Dec. 23 - 29, 2021
Falls Church, Virginia • w w w . fc n p . c o m • Free
Founded 1991 • Vol. XXXI N o . 45
The City of Falls Church’s Independent, Locally-Owned Newspaper of Record, Serving N. Virginia
Child Critically Injured In Accident On Broad Street
Santamobile Spreads Cheer
Incident arouses new traffic calming concerns. by Amanda Snead
Falls Church News-Press
A young child was struck by a vehicle in the 900 block of West Broad last week and remained in critical condition at Fairfax Hospital according to the most recent information available to the News-Press as provided in a City of Falls Church press release this Monday. The incident occurred at about 4:15 p.m. Monday. The driver remained at the scene and no additional information has been provided by authorities in the meantime. The Falls Church Police Department has asked that anyone with information related to this incident contact Lieutenant R. Henderson at 703-248-5067 or at the Falls Church NonEmergency Police at 703-2415053 (TTY 711). Police Chief Mary Gavin said she had no additional information to provide as of press time.
Continued on Page 4
THERE WERE SANTA SIGHTINGS all over Falls Church in the past week, as the F.C. Volunteer Fire Department’s annual Santamobile brought out thousands to street corners to wave and cheer each night. Merry Christmas, everybody! (Photo: Falls Church Volunteer Fire Department)
Issues Persist at Affordable Apartment Complex
by Amanda Snead Falls Church News-Press
Members of Kettler, the management company of the Fields Apartments, home to a large number of residents benefiting from a deal to ensure afford-
able rental rates there in the last decade, were set to come before the City Council in November to address ongoing issues of mold, mice and other problems faced by tenants. However, they never made an appearance. Accompanying a forceful let-
ter to the editor this week (published elsewhere in this edition), a new battery of photos was sent to the News-Press showing that some of the issues have still not been resolved. This, despite promises made to the City’s Housing Commision by
the Kettler team in mid-October. These gross photos show mold covered walls, dead mice and broken appliances. The challenge now falls directly into the lap of Dana
Continued on Page 5
Inside This Week Christmas Light Displays in Yards the Little City
Local Church Rector Shares Holiday Memories
See Photos, Page 13
See Guest Commentary, Page 7
Residents all over the city have created dazzling displays of lights in their front yards for all to enjoy. From classic reindeer to blow-up Santa Claus, there is a display for everyone to enjoy.
Burl Salmon from Falls Church Episcopal shares memories of Christmases from his childhood in this week’s Guest Commentary and reflects on the feelings that this season of joy brings.
Index
Editorial................................................ 6 Letters.................................................. 6 Comment..........................................7,8 News & Notes.............................. 10,11 Calendar............................................ 14 Crime Report..................................... 15 Comics............................................... 16 Classified Ads.................................... 17 Critter Corner..................................... 18 Business News.................................. 19
PAGE 2 | DECEMBER 23 - 29, 2021
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Accident on Broad St. Critically Injures Young Child Continued from Page 1
“I am heartbroken by this tragic accident,” said Mayor David Tarter. “As a parent I can only imagine how difficult this time must be. I know our community will rally around this family in their time of need. Pedestrian safety is, and will remain, a top priority for City Council.” Following the press release, numerous locals took to Facebook to urge more enforcement of speed and traffic laws in the city as well as the addition of red light cameras on more intersections on Broad St. It is unclear whether the incident took place at an intersection. Still, the city has been working on making this road safer and plans to continue to do so and the incident has underscored the urgency of that effort. “Pedestrian safety has been a top priority of mine and this City Council’s,” said Letty Hardi, a member of the City Council. “It’s an awful accident and I’ve been saddened to hear
it’s a young boy. It is directly in my neighborhood, and I’ve walked that stretch of Broad St. with my own kids countless times.” There are currently red light cameras at two intersections on Broad. Hardi stated that with additional funding more cameras could be added at other busy intersections. The General Assembly has also granted authority to local jurisdictions to add speed cameras near school zones. “I’ve been a vocal proponent of this as they are also another effective deterrent of speeding especially when police resources are constrained,” said Hardi. The City is also in the process of adding three HAWK (HighIntensity Activated Crosswalk) signals next year. According to the City government website, these signals “beacon traffic signals are button-activated traffic control devices that stop road traffic and allow pedestrians to cross safely.” The three proposed locations are on Broad St. at the intersections of Oak, Fairfax and Berry.
