over in their graves.”

Relator John Kirk of RLAH Real Estate said his team last year was excited about the experience of seeking a family to buy a home with such “historic significance to the neighborhood, “but only one buyer stood up, and in the end, the owner does what they want to do.”

Hamza says he felt he “helped a charity that couldn’t find a buyer,” and stresses he has not abandoned his original plan of replacing it with a newer single-family mansion.

Though the couple consider themselves nonpolitical, both couldn’t help but notice that the Missing Middle rezoning was adopted after the NAACP stressed how the existing “exclusionary” single-family zoning enforced segregation, associating the Broyhill family

Continued on Page 22

Larrañaga Still Dancing, Local Hoops Star Sends Miami to Final 4

by Nick Gatz Falls Church News-Press

When you think of March Madness, you think Cinderella!

Who will be this years ‘George Mason?’ Well wouldn’t you know the master of upsets himself is back in the Final 4. Don’t bet against Coach L in March! The 73-yearold head coach of the Miami Hurricanes, Jim Larrañaga is still dancing literally and figuratively. Known for his upbeat pre-game and post-game celebrations he is leading his latest team as they dance their way to Houston.

Sunday’s 88-81 victory over the Texas Longhorns in the elite 8, came on the 17-year anniversary of his Patriots knocking off the Uconn

Huskies to advance to his first final 4 in 2006. As the universe would have it, Jim and his’ canes are going to Texas to face off against that same familiar foe in the Huskies out of the Big East conference. While this is Miami’s first Final 4, they are hardly the underdog that Coach L’s team was in 2006.

Miami came into the NCAA Tournament winners of the regular season in the historic powerhouse ACC conference. The Big East and ACC conferences are owners of 13 of the last 20 national titles, with UConn also claiming one while a member of the American Conference.

The Hurricanes will be led by among others 5th year senior Jordan Miller, a Loudoun County Virginia

Native. Miller had 27 points, on 7 of 7 shooting and going 13 for 13 on the line in route to an 88-81 win Sunday evening in Kansas City. Miller a local 6′ 7″ guard, got his start in Northern Virginia playing at Loudoun Valley High School. He was the 2017 Virginia AAAA player of the year. Miller led his team to a 30-1 record and a state title. It was the first championship in school history.

Miller would then go on to start playing college ball right here at George Mason University playing under then head coach Dave Paulsen. At Mason, Miller was a budding star so naturally when the Patriots fired Paulsen in 2021 many other college coaches came calling. Enter Coach L, who went back to

his old stomping grounds to recruit one of George Mason’s leading players.

Jordan enters the final 4 having averaged 15.4 pts, 6.1 rebounds and 2.7 assists in his 2nd year with the Hurricanes. Jordan was very eager to erase and forget last year’s heartbreaking loss to Kansas in the elite 8 where they blew a half time lead. Underdogs San Diego State and Florida Atlantic will face off in the opening semifinal while Miami will take the court on Saturday night at 8:49.

So, while you may remember Coach L as the underdog, don’t be fooled this time around, this is a veteran-led team. With Coach L at the helm, he’s the only coach who has been to a final 4. The Canes look to

knock out the only true-blue blood left in this year’s wild tournament.

After 40 years, four schools and numerous accolades, the coach who stole America’s heart in 2006 is still producing ‘dancers.’ Will this finally be his year? Will this be the year he cements his legacy in college basketball lore? Owner of 697 career division 1 wins, a national title championship would surely send him to the basketball hall of fame if he’s not already there.

In the end it would only seem fitting that in a year that saw a 16 seed knock off a 1 and a 15 seed beat a 2 that the original Final 4 Cinderella Jimmy Larrañaga, leader of the Kryptonite kids from Fairfax, VA, takes home the National title.

Call-and-Response Sermons Bear Witness at Second Baptist

by Charlie Clark Falls Church News-Press

The preaching and the call and response go back 150 years at Second Baptist Church off Annandale Road.

The largely African-American parishioners bore exuberant witnesses during a richly musical Sunday service March 18, some 50 present in person and another two dozen tuning in on monitors via Zoom. All form the modern incarnation of a community that has persevered to make its mark on greater Falls Church by giving its 75 members the feel of belonging to a large family.

“The majority are residents of Falls Church and the surrounding area,” with six members in their 90s, said Rev. Kevin Thompson Sr., stressing to a visitor from the News-Press that there is diversity among the worshippers. As minister of music and a strong-voiced soloist, Thompson tells the gathered — some in lace hats or coats and ties — others; more casual — “When Second Baptist begins to pray, things happen.”

Before the service proper begins, those who come early are encouraged by deacons to share their lives’ up or down events, to offer prayers for someone in need, or merely designate a hymn or psalm for recitation. Even shy ones in the pews don’t remain quiet for long, a vivid contrast with more formal Catholic and Protestant styles.

Second Baptist at 6626 Costner Drive traces its roots to 1870, when white pastor (and abolitionist) Hiram Reed of Columbia Baptist urged Washington-based Civil War black veteran Robert Johnson to invest

in Falls Church land and join the ministry. The congregation, including members of the local Henderson family, planned it in an early earthen cabin on South Washington St. They raised money to build a simple church on “Baptist Hill.” That early Second Baptist was damaged by a hurricane in 1890, but restored. A decade later, the congregation split, with some leaving with Pastor James Scott to form the Third Baptist Church, built in 1900 a block away at 2813 Annandale Rd. (That building, though still marked by its sign, is abandoned, a neighbor confirms. Property records show 2014 as the latest year for which there was a tax assessment.)

The Second Baptist loyalists, meanwhile, grew in sufficient numbers to plan a modern building. They created a foundation and raised money to purchase construction materials such as window frames, according to the church website history. A cornerstone was laid on June 22, 1922. That fall $1,020 worth of supplies were purchased from the venerable Arlington and Falls Church-based Murphy & Ames lumber company and stored in the basement of the old church until January 1924. The first service in the new structure was held July 26, 1926.

Also established was a graveyard, which contains headstones both old and recent. 19th-century black landowner James Lee, for whom the Fairfax County community center next door is named, spent time at Second Baptist.

Among the notable pastors was Wallace Earl Costner, installed in May 1935 to help Second Baptist prosper “spiritually and financially,”

the history testifies. In January 2007, Rev. Samuel Barnhart Sr. was elected pastor. He continued the congregation’s involvement in the Lott Carey Foreign Mission Convention, the Baptist General Convention, the Progressive National Baptist Convention, and the Minister’s Conference of Northern Virginia.

Under Barnhart’s tenure, the church modernized its computer equipment, with a big-screen television to enhance education, and acquired 15-passenger and sevenpassenger vans. Also launched were a health ministry and a dance ministry. “First Lady” Devera Barnhart edits the monthly newsletter called the Second Miler, which includes scripture, activity announcements, recipes and jokes.

