December 18 - 24, 2025
Falls Church, Virginia • w w w . fc n p . c o m • Free
Founded 1991 • Vol. XXXV N o . 45
The City of Falls Church’s Independent, Locally-Owned Newspaper of Record, Serving N. Virginia
Re-Purposed PRETTY IN PINK Stratford is Opened as Beer Garden Mayor Fetes Fancy New Add to F.C. Downtown by Nicholas F. Benton
Falls Church News-Press
The long-awaited new Stratford Beer Garden and Restaurant opened its doors for the first time late Tuesday and officially kicks off today at its 300 W. Broad St. location. From eyesore to elegant, the addition now makes the W. Broad St. corridor of mostly new or newer retail and mixed use residential options along a dozen-block stretch of downtown virtually seamless for charming aesthetic value, accented this holiday season by festive white lights hugging its stretch of trees. Since its closing in 2021, the Stratford Motor Lodge and the tiny La Caraquena restaurant it housed had been surrounded by a tasteless chainlink fence and was effectively gutted, appearing a sad mini-blight in the Little City’s downtown. Now all of that has changed, and instead, the community has a new, bright go-to place that can accommodate 300 beer lovers and diners, 200 fitting inside and another 100 for outdoor seating when the weather is right. Upon receipt of its occupancy
Continued on Page 18
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SPORTING THEIR PINK HATS in honor of the service of retiring F.C. City Council member Deborah Shantz-Hiscott Monday night were members of the audience during a recess. (Photo: News-Press)
Rep. Beyer Spearheads Another Boost to Fusion En ergy
by Nicholas F. Benton
Falls Church News-Press
While the world of fusion energy research is reeling from the shooting death of MIT’s director of its plasma science and fusion center, Nuno Loureiro, this week, a major step forward was taken in Washington D.C. under the leadership of U.S. Rep. Don Beyer, Democrat of Northern Virginia and chair of the House Fusion Energy Caucus. Along with co-chairs Jay Obernolte (R-CA), and Lori Trahan (D-MA), Beyer this
week introduced bipartisan legislation to formally establish the Office of Fusion at the Department of Energy (DOE). Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Sen. Alex Padilla (D-CA) and John Cornyn (R-TX). The killing of Loureiro was announced by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Tuesday night. Loureiro, 47, a native of Portugal, was an award winning scientist appointed director of the MIT lab in May 2024. Authorities had not captured a suspect in the shooting as of yesterday.
Last month, the federal Department of Energy released their reorganization plans which included an “Office of Fusion.” Beyer’s bipartisan bill would codify this office, and urge DOE to move forward with plans to ensure that the United States can continue leading the way on fusion energy and eventually reach commercialization. “Establishing an Office of Fusion at the Department of Energy is a critical step toward unlocking one of the most promising clean energy solutions,” said Representative Beyer. “Fusion research and develop-
ment is advancing toward commercialization, and we need a coordinated federal effort dedicated to getting fusion energy on the grid as quickly as possible. “An established Office of Fusion would provide the focused leadership and technical expertise necessary, in coordination with the private sector, to accelerate decades of scientific progress, give the United States the momentum it needs to lead the world in fusion energy development and deployment,
Continued on Page 19
PAGE 2 | DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
2025
Year In Review
fallschurchva.gov/YearInReview Learn about policy changes as well as new programs and projects that have been completed over the past year.
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 703-248-5004 (TTY 711)..
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
NE WS BR I E FS
DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025 | PAGE 3
News Briefs
Sen. Warner Delivers Remarks at Johns Statue Ceremony
Ceca Foundation Cites Achievements in 2025
Virginia’s U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner delivered remarks at the Congressional Statue Dedication Ceremony Tuesday. The dedication honored Barbara Rose Johns, a Prince Edward County civil rights leader whose student-led strike and its subsequent lawsuit became one of five cases combined into Brown v. Board of Education, one of the most consequential Supreme Court decisions in the nation’s history. Her statue will represent Virginia in National Statuary Hall. “On April 23, 1951, a 16-year-old Barbara Johns led a walkout of students at the Robert Russa Moton High School in Farmville, Virginia, to protest school segregation and the discriminatory education conditions of Black students. Her courage forced this country to reckon with its conscience on a scale much larger than she ever could have imagined,” said Sen. Warner. “I’m proud to unveil Barbara Johns’ statue in the U.S. Capitol where she will represent the Commonwealth of Virginia and be recognized for the vital role she played in ending school segregation.” “At the age of 16, Barbara Johns’ refused to accept inequality in our public schools. Her determination led to the lawsuit Davis v. County School Board of Prince Edward County, which ultimately became part of the landmark case of Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka. Her strength and unwavering belief in equality and justice helped change the entire nation for the better. It is hard to think of a better example of a Virginian to represent the Commonwealth in the United States Capitol,” added Virginia U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott. Under federal law, each state is represented by two statues in National Statuary Hall, selected by the state to honor notable individuals from its history. The Johns statue was recommended by Virginia’s Commission for Historical Statues to replace Virginia’s statue of Robert E. Lee in the U.S. Capitol. Sen. Warner and Rep. Scott are both co-sponsors of the Confederate Monument Removal Act, legislation to remove statues of individuals who voluntarily served the Confederate States of America from display in National Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol. Sen. Warner has spoken publicly about the need to remove public symbols honoring the Confederacy as part of broader efforts to advance racial justice.
In a year-end message to supporters, Falls Church native Nathan Hamme, president and CEO of the Ceca Foundation, a non-profit providing critical support for the nation’s care workers, cited achievements in 2025, while thanking Falls Church’s Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor for their contributions as co-founders. While overall surpassing $600,000 in cash awards to care workers and over 52,000 acts of care have been recognized by the non-profit since it began, more than 2,000 care workers were recognized this year alone for “their extraordinary service and dedication to the industry,” Hamme noted.
Journalist Group Condemns Hong Kong Newsman’s Conviction The Society of Professional Journalists has repeatedly raised concerns about the erosion of press freedom in Hong Kong, issuing statements in 2020 after the arrest of Jimmy Lai, former media mogul, pro-democracy advocate and founder of the now-closed Apple Daily, and again in 2021 condemning China’s attacks on the city’s media. SPJ and its International Community now condemn Lai’s conviction under a national security law imposed by Beijing. Lai was found guilty of conspiring to collude with foreign forces and of conspiring to publish seditious material. Lai has been held in jail since December 2020, but his trial did not begin until December 2023. A pre-sentence hearing will be held Jan. 12. The 78-year-old ailing Lai faces life imprisonment. “Hong Kong was promised 50 years of press freedom and civil rights following its handover to China in 1997,” said SPJ National President Chris Vaccaro. “The imposition of the 2020 security law and steady harassment of independent journalists in Hong Kong has effectively wiped out that promise.”
Creative Cauldron Holiday Concert Series Ends Tonight Tonight, Dec. 18, the last in this month’s concert series at Falls Church’s Creative Cauldron takes place, with a show featuring Stephen Carter-Hicks and Howard Breitbart. It will be a Christmas benefit for the Pulmonary Hypertension Association and starts at 7:30 p.m. The final performances of the popular Madeline’s Christmas production are this coming weekend, sponsored by Local Thrift. Based on the book by Ludwig Bemelmans with lyrics by Jennifer Kirkeby, music by Shirley Mier and directed by Matt Conner, the show’s final dates are this Friday at 7:30, Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 and 4 p.m. Jeffrey Walker of DC Theatre Arts says it’s “A perfect introduction for any child to the wonders of live performance. And one that can entertain adults, as well.”
F.C. Arts Showcasing ‘Bonding’ In Gallery Show Through Jan. 4 Works that reference the bonds between or among communities, families, cultures, or other groups are being showcased through Jan. 4 at the Falls Church Arts gallery in 700 W. Broad St., with Glen Kessler as juror. Falls Church Arts is the latest gallery to participate in a multi-venue exhibition in the D.C. area of the works of female artists from Jan. 10 to Feb. 22, with a meet-the-artist reception on Jan. 10.
Fairfax NAACP Cites Progress In Housing Equity The Fairfax County NAACP released its 2025 Branch Accomplishments and Year-End Summary this week, highlighting the organization’s advocacy, partnerships, and measurable outcomes across the county over the past year. “This year’s work reflects meaningful progress in areas that directly affect the lives of Fairfax County residents,” said Niki Zimmerman, President of the Fairfax County NAACP. “Our committees and partners worked tirelessly to advance equity, expand opportunity, and hold institutions accountable.” Key highlights from 2025 include: Significant advancements in housing equity, including new protections for mobile home owners and stronger recognition of renter rights in county development decisions, major gains in education, with the branch supporting Fairfax County Public Schools’ first Collective Bargaining Agreement in nearly five decades and expanding access to key equity data, the county’s first-ever expungement clinic, which assisted 60 residents and filed 53 petitions—helping remove barriers to employment, housing, and economic stability, and a 25 percent increase in membership, strengthening the branch’s capacity to engage the community and expand its advocacy.