More information can be found at fallschurchva.gov/2002/ Broad-St-HAWK-Signals. There are also multiple LPIs (leading pedestrian intervals) throughout the city. These allow pedestrians to have a “head start,” with the walk signal turning on several seconds before vehicles get a green light. Additionally, along Broad and Washington streets, as well as other commercial stretches where new development projects have taken place, sidewalks have been made wider to allow for more of a buffer between pedestrians and street traffic. In speaking on this latest incident to the News-Press, Hardi stressed what she has frequently commented at City Council meetings, that being the importance of traffic calming in the City. She reiterated her support for the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program, a petition-based program that allows residents to request speed bumps and bump outs in their neighborhoods, as well as a new sidewalk program. “[The Neighborhood Traffic
Calming and sidewalk programs] have both been investments we’ve made in the annual city budget and get unanimous City Council support,” she said. “In fact, the budget for both programs has increased over the past few years and just last week, we tripled the money allocated towards sidewalks to $300,000.” Council member Dave Snyder added that there are limitations as to how much the
council is able to do. “As a Council, we have pressed to use all tools available to us. But the fact is that we are constrained by state law. We will continue to press for change in that law. And as an EMT, I can tell you nothing is more important,” he stated. At the time of completion of this article, no further details have been released regarding the accident or condition of the child.
Help Wanted/P-T Sports Writer The News-Press seeks a part time sports writer who will be compensated on a pay-per-word basis to cover Meridian High School sports. Inquiries with resumes can be sent to NGatz@fcnp.com.
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Mold, Rodent Problems Continue at Fields
Continued from Page 1
Lewis, who, it was announced this week, has been elevated to head the City’s Department of Housing and Human Services. With the departure of Nancy Vincent, she’s taken over the point in the City’s response to the need for affordable housing that includes seeking to extend an arrangement whereby the Fields offers rents at a reduced rate for some tenants. The Fields Apartments, located on Ellison Street, constitute some of only a few affordable apartments in the area for lower income families due in part of a deal with a third party affordable housing entity to keep its rents low. It’s a deal that is due to expire in the next few years, while the issues at these apartments have been ongoing even as many residents do not have anywhere else they can live. “While Kettler has been reporting progress, I’ve been getting contradictory reports from residents and volunteers,” said council member Letty Hardi. “This will continue to be a top priority for us— it goes without saying that the mold and rodent issues are unacceptable living conditions, so I want the city to take every measure we have available to us to hold Kettler accountable and address the issues.” Any reports of mold are legally required to be looked at within five days of a complaint being filed but tenants have been living with mold in their living spaces for much longer. Mold can cause many health issues, especially for children, many of which live in these apartments. “What we’re really unsettled about is the delay of supporting families with the repairs that need to be done in these apartments that are substandard living conditions,” said Jennifer
Santiago, Director of Equity and Excellence Falls Church City Schools and one of the coauthors of the letter published in this week’s edition. “Those aren’t living conditions that I would ever allow people that I know to be living in. It’s hard as a community to know that this is how our neighbors and friends are living.” Members of Kettler’s team were invited to speak at multiple City Council meetings but never appeared. All communication has been carried out virtually. Based on accounts by multiple residents, there is no tracking system for requests for maintenance or repairs. Rather than having an electronic log, requests are written down on a sticky note which is passed along to those completing the work. “A couple of families have indicated that there have been some improvements made,” said Santiago. “One family indicated that almost all of the repairs that they needed are almost complete. Other families have indicated that contractors have come in and done parts of the work and then left.” Santiago also noted that there may be a lack of communication due to the lack of a tracking system to know what the status is of these requests. Susan Finarelli, Director of Communications and Public Information Officer for the City, stated that “[t]he City’s Building Inspection team will conduct on-site inspections at The Fields in response to complaints that have been received. These inspections will be in coordination with the Fairfax County Health Department, Office of Environmental Health.” While the Fields Apartments are considered “affordable” housing, and there is a third party affordable housing entity agree-