Due to illness, Pastor Barnhart’s duties are being fulfilled by Thompson. “It’s funny, when I joined 30 years ago, I came as a fill-in musician while they searched for a new musical director,” said Thompson, 48 and raised in D.C. “The shared joke I say is that ‘30 years later, you guys are still looking.’”

During the March 18 service, a mic’d-up Thompson performed spiritual hymns on his keyboard to encourage participation. “There’s an emotional period at the beginning of service, an opportunity to share what God has done, and people are encouraged to trust God and share their own testimony,” he said. Yes, at times some won’t open up, “but when people are hesitant, as a musician I try to tailor the songs I sing to encourage them.”

The sermon that day was by guest minister Jarvis O. Smith from Southern Friendship Missionary

Baptist Church in Maryland. Reading from the Book of John 9:6, he recounted the tale of Jesus healing a blind man and confronting skeptical onlookers. Smith invoked the word “pass” in its several senses: as in “pass the biscuits,” or pass a basketball, pass in a speeding car, and, finally, passing a panhandler without stopping to donate. He urged the congregation to be ready for opportunities for good works. “Prepare yourself for Jesus to pass by,” he said.

Second Baptist is active in the S.H.A.R.E Food network for the needy. And even before the pandemic, Thompson said, its “moneyless market” volunteers collected surplus but good-condition items from stores such as Bed, Bath and Beyond to sort and make available to the community.

The building—used regularly for weddings, memorial services, Sunday School and Wednesday Bible study—is maintained by a

cleaning contractor and the trustees, who just renovated the roof. Donors to a building fund get their name on a metallic “donor recognition tree.”

Active parishioners include Teresa Earleen Washington, age 90, who recalls elementary school in the class of famed educator Mary Ellen Henderson, namesake for the Falls Church middle school. Other 90-plus devotees include Barbara Deskins, Iola Chase, Mary Murray, Claudia Furr and Tereseda Snead.

The board of trustees is led by Alotta E. Taylor, an executive at NASA who joined in 1983 on a friend’s recommendation. “I saw I could provide some core value to the Sunday School and board of trustees, who needed my skill set,” she told the News-Press. “There’s a good family atmosphere.”

Are enough young people participating to portend a healthy future?

“The draw,” Thompson says, “is relevant preaching and music that meets them where they are.”

SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH. (Photo: Charlie Clark)

Red Robbers Dominant Pitching Defeats

Ranch Falls Church in FCKLL Season Opener

by Erika Toman

Despite a cold and rainy morning, the Falls Church Kiwanis Little League (FCKLL) kicked off their 75th Anniversary season Saturday, March 25th. The morning’s opening ceremony featured former FCKLL alum Pete Schourek, a graduate of Marshall High School, the 1995 Cy Young runner-up who pitched in the MLB from 1991 - 2001.

Many of the league’s games were unfortunately cancelled due to the weather. However, the Majors division, which features players 10-12 years old, was able to play their games.

The Red Robbers (coached by Joe Greiner and sponsored by The Mount Rushmores) earned a big victory from the Ranch Falls Church (coached by Chris Edmonds, sponsored by NDI Custom Homes) with a score of 8-2. The Red Robbers got on the board early in the first inning by drawing several walks and never took their foot off the gas. In the team huddle after the game, Coach Greiner told the players that he was proud of their constant hustle

throughout the entire game. Jacob Emmons and Dev Crance receiving special hustle awards for their effort on the base paths.

Xander Wagner earned the decisive victory on the pitcher’s mound for the Red Robbers by striking out 11, allowing only three hits and zero runs. Key offensive contributors for the Robbers included SS/P Teddy Greiner, who went 2 for 2 with an RBI, 1B/CF Max Smith, who went 2 for 3, and CF/2B Hayes Vaughan, who was 1 for 2 with an RBI.

For the Ranch, Aiden Izawa pitched one and two-thirds, striking out 5 and giving up no earned runs, and Nate Landers pitched two and two-thirds, striking out 6 and giving up only one earned run. Offensively, CF/2B Sam Longley led the way going 2 for 3 with an RBI. P/1B Reid Edmonds also went 2 for 3, with both SS/P Nate Landers and 2B/RF Nathaniel Landers also contributing a hit. Despite the loss, coach Edmonds says the Ranch players were energetic, positive and were up cheering on their teammates the entire game.

Mustang Girls Win Soccer Home Opener

by Ryan McCafferty

Majors Division Season

Standings as of March 26

Hammerheads

(sponsored by Chandler’s Heating and Plumbing)

2-0

Red Robbers

(sponsored by The Mount Rushmores)

2-0

Cherry Bombs

(sponsored by Anthony Wilder)

1-1

Greyhounds

(sponsored by Davis Laine, LLC)

1-1

Smurfs

(sponsored by Don Beyer Volvo)

0-2

Ranch Falls Church

(sponsored by NDI Custom Homes)

0-2

Notable performances this weekend: Kovas Plummer hit a homerun for the Cherry Bombs, the first of the season for FCKLL.

Meridian High School’s girls’ soccer team entered its Tuesday night home opener still looking for its first win of the year, with a draw and a loss in its first two games. They were playing for the second time in back-to-back days after falling to Annandale 3-2 on Monday, but in front of the home crowd, they weren’t going to be denied as they took on visiting Dominion.

Madie Miller scored seven minutes into the first half to give Meridian the game’s first lead, and then again at the 12 minute mark to put the home team up 2-0. Dominion came back with two goals of its own to tie the contest at the break, but then Miller and the Mustangs went back to work as she completed the hat trick early in the second

half. And she still wasn’t done –she then scored two more times in a span of 50 seconds just before the midway point of the latter period, and Meridian hung on for what ended up being a 5-3 win as Dominion got one back late in the game.

Miller’s ultra-rare feat earned her what the team PA announcer referred to as a “glut,” the term for five goals in a game by one player. It’s been quite the start to the Spring season for Meridian athletics, as a few weeks ago Grant Greiner completed the first ever perfect game for the boys’ baseball team, and now Miller has given the girls’ soccer team a night to remember.

The girls, now an even 1-1-1 for the season, will have a few weeks off before facing Liberty on the road on April 14th.

Busy Week Brings Big Batch of Wins for Meridian Athletics

by Ryan McCafferty

The second week of the Spring sports season saw plenty of action, and plenty of victories for the various Meridian Mustangs athletic squads. Things are off to a hot start, with several teams still undefeated thus far.

Baseball improved to 3-0 on the year with a dominant 11-1 win against Gar-Field on Thursday, and will host Wakefield on Monday as they look to keep up their hot start. Softball also took home a pair of impressive road wins, winning 8-3 at Falls Church and 10-1 at Alexandria City to improve to

2-1. Their road trip will continue at Oakton this Friday. Both lacrosse teams were perfect this week, as the boys won their only matchup in a 7-6 thriller at Brentsville on Friday, while the girls beat McLean 13-4 on Monday in their opener and then stomped Briar Woods and Brentsville on Wednesday and

Friday, respectively. They won the two games by a combined score of 48-3, scoring 24 in each contest, and will now have a bit of a break before traveling to Independence on April 11th. The boys, now 2-0, will see their next action against Trinity this Thursday.