PAGE 4 | DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025
LO CA L
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
PICTURES AROUND FALLS CHURCH
LED BY OWNER COLM DILLON (rear, left), Falls Church’s popular Ireland’s Four Provinces restaurant conducted a toy drive to support efforts of the Falls Church Education Foundation’s Family Assistance Fund. Concluding Tuesday, the drive’s toys were scheduled to be distributed to local Falls Church City students. (Photo: Courtesy)
THE KINTZ-MEJIA ACADEMY of Ballet presented the holiday classic, ”The Nutcracker,” in performances at the Meridian High School auditorium last weekend. (Photo: News-Press)
CAITLIN SOBSEY, head of the City of Falls Church’s capital improvement projects program, showed off her festive headgear at the Italian Cafe last Friday departing a holiday luncheon for the City’s public works employees. (Photo: News-Press)
F.C. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE’S December luncheon this week featured ugly sweaters, or hats, and such. Some of the better-arrayed members posed for this moment of holiday cheer. (Photo: News-Press)
IN AN EXTRAORDINARY recital held at the Levine School of Music earlier this month, two of the school’s exceptional faculty artists performed for the public in its new West Falls hall. The performance featured Holly Nelson on the violin and Luke Ratcliffe on piano. (Photo: News-Press)
AT SUNDAY’S ‘LATKEPALOOZA’ fundraiser for Del. Marcus Simon (left) at Mike’s Deli in Falls Church, Adrienne White sported a Menorah hat with David Thomas and Commonwealth Attorney Parisa Dehghani-Tafti (right) looking on. (Photo: News-Press)
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Ignorance & Freedom Are Incompatible Nicholas F. Benton FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
A nation cannot be both ignorant and free, Thomas Jefferson said. In short, that explains what’s been going on under Trump. Education, access to information, and values rooted in respect for others: these are freedom’s cornerstones. Education includes science, access to information requires a free press, and respect for others centers on politics, the arts and basic human interactions. No wonder that our democracy’s autocratic enemies (including Trump) strive to destroy all of them. It is no wonder that on the Internet, Russian bots focus on degrading human beings with foul language and verbal assaults. They get it: to destroy the power of democracy, begin by destroying basic decency and respect. New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman, in a podcast dialogue with David Brooks this week, said he does not fear what AI can do, as long as “trust, community and Sunday School” remain at the core of human behavior. He said that, when asked, “Is God in cyberspace,” he replied that an autocratic notion of God is not, but one that sees God “manifested in how we behave” is at the root of everything we do. It is also fundamental that access to information is an indispensable component of democracy. Historically, this has always meant newspapers, from the time that moveable type was invented by Johannes Gutenberg in 1455. It boosted the Renaissance’s influence, leading to the rise of the Enlightenment and the American revolution. No one appreciated the value of a generally distributed newspaper more than Benjamin Franklin. “Journalism is the only profession in the United States protected by the Constitution, itself. Not doctors, not even lawyers. A free press is the life’s blood of a functioning democracy. More important, even, than the rule of law, and I say this as a lawyer for 40 years and now a full time law professor. Without a free press the destruction of the rule of law would happen in the shadows. We wouldn’t even know. We have to
know. Knowing, ultimately, is what keeps us free.” This quote is attributed to Lawrence Tribe, law professor at Harvard. Thomas Jefferson said a similar thing in the midst of the fight to establish the United States as a republic in its earliest years. Jefferson considered a free press to be a cornerstone of liberty and an essential check on government power, famously stating that if the choice were between government without newspapers, or newspapers without government, he’d take the latter. “Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost,” he said. Jefferson’s writings and statements reveal a strong belief in the importance of a free press for a healthy democracy. He saw a free press as the primary security for a nation, acting as a “censor” on government actions to prevent the abuse of power; he believed that an informed public was crucial for self-governance, noting that a nation cannot be both “ignorant and free.” Walter Cronkite intoned that “freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy;” Oscar Wilde said, “in America, the president reigns for four years, and journalism governs forever and ever;” Ronald Reagan said “a free, strong, and independent press is essential to our continued success in what the Founding Fathers called our ‘noble experiment’ in self-government;” Hannah Arendt added, “the moment we no longer have a free press, anything can happen.” In terms of values rooted in respect for others, no statement has been as strong or as universal as the pivotal sentence drafted by Jefferson in the 1776 Declaration of Independence, that, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.“ Yes, it said “men” then, but the sentiment was indisputable, such that the long arm of justice has led, under the rule of democracy, to its more complete inclusion of all persons. The fight for the future must include all three: education, access to information and values rooted in respect for others. There is little our humanity is not capable of with them.
CO MME NT A Penny for Your Thoughts
DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025 | PAGE 5
By Penny Gross Former Fairfax County Supervisor
Affordability may be considered a hoax by Donald Trump and his billionaire cronies, who probably never had to consider if they could afford a restaurant meal, purchase a special birthday gift, or take a vacation, but the vast majority of Americans don’t have access to enormous sums of money, so figuring out what you can afford is an everyday stress. Housing costs, grocery prices, childcare expenses, health care premiums – the ordinary expenses of an American family are pushed out of reach, depleting savings accounts and driving more people into debt. The distance between haves and have-nots increases with every economic report. In the Washington metro area, where the cost of living is notoriously high, lack of affordability is exacerbated by the furloughs and firings of tens of thousands of federal employees by the Trump Administration and the monthlong government shutdown. The Commonwealth of Virginia is forecasting a surplus as the biennial budget is prepared, but a long-time colleague from the Shenandoah Valley often reflects that the state doesn’t have a surplus until all the bills are paid. Those bills include funding local school divisions as state law requires. Research indicates that Virginia is underfunding Fairfax County public schools by $1900 per student. That’s about $350 million per year owed to Fairfax County taxpayers, or about 10 cents on
the real estate tax rate which could be reduced if the Commonwealth ponied up their requisite share of public education. The 2026 Virginia General Assembly session begins January 14 with more than a dozen new Democratic delegates, many of whom campaigned on affordability and support for public education. We’ll see…. In the absence of legislative remedies, local non-profit organizations step in to help residents in need of assistance. Many are operated by faith communities, adhering to biblical lessons of helping others. One such non-profit is the Annandale Christian Community for Action, or ACCA, which has been serving the Annandale/Lincolnia/ Bailey’s Crossroads area since the mid-1960s. ACCA began by providing quality childcare to mothers returning to the workforce and now operates a well-regarded Child Development Center in downtown Annandale. Other ACCA activities are staffed by volunteers who support three core programs – food delivery, financial assistance, and furniture delivery. The need is great in ACCA’s service area, where 40 to 55 percent of residents are affected by food insecurity, and 36 percent of Fairfax County students qualify for free or reduced-price meals. Since 2020, ACCA has supported more than 27,000 individuals in more than 10,000 households, partnering with county social workers to
provide essential aid. The ACCA food pantry stocks produce, dairy products, bread, meats, soap, baby supplies, and a variety of canned and packaged foods. More than 1000 families received grocery supplies in FY2025. Emergency financial assistance is part of the three-legged stool of ACCA’s support. Funds for rent, security deposits, utilities, medical bills and, occasionally, vehicle repair, are provided to applicants who are vetted by Fairfax County social workers to ensure they qualify. Emergency financial assistance is just that, usually a one-time contribution to stabilize housing or employment. ACCA’s furniture program is unique, providing donated beds, tables, chairs, lamps and other essentials to make homes more livable. The furniture may fill an empty apartment for a refugee family or replace furniture damaged by flood or fire. Nothing fancy, but a bed, table and chairs can help start the path to recovery and success for new neighbors. In FY2025, 70 families were aided by the furniture program, run entirely by volunteers who gather donations, load the truck, and deliver the needed items. Despite Mr. Trump’s protests, affordability is a valid concern for residents across the nation. When the federal government fails in its responsibilities or fails to understand or heed the pleas of its constituents, non-governmental organizations pick up the pieces and help. That’s been their mantra for decades, but they need our support. You can donate to ACCA at www.accacares.org, or support your own favorite charity. Every little bit helps, especially at this time of year.
City of Falls Church Crime Report Week of Dec 8 - 14, 2025
Credit Card Fraud, N Underwood St, Dec 8, 12:28 p.m., an incident of credit card fraud was reported.
Shoplifting, Wilson Blvd, (late report) Sept 27 between 6:25 and 6:35 p.m., two unknown male suspects enter a business, remove a security device from an item of value, and leave the premises in a white Toyota van. One of the suspects shortly returns with a female who hides the item under loose clothing and they exit without paying. Suspects described as: Hispanic males, one wearing black shoes, blue shorts, a black graphic t-shirt, with black hair; the second wearing black shoes, black shorts, a black shirt, with black hair in a bowl cut. The white female was wearing a brown shirt, long baggy dress/coat, and hair in a ponytail.
Larceny from Building, W Broad St, Dec 8, 3:23 p.m., a bicycle was reported stolen on Nov 26 between noon and 3:30 p.m. Bike described as a green, hybrid style REI Co-op City 2.1. Trespass, N Washington St, Dec 9, 3:57 p.m., a black female, 48, of no fixed address, was arrested for Trespass. Larceny from Building, E Fairfax St, Dec 10, 12:28 p.m., a Fed-Ex package was taken from a secured area on Nov 29. Available video footage shows a suspect removing the package. Investigation continues. Wire Fraud, S Maple Ave, Dec 11, 9:23 a.m.,
unknown suspect(s) hacked a computer and made an unauthorized wire transfer. Destruction of Property, E Broad St, Dec 13, 2:14 p.m., two unknown suspects cracked the driver’s side window of a Ford Expedition and broke out the rear driver’s side window. Nothing of value was taken. Suspects driving a black older model Ford Escape with no front tag and the rear tag obscured. Suspect/driver described as a black male, slightly bald, wearing glasses. Stolen Auto, West Falls Station Blvd, Dec 13, between 9 and 9:04 p.m., a 2004 Toyota Sienna van containing items of value was stolen. It had been left running with keys in the ignition.
PAGE 6 | DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025
Editorial
Since 1991, an award-winning LGBT-owned general Interest community newspaper. Vol. XXXV, No. 45 DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025 • City of Falls Church ‘Business of the Year’ 1991 & 2001 • • Member, Virginia Press Association •
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E D I TO R I A L
Be prepared before the next power outage.