ment to keep them that way due to expire in a few years, they are not directly subsidized in any way, and many of the adults who live there are working multiple jobs to make ends meet while coming home to less than ideal conditions. “We started educating the family on their rights to make complaints and ask for repairs to be done,” said Erika Siguiera, Parent Liaison/Director of the Family Resource Center for Falls Church City Schools, who has been involved in solving these issues for a few years. “We heard from many families that they were painting the mold or hiring outside people themselves and helping others who live in the building.” One woman sustained an injury while cooking on a stovetop that she had asked to be replaced, leaving burns on her body. She did not go to the hospital over a fear of an extensive amount of medical bills. It was months after this accident occured that repairs began to be made. Kettler was reached out to but did not provide a comment in time for publication. Following Vincent’s retirement next month, Lewis will be promoted to Director of Housing and Human Services. City Manager Wyatt Shields stated that, “Dana has been a positive leader for the Department for over 15 years and a recognized City wide leader for many of these years as well. Some of the attributes that stand out for me after many conversations with people in the community and on City staff is her knowledge and experience with City programs, her ideas on how to grow these services and broaden their reach, her dedication and commitment to the people we serve, and her positive and collaborative leadership style.” Lewis will move into her new role on January 4, 2022.
DECEMBER 23 - 29, 2021 | PAGE 5
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Vol. XXXI, No. 45 December 23 - 29, 2021 • City of Falls Church ‘Business of the Year’ 1991 & 2001 • • Certified by the Commonwealth of Virginia to Publish Official Legal Notices • • Member, Virginia Press Association •
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Editorial
E D I TO R I A L
Beyer’s Optimism Buoys Biden
In an exclusive 2021 wrap-up interview with the News-Press this week, Falls Church’s own U.S. Rep. Donald S. Beyer Jr. was optimistic about the direction President Joe Biden has the nation heading. Even with the current apparent impasse with West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin, the essential features of the president’s “Build Back Better” initiative will prevail.”Taking the long view, within 10 years, all the parts of it will be U.S. law,” Beyer said.The talks between Biden and Manchin remain ongoing, he noted, as “conversation is always better than burning bridges.” Quoting Beyer, “There’s a lot in the bill to benefit the coal miners that are such a critical component of Manchin’s support base, including shoring up pension plans and investing a lot in addressing the ongoing health effects of mining coal,” In the first quarter of 2022, Beyer predicted, some major pieces of the Biden bill will get passed, though it is not known yet which ones. The extension of the child tax credit will “make the biggest poverty difference.” Climate change mitigation elements will be “existential” in their impact and funding pre-K programs will have an impact that will alter the future of the whole country. Beyer hailed the “extraordinary” achievements Biden has already accomplished in his first year, including his the trillion dollar American Rescue Plan Act that put hefty checks into every American’s bank account and much more, than the infrastructure bill that will transform the national landscape. Six million new jobs have been created, and the unemployment rate in Virginia is down to 3.4 percent. “We did all this making it through the Delta variant and with the very slimmest of voting margins in Congress,” he noted. The country is in a lot better shape than Biden’s personal approval ratings show, but even those are beginning to move up as the impact of his programs begin being felt. The prospect for continued progress, including with the Build Back Better elements can be identified by key issues, such as the capital gains tax, that Manchin has already indicated his support for. “We all know that good things take time to get done in this country. It was true for civil rights, and even now we haven’t some of the most obvious things like ratify the test ban treaty. It is just in the nature of what we do in this democracy that good things don’t come fast.” Beyer has held firm to the kind of optimism that frustrates those in the news business who would rather focus on potentials for conflict and failure, and thank goodness for that. The amount of bad press that Biden has endured in his first year, including from mainstream and non-Trumpian sources, has been shocking. Moguls in the boardrooms of corporate interests controlling the major networks, the same who boosted Trump originally, seem intent to see Biden fail. Beyer’s optimism is vital to correcting that.