On a less positive note, girls’ tennis suffered a pair of

close losses, losing 4-5 to both Washington-Liberty (at home on Wednesday) and at Broad Run (on the road on Thursday), meanwhile the boys also lost 4-5 at Washington-Liberty. They’ll both be back on the court Monday against Tuscarora, the boys on the road and the girls at home.

THE MHS BASEBALL TEAM improved to 3-0 on the year with a dominant 11-1 win against Gar-Field last Thursday, March 23rd (Photo: Miles Pierre)

Both lacrosse teams were perfect this week, as the boys won their only matchup in a 7-6 thriller at Brentsville on Friday, March 24th, while the girls beat McLean 13-4 on Monday, March 27th, in their opener. (Photo: Stephanie Oppenheimer)

Buy 3D Printed Jewelry To Support Robotics

The MHS robotics team, 1418, sells 3D-printed jewelry to fundraise for upcoming competitions and seasons. They must be ordered by April 1st. For any questions, reach out to @1418roboticsmhs on Instagram or at robotics1418@gmail.com.

IB Seniors Complete Capstone Milestone

Congratulations to all 53 seniors in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program who submitted an Extended Essay – a 4,000-word self-selected research paper. This is the capstone project for the Diploma Program and a requirement in order to be eligible to earn an IB diploma. Students had the opportunity to give and receive feedback on their Extended Essay (EE) proposals with support from Meridian staff. IB requires that students engage in reflection at three key points.

MHS Music Takes Nashville by Storm

The MHS Instrumental Music department spent four days in Nashville performing, recording, and composing music. 95 students and chaperones packed their bags to enjoy a life-changing musical adventure. Highlights of the trip included recording at RCA Studios, where Elvis recorded, performing at Vanderbilt University, writing original music at the Country Music Hall of Fame, backstage tours of the Grand Ole Opry, watching the Nashville Symphony perform Brahms Symphony No 4 and rap battles at the African American Museum of Music and so much more.

MHS Robotics Honored With Award

Meridian’s Robotics Team, 1418, competed at the Week 3 CHS District Alexandria VA Event last weekend! Team 1418 was the third pick for

the fifth-seeded alliance and finished fourth in the playoffs. They also won the Gracious Professionalism Award.

MHS Learns Distracted Driving Dangers

In celebration of Distracted Driving Awareness Month (April), students actively engaged with the Distracted/Impaired Driving Simulator, an immersive education tool that teaches about the dangers of distracted driving. As part of this experience, a car involved in a collision was placed in front of the school to demonstrate what could happen if a driver is involved in a distracted driving collision. The students learned that there are various causes of motor vehicle crashes, most of which are preventable.

Students Impress at Tournament

Over 150 Oak Street students competed in the Northern Virginia East Odyssey of the Mind Region 11 Tournament at Wakefield High

OVER 150 Oak Street students competed in the Odyssey of the Mind Region Tournament, completing various tasks. (P����: C������ H��������, J������ H�����, L����� D�������, M����� M������)

School in Arlington this past weekend. Odyssey of the Mind is a creative problem-solving program that teaches students how to think divergently by providing open-ended problems that appeal to various interests. Students solve these problems by completing various tasks.

The 24 Oak Street teams were formed in November and had been meeting with their parent volun-

teer coaches in preparation for this weekend. Each team solved a longterm problem and presented their solutions through performance to a panel of judges. Additionally, they had a “spontaneous” task to complete — something they could not prepare for in advance and was judged based on their ability to work as a group and their creativity.

Community News & Notes

Middle School Uses Vertical Farming to Feed Families

Tucked behind Luther Jackson Middle School, plastic towers are bursting with green spinach and lettuce leaves that will soon be donated to the school’s food pantry. Next to the tower sits a large circular water tank that will house about fifty tilapia fish. The complex ecosystem, known as hydroponics, will allow the fish waste to nourish the plants as the plants filter the fish’s water. The project has been in the works for two years and is now coming to life.

To begin the process, students placed seeds in coconut based plugs and waited for them to begin sprouting. Next, they inserted the seedlings into plastic towers lined with wicking fibers. Below sits a trough of water which is pumped to nozzles above. Water continuously drips down through the towers, hydrating the plants, and back

into the trough to be recirculated. The system uses no dirt and only about two gallons of water a month, which is significantly less space and water used in traditional farming methods. Students started the project two years ago with beta testing plants and a small fish tank.

Eighth Biennial F.C. Home & Garden Tour to be Held Soon

The eighth biennial Falls Church Home & Garden Tour will be held on Sunday, April 16, 2023, 1— 5 p.m. This wonderful community event will feature self-guided tours through 11 unique homes and gardens in the beautiful and diverse “Little City.” Proceeds from the event provide critical support for Falls Church City Public Schools (Pre-K through Grade 12) through the Falls Church Education Foundation. The last tour, held in October 2021,

raised over $20,000 through ticket sales and sponsorships.

Tickets to the 2023 tour are available to purchase online at fcedf.org for $30/ticket through Friday, April 14 and in person for $35/ticket on Saturday, April 15 and Sunday, April 16.

tling through a scoreless first half but the American side getting the majority of scoring opportunities. The U.S. team used the momentum from the opening night’s victory to defeat Canada, 3-0, the following night.

Blind Soccer to Victories

F.C.’s Kevin Brown Helps Lead USA

With just over five years until the team makes its Paralympic Games debut in Los Angeles, the USA Blind Soccer Men’s National Team dipped its toes into the international competition waters with a pair of friendlies against its neighbor to the north, Canada. The matches were held March 19 and 20 at the Salt Creek Soccer Arena in Chula Vista, Calif., with the U.S. prevailing by scores of 1-0 and 3-0.

The opening friendly was a tight affair with the teams bat -

The USA Blind Soccer Men’s National Team is led by Head Coach Katie Smith (Columbus, Ohio), and Assistant Coaches Fil Wilkinson (Mooresville, N.C.) and Ryan Lazaroe (Slidell, La.). Joining Arellano and Beckman on the roster for the friendlies with Canada were Antoine Craig (Richmond, Va.) and Kevin Brown (Falls Church, Va.).

Choice Award. The prize is sponsored by DuBro Architects + Builders, 429 S. Maple Avenue, Falls Church, VA 22046. Horowitz’s piece, which is available at Falls Church Arts for $450, is a 15” x 31” photograph. Horowitz says about his piece, “This is an image obtained from Key Bridge of the Georgetown Varsity Lightweight crew just before they passed under the bridge — a fleeting moment in the early morning light that illustrates their extraordinary coordination, as perfectly paired circles of water recede into the distance. My inspiration came from the photographs of Muybridge and Edgerton of brief instants, imperceptible to the eye, that expose some underlying natural reality.”

“Synchrony”

Named People’s Choice at F.C. Arts’ Show

Daniel Horowitz’s photograph “Synchrony” has received the Falls Church Arts’ People’s

The piece was chosen by the visitors to Falls Church Arts as the People’s Choice award winner. The theme for this exhibit is Texture. The show runs through April 16.

Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival’s arrival in Washington DC last weekend were (l to r) Shaun,

DESPITE THE RAIN, the Falls Church Kiwani’s Little League celebrated it’s 75th anniversary with an Opening Day parade and ceremony. Local leaders, Little League alums, current players and more were in attendance to celebrate the anniversary (Photo: Erika Toman)

Ruth Rodgers Receives “Spirit of Falls Church” Award

Longtime Falls Church resident Ruth Rodgers received the “Spirit of Falls Church” award from the Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPIS) at the annual Board dinner.

The “Spirit of Falls Church” award recognizes a lifetime of contributions to multiple spheres of the community that has enriched the quality of life in Falls Church.

Rodgers has been a leader serving in multiple organizations. She was a member and Treasurer of the Falls Church League of Women’s Voters. She has been a Board Member and Treasurer of Historic Falls Church Inc, non-profit for 27 years working for the preservation of historic buildings and homes in the City. She served as Treasurer for the Friends of Cherry Hill Farmhouse where she promoted expanded use of the farmhouse including supporting the afternoon teas. Ruth served on the City Architectural Advisory Board and later the Planning Commission for 16 years, including her years as Chair – and the City’s Zoning Task Force and the Stormwater Credit Task Force. She has been recognized in the Falls Church Women’s History Walk for her leadership in the community. Ruth was the Executive Director of the Friends of the World War II Memorial on the national mall and continues as the Secretary-Treasurer. For VPIS, Ruth has served on the Board of Directors for 30 years, including President as well as Treasurer for the past

eight years, working to protect the quality of community life.

Goodwin’s Margaret Gloria Awarded Employee of the Year

On Friday, March 24th, Goodwin Living announced that Dr. Margaret Gloria, MD, HMD, Medical Director of Goodwin Hospice, was among the honored recipients of the 2023 Healthcare Council Employee of the Year Award. Dr. Gloria was recognized at the Healthcare Council’s Annual Employee of the Year Awards and the Matthew F. McNulty Award Luncheon at the Congressional Country Club on March 9, 2023.

Presented annually, the Healthcare Council Employee of the Year Award is given to an individual employee of member organizations who each select someone with outstanding service during the prior year.

As Medical Director of Goodwin Hospice, Dr. Gloria guides the care provided to patients served through Goodwin Hospice, provides oversight for physicians and advanced practitioners and gives strategic guidance to the Goodwin Living leadership on Covid-19, academic research and the clinical models that enhance care for the thousands of older adults served by Goodwin Living. In 2019, Dr. Gloria achieved the Hospice Medical Director Certification, a renowned accomplishment earned by only 1,100 physicians in the United States. In addition to her role at Goodwin Living, Dr. Gloria serves as an assistant clinical professor at George Washington University where she oversees palliative fel-

lows and shares her expertise about hospice care and palliative medicine with medical students and residents who are interested in pursuing a career in end-of-life medical care.

VPIS and AAUW Join Forces for Spring Event

Two long standing local organizations are joining forces to restart their activities following Covid shutdowns. The Association of American University Women (AAUW) Falls Church Branch and the Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPIS) historically had separate sale events in May of each year at the Falls Church Community Center.

The joint effort highlights the green benefits of their programs facilitating reuse and the reduction of waste in landfills. Their websites carry information about donations sought so they will be well stocked for their joint event on Friday and Saturday May 19 and 20th.

MHS Student Raises Awareness in Tigray

Elbetel Kiros, a sophomore at Meridian High School, recently undertook an MYP assignment to pursue a personal project to raise awareness for the dire situation in Tigray — a region in northern Ethiopia — and advocate for her family and the victims of the conflict.

Tigray has been devastated by a genocidal war led by the Ethiopian government since November 2020.

As a result of the ongoing conflict, innocent civilians are experiencing immense suffering, with lim-

ited access to food, water, electricity, telecommunications, healthcare, aid, and banking.

To combine her passion for advocacy with a newfound hobby of baking, Elbetel organized two bake sales at the F.C. Farmers Market on January 21 and February 11, 2023. Her baked goods featured a variety of global cultures, including Brazilian Brigadeiros, Tres Leches cake, and Chocolate Chip cookies. Elbetel collaborated with the Black Student Union Club and the

International Club at Meridian to gain support and raise as much money as possible for the victims of genocide and ethnic cleansing in Tigray.

Thanks to her dedication and hard work, Elbetel raised over $1,500, which was donated to El Shaddai Secondary School in Tigray, managed by her aunt Almaz Negash. The school provides vital education and support to thousands of displaced children living in poverty due to the conflict in Tigray.

ON SATURDAY, March 25th, the F.C. VFW hosted an event with the Vietnamese American Society of the DMV to commemorate Vietnam War Veterans Day. The event ended with recognizing veterans from the U.S. and the republic of south Vietnam. (Photo: Dave Crance)

GMHS HIGH SCHOOL alums traveled to see Rebecca and Peter Davis’ film “Join or Die” at the Cleveland International Film Festival. Pictured left to right is Karly Gould (‘01), Amanda Henneberg (‘01), Rebecca Davis (‘01), Peter Davis (‘08), Liz Gannon (‘01), Erica Singleton (‘01), Lindy Singleton (‘98). (Photo: Amanda henneberg)

RUTH RODGERS (RIGHT) RECEIVED the “Spirit of Falls Church” award from Village Preservation and Improvement Society President Jeff Peterson (left). (Photo: Bonnie Murphy)

THIS WEEK IN THE LITTLE CITY

Budget Town Hall Meeting

City staff will present the proposed budget and answer participant questions in-person and online. Submit online questions at bit.ly/FCNP0423cb. Budget documents and meeting handouts available at fallschurchva.gov/budget. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Council Chambers/Court Room, Falls Church), 12:00 p.m. — 1:30 p.m.

Matt Friend

Matthew Friend is an old soul living inside a 23-year-old comedianactor-impressionist body, with a repertoire of more than 250 impressions ranging from Rami Malek to Timothee Chalamet. Free to attend; reservations available at keenedy-center.org. Kennedy Center Millennium Stage (2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC), 6:00 p.m.

FCCPS Chorale Boosters Karaoke

Join the FCCPS Choral Boosters for a night of karaoke at Clare & Don's. Grab some friends and get your best singing group together or be brave with a solo performance of that song you've been practicing

in the shower for years! Check in early, grab the special drink of the night and some yummy food, then get your name on the karaoke list before the spots fill up. Tickets available in advance at bit.ly/FCNP0323cb. Clare and Don's Beach Shack (130 N. Washington St., Falls Church), 6:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.

Historic Architectural Review Board Meeting

City of Falls Church Historic Architectural Review Board meeting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.

Sister Hazel

90s hit band Sister Hazel performs, including content from all-new album Before The Amplifiers 2. The State Theatre (220 N. Washington St., Falls Church), 8:30 p.m.