The Days & Months Ahead
As we move toward another new year, folks in law and policy-making positions throughout this region are holding their breaths in anticipation of dire conditions due to the Trump administration’s federal and federal contractor layoffs. The data will undoubtedly be ugly as the new year arrives for almost every aspect of the regional economy, and while this region weathered the impact of the Covid pandemic well, it is unlikely it will come out anywhere near as well this time. In Falls Church, which has the highest percentage of its total workforce employed by the federal government of any jurisdiction around here, the City’s new chief financial officer is playing coy with a range of early forecast options conditional on definitive information that has yet to come in. But he was the first to confess that, as his wife was furloughed during the recent federal government shutdown, that his family stopped going out to eat during that period, not because they didn’t have the money but because uncertainty factors left them worried for the future. The losers in this scenario are, of course, restaurants and other places that rely on discretionary spending. Now, a five dollar difference in the cost of a burger matters, whereas a year ago it didn’t so much. The first consequence is that folks begin looking for bargains in their dining choices. The second is that they stop going out altogether. Some restaurants can weather slow times better than others for a variety of reasons. But we can anticipate in the coming year that more than a few who came into the business full of optimism and hope will be shuttering. If there’s anything a jurisdiction can do to forestall this, it should. Tax abatements, incentives for landlords to ease up on rent payment demands, consumer programs like the one run during the pandemic in Falls Church involving purchase of dining cards, and others (please, listen to what the establishment owners have to say, themselves!) can make a huge difference. But they hold up only so long as there is evidence of some light at the end of the tunnel. On the bright side, Virginia is getting a solid Democratic leadership in Richmond come January, stronger than it has had in many decades, with both houses of the legislature and the governor’s mansion now all in control of that party. Can the party in such control engineer innovative new programs that will make a major difference for not only retailers, but for homeowners and former federal workers, as well? How much focus will be put on this end, and what can be done? We know that some important legislation is being readied to deepen the commonwealth’s commitment to equality and justice. But, as it has been wise for Democrats, nationally, to focus on the primary issue of affordability in this period, it remains to be seen how that translates into genuinely helpful policy initiatives.
www.fcnp.com The News-Press is certified by the Commonwealth of Virginia to publish official legal notices including probate, abc notices, small and foreign estates. We will provide the appropriate paperwork. A comprehensive book on the 36 year history of the News-Press, “The Life and Times of the Falls Church News-Press”: by Charlie Clark (History Press, 2023), can be purchased at local bookstores or online. The Falls Church News-Press is published weekly on Thursdays and is distributed free of charge throughout the City of Falls Church and the Greater Falls Church area to over 140 locations. Offices are at 105 N. Virginia Ave., #310, Falls Church, VA 22046. Reproduction of this publication in whole or part is prohibited except with the written permission of the publisher. ©2025 Benton Communications Inc. The News-Press is printed on recycled paper. A searchable archive of all issues of the Falls Church News-Press since 1991 can be found at bit.ly/44kt6Sc.
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HO LIDAY FUN 2025
DECEMBER 18 -24, 2025 | PAGE 7
Holiday Fun 2025 Pages 7 -11
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PAGE 8 | DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025
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2025 Church Christmas Events
Christ Crossman United Methodist Church
384 N. Washington St., Falls Church Check Website or contact Church for times. Columbia Baptist Church
The Falls Church Episcopal
Christmas Eve — Weds, December 24, 2025 4:30 p.m. – Children’s Pageant service (Contemporary) The Falls Church
Christmas Eve — Wednesday, December 24, 2025
8:30 p.m. – Holy Eucharist (Historic Church) with choral prelude beginning ~8:00 p.m. The Falls Church
3:00 p.m. — Little Lights Service (family-friendly, great for kids)
Christmas Day — Thursday, December 25, 2025
5:00 p.m. — Candlelight Service (traditional carols and message)
10:00 a.m. – Holy Eucharist service The Falls Church
103 W. Columbia St. Falls Church, VA 22046
115 E. Fairfax St., Falls Church
513 E. Broad St., Falls Church, VA 22046 DulinChurch.org
Join us This Holiday Season! Christmas Eve Services 5 p.m. (Family Service) • 8 p.m.
New Year's Eve Services 7 p.m. (Taizé Service)
Dulin United Methodist Church
Children’s Mass 5:00 p.m. (4:30 p.m. Carols)
Christmas Eve Services 5 p.m. (Family Service) 8 p.m.
Mass 7:00 p.m. Mass 9:00 p.m. Mass Midnight (11:30 p.m. Carols)
New Year’s Eve Services 7 p.m. (Taizé Service) Livestreamed on FB @ DulinFallsChurch and YouTube @DulinChurch 513 E. Broad St., Falls Church Saint James Catholic Church
Christmas Eve, Wednesday, December 24
The Nativity of the Lord, Thursday, December 25 Mass 7:30 a.m. (no music) Mass 9:00 a.m. Mass 10:30 a.m. (Livestreamed) Mass Noon (Contemporary Choir) Mass 2:30 p.m. (Spanish, Livestreamed 905 Park Ave., Falls Church
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
HO LIDAY FUN
Riding “The Polar Express” in Ice & More at National Harbor by Mark Dreisonstok
A train racing inexorably to the North Pole, with children aboard who have heard a call to help Santa deliver the presents and joy of Christmas. A sweet-sounding silver bell which can be heard only by “all who truly believe” in magic which transcends everyday reality. “The Polar Express,” both the book by Chris Van Allsburg and the 2004 holiday film it inspired, is a story vitally needed in today’s cynical world. In the tale, a young boy is having difficulty believing in the magic and grace of the world. One night, he awakens to find his entire home shaking; a magical train subsequently whisks him to just such a land as he did not believe existed—the legendary world of Santa and the North Pole. There the boy sees and knows and learns to lead with kindness—to love and to believe in things unseen, inspired, and sublime. Visitors to National Harbor can now experience the magical world of “The Polar Express” in a unique and memorable way as they see this thrilling narrative unfold in painstakingly crafted ice sculptures! One enters the boy’s colorful room (much of the ice is colored or tinted or complemented with props) where he first hears and feels the train which has rumbled to his house. Entire train cars in ice—several of them!—can be seen in a world of arctic snow. Comical characters, an old-time train conductor, and, of course, Santa Claus emerge larger than life in this stunning wintry fantasy just outside the Nation’s Capital in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Before venturing outside the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center to experience “The Polar Express” (as well as sacred Nativity sculptures in ice), one must remember to dress warmly: in or-
der that the ice not melt, air temperatures are maintained well below 20º F. While a warm blue parka is provided, warm clothes, closed shoes, hats, and scarves are strongly recommended. Children and adults may also enjoy “Cirque: Spirit of Christmas,” another joyous tale of going to sleep on Christmas Eve to await the presents of Christmas the next morning. This delightful live circus, at once acrobatic show and ballet, features breath-taking feats high above in the Gaylord’s massive atrium. In addition, there are juggling, spirited holiday music, and the humorous and clever use of sound effects. Mechanical whirs accompany a musical conductor (part circus master, part clown) who spreads his arms, encourages audience participation in the music, and “winds up” a ballerina as one would a ticking clock. After the Cirque performance, there are many activities for children to enjoy, including “snow tubing” down sheets of ice on “Snow Flow Mountain,” a “Snowball Build and Blast” with targets much like a carnival shooting range, and an opportunity to spend time with Santa and join Mrs. Clause for stories and cookies. While ice skating is not on offer this year, there is the opportunity to ride National Harbor’s landmark Capital Wheel, offering amazing views of Washington from high above. “The Polar Express” sculpted in ice, the 40-minute “Cirque: Spirit of Christmas,” and fun activities in snow and ice are experiences certain to add wonder and magic to the holidays for those who venture forth to National Harbor in our current frigid temperatures. For more information, including times and dates for Saturday night fireworks displays, please visit: nationalharbor.com/events/annualevents/christmas-at-the-harbor
DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025 | PAGE 9
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THE POLAR EXPRESS at National Habor. (Photo: Cordelia Dreisonstok)
PAGE 10 | DECEMBER 18 - 24 , 2025
HO LIDAY FUN
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Stella Cole’s “Christmas Dreaming:” American Standards Meet Modern Classics at Alexandria’s Birchmere
by Mark Dreisonstok
On December 10, Stella Cole appeared at the Birchmere in Alexandria for a show supporting the recent release of her single, “Merry Christmas, Darling.” At age 26, she represents both the past and present, celebrating the Great American Songbook and her love of classic Hollywood cinema, especially Judy Garland, while achieving stardom through that most modern of social media vehicles, TikTok. For this show, Stella entered the Birchmere stage with pianist Michael Kanan and bassist Michael Migliore playing her theme, the jazz classic “Stella by Starlight.” She then began her set with a lightly swinging rendition of Gershwin’s “Love Walked In.” Other Gershwin standards appeared later in the show, including a medley of “Our Love Is Here to Stay” and “’S Wonderful,” which pianist Kanan closed by deftly sampling Gershwin’s symphonic side, “Rhapsody in
Blue.” The singer then delivered a poignant “Pure Imagination,” a song of more recent vintage from the 1971 film “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.” The chanteuse performed “Darn That Dream,” often played and sung as a ballad, in an unusually swinging style, ending the song with a comically petulant “Darn! Darn! Darn!” She then switched to a lyrical “Stairway to the Stars,” from her recently released album “It’s Magic.” Cole Porter’s “Anything Goes” from 1930’s Broadway and “As Time Goes By” from 1940’s Hollywood were a pair of venerable hits which received sensitive and heartfelt treatment by the gifted singer; these song performances displayed her wide range and strong voice as well. The Cole approach is a combination of retro swing that somehow effortlessly combines with the perky and modern. This style worked well with the Christmasthemed songs of the show. She showed an adeptness for rhythm
with a swing version of Irving Berlin’s “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm,” which included a wonderful jazz piano solo by Michael Kanan. There was also a bitter-sweet “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” first introduced by Miss Cole’s idol, Judy Garland. (Her beautiful take on the iconic Garland classic “Over the Rainbow,” which brought Miss Cole to TikTok stardom, was reserved for the end of the night’s performance.) Not surprisingly at this time of year, the singer took on namesake Nat “King” Cole’s famous “The Christmas Song,” known equally by its opening lyric “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire.” Additionally, she displayed a wide knowledge of American popular music, noting this song was initially made popular by its composer, Mel Tormé. Unexpectedly, Stella did not sing “Christmas Dreaming,” the song which titled her Birchmere appearance. However, her recordings, including “Christ-
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mas Dreaming,” were offered in compact disc and vinyl long-play formats at the show. Like Miss Cole, her enthusiastic fans, which spanned generations, seemed to prefer the traditional and the vinyl, with the congenial singer autographing many copies after the
show. Stella Cole’s vibrant performance at the Birchmere likely portends her increasing success as well as gives testimony to the enduring popularity of the Great American Songbook, including its Christmas magic!