To Contact the News-Press phone: 703-532-3267 fax: 703-342-0347 email: fcnp@fcnp.com display advertising ads@fcnp.com classified ads classads@fcnp.com letters to the editor letters@fcnp.com subscriptions distribution & delivery delivery@fcnp.com www.fcnp.com
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Letters
Conditions at Fields Apartments Assailed
Editor, We recently had an opportunity to visit several apartments at the Fields of Falls Church. We were stunned to see evidence of significant rodent infestation (dead mice on sticky strips), mold on the walls of the bedrooms, old and barely functioning appliances and broken doors and cabinets. The Fields is a ten building complex of more than 100 rental apartments located in the heart of Falls Church. It is owned by Kettler— a large development, investment and property management company based in McLean. The reason for the visit was to observe first hand the conditions that tenants at the Fields are dealing with on a daily basis and have been dealing with for years and to hear the concerns of tenants with children. A number of children in the Fields complex suffer from asthma and other respiratory maladies that can influenced by excessive mold on the walls and from rodent feces. Additionally, parents are truly concerned about their toddlers playing on floors of apartments infested with mice. All of this is documented with photos and testimonies of tenants. The Fields apartments are not subsidized in any way but the units are more affordable than elsewhere. The tenants pay full fare ($1666 per
[ LETTERS ]
month for 2 bedroom; $1396 per month for one bedroom) yet consistently meet with partially completed maintenance and false promises from Kettler management. We talk about the importance of affordable housing in Falls Church yet we allow these unacceptable conditions to continue for hardworking people. The City has made some effort but apparently has little authority— mold and rodents are not in the city codes. We checked with the leasing office this week and the complex is 100 percent occupied— an owner’s dream. Kettler has been contacted numerous times over the years but has shown little to no interest in rectifying these conditions. This is full profit with little to no maintenance. As a wealthy, privileged community, there must be something we can do to ensure that our neighbors live with dignity in acceptable conditions! Curtis Schaeffer Jennifer Santiago Erika Siguiera Falls Church
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
DECEMBER 23 - 29, 2021 | PAGE 7
G � � � � C � � � � � �� �� Reverend Salmon Shares Christmas Season Memories B� B��� S�����
My mother shares the story that my father would hold my sister and me as very small children for hours looking at the Christmas tree until, invariably, we would fall asleep on his lap or up against him, and he would, after he gazed at the tree a little longer himself, finally carry us off to bed, making sure not to wake us out of a blessed slumber. I was too young to remember these moments, but it stands as no surprise that I still linger for hours in front of the Christmas tree long after others have gone to bed, or sometimes stir far earlier than others in the house and gaze at the tree in the pre-dawn, winter hours. My affection for the tree began early, but it really isn’t the tree that captivates me as much as it is the lights that twinkle in the darkness, the brilliant sparks that turn any room into a magical wonderland for a season in the dead of winter. This year is no different, and I am grateful for the tree in the rectory in Broadmont where I am spellbound, unsurprisingly, by the lights that sparkle amidst the otherwise darkness of a cool and quiet house. Each bulb, like a single candle, dim on its own, can scatter the darkness that has gathered in the room from dusk onward, but with the effect of light added to light, the tree begins to glow until the room warms both in light and in spirit, and darkness is held at bay.
As I have gotten older, I find myself drawn even more to light in the darkness, just as the lights on the Christmas tree at the rectory pierce the inkiness of a winter night.