FRIDAY

MARCH 31

Cherokee Days Festival Friday through Sunday. The three federally recognized Cherokee tribes — Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians — show-

case the shared history and cultural lifeways of the Cherokee through storytelling, traditional flute music, weaponry, woodcarving, beadwork, traditional games, basket weaving, pottery demonstrations and music and dance performances. The National Museum of the American Indian (Fourth St. & Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC), 10:00 a.m. — 5:30 p.m.

Chap Petersen

Campaign Kickoff

Chap's 55th Birthday "Double Nickel" Dance Party & Re-Election Kickoff. No contribution required. Vienna Volunteer Fire Department (400 Center St. S, Vienna, VA), 7:00 p.m. — 11:00 p.m.

Cirque FLIP Fabrique

In this all-new, high-energy production, the seven acrobats of FLIP Fabrique don high heels, then football shoulder pads to dazzle audiences of all ages. Muse playfully pirouettes around and tackles the perennially complicated questions of gender archetypes — circusstyle. Set to an original score by beatmaker Millimetric and featuring live onstage vocals by singer Flavia Nascimento, this performance combines breathtaking artistry and athleticism. Prepare for whimsy and wonder

as mighty women, elegant men, and gravity-defying humans rejoice in who they are. GMU Center for the Arts (4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, VA), 8:00 p.m.

SATURDAY

APRIL 1

F.C. Farmers Market

Summer hours are here! Held every Saturday year-round in tine City Hall parking lot and featuring about 40 local vendors selling a variety of local goods, including (but not limited to) produce, baked goods, flowers, james and juices, pastas and oils, and fresh beef, pork, poultry and dairy products. City Hall Parking Lot (300 Park Ave., Falls Church), 8:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m.

Turn of Phrase: Conversations

Kick off National Poetry Month by experiencing a poetry reading enhanced by a musical response! Poet Heather Grant and Bassist Chris Kosky will highlight a few poetic forms and demonstrate the process of their call and response. Join live as the two exchange a serene dialogue perfectly paired with a relaxing spring afternoon. Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Lower Level Conf. Rm., Falls Church), 1:00 p.m. — 2:00 p.m.

Adult April Fools Festival

Make April Fools Day a time to be had at the Adult Whisky & Beer April Fools Festival, featuring beer sampling from 40+ breweries, games, prizes, special guest performances, photo booths and more! Shipgarten (6579 Colshire Dr., Tysons, VA), 1:00 p.m. — 6:00 p.m.

Youth In Action: Film Futures

How are emerging filmmakers using film as a force for activism? Moderator James Lujan (Taos Pueblo), Anpa'o Locke (Húŋkpapȟa Lakota/Ahtna Dené), Lejend Yazzie (Diné) and Petyr Xyst (Laguna Pueblo) discuss the ways Native film is changing perceptions about Indigenous peoples and what the future holds. This program is part of the series Youth in Action: Conversations about Our Future, which features young Indigenous activists and changemakers from across the Western

Hemisphere who are working towards equity and social justice for Indigenous peoples. The National Museum of the American Indian (Fourth St. & Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC), 1:00 p.m.

Christylez Bacon

Family Fun is just around the corner with Christylez Bacon (pronounced: chris-styles), a GRAMMY® Nominated progressive Hip-Hop artist and multi-instrumentalist from southeast D.C.. Christylez multi-tasks between various instruments such as the West African djembe drum, acoustic guitar, and the human beat-box (oral percussion), all while continuing the oral tradition of storytelling through his lyrics. This interactive concert will engage families in singing and beatboxing activities while merging the rhythms with classical music. Workhouse Arts Center (9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, VA), 1:30 p.m. — 3:30 p.m.

Bored Teachers Comedy Tour

The biggest entertainment platform for teachers in the world, Bored Teachers, presents the funniest teacher-comedians in the world all on one stage in the "We Can't Make This Stuff Up!" comedy tour. Their hilarious skits have amassed hundreds of millions of views on the internet, and they're all joining comic forces on the stage for a night of laughter you do not want to miss. Put that red pen down, pause that Netflix series you've been binging, throw on your comfiest teacher tee, call your teacher besties, and come burn off some of that stress this school year has been dumping on you! Capital One Hall (7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, VA), 3:00 p.m.

Pink in the Park

Celebrate the arrival of cherry blossom season with an unforgettable festival hosted by Orlando Jones, featuring musical guests DJ Chan Don, Crush Funk Brass, Umami House, Reesa Renee, Footwerk, and headliner Black Alley. Enjoy a beer & wine garden, food trucks, giveaways and all things pink. Free tickets at bit. ly/FCNP0423pp. Long Bridge Aquatics & Fitness Center Parking Lot (333 Long Bridge Dr., Arlington, VA), 3:00 p.m. — 7:00 p.m.

The Good Humor Men

How about some stand-up comedy without an edge? Humor that’s light blue at its darkest?

CHEROKEE DAYS FESTIVAL SHARES history through performances, activities, and more, this weekend at the National Museum of the American Indian (Photo: smithsonian institution)

EVENTS, MUSIC, ART & THEATRE

This is your jam. Three of America’s funniest stand-up comedians, Tony Deyo, Keith Alberstadt, and Pat Hazell, join forces to showcase their original brand of humor in an evening packed with laughs. The Alden Theatre (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, VA), 7:00 p.m. — 8:30 p.m.

The Hunchback of Seville

At the turn of the 16th century, Christopher Columbus has just returned from the New World with gold in his pockets and blood on his hands. Maxima Terriblé Segunda, the brilliant, adopted sister of dying Queen Isabella, is living out her life locked away in a tower... until it is decided that the future of the country is in her nerdy, reclusive hands. A bitingly funny and madcap take on Spanish history and colonialism, as Maxima weaves her way through mountains of prejudice, politics, religion, and the horrors of history. GMU Harris Theatre (4471 Aquia Creek Ln., Fairfax, VA), 8:00 p.m.

SUNDAY APRIL 2

Michael Albert

American pop artist and author Michael Albert, who has been bringing his nationally renowned

“Modern Pop Art Experience” to libraries for more than a decade, returns to F.C. for a special afternoon session of art making at MRSPL! Participants may choose from Albert's prints as a special gift for attending. Materials provided, but bringing your own cereal or other boxes to use in your creation is encouraged. Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Lower Level Conf. Rm., Falls Church), 12:00 p.m. — 2:00 p.m.

Daniel Hope & Zurich Chamber Orchestra

Violin luminary Daniel Hope returns with the Zurich Chamber Orchestra to reveal the charisma of American music in a program named after his new album, America. This concert celebrates our country’s most recognizable tunes from across the 20th Century. GMU Center for the Arts (4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, VA), 2:00 p.m.

Last Chance: The Snow Queen

Last chance to see this classic tale of bravery and friendship, which follows the journey of young Gerda as she attempts to rescue her best friend Kai from the clutches of the Snow Queen. Tickets at creativecauldron.org. Creative Cauldron (410 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church), 2:00 p.m.