STELLA COLE. (Photos: Luke Rogers)
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025 | PAGE 11
HO LIDAY FUN
“Eternity” Turns the Afterlife Into a Charming Love Story by Lisa Sinrod
I didn’t expect to enjoy this film as much as I did. Rated PG13, “Eternity” has been described as the perfect date night movie. I found it to be charming, whimsical and refreshingly original. It is a romantic comedy-drama and takes place in an imagined afterlife. Films about the afterlife often walk a fine line between suspension of disbelief and grounded, realitybased performances when telling their stories. This film makes it all work, with quality acting and a clever storyline. Elizabeth Olsen portrays Joan, the central character. She gives a subtle yet powerful performance, relying on facial expressions to reveal internal conflicts when dealing with love, choice and regret. She brings an old-soul elegance that feels like a throwback to an earlier era, making her perfectly cast as a woman who would be elderly in life but appears in the afterlife restored to a younger self. Miles Teller, always a pleasure to watch on-screen, plays Joan’s husband (also in the afterlife) with warmth. Da’Vine Joy Randolph is a stand-out in the supporting role of Anna, an afterlife coordinator. She
won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in “The Holdovers”, and lends her passion and humor to this role. The movie opens with a scene of Joan and Larry as an elderly couple while still alive, likely in their 80s. Soon after, Larry dies and arrives at the Junction – a transitional space where the deceased are sent before they move on. It includes full accommodations, an afterlife hotel of sorts, where people can reflect and make choices about how they want to spend eternity. Inventive details make for both light and more poignant humor as the deceased navigate this neutral holding place. Larry and Joan pass away within several days of each other, and soon she is also on her afterlife journey and runs into Larry. The Junction has coordinators, guides and precise rules. The plot centers around Joan needing to make a choice as to whether to spend eternity with her first husband (a war hero killed in the Korean War who has been waiting for her at the Junction for 67 years) or with her current husband (Larry). A sweet scene involves Larry and Joan realizing that they can move in ways they haven’t been
able to for years, now that they are in younger bodies in the afterlife. Larry demonstrates to Joan how spry he is and suggests that she do some squats so she can experience the same thing. The movie will reveal how the age they will remain for eternity is determined for each deceased person. Callum Turner plays Joan’s dashing first husband Luke (the war hero), for whom the full dream of their perfect marriage was never realized because his life was cut short. Despite Joan’s seemingly contented marriage to Larry, which included many decades with children and later grandchildren, she’s never forgotten Luke. Olsen plays Joan in a manner which makes it believable that she is an elderly woman in the body of her younger self, trying to decide the direction of her eternity. This sets up a love triangle, as well as some suspense. Scenic elements include an individualized museum known as the Gallery, where the deceased can revisit moments from their past lives. Joan’s repeated visits to the Gallery are intriguing, as she seeks to find both answers to her past and help in making decisions for her eternal future. As the film progresses,
humorous touches appear throughout as Larry and Luke compete for Joan’s affections and commitment in this new realm. Will this movie be your cup of tea? If you are looking for pure action and grit and
find movies that are a little sappy a major turn-off, then maybe not. If you are open to nostalgic charm and originality, as well as being pleasantly surprised, I suggest seeing it.
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PAGE 12 | DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
HO LIDAY FUN
Meridian High Names Music Classroom for Mary Jo West by Nicholas F. Benton
Falls Church News-Press
Long-time Falls Church City Public Schools’ music instructor Mary Jo West, in being recognized with a reception and proclamation at last week’s School Board meeting, was presented with the honor of having the music classroom at Meridian High School named for her. West delivered remarks at the meeting, which are as follows: “It’s just so hardwarming to see all these amazing people that I’ve been with for almost 30 years here. And the students, it’s really, it’s really, um, overwhelming to have a room, um, dedicated to my name. I never imagined that might happen, and it’s rather overwhelming, but it’s in a very beautiful way. “But I want to say this really clearly. Nothing meaningful has ever been created by one person. These people here tonight are integral and the ones that couldn’t make it or weren’t able to come or didn’t know about it, are a part of the legacy of the entire visual and performing arts department. “The room seems to carry my name now, but the story belongs to all of us. And, uh, um, I wanna make sure that I have a little bit of time to talk about the program for some of you who haven’t been around for almost 30 years. I was hired by Bob Snee in 1997. If you remember Bob Snee, great sense of humor. “I’m thrilled he saw something in me. Even if he managed to use his red pen and rewrite every memo I almost sent out, if you know Bob, that was so much like him. He was just a great guy. And from the start, I had these amazing VPA colleagues. Many of them are here tonight. They’re my, some of
them are my very best friends. “We’ve gone through so much time together, seen so many changes in the school system. It’s changed a lot in 30 years. For example, my friend Sean here, we’ve done musicals together with Pam Spicer for 28 years. John’s here, Mark’s here, Sarah’s here. All these amazing colleagues of mine that have been, we’ve been through every, we’ve been through a lot together and, um, we couldn’t be more grateful. “So 28 years ago was my first concert here. I taught at what was Thomas Jefferson. I taught at the middle school and I taught at the high school. There were only two music teachers at that time. It was me and the amazing Marie Harbison. We were teaching absolutely everything that had to do with music. “There was no choir back then. I sometimes joke that our department was held together by a lot of coffee, a lot of adrenaline, lots of cortisol, and the amazing kindness of Marie who helped me so much through those beginning years. “The high school band had 25 kids. Nina is just so characteristic of the amazing great kids I’ve had. What an honor, what a privilege. They played grade two or three music. It was one of the pivotal moments for me as a young teacher, when I had a flute player look at me and say, when I just started, gosh, I just wish we could be good. “That really lit a fire. The kids and I leveled up. We rehearsed harder, we rehearsed more often. We added rehearsals, and people like Nina, these students gave their heart. Like Chaz, there’s so many of them. I mean, I could go on for hours about them, but they give their heart, they give their determination. “Some of them wrote down all
my silly quips during rehearsals. Somehow through that chaos and through all the laughter, we began to grow and we began to get better and the parents were right there with me. That tiny program of me and Marie is now four fulltime music teachers at the middle school and high school and two part-time at Thomas Jefferson. “That kind of growth happens in the community that cares. That kind of growth happens when people support the arts. People didn’t give up on us, they just gave more: it was the kids, it was the school board, it was the superintendent, it was the amazing principals. I had an amazing staff. All of us. “All of us did this together. I want to speak truly to the soul of this program. That’s been my mu sic parents. When I had all those classes and my load was so heavy, they lifted it. I had more classes than seemed humanly possible, but the para-professional that I had was usually a band parent. I’m thinking of people like, for those of you who remember Larry Allen, for those of you who remember Steve Schmidt, these were people who were music parents that helped me during the day. “Then at night they ran the band booster lesson program and they served as treasurers. I mean, they gave so much to this program and. The treasurers stay like some, like, like Nicole Ang, like Laura Nicholson, we managed hundreds of checks. It wasn’t online. Everything was a check. Every fundraiser was a check, and we had to write all these checks and book all these events. “When I asked them, they smiled and nodded and said they were happy to do that. I’m sure when I wasn’t looking, they probably went back and started pulling their hair out. But, it was amazing.
We had over 70 kids play at Carnegie Hall and all of them could go because we had done enough fundraising and we had supported the kids to get them to Carnegie Hall. “I’m also so thrilled tonight to have our new band director here, Mr. Chad Steffy. We’re so lucky to have him. He’s given so much already to our program. I know the helm of the MHS music ship couldn’t be in stronger hands, so thank you for being here, Chad. “I want to say a quick, heartfelt thank you to my amazing husband. A lot of you know him. He’s been around quite a bit and he’s given everything to support these musicians and to support me. They talked ab out driving equipment vans to Florida and Nashville, coming in and helping me with sectionals. He was my official sub and got Dr. Noonan, an official sub pass at one point. “All of these things, whatever I asked, he always said, “How can I help?” His willingness to help has lifted the program in ways that we all felt. The kids, myself, the parents, the chaperones administration, and we are forever
indebted. So F-C-C-P-S will have their name on a room In my heart, FCCPS. “FCCPS has given me so many opportunities. I got to travel on a Fulbright to France. I got to take Aiden to Korea and, and do a sustainability conference in Say Chung. I have grown as an educator and I have grown as a human being and I am eternally, eternally grateful for the generosity and the love this entire community has shown to me. “So I am thrilled that the band boosters are creating the Falls Church Education Foundation Scholarship. I know that the MHS Band Room will continue with lots of laughter, lots of music and great kids. The band family, as we call it, will go on. This room will forever echo all the generosity of all of these people. “Every note, every lesson, every life, touched by music, holds all of our fingerprints. Thank you for your efforts to support the program. Thank you to the amazing community. It’s been a truly grateful, humbling, loving ride. I am so appreciative. Thank you.”
MARY JO WEST conducting the band. (Photo: News-Press)
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025 | PAGE 13
This Week Around Falls Church
Thursday, Dec. 18
CityDance presents Mary Day’s The Nutcracker 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.
Arts & Humanities Council of Falls Church Meeting 9:30–11 a.m.
The Klein Theatre, Washington, D.C.
Senior Center activities
Madeline’s Christmas 2–3:30 p.m.
Dogwood Room A & B, City Hall
Falls Church Senior Center 223 Little Falls St., Falls Church No Balance Fitness class; French Conversation 10 a.m.–noon (virtual); Pickleball Club noon–3 p.m.; Bridge noon–3 p.m.; Foxtrout Dance Lesson 12:30–1 p.m.; Christmas Dance 1–2:30 p.m.
A Sherlock Carol 2 p.m. (matinee) and 7:30 p.m.