“The joy that is Christmas is the light, and in the bleakness of midwinter, in the numbness that is our day-to-dayness, in the struggle that is often life, the light of Christmas breaks into even the Scroogiest of hearts. It scatters the darkness of doubt and fear.”
While we are accustomed to hearing of room-less inns and shepherds and angels singing and a baby in a manger at Christmas (think Linus’ monologue in “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” which is Luke’s Gospel verbatim), we don’t often
pay attention to John’s Gospel in which the writer spends a great deal of energy getting across the centrality of light in the Incarnation, in God becoming flesh and dwelling among us. And so we miss something central to both the holiday and to the lives of those who follow Jesus, and I regret that. Too often you and I find ourselves surrounded by darkness. Not the darkness at the end and beginning of the day, but darkness that is discouragement, that is the self-absorption of the world around us and the abrogation of a common welfare; darkness that is exclusion instead of inclusion, that creates or perpetuates otherness, that builds walls instead of tears them down; darkness that presses in and down; darkness that is unwavering doubt; darkness that begets further darkness. And frequently we fill our lives with the bustle and busy-ness of activities, especially this time of year, that distracts us enough that we don’t notice the darkness or perhaps inures us to the darkness. But the dark remains. Which is why the light is essential. The joy that is Christmas is the light, and in the bleakness of midwinter, in the numbness that is our day-to-dayness, in the struggle that is often life, the light of Christmas breaks into even the Scroogiest of hearts. It scatters the darkness of doubt and fear and warms the souls around it. The light that is Christmas, like the lights on the Christmas tree in a
dim and quiet room, add one to the other until finally, irrepressibly, the world around us is transformed, brighter and brighter, warmer and more radiant with every heart changed. The light that is Christmas welcomes and embraces and cares and gives, so that those who know less light, those for whom darkness is closer, may know joy themselves, may know love themselves, may know peace, and may know grace. The light that is Christmas is selfless and inextinguishable, infinite and joyful. The light that is Christmas is love. Christmas is upon us in all its festive glory: the neighborhood decorating contests, the wassail (it’s milk punch in our house!), the fruitcakes, the parties, the anxieties, the filled stockings, the traffic, the day-after half-price sales—all of it. The pace can be exhausting, and it is easy to become absorbed by the expectations of the season. But in the frenzy that is all around us, I would encourage us to stop and find the light. Look for it. Know it. Share it, one by one, until we, like the lights on the tree, brighten the rooms of our lives, transforming them with love and peace and grace, until we have scattered the darkness around us and made way for the glorious brilliance that is Christmas.
Salmon is the Rector of Falls Church Episcopal.
Q������� �� ��� W��� Do you find an increase in real joy this season? • Yes
• No
• Not sure
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The News-Press welcomes readers to send in submissions in the form of Letters to the Editor & Guest Commentaries. Letters to the Editor should be no more than 350 words and writers are limited to one appearance every four weeks. Guest Commentaries should be no more than 800 words and writers are limited to one appearance every four months. Because of space constraints, not all submissions will be published. All submissions to the News-Press should be original, unpublished content. We reserve the right to edit submissions for length, grammar and accuracy. All submissions should include writer’s name, address, phone and e-mail address if available.