MONDAY APRIL 3

Evening Art Critique Group

Join creative artists in a monthly discussion and critique group. Bring a piece of art for feedback — something new or old, in progress or complete — and a community of artists will share their thoughts. Open to all, even if not bringing a piece to share. Email questions to facilitator John Valenti at info@fallschurcharts.org. Falls Church Arts (700-B W. Broad St., Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.

City Council Work Session

City Council work sessions are open to the public and conducted to allow Council Members to discuss upcoming legislation and policy issues; the public is not generally invited to speak. Watch the meeting at fallschurchva.gov/CouncilMeetings or FCCTV (Cox 11, RCN 2, Verizon 35). Video will be available after the meeting both online and on FCCTV. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 7:30 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.

TUESDAY APRIL 4

Afrofuturism: A History of Black Futures

Investigating Afrofuturist expression through art, music, activism and more, this exhibition explores and reveals Afrofuturism’s historic and poignant engagement with African American history and popular culture. From the enslaved looking to the cosmos for freedom to popular sci-fi stories inspiring Black astronauts, to the musical influences and more, this exhibition covers the broad and impactful spectrum of Afrofuturism. National Museum of African American History and Culture (1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC), 10:00 a.m. — 5:30 p.m.

Economic Development Authority Meeting

City of Falls Church Economic Development Authority meeting. Viget Offices (105 W. Broad St., 5th Floor, Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.

Bad Duo: Steve & Pauline

Join Steve Bray and Pauline Anson-Dross to learn what not to do as a duo! Songs and laughs to be enjoyed. JV's Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church), 8:00 p.m.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 5

Hands-On Climate Data Workshop

Join the City of Alexandria for a community workshop about climate change using local, climaterelated data. Includes modeling clay to visualize a local data set of your choice! More at bit.ly/FCNP0323cd. Charles Houston Recreation Center (901 Wythe St., Alexandria, VA), 6:00 p.m. — 7:30 p.m.

Planning Commission Meeting

City of Falls Church Planning Commission meeting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Council Chambers/Court Room, Falls Church), 7:30 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.

THREE STAND-UP COMEDIANS join forces to showcase their lighter brand of comedy as The Good Humor Men, this weekend at The Alden Theatre in McLean on Saturday. (Courtesy Photo)

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

PLANNING COMMISSION

NOTICE: On Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at 7:30 p.m., the City of Falls Church Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and meeting. Public comments can be submitted ahead of time to jtrainor@fallschurchva.gov and pstoddard@fallschurchva.gov. The Planning Commission will consider the following item and recommendation to City Council:

(TR23-06) RESOLUTION TO AMEND SPECIAL EXCEPTION SE04-0162, AS PREVIOUSLY AMENDED THROUGH RESOLUTION 2012-01, TO FURTHER AMEND CERTAIN COMMERCIAL USE RESTRICTIONS ON THE GROUND FLOOR SPACES AT 400-412 SOUTH MAPLE AVENUE (PEARSON SQUARE)

The Planning Commission will consider an action on an application to amend the previously submitted and accepted resolution and Voluntary Concessions for the Pearson Square Building (400-412 S Maple Avenue). The Applicant is seeking to lease approximately 1,635 of currently vacant space to an architectural firm. Under the current commercial programming restrictions (established by condition 3 in Resolution 2012-01, attached), the allowable square footage for office uses has been reached. The Applicant has applied to amend the commercial programming of the Pearson Square ground floor commercial space (as included in the Applicant’s materials, attached), as follows:

1. To increase the overall retail service uses and/or business and professional uses limit from 11,000 square feet to 14,000 square feet for the total 19,000 square feet of commercial space.

2. To increase the business or professional office uses limit from 2,400 square feet to 4,000 square feet, with the limitation that it is within the proposed 14,000 square feet limit for retail service, and/or business, professional offices uses.

3. To increase the existing maximum lease term from 10 to 20 years for business, professional, medical, or dental office uses.

Meeting agenda and materials will be available prior to the public meeting on the Planning Commission webpage: http://www.fallschurchva.gov/PC. More information about the proposed amendments to Pearson Square’s Voluntary Concessions, Community Benefits, Terms and Conditions are available within the Planning Commission’s April 5, 2023 meeting agenda, also accessible on the Planning Commission webpage.

This location is fully accessible to persons with physical disabilities and special services or assistance may be requested in advance.

(TTY 711)

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

CITY COUNCIL CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA

A public hearing and final City Council action on the following is scheduled for Monday, April 10, 2023 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard.

(TR23-06) RESOLUTION TO AMEND SPECIAL EXCEPTION SE04-0162, AS PREVIOUSLY AMENDED THROUGH RESOLUTION 2012-01, TO FURTHER AMEND CERTAIN COMMERCIAL USE RESTRICTIONS ON THE GROUND FLOOR SPACES AT 400-412 SOUTH MAPLE AVENUE (PEARSON SQUARE)

All public hearings will be held in the Council Chambers, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church,

Virginia. Remote participation information at www.fallschurchva.gov/publiccomment. Comments may also be sent to cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov. For copies of legislation, contact the City Clerk’s office at (703-248-5014) or cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov or visit www. fallschurchva.gov/councilmeetings. 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 703-248-5014 (TTY 711).

CELESTE HEATH, CITY CLERK

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) of the City of Falls Church, Virginia will hold a public hearing on April 13, 2023 at 7:30 PM in the Council Chambers, located at 300 Park Avenue, for consideration of the following item:

Variance application V1637-23 by Andra Popa, applicant and owner, for a variance to Section 48-238(4)c. to allow a detached garage with a height of 13.8 feet instead of 12 feet maximum at premises known as 806 Ridge Place, RPC #53-215-004 of the Falls Church Real

Property Records, zoned R-1A, Low Density

Residential.

Public comment and questions may be submitted to zoning@fallschurchva.gov until 4:30 pm on April 13, 2023. Agenda and application materials will be available the week prior to the scheduled hearing at: http://www.fallschurchva.gov/BZA

Information on the above application is also available for review upon request to staff at zoning@fallschurchva.gov.

FOR SALE

National Memorial Park plots for sale. 2 Choice plots valued at $10,995 each, asking $4,500 each. Call 910-575-0258.

King David Memorial park F. C. 1 double plot over under new $14,000.00 sale $7,500.00 . Two separate plots $9,000.00 each sale $4,500.00 per plot. Call 540-347-2497 and leave a message.

NOTICE

ABC

PLAY BALL VIRGINIA FALLS CHURCH, LLC trading as Glory Days Grill, 6341 COLUMBIA PIKE, FALLS CHURCH, FAIRFAX, VIRGINIA 22041. The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC)

AUTHORITY for a Mixed Beverage license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages. Jesse Steven McPherson. Date notice posted at establishment: March 23, 2023. NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or (800) 552-3200.