James Lee Community Center
Friday, December 19
Living Nativity on the Lawn 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Madeline’s Christmas 7:30–9 p.m. Creative Cauldron 127 E. Broad St., Falls Church
A Sherlock Carol 7:30 p.m. James Lee Community Center Theater 2855 Annandale Rd., Falls Church
Saturday, December 20 Falls Church Farmers Market 8 a.m.–noon City Hall Parking Lot, Falls Church
James Lee Community Center Theater 2855 Annandale Rd., Falls Church
Tuesday, December 23
Creative Cauldron 127 E. Broad St., Falls Church
Human Services Advisory Council Meeting 6:30–8 p.m.
Dogwood Room A & B, City Hall
A Sherlock Carol 2 p.m. (matinee)
Senior Center activities Falls Church Senior Center 223 Little Falls St., Falls Church Golden Age Bingo 10 a.m.–1:30 p.m.; Canasta Hand/Foot 10 a.m.–2 p.m.; Pickleball Club noon–3 p.m.; Jigsaw Puzzles 1:30–3 p.m.
Theater 2855 Annandale Rd., Falls Church
Wednesday, December 24 Senior Center/Community Center closes Noon
Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church
3435 Sleepy Hollow Road Falls Church, VA 22044-1006
Sunday, December 21 CityDance presents Mary Day’s The Nutcracker 1 p.m. & 6 p.m.
Falls Church Senior Center 223 Little Falls St., Falls Church Bingo 9–11 a.m.; no Spanish/Italian conversation; no indoor pickleball.
Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service 5 p.m.
The Klein Theatre, Washington, D.C.
Sleepy Hollow
United Methodist Church
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3435 Sleepy Hollow Road
Madeline’s Christmas 2 p.m. & 4 p.m. Creative Cauldron 127 E. Broad St., Falls Church
Falls Church, VA 22044-1006 703-536-1974
In person and on Zoom. Send an email to office@sleepyhollowumc.org for the Zoom link.
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PAGE 14 | DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025
Delegate Marcus Simon’s
Richmond Report
Tis the season for everyone to get their Spotify / Strava / you-name-it year in review. In my never-ending efforts to make state level politics fun, relevant and on trend, I present to you: Marcus Simon’s Richmond Report “wrapped” as the kids say. I’ve had the privilege of sharing 11 monthly columns with readers of the Falls Church News-Press so far in 2025. Each month focused on a specific issue or moment, but together they tell a broader story about where Virginia is, what we value, and the work still ahead. At the heart of nearly every column was a simple idea that government should make life better and fairer for the people it serves. Whether we were talking about education funding, transportation, housing affordability, or public safety, the question was always the same. Are we meeting people where they are, and are we delivering results that matter in their daily lives? Of course, not everything got better in 2025. For instance, in January, I started with my hope that the Commanders would make it to the Super Bowl. After decades since they last got to play, it looked like there was a real possibility of that happening. Although that didn’t hold true, the larger point was about being hopeful about being back in the game, of having a chance. Some good did come out of 2025, though. While our local football team has reverted to form, the Virginia House Democrats turned out to be a real electoral juggernaut. When I was first elected, there were only 33 Democrats in the House. After November’s election results, on January 14, 2026 will have 64. I also had my most successful legislative year in Richmond with 14 of the 16 bills I introduced passing both chambers. Protecting fundamental freedoms has also been a major theme this year. I wrote often about the danger of assuming progress is permanent and the responsibility we have to actively defend the rights generations before us fought to secure. During the 2025 Session, we passed the Constitutional Amendments on the right to vote, to reproductive freedom, and to marriage equality. We will pass them again on the first day of the 2026 Session, so that they can be on the ballot in the fall. Through the spring and summer, I focused on affordability and the chaos that the Trump Administration thrives
on. Virginians are working hard, yet too many families still feel squeezed. Rising housing costs, utility bills, and everyday expenses were top of mind in Richmond this year and in many of these columns. I highlighted efforts to expand affordable housing, strengthen worker protections like paid sick leave, and lower energy costs through efficiency and weatherization. These aren’t flashy policies, but they make a real difference in whether families can stay in the communities they love. I also returned again and again to the health of our democracy, particularly as we headed into the fall and election season. That meant writing about fair redistricting, election integrity, and the importance of civic engagement. Democracy depends on participation, transparency, and trust. In a time of heightened polarization, I tried to focus on the practical steps we can take to ensure our system remains responsive and accountable. Working to expand our House Majority and take back the three state-wide offices was integral to ensuring that Virginia stands against federal overreach and protects those that need it the most. We had an unprecedented election night, making it clear how we want to move forward. Another theme that cut across many columns was the need to prepare for the future. Whether discussing climate resilience, energy infrastructure, or workforce development, the message was clear: Virginia can’t afford to be reactive. We need to plan now for the challenges coming next, from extreme weather to rapid changes in the economy, and make smart investments that will pay dividends down the road. Throughout the year, I also made a point of pulling back the curtain on how the General Assembly works. Richmond can feel distant and opaque, and part of the goal of this column has always been to connect state policy decisions to their local impact. Bills debated hundreds of miles away ultimately shape zoning decisions, classroom sizes, and the cost of living here at home. If there’s one overarching takeaway from this year’s columns, it’s that progress is the result of sustained effort, not single moments. Change rarely happens all at once. It happens through persistent advocacy, coalition-building, and showing up month after month, session after session. Thank you for reading and for staying engaged.
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Our Man In Arlington Bill Fogarty
In choosing a date for December’s “Front Page News” column, I thought it would be interesting to find out how Arlington County reacted immediately after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. I looked at two local papers, The Sun and The Chronicle, as published on the date of December 12, 1941, and found a number of interesting stories, plus one incredibly shocking editorial. Let me frame the context for December 12, 1941. Pearl Harbor was attacked by Japan on Sunday, December 7, 1941. Within 24 hours, President Roosevelt delivered his “Day of Infamy” speech to Congress, which approved a declaration of war on Japan on December 8. On December 11, Germany and Italy declared war on the United States. In the edition of The Sun, its front-page editorial column expressed the sentiments likely held by many people in Arlington: “It’s been a tough week to get any work done. We’ve worn a path from our desk to the radio in the back shop, and it’s been an impossibility to keep one’s mind on anything for five consecutive minutes without a thought of the war interrupting. There seemed nothing strange about pulling the switch on our neon sign Monday night when we heard that it should be done.” There were three separate articles on airraid precautions and the creation of civilian defense groups. The County Board held an emergency meeting that Monday night, appropriating $1,000 for uniforms for a Virginia Protective Force. In less than a week Federal agencies created plans for Federal housing projects in Arlington for 4,200 family units. The war undoubtedly would bring more people to our region. A semblance of normal life did go on. The Civitan Club and the Kiwanis Club both announced food, clothing, and toy drives that would be distributed to the needy for Christmas. Eight Washington-Lee high school students were named to its honor society. The most eye-catching headline noted that there were 152 fires reported in November: “11
house fires, 10 automobiles, 126 grass fires, three sheds and two dumps.” The Chronicle reported on a Bill of Rights celebration (on its 150th anniversary). The paper had numerous articles on the responses to the war, including references to patrols and guards: “Regulars from Fort Myer have been posted as guards on both ends of all Potomac River bridges. Uniformed soldiers, with loaded rifles and machine guns, are on the alert for any acts of sabotage.” On Thursday, December 11, one thousand volunteer air raid wardens were sworn in at Washington-Lee High School. The Chronicle was owned by Crandall Mackey, who was well-known for his “shotgun justice” in cleaning up gambling dens during three terms as Commonwealth Attorney, from 1904-1916. He later became a powerful presence in the County, as a lawyer, banker, and newspaper publisher. With that civic reputation in mind, I was shocked by Mackey’s editorial, which exposed a virulent strain of racial superiority. His editorial is filled with statements that make me wonder how widespread his prejudices may have been accepted in Arlington. Here is a small sampling from his editorial: “Everywhere the Jap is looked upon as an inferior and degraded race...he is excluded from this country by our immigration and naturalization laws because he is of an inferior and undesirable race. It is an imitative race, a mark of inferiority, and has never built a towered city, the highest evidence of civilization.” The editorial has a long string of similar sentiments. Mackey even goes on to describe a remarkable culinary theory: “People who live on rice, and fruits, and vegetable diets, are always inferior to the meat eating races...the greatness of Great Britain is due to the fact that it is a meat eating nation.” Mackey goes on to write that “...an inferior people need never be feared by a superior people.” Maybe I am a bit naive to be shocked at this overt racism by an Arlington civic leader in 1941. But one thing I do know is that it is important to have a historical record that one can access. I am grateful for newspaper.com for giving me the opportunity to take a look back at our community history!