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PAGE 8 | DECEMBER 23 - 29, 2021
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
A Penny for Your Thoughts
News of Greater Falls Church By Supervisor Penny Gross
When I was a little girl, a threat of a lump of coal in my Christmas stocking was enough to keep me, and most kids, on good behavior, awaiting Santa’s visit. A lump of coal may not be considered environmentally friendly these days, but the spirit hasn’t changed. Rewards and punishment are still factors for children during the holidays, but my annual list of candy canes and lumps of coal apply more to adults than their offspring. Candy canes for all the health care workers who labored so diligently during the Covid-19 crisis of the past 22 months. Lives were lost, but many lives were saved because of the care by medical professionals at all levels. With the Omicron variant sweeping the globe, their expertise will be needed once
again. Candy canes for non-profit organizations who provide so many services to our community. ServiceSource, which provides opportunities for adults with disabilities, recently celebrated its 50th anniversary in Fairfax County. Wesley Housing provides affordable housing options for persons who meet low income thresholds. Bethany House helps with housing and counseling services for women and children victims of domestic violence. The Culmore Clinic provides medical services to uninsured residents, and helps connect them with medical homes. The Annandale Christian Community for Action (ACCA) operates the Child Development Center, a furniture ministry, a food pantry, and helps distrib-
ute public and private funds to help with rent, utility bills, and other needs. You can support the work of these fine organizations with your own year-end, tax-deductible contributions, as I do. Candy canes to the many Health Department staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines were available, and operated clinics that worked smoothly to vaccinate thousands of people every day at the Fairfax County Government Center. Initial doses and boosters are still being given there. Multiple lumps of coal to people who still won’t get vaccinated against COVID-19, and help save lives, including their own. Believe the science, folks! Candy canes for free summer concerts in the parks, which
returned for a shorter season this summer after the entire 2020 series was canceled because of the pandemic. Concert-goers enthusiastically came back, and the performers were equally happy to be in front of live audiences once again. Plans are underway for the 2022 concert season. A lump of coal for drivers who speed on local streets, and who fail to stop at stop signs, and red traffic signals. I am disappointed that this item appears on my list year after year, but driver behavior appears to be getting worse, not better. When I learned to drive, a stop meant the wheels stopped turning and you could feel the entire vehicle come to a full stop before proceeding again. Those lessons stayed with me. Whether in your own neighborhood or someone else’s, exercise caution and come to a full stop when you see that big red octagonal sign. It’s the law, and it also is a sign of neighborliness and responsible citizenship.
Finally, as I noted last year, candy canes for FCNP and its readers. Without you, a weekly column would be just a bunch of words on a page; with you, it can be a community conversation. FCNP covers local news like newspapers used to do, giving voice to various points of view, and highlighting local joys and sorrows with celebration and heartache. FCNP also supports local small businesses, and vice versa, and that deserves a candy cane, too! Penny Gross is the Mason District Supervisor, in the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. She may be emailed at mason@fairfaxcounty.gov.
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Join us th Christmas season for our virtual and in-person services. is
A M T S S I E R H C • Services • VE FRIDAY, DEC. 24th
Christmas Concert SUNDAY, DEC. 19th •
5p.m. - Our family Service - virtual only Light candle and sing "Silent Night"
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8 p.m. - Lessons & Carols virtual and in-person
A virtual and in-person service of music featuring the Dulin Sanctuary and Handbell Choirs, and instrumentalists.
Featuring seasonal music, scripture and Holy Communion Have your juice and bread ready for virtual Communion
NEW YEAR'S EVE • FRIDAY, DEC. 31st
7p.m. - Worship Service - virtual and in-person A Service of Scripture, prayer and taize chant
513 East Broad St, Falls Church 22046 703-532-8060
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
‘Stardust’ & a Midnight Mass