LAWN & LANDSCAPE

LAWN & LANDSCAPE SERVICE. Spring Clean Up. Planting flowers .Bushes.Install Mulch. Lawn Program Debris Removal. Good

References. Call Gabriel. 703-546 6383. Free

Estimates

CLASSIFIEDS

ATTN. AUCTIONEERS: Advertise your upcoming auctions statewide and in other states. Affordable Print and Digital Solutions reaching your target audiences. Call this paper or Landon Clark at Virginia Press Services 804-521-7576, landonc@vpa.net

DOGS, PET CARE

Happy Jack® Liquivict2x® is recognized safe & effective against hook & round worms in dogs by US CVM. Double strength. 3 year stability. At Tractor Supply®.

FARMS/FISH

HOME IMPROVEMENT

White Stone

Phone : 571-999-2931

Live

Cleaning Services

House

HOME

Now

SERVICES

DIVORCE-Uncontested, $475+$86 court cost. WILLS-$295.00. No court appearance. Estimated completion time twenty-one days. Hilton Oliver, Attorney (Facebook). 757-4900126. Se Habla Espanol. BBB Member. https:// hiltonoliverattorneyva.com.

Other Services

AUCTIONS

AUCTION. 168 Acre Equestrian Facility located outside Richmond, VA. 28,000 sq ft Indoor Riding Ring & Barn with 35 Stalls. DudleyResources.com (804) 709-1954.

The

reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-833-688-1378

Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material – steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer - $500 Discount + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-844902-4611

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-877-591-9950

The bathroom of your dreams for as little as $149/month! BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Limited Time Offer - FREE virtual in-home consultation now and SAVE 15%!

Call Today! 1-844-945-1631

LIVESTOCK SALES

Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Saturday, April 8, 2023 at Noon. Featuring 80+ Angus, Polled Hereford, Gelbvieh and Balancer Bulls. 60+ Elite Registered Angus, Hereford & Balancer Bred Heifers. 80+ Commercial Bred Heifers. Knoll Crest Farm, Red House, VA 434-376-3567. Pre-register at KnollCrestFarm.com.

fcnp.com

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and longlasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 888-608-4974

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-888-550-3083 www.dental50plus. com/virginia #6258

FREE high speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus offer: Android tablet FREE with onetime $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today! 1-855-970-1995

Classified Ad Rates $20 dollars for up to 20 words and $0.50 for every word after.

Contact Us: classads@fcnp.com 703-532-3267

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

All’s Fair In Love and War at Meridian’s ‘The Love Doctor’

by Ellen Lawton

All’s fair in love and war, as the saying goes, but five doctor impersonators might be going a little too far... At Meridian High School’s The Love Doctor, over-the-top comedy meets 17th century France in an unlikely marriage of pure entertainment.

Meridian’s production of The Love Doctor actually wove together four different plays, all of them written by JeanBaptiste Poquelin, better known as Molière. Widely celebrated as France’s greatest playwright, Molière garnished his works with satire and subtle references to the jokes of the 1600s. Meridian’s production kept this spirit going, sprinkling in references to things like the pandemic amidst a classic story. Two pairs of lovers were denied a happy ending due to a disapproving mother, and everyone, from the town fool to a visiting British solicitor, would be involved in the chaos before the day was through!

The wonderful absurdity of the show was only possible with

the entire cast’s commitment.

Alex Fulgham as the hapless Louis, for instance, slept onstage for close to an hour, surrounded by other characters leaping from balconies or smacking each other with sticks. Every second was packed with action. And unwittingly orchestrating it all was the Love Doctor himself, Sganarelle (Matthew Bloss-Baum).

Bloss-Baum was brilliantly baffled by everything, often with a gaping mouth and flailing arms. His character took on multiple identities within the show, first as a “doctor” examining lovesick Lucile (Katie Rice), then that doctor’s imaginary brother, to evade suspicion. Each time he transformed, his voice began to slur or his back hunched over in an impressive display of physical comedy. And whenever his wife Martine (Isabel Pierce) stormed onstage, he flinched and began to bite his nails, with the expression of a man who knew he’d messed up.

He was matched only by the energy of Valere (Declan Kennedy) and Leandre (Hugo Ratheau), the unlucky suitors to

Lucile and Sabine (Abby Fred), respectively. Both charmed with their every move. Kennedy, attempting to hide from Lucile’s strict mother, clung to the side of a balcony for nearly ten minutes, trembling in fright and making faces at the audience. Kennedy creeped onto the stage and plankwalked off it, always on alert, in ways that never failed to make the audience cackle. Ratheau, meanwhile, sprung onto tiptoes while talking to anyone, waltzed about with the exaggerated grace of a fool in love.

The theme of love ran through every aspect of the show, down to the details of the characters’ makeup (done by Joy Wilson). In true 17th century French fashion, everyone sported a mole, and the placement signified a trait. Rice and Fred wore hearts on their left cheeks to symbolize engagement, while Bloss-Baum had a mark on the end of his nose, signifying impudence. The sets (by Augie Reitmeyer and the school’s Technical Theater Class) also aided in the story, with Kennedy leaping from its

balcony and Bloss-Baum scrambling up the stairs. Lovers clambered up handholds on the wall and intruders shoved the door open in an excellent display of set functionality.

The whole cast’s energy was infectious, leaving the audi -

ence roaring with delight. But all good things must come to an end. As the “doctor” was unmasked and the couples were finally permitted to wed, Meridian reminded its audience of an important fact- laughter truly is the best medicine.

‘Anything Goes’ at Bishop O’Connell High School

by Mark Dreisonstok

For its spring play, Bishop O’ Connell High School in Arlington is performing the Cole Porter musical “Anything Goes” this upcoming weekend. When asked why she elected to stage “Anything Goes” this year, director Gretchen Midgley told us: “After last year’s production of the far heavier ‘Little Women’ and the halt on shows in the Covid years prior to that, I knew it was time for our school to do a big, lighthearted musical. We hadn’t done a true dance show in over a decade either, and I thought it would be a fun challenge for the students to take on.”

There are many different versions of this musical which stems from 1934. Director-choreographer Midgely explains: “We are doing the 2022 revision, not to be confused with the West End 2022 production featuring Sutton Foster. The score is more akin to the 1987 Patti LuPone version, but the script has been revised to remove material which is problematic for a modern audience.”

For those new to “Anything Goes,” the musical has a delight-

fully frantic plot about a nightclub entertainer, Reno Sweeney, who is sailing to London. Her friend, Billy Crocker, sees her off and then remains aboard the ship as it is sailing away—without his having a ticket, passport, or money! He finds the object of his affection, Hope Harcourt, is also on board; she is about to marry an English lord. Madcap antics ensue, and “anything goes!” The key point about “Anything Goes,” however, is undoubtedly the catchy tunes and witty lyrics of Cole Porter, one of the luminaries of the Great American Song Book. Songs performed energetically by the cast include: “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “You’re the Top,” and the lesser-known “Blow, Gabriel, Blow.” Student performances are augmented by a seven-piece orchestra conducted superbly by musical director John Henderson.