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
DECEMBER 18 -24, 2025 | PAGE 15
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC OF AN APPLICATION BY VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY D/B/A DOMINION ENERGY VIRGINIA AND OSW PROJECT LLC FOR REVISION OF RATE ADJUSTMENT CLAUSE: RIDER OSW, COASTAL VIRGINIA OFFSHORE WIND COMMERCIAL PROJECT, FOR THE RATE YEAR COMMENCING SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 CASE NO. PUR-2025-00195 On October 31, 2025, pursuant to § 56585.1 A 6 of the Code of Virginia (“Code”), Virginia Electric and Power Company (“Company”) and OSW Project LLC (“ProjectCo”) (collectively, the “Applicants”) completed the filing with the State Corporation Commission (“Commission”) of an annual update with respect to Rider OSW for the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (“CVOW”) Commercial Project (“Application”). Through their Application, the Applicants seek to inform the Commission of the status of the CVOW Commercial Project (“Project”) and to provide the proposed cost allocation, rate design, and accounting treatment for service rendered during the proposed rate year commencing September 1, 2026, and extending through August 31, 2027 (“Rate Year”). According to the Applicants, the Project is proceeding on schedule, with certain minor exceptions, although the Applicants state those modifications are not expected to impact the planned in-service date of late 2026. The Applicants represent that the total Project cost forecast has increased to $11.16 billion (excluding financing costs). The Applicants state that through the end of September 2025, the Project had incurred actual tariff costs of $139 million, and the expected total project cost increase of $256 million relative to the Company’s August 2025 Quarterly Report reflects current projections of federal tariffs through 2026. The Applicants request that the Commission approve the updated expenditures for the Project, subject to subsequent true-ups, and find that such expenditures are reasonable and prudent in order to fulfill the Company’s service obligations as a public utility. In this proceeding, the Applicants are requesting a total revenue requirement of $665,177,036 for recovery in Rider OSW for the Rate Year. The Company has provided several changes to its revenue requirement calculation as compared to the calculations approved by the Commission in the Final Order in Case No. PUR-2024-00206: (1) the Company is utilizing an updated revenue lag based on calendar year 2024 for calculating the cash working capital component of rate base and requests that any issues related to the revenue lag be governed by the outcome of the Company’s previously pending Biennial Review proceeding, Case No. PUR-2025-00058; (2) the Company proposes to recover sales and use taxes relative to the Project through Rider OSW as of the establishment of the Stonepeak partnership; (3) per the Commission’s December 15, 2022 Order on Reconsideration in Case No. PUR-2021-00142, the Company has incorporated construction cost sharing metrics in the revenue requirement for costs exceeding the $10.3 billion threshold beginning in December 2026; (4) the requested revenue requirement in this case includes a curtailment assumption of 50% deliverability from March 2026 to March 2030; and (5) the timing and recognition of the Project’s renewable energy credit (“REC”) benefits in Rider OSW are reflected in accordance with the REC purchase agreement between the Company and ProjectCo as discussed in Company Witness Richmond’s testimony. If the proposed Rider OSW revenue requirement for the Rate Year is approved, the impact on customer bills would depend on the customer’s rate schedule and usage. According to the Applicants, implementation of the proposed Rider OSW on September 1, 2026, would decrease the bill of a typical residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month by $0.90 compared to the current Rider OSW. The Company is proposing an updated Rider OSW Tariff, with an updated cost allocation and rate design methodology. The Applicants propose to calculate the allocation factors to include the load and usage of all bundled service customers and all retail choice customers (except for one exempt customer), and, for the first time, to remove customers enrolled in the percentage of income payment plan program. Additionally, the Company is proposing two separate changes to its Virginia class cost allocation: (1) the Company is proposing to modify the Virginia customer class allocation factor used in this proceeding to reflect the Company’s forecasted customer growth and to modify its Average & Excess methodology calculation to adjust these 2024 allocation determinants based on the Company’s forecast for the Rate Year in this proceeding (consistent with its approach to allocating costs for the 2026 and 2027 Rate Years in the Company’s 2025 Biennial Review proceeding); and (2) the Company is proposing to change how benefits associated with fuel, RECs, and other energy-related items associated with Rider OSW are allocated: specifically, to allocate both the demand-related and energy-related portions of the revenue requirement using the same factor, Factor 1. Interested persons are encouraged to review the Applicants’ Application and supporting documents in full for additional details about this matter. TAKE NOTICE that the Commission may apportion revenues among customer classes and/or design rates in a manner differing from that shown in the Application and supporting documents and thus may adopt rates that differ from those appearing in the Application and supporting documents. The Commission entered an Order for Notice and Hearing in this proceeding that, among other things, scheduled public hearings on the Application. A hearing for the receipt of testimony
from public witnesses on the Application shall be convened telephonically at 10 a.m. on May 12, 2026. On or before May 7, 2026, any person desiring to offer testimony as a public witness shall provide to the Commission: (a) your name, and (b) the telephone number that you wish the Commission to call during the hearing to receive your testimony. This information may be provided to the Commission: (i) by filling out a form on the Commission’s website at scc.virginia. gov/pages/webcasting; or (ii) by calling (804) 371-9141. This public witness hearing will be webcast at scc.virginia.gov/pages/webcasting. Beginning at 10 a.m. on May 12, 2026, the Hearing Examiner will telephone sequentially each person who has signed up to testify as provided above. On May 12, 2026, at 10 a.m., or at the conclusion of the public witness portion of the hearing, whichever is later, in the Commission’s second floor courtroom located in the Tyler Building, 1300 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, the Hearing Examiner will convene a hearing to receive testimony and evidence related to the Application from the Applicants, any respondents, and the Commission’s Staff (“Staff”). To promote administrative efficiency and timely service of filings upon participants, the Commission has directed the electronic filing of testimony and pleadings, unless they contain confidential information, and required electronic service on parties to this proceeding. Electronic copies of the public version of the Application may be obtained by submitting a written request to counsel for the Company, Vishwa B. Link, Esquire, McGuireWoods LLP, Gateway Plaza, 800 East Canal Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, or vlink@mcguirewoods. com. Interested persons also may download unofficial copies of the public version of the Application and other documents filed in this case from the Commission’s website: scc.virginia. gov/pages/case-information. On or before May 7, 2026, any interested person may submit comments on the Application by following the instructions found on the Commission’s website: scc.virginia.gov/casecomments/submit-public-comments. Those unable, as a practical matter, to submit comments electronically may file such comments by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the State Corporation Commission, c/o Document Control Center, P.O. Box 2118, Richmond, Virginia 23218-2118. All such comments shall refer to Case No. PUR-2025-00195. On or before February 4, 2026, any person or entity wishing to participate as a respondent in this proceeding may do so by filing a notice of participation with the Clerk of the Commission at scc.virginia.gov/clk/efiling. Those unable, as a practical matter, to file a notice of participation electronically may file such notice by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the Commission at the address listed above. Such notice of participation shall include the email addresses of such parties or their counsel, if available. The respondent simultaneously shall serve a copy of the notice of participation on counsel to the Applicants, any other respondents and Staff electronically as described above. Pursuant to 5 VAC 5-20-80 B, Participation as a respondent, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure, 5 VAC 5-20-10 et seq. (“Rules of Practice”), any notice of participation shall set forth: (i) a precise statement of the interest of the respondent; (ii) a statement of the specific action sought to the extent then known; and (iii) the factual and legal basis for the action. Any organization, corporation, or government body participating as a respondent must be represented by counsel as required by 5 VAC 5-20-30, Counsel, of the Rules of Practice. All filings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2025-00195. For additional information about participation as a respondent, any person or entity should obtain a copy of the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing. On or before March 18, 2026, each respondent may file with the Clerk of the Commission, at scc.virginia.gov/clk/efiling, any testimony and exhibits by which the respondent expects to establish its case. Any respondent unable, as a practical matter, to file testimony and exhibits electronically may file such by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the Commission at the address listed above. Each witness’s testimony shall include a summary not to exceed one page. A copy of all testimony and exhibits shall be served electronically on the Staff, the Applicants, and all other respondents simultaneous with their filing. In all filings, respondents shall comply with the Rules of Practice, as modified herein, including, but not limited to: 5 VAC 520140, Filing and service, and 5 VAC 5-20-240, Prepared testimony and exhibits. All filings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2025-00195. Any documents filed in paper form with the Office of the Clerk of the Commission in this docket may use both sides of the paper. In all other respects, except as modified by the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, all filings shall comply fully with the requirements of 5 VAC 5-20-150, Copies and format, of the Rules of Practice. The public version of the Application, the Commission’s Rules of Practice, the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, and other documents filed in the case may be viewed at: scc.virginia.gov/pages/case-information.
VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY AND OSW PROJECT LLC
PAGE 16 | DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC OF A PETITION OF VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY FOR REVISION OF A RATE ADJUSTMENT CLAUSE, DESIGNATED RIDER SMR, UNDER §§ 56-585.1:14 AND 56-585.1 A 6 OF THE CODE OF VIRGINIA CASE NO. PUR-2025-00196 On November 3, 2025, Virginia Electric and Power Company (“Dominion” or “Company”) filed a petition (“Petition”) with the State Corporation Commission (“Commission”), pursuant to §§ 56-585.1:14 and 56-585.1 A 6 of the Code of Virginia (“Code”), for approval of an annual update to its rate adjustment clause, designated Rider SMR, to recover the projected and actual project development costs associated with the development of one or more small modular reactors (“SMRs”) on Company-owned property adjacent to the existing North Anna Power Station (“North Anna”) in Louisa County, Virginia. The Commission previously approved Dominion’s initial request to recover the costs of the SMR project development activities anticipated to be incurred between July 1, 2024 and August 31, 2026 (“Phase I”) through Rider SMR in Case No. PUR-2024-00205. Through its Petition, the Company provides an update on the Phase I progress, including updated timelines and costs, and further requests to update Rider SMR to recover the costs of the SMR project development activities anticipated to be incurred between September 1, 2026 and August 31, 2027, which the Company refers to as “Phase II.” The Company states that the Phase I project development scope of work includes activities necessary to determine the feasibility of deploying an SMR at the North Anna site. Phase I includes necessary early project development activities to evaluate SMR technologies through requests for proposals (“RFP”) and includes seeking potential federal funding for the deployment of an SMR at the site. Additionally, Phase I includes steps to renew the existing Early Site Permit (“ESP”) and efforts to respond to associated Nuclear Regulatory Commission (“NRC”) requests for additional information, as well as site surveys, studies, and field work. The Company asserts that the revised total cost estimate for the Phase I scope of work is $20.2 million, compared to the original estimate of $24.8 million. According to the Company, costs associated with the ESP renewal are lower than originally forecasted due to a reduced need for supporting site surveys. Proposed Phase II development activities projected to be incurred during the period of September 1, 2026 through August 31, 2027 (“Rate Year”) include some anticipated costs originally expected in Phase I due to an RFP extension. These comprise site studies and field work at North Anna that are informed by technology selection, commercial agreement negotiations, monitoring wells, and geotechnical work. Phase II work also includes continuation of the ESP renewal, which will include responding to NRC requests for information during the review process. The Company states that once a technology is selected, additional internal engineering and support staff are expected as part of the oversight and review process of the technology’s design development. Phase II also includes costs associated with continued implementation of the Company’s recently approved nuclear quality assurance program description. Dominion’s total cost estimate for the Phase II scope of work is $12.8 million; however, the Company is only seeking to recover $9.01 million of this amount through Rider SMR, which, pursuant to Code § 56-585.1:14, constitutes 80% of the Virginia jurisdictional costs, including financing costs, expected to be incurred during the Rate Year, with the remainder to be recovered through the Company’s rates for generation and distribution services. According to Dominion, implementation of the proposed Rider SMR on September 1, 2026 would decrease the monthly bill of a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month by $0.14. Interested persons are encouraged to review Dominion’s Petition and supporting documents in full for additional details. TAKE NOTICE that the Commission may apportion revenues among customer classes and/or design rates in a manner differing from that shown in the Petition and supporting documents and thus may adopt rates that differ from those appearing in the Company’s Petition and supporting documents. The Commission entered an Order for Notice and Hearing in this proceeding that, among other things, scheduled a public hearing on Dominion’s Petition. A hearing for the receipt of testimony from public witnesses on the Company’s Petition shall be convened telephonically at 10 a.m. on May 5, 2026. On or before April 28, 2026, any person desiring to offer testimony as a public witness shall provide to the Commission: (a) your name, and (b) the telephone number that you wish the Commission to call during the hearing to receive your testimony. This information may be provided to the Commission: (i) by filling out a form on the Commission’s website at scc.virginia.gov/case-information/ webcasting; or (ii) by calling (804) 371-9141. This public witness hearing will be webcast at: scc.virginia.gov/case-information/webcasting.
Beginning at 10 a.m. on May 5, 2026, the Hearing Examiner appointed to this case will telephone sequentially each person who has signed up to testify as provided above. On May 5, 2026, at 10 a.m., or at the conclusion of the public witness portion of the hearing, whichever is later, in the Commission’s second floor courtroom located in the Tyler Building, 1300 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, the Hearing Examiner will convene the evidentiary portion of the hearing to receive testimony and evidence related to the Petition from the Company, any respondents, and the Commission’s Staff (“Staff”). To promote administrative efficiency and timely service of filings upon participants, the Commission has directed the electronic filing of testimony and pleadings, unless they contain confidential information, and required electronic service on parties to this proceeding. Electronic copies of the public version of the Petition may be obtained by submitting a written request to counsel for the Company: Elaine S. Ryan, Esquire, McGuireWoods LLP, Gateway Plaza, 800 East Canal Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, or eryan@ mcguirewoods.com. Interested persons also may download unofficial copies of the public version of the Petition and other documents filed in this case from the Commission’s website: scc.virginia.gov/case-information. On or before April 28, 2026, any interested person may submit comments on the Petition by following the instructions found on the Commission’s website: scc.virginia. gov/case-information/submit-public-comments. Those unable, as a practical matter, to submit comments electronically may file such comments by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the State Corporation Commission, c/o Document Control Center, P.O. Box 2118, Richmond, Virginia 23218-2118. All such comments shall refer to Case No. PUR-2025-00196. On or before February 2, 2026, any person or entity wishing to participate as a respondent in this proceeding may do so by filing a notice of participation at scc.virginia. gov/clk/efiling. Those unable, as a practical matter, to file a notice of participation electronically may file such notice by U.S. Mail to the Clerk of the Commission at the address listed above. Such notice of participation shall include the email addresses of such parties or their counsel, if available. The respondent simultaneously shall serve a copy of the notice of participation electronically on counsel to the Company, Staff, and any other respondents. Pursuant to 5 VAC 5-20-80 B, Participation as a respondent, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure, 5 VAC 5-20-10 et seq. (“Rules of Practice”), any notice of participation shall set forth: (i) a precise statement of the interest of the respondent; (ii) a statement of the specific action sought to the extent then known; and (iii) the factual and legal basis for the action. Any organization, corporation, or government body participating as a respondent must be represented by counsel as required by 5 VAC 5-20-30, Counsel, of the Rules of Practice. All filings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2025-00196. For additional information about participation as a respondent, any person or entity should obtain a copy of the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing. On or before March 13, 2026, each respondent may file with the Clerk of the Commission at scc.virginia.gov/clk/efiling any testimony and exhibits by which the respondent expects to establish its case. Any respondent unable, as a practical matter, to file testimony and exhibits electronically may file such by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the Commission at the address listed above. Each witness’s testimony shall include a summary not to exceed one page. All testimony and exhibits shall be served electronically on Staff, the Company, and all other respondents simultaneous with their filing. In all filings, respondents shall comply with the Rules of Practice, as modified herein, including, but not limited to: 5 VAC 5-20-140, Filing and service, and 5 VAC 5-20-240, Prepared testimony and exhibits. All filings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2025-00196. Any documents filed in paper form with the Office of the Clerk of the Commission in this docket may use both sides of the paper. In all other respects, except as modified by the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, all filings shall comply fully with the requirements of 5 VAC 5-20-150, Copies and format, of the Rules of Practice. The public version of the Company’s Petition, the Commission’s Rules of Practice, the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, and other documents filed in the case may be viewed at: scc.virginia.gov/case-information.
VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025 | PAGE 17
C L AS S I F I E DS
LEGAL NOTICE
AUCTIONS
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ATTN. AUCTIONEERS: Promote your upcoming auctions statewide! Affordable Print and Digital Solutions reaching your target audience. Call this paper or Landon Clark at Commonwealth Media Solutions 804-5217576, landonc@vpa.net
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The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) of the City of Falls Church, Virginia will hold a public hearing on January 8th, 2026, at 7:30 PM in the Council Chambers, located at 300 Park Avenue, for consideration of the following item: Variance application V1674-25 by Jay Shalaty (Applicant), on behalf of Ericka and Nicholas Tomen (Owners), for a variance to Section 48-238(3)(a) to allow a rear setback of 31.3 feet instead of the 40 feet minimum allowed to construct a screened in porch at 1303 Gibson Place, RPC#52-502-064 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned R-1A, Low Density Residential District. Public comment and questions may be submitted to zoning@fallschurchva. gov until 4:30 pm on January 8th, 2026. 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.
ABC NOTICE Fish Taco of Falls Church LLC trading as Fish Taco, 930 W. Broad St., Fairfax County, Falls Church, VA 22046 is applying to the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Authority for a Retail Restaurant License – Wine, Beer, Mixed Beverages, Consumed On and Off Premises License to sell alcoholic beverages. 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 2 required newspaper legal notice. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200. Yeu Beauty Studio, LLC, trading as Yêu Beauty Studio, 6777 Wilson Blvd., Falls Church, Falls Church City, VA 22044-3302 is applying to the VIRGINIA ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Marketplace; beer, wine; on-premises consumption license of alcoholic beverages. 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.
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We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap. All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-8530. Toll free call (888) 551-3247. For the hearing impaired call (804) 367-9753.
PAGE 18 | DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2025
Stratford Garden Fills Out Downtown Profile as Re-Purposed Motor Inn
Continued from Page 1
permit, the doors were unlocked and the lights turned on for the first time Tuesday night, when Falls Church Mayor Letty Hardi led an entourage for a first look. Planning Commissioner Phil Duncan was on hand to perform his now regular role as social media photographer and commentator. “Stratford Garden is open! And the place is hoppin’. Delicious dinners, tasty beverages, and good company, including Mayor Mayor Letty Hardi, with co-owner Arash Tafakor,” Duncan gushed on Facebook later that night. Brothers Arash and Afsheen Tafakor, owners of Dominion Wine and Beer and the Brick House Butcher five blocks up the road in the 800 block of W. Broad, are co-owners. They’ve been working on their plans for its transformation since 2023. The modern interiors, designed by Francois Frossard Design of Miami, preserve some of the structure’s original elements, such as the 1960’s exposed brick, steel ceiling beams and stained wood. “A project’s storytelling ability—its potential to merge the old with new—is always exciting,” said Matt Lee, principal of Lee Design Studio in Falls Church, the architect. “I think the charm
of those former establishments will shine through when we give the motor lodge new life.” The restaurant will turn out classic bar fare ($13-$17) and main courses ($20-$30), from cheesesteaks and burgers to rockfish and branzino, using locallysourced meats and seafood from Brick House Butcher up the street. The concept also includes a carry-out café serving coffee, breakfast and dinner. The beer menu will highlight craft suds from some 20 local breweries, including crisp pilsners, hazy and West Coast IPAs and sours. Also on the beverage list are premium wines and a cocktail program. But the Stratford is hardly the only action happening in Falls Church right now in terms of opening or soon-to-be opening eateries. According to the City’s Office of Economic Development, a wide array of new things are happening. In the West End development, a Best Buns Bakery and Burgers in a kiosk in the median of the West Falls Station Boulevard at Mustang Alley is under review, while a building permit has been issued to the Dok Khao Thai Eatery. At the Founders Row 1, building permits have been issued to Fish Taco, iPanda Dumplings, Playa Bowls and The Cheese Cartel, and under review is Lil
Cakes and Creamery. At the Founders Row 2, a building permit has been issued to My Home Thai Bistro adjacent to the recently-opened Tatte Bakery, and awaiting application is Ian Sushi. The Paris Baguette in the Tower Square shopping center has just opened to a brisk business, and the Little Beast pizza restaurant next to the Whole Foods and adjacent to the Creative Cauldron is undergoing inspections. The Koi Koi Japanese restaurant in the cul-de-sac at 450 W. Broad has been sold, and the new owners say they will come back in with another sushi-style establishment there. Two new grocery stores are coming. The Fresh Market at the West Falls is under review and the Grocery Outlet Bargain Market at the site of the former Target on S. Washington has signage up and is slated to open in February. It is a bargain outlet that sells major brands. Both are part of larger chains. The Fresh Market, which will come in right at the corner of W. Broad and Haycock Road, will be one of 172 locations mostly in the eastern U.S., and The Grocery Outlet has a handful of locations in Maryland, but overall has over 500 locations, the vast majority spread across California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Nevada.