We had an opportunity to attend a dress rehearsal, and standout performers and memorable moments included: Eileen Parks tap dancing spectacularly as Reno in the title number “Anything Goes;” Matthew Secrest doing a wonderful comic turn as the surprisingly likable gangster Moonface Martin; Kate Stewart

singing an impressive “Goodbye, Little Dream, Goodbye” in her role as Hope Harcourt; and a very convincing acting performance of Samantha Rough as Hope’s mother, Mrs. Harcourt.

We asked some student performers for their reactions to preparing a musical which is, after all, nearly ninety years old, and they responded with clear enthusiasm. Eileen/Reno, ‘23, replied: “This has been the best experience of my life! I love my cast both onstage and off, and this was the perfect way to finish out my time on the

O’Connell stage.” Samantha/Mrs. Harcourt, ‘23, commented: “It’s my first musical! This was a big step outside of my comfort zone because I’m not really involved in musical theatre, but it’s been a great opportunity to try something new and make new friends.”

Matthew/Moonface, ‘23, told us: “There are a lot of different interactions I have in this show, so I’ve gotten to collaborate and experiment with how characters communicate with one another, which is different from my experience in the past. I’ve enjoyed that experimenta-

tion.” Dani Vergara ‘24, who plays the comic part of Erma with flair, related to us that “I don’t really do a lot of comedic characters and am shy in real life, so it’s been a fun experience getting to show a different side of myself.”

“Anything Goes” runs for four performances: Friday, March 31, at 7:00 p.m.; Saturday, April 1, at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.; and Sunday, April 2, at 2:00 p.m. at Bishop O’Connell High School. For further information, please visit bishopoconnell.org/the-arts/ oconnell-players

CAST MEMBERS of Bishop O’Connell’s production of “Anything Goes.” (Photo: Cordelia Dreisonstok)

NATHANIEL HILL, Eudora Neal, Alex Steinbach and Hana Saldate during ‘The Love Doctor’ (Photo: Carol Sly)

VIII, No. 2 • March 26, 1998 BACK IN THE DAY

C ������ C �����

Falls Church News-Press

George Mason High School Ranked First in Metro Area for “Challenging Students”

name with 1950s resistance to integration. Maldonado, the daughter of a teacher, said she is “offended that some people would be appalled at living next to townhouses for teachers.”

Hamza is skeptical that the vocal opponents of the rezoning are a majority, noting that “many others are thrilled with Missing Middle.” But some “want to take us back to what worked 50 years ago, not what will work 50 years from now. And why wouldn’t it apply to

North Arlington? We should be able to exercise our rights like everyone else.”

Bill Richardson, president of the local Donaldson Run Civic Association, asked to address the demolition’s link to the Missing Middle debate, faulted the county for ignoring his volunteer group’s “serious concerns about the oversized lot coverage and height limits applicable to single family homes. These have led to accelerated McMansionization of our neighborhood, with resulting loss of mature trees and heightened stormwater runoff,” he said. proven wrong.

NO ONE GETS A DIPLOMA ALONE.

MICHAEL AND GABRIEL, two bombay kittens that are both one year old.

*For those who qualify. One coupon per household. No obligation estimate valid for 1 year. **Offer valid at time of estimate only. 2The leading consumer reporting agency conducted a 16 month outdoor test of gutter guards in 2010 and recognized LeafFilter as the “#1 rated professionally installed gutter guard system in America.” Manufactured in Plainwell, Michigan and processed at LMT Mercer Group in Ohio. See Representative for full warranty details. Registration# 0366920922 CSLB# 1035795 Registration# HIC.0649905 License# CBC056678 License# RCE-51604 Registration# C127230 License# 559544 Suffolk HIC License# 52229-H License# 2102212986 License# 262000022 License# 262000403 License# 2106212946 License# MHIC111225 Registration# 176447 License# 423330 Registration# IR731804 License# 50145 License# 408693 Registration# 13VH09953900 Registration# H-19114 License# 218294 Registration# PA069383 License# 41354 License# 7656 DOPL #10783658-5501 License# 423330 License# 2705169445 License# LEAFFNW822JZ License# WV056912 BEFORELeafFilter AFTERLeafFilter 1-877-614-6667 CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE Mon-Thurs: 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat: 8am-5pm, Sun: 2pm-8pm EST THE NA TION S GUTTER GUARD1 BACKED BY A YEAR-ROUND CLOG-FREE GUARANTEE EXCLUSIVE LIMITED TIME OFFER! Promo Code: 285 FINANCING THAT FITS YOUR BUDGET!1 Subject to credit approval. Call for details. SENIORS & MILITARY! YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE + 20% % OFF OFF 10 FREE GUTTER ALIGNMENT + FREE GUTTER CLEANING* Continued from Page 12 Donaldson Run Civic President: Oversized Lot Coverage to Blame for ‘McMansionization’

F���� C����� B������� N��� � N����

Andworx Wins $8.7M Contract with USMC

Andworx has won a $8.7M contract with the United States Marine Corps (USMC) for Microsoft 365 Power Platform and SharePoint Web Development in Okinawa, Japan. This is a five-year contract for services supporting the Information Management Offices (IMO) of the three Major Subordinate Commands (MSCs) under the III Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) of the USMC. Andworx is a consulting company in Falls Church serving government and healthcare customers and member of the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. The company focuses on people and relationships and uses technology to drive innovation and improvements for customers.

First Thursdays with the SBA: HUBZone

The University of Mary Washington SBDC is hosting a free, online session designed for small businesses who would like to contract with the federal government. The April 6 session begins at 12 noon and will cover competition for contracts in historically underutilized business zones known as HUBZones and how participation makes a business eligible to compete for the program’s set-aside contracts. Learn more about eligibility and requirements with speaker Carl Knoblock, SBA District Director. There will be time to network with other small business owners. Visit https://clients.virginiasbdc.org/workshop.aspx?ekey=140430012 to learn more and register.

Hotel Revenues Improve

Virginia Business Magazine reports that January and February hotel revenues were each 14.9 percent higher than pre-pandemic levels, largely due to increased room rates, and rooms rented increased by 4.3 percent. Northern Virginia is rebounding and expected to continue as school groups are coming back to the area this spring. STR Inc., a division of CoStar Group, provided the hospitality industry market data.

GDIT Wins Two EPA Contracts

General Dynamics Information Technology, Inc. (GDIT) has received two contracts valued up to $380 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Under one contract, GDIT will provide program support and infrastructure to the EPA’s Office of Superfund Remediation and Technology Innovation by applying technical, scientific, analytical chemistry and IT services. The contract has a two-year base period followed by three two-year options and is valued up to $195 million. Under the second contract, GDIT will provide technical, cyber, education and program management services to the EPA’s Water Infrastructure and Cyber Resilience division to protect and secure the nation’s drinking water and water infrastructure from natural disasters, terrorism, cyberattacks and climate change. The five-year technical contract is valued at $185 million. GDIT has partnered with the EPA for over 40 years.

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