Meridian Boys Bounce Back With Dominant Win Over Liberty-Bealeton by Ryan McCafferty
Will Davis and Jesper Pender both scored 16 points, Mason Pye added 13, and the Meridian High School boys’ basketball team beat Liberty (Bealeton) by a score of 73-36 on Tuesday night. It was a quick turnaround for the Mustangs, who lost by 15 on Monday to Tuscarora for their first defeat of the 2025-26 season. In this one, they came out of the gates like a team that was ready to wash the bad taste
out of their mouths. It was their final contest before the holiday break, and Jim Smith’s squad was determined to make the most of it. Meridian started the game on a 9-0 run, then led 19-2 before Liberty got back within 23-15 midway through the second quarter. But it was all Mustangs from there, as the home team had advantages of 36-18 at halftime and 56-27 after three. The final 37-point margin was their largest of the season.
“I thought it was a solid B effort,” said Smith, who noted there are still a few areas the Mustangs need to clean up – namely free throws. “In practice tomorrow I might just have them shoot free throws the whole hour.” Meridian was scheduled to host Trinity-Meadow View on Friday, but that game will no longer occur. The Mustangs won’t be back on the court until the new year, when they face Manassas Park on the first Tuesday of January.
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Mystery Meets Holiday Magic in A Sherlock Carol! Friday, December 19-20, 7:30; matinees 20-21, 2:00 p.m. – Providence Players performs A Sherlock Carol! Mark Shanahan brings Sherlock Holmes and Tiny Tim together in a clever, heartwarming holiday mystery that’s part whodunit, part Christmas tale, and entirely delightful for audiences of all ages. Moriarty is dead, and Sherlock Holmes is a haunted man. When a grown-up Tiny Tim asks Holmes to investigate the mysterious death of Ebenezer Scrooge, the great detective must use his skills to solve a Dickens of a Christmas mystery. This theatrical holiday treat filled with mystery, humor, and heart runs through December 21st at the James Lee Community Center on weekend evenings and Sunday matinees. https://business.fallsch-
u r c h c h a m b e r. o r g / e v e n t s / details/a-sherlock-carol81856?calendarMonth=2025-12-01
Noon Year’s Eve Wednesday, December 31, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. - Ring in the New Year a little early at West Falls’ Commons Park with a family-friendly countdown to noon. Enjoy a DJ, a bubble party, and a bubble performer creating incredible giant bubbles. Kids will enjoy face painters, balloon artists, and a photo booth to capture all the fun. Grab lunch at one of our many incredible restaurants while you’re here! https://business.fallschu r c h c h a m b e r. o r g / e v e n t s / details/noon-years-eve81800?calendarMonth=2025-12-01
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Fusion Energy Scientist Killed, But Beyer Keeps Technology
Continued from Page 1
and finally supply fusion power to the grid.” “Fusion energy represents one of the most promising breakthroughs of our time, with the potential to deliver abundant, reliable, carbon-free power while strengthening America’s economic and national security,” said Rep. Obernolte. “By reestablishing the Office of Fusion at the Department of Energy, this bill accelerates commercialization through public-private partnerships, positions our workforce and supply chains to compete and win against adversaries like China, and ensures the United States remains the global leader in fusion technology. Congress must provide clear direction and a coordinated federal strategy to move fusion from the lab to the grid, and this legislation does exactly that.” “Fusion energy holds enormous promise to deliver clean, reliable, and affordable power while strengthening America’s competitiveness and security,” said Rep. Trahan. “Formally establishing an Office of Fusion at the Department of Energy will give this rapidly advancing field the focus and coordination it needs to move from breakthrough science to real-world deployment. With world-class fusion companies and researchers here in Massachusetts and across the country, this bipartisan legislation helps ensure the United States leads the way in bringing fusion from the lab to the grid.” With energy costs soaring across the nation, the office would advance fusion energy and accelerate research, development, demonstration, deployment, and market adoption of fusion technologies. In partnership with the private sector, this office would also advance near-term and long-term fusion energy science and technology to meet the growing energy, environmental, and economic demands of the United States. “A clean energy future powered by fusion has the potential to bring nearly unlimited, dependable, and carbon-free electricity across our country, slashing energy costs for millions of Americans,” said Sen. Padilla. “California’s Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is leading the industry with repeatable fusion ignition breakthroughs, and Republicans and Democrats agree that now is the time to support further progress to cement the United States’ energy dominance and establish fusion’s market viability. Establishing the Office of Fusion is a bipartisan priority to support advancements in fusion technology to lower Americans’ electric bills and meet the
evolving energy needs of our nation.” “As energy demand continues to skyrocket, the United States must implement innovative solutions quickly to maintain reliability and safeguard national security,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By establishing the Office of Fusion within the Department of Energy, this legislation would accelerate the deployment of cutting-edge fusion energy as an abundant and reliable power source to help meet surging demand and bolster grid stability.” Last year, Trahan, Obernolte, Beyer, Padilla, and Cornyn’s Fusion Energy Act was signed into law as part of the Fire Grants and Safety Act. The law streamlines the creation of clear federal regulations to support the development of commercial fusion facilities by codifying the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s regulatory authority over commercial fusion energy systems. In December 2022, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory became the first lab to achieve fusion ignition — meaning more energy was released than was needed for the reaction. Ignition has been achieved at least seven times since then. This success proves the viability of fusion energy and the leadership of the United States in the face of heavy investment by China. “The restoration of the Office of Fusion, first by the Trump Administration, and now Congress, is the newest powerful signal that fusion is rapidly evolving from its scientific origins to a commercial endeavor that will power the global economy for generations,” said Bob Mumgaard, CEO of Commonwealth Fusion Systems. “I applaud the sponsors of the bill for the vision and leadership in helping to ensure the Department of Energy’s fusion efforts are organized and, ultimately, funded around driving commercial deployment and scaling of fusion power.” “A dedicated office of fusion at the Department of Energy was a priority for the FIA from the beginning. We thank the sponsors for their leadership on the introduction of this bipartisan, bicameral legislation and look forward to supporting its passage. This bill will codify the DOE’s plan to create an office of fusion. The prioritization of fusion through a dedicated office will advance the path to commercial deployment,” said Andrew Holland, CEO, Fusion Industry Association. Loureiro said recently, “Fusion energy will change the course of human history. It’s both humbling and exciting to be leading a research center that will play a key role in enabling that change.”
DECEMBER 11 - 17, 2025 | PAGE 19
Falls Church Business News & Notes Tax Credit for Hiring is Set to Expire
Businesses have had the opportunity to hire certain groups of disadvantaged workers and receive The Work Opportunity Tax Credit, and it is now scheduled to expire at the end of the year. Created in 1996, it expanded to include nine categories of workers such as those receiving SNAP benefits, the long-term unemployed, and qualified veterans. This credit of $2,400 to $9,600 depends on the hours worked and class of workers. It is possible that it will be renewed sometime in the future. https://www.bizjournals.com/washington/news/2025/12/04/work-opportu nity-tax-credit-deadline-expire.html?utm_source=st&utm_medium=en&utm_ campaign=me&utm_content=WA&ana=e_WA_me&j=42920888&senddate=202512-08&utm_term=ep5&empos=p5
Lions Club Fruit Sale Saturday, December 20, 8:15 a.m. until sold out. The Falls Church-Annandale Lions Club Charities announce their Premium Citrus Fruit Sale. All proceeds support their charitable work in the Falls Church and Annandale communities. Visit them Saturday at the Annandale Swim and Tennis Club. The address is 7530 Little River Turnpike between Wendy’s and McDonald’s in the Craig Moving Van. View the website for additional information: http://fc-alions.org.
Creative Cauldron in 2025 Broadway World DC Awards! Creative Cauldron Stage has received 23 nominations for the prestigious 2025 Washington DC BroadwayWorld Regional Awards. The nominations span 13 distinct categories, recognizing the company’s commitment to artistic excellence across its professional stage productions, educational programs, and musical concert series. This recognition highlights the depth of talent within the Creative Cauldron artistic family and the critical acclaim received by its diverse 2024-2025 season programming, including the Learning Theater production of “Aladdin,” the Bold New Works premiere “Woman On Fire,” the dramatic production of “Steel Magnolias,” and the critically lauded musical tribute, “Sondheim.” The BroadwayWorld Regional Awards are entirely determined by fan votes through December 31, and the winners will be announced in January. Be sure to vote by December 31st.
Creative Cauldron Stage Creative Cauldron is the recipient of a $5000 Arts Fairfax Ticket and Participation Subsidy Grant from ArtsFairfax. The grant will support Creative Cauldron Stage’s “Artes Para Todos” programs, which provides arts workshops, classes and complimentary performances to young people from Spanish-speaking households who attend Fairfax County Title One Schools.
Nutcracker with CityDance Join CityDance this holiday season as it presents its inaugural production of Mary Day’s “The Nutcracker,” December 20-21 at the Kelin Theater in Washington, DC. A cherished D.C. tradition, this enchanting ballet was created in 1961 by Mary Day, the founder of The Washington Ballet. Follow Clara on Christmas Eve as her Nutcracker comes to life, leading her into a world of magical battles, sparkling snowflakes, and the dazzling Kingdom of Sweets. Audiences of all ages will be swept into a festive journey filled with wonder and holiday joy! CityDance Conservatory’s rising stars join professional guest artists from The Joffrey Ballet, Mariinsky Theatre, and more to bring this historic production to life. https://business.fallschurchchamber.org/events/details/citydance-presents-mary-day-s-the-nutcracker-81780?calendarMonth=2025-12-01
Kettlebell Introduction Saturday, December 20, 12:00 – 1:00 PM – Functional Fitness offers a monthly, free introduction to kettlebell fundamentals. Think: hip himge, goblet squat, and cheat clean moves. The class will teach you how to “move better” and “get stronger” using the kettlebell swing, deadlift, squat and press. There’s no experience necessary and the class is scalable to suit individual ability levels. https://business.fallschurchchamber.org/events/details/monthly-free-kettlebell-intro-class12-20-2025-72631?calendarMonth=2025-12-01
Continued on Page 18 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.
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