The kind of music that evokes the truest of holiday sentiments isn’t always the usual drinking song-derived carols that clog the radio airwaves and virtually everything else this time of year. While I have unscientifically observed more colorful light displays in my neighborhood’s windows and yards than I recall as usual for this season, due I can only guess to an elevated sense of joy at having our holidays back, relatively speaking, after a year of lockdowns (this being a very wonderful and FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS heartwarming thing), too-oft repeated popular holiday music can incline one to reach for the mute button more than once. Ah, the holy gift of silence! But I refuse to be the least bit of a grinch about this, instead seeing an opportunity to wax on about the great beauty of humanly created veritably angelic music, in general, even as a lot of it centers on the magical themes of this season. I am more for promoting love instead of its mythical particularities or cases commonly evoked this season, although done properly the two are not at all in conflict. On the contrary. It’s only that one involves a more universal language, perhaps, than the other. There don’t have to be a manger, wise men or sleigh bells to make the point, even if warm memories from earlier days associated with some of the carols, or other works of the season, films from the era of the nation’s most optimistic period from 60 years past like “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “Miracle on 34th Street,” or “White Christmas,” themselves speak to a more grand context. Thus, as I wrote in this space last week, to me the magnificent remake of the timeless “West Side Story,” out this season, is a true holiday masterpiece. There is plenty of music from the masters that breaks the monotony of those more popular drinking songs or other carols, and without a doubt for me, Handel’s “Messiah” is truly in a class by itself. But as I reflect on that great work, it is not its Biblical themes or narratives where its decisive features are found, but rather in the very music itself. (It is almost impossible to imagine that G.F. Handel could have written the whole 53-movement composition in 24 days). By today’s standards, the work strikes me like a huge and amazing “jam” of pure musical genius, if struck between pen and paper rather than performer and instrument, and that may have been kind of the way it was seen in its own era. It’s a context in which it can be understood as a most brilliant example of what Leonard Bernstein and Steven Sondheim brought out in the music of “West Side Story” or, in an exemplary case for me, what Hoagy Carmichael composed in the finest love song ever, “Stardust,” as it was performed in an extended version at my newspaper’s annual community-wide holiday party last week by the amazing young jazz guitarist Huck Browne and his accompanists. That was holiday music at its absolute finest. Little doubt why the great Beethoven considered Handel, in particular, the “greatest and ablest composer that ever lived.” No less than Abba in the historic new album just released, is ascribed by a Variety critic, a “Schubert lilt” in “Ode to Freedom, a majestic orchestral ballad…so stately it almost could be…a national anthem.” It’s as columnist Catherine Rampell wrote in this week’s Washington Post in a column entitled, “My Hopes for Broadway’s Recovery Are Dimming” amid the newest and most aggressive Covid surge, “In the face of continuing death and desperation, the fate of live theater may strike some as frivolous…Not for those of us whose spirits are buoyed and psyches are nurtured by their craft. Theater is about being in a room together, among friends and strangers, reflecting and refracting our common values and committing feats of empathy. I can think of few experiences more healing in this dark time – and right now, more elusive.” Her allusion, described as so mystical and reverent as in a midnight mass, speaks to the universal love that finds profound expression in the many forms of humanity’s truly creative rhymes, rhythms, discourses and artist strokes.
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Nicholas F. Benton
Our Man in Arlington By Charlie Clark
It’s a privilege to witness judges letting their hair down. I sat in on the Dec. 17 retirement ceremony for George Varoutsos, who sits on the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court for 17th Judicial District (Arlington and Falls Church). Gathered with Covid masks on the third floor of Arlington Courthouse was an impressive panel of sitting and retired judges, along with Sheriff Beth Arthur, court services staff, admirers and Varoustos’ wife Sandy and daughter Christine After 23 years and four reelections by the Virginia General Assembly, the 73-year-old Varoustos hit the mandatory retirement age. But we heard ample testimony that, given his druthers, he’d go on. William T. Newman Jr., chief judge of the Circuit Court, recalled with fondness how he and the fellow life-long Arlingtonian started together as young lawyers. “We haven’t gone far in life,” he joked, confessing to his “mixed feelings” because “now I am the oldest man on the court.” Newman mentioned how Varoutsos, even with his two University of Richmond degrees and bar association awards, is especially proud of his induction in the Yorktown High School Hall of Fame and Inspiration. Robin Robb, now chief judge of the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court, teased Varoutsos for maintaining a cold courtroom that necessitated coats. Colleagues noted how he would arrive daily and proclaim
“It’s a beautiful day. I’m glad to be here.” Judge Esther Wiggins, retired from the JDR, compared Varoustos to “Forrest Gump— always at the right place at the right time.” Some evidence: at the age of 2, George made the front page of the Washington Daily News after locking himself in a bedroom, which required his attorney father Paul to leave a court session to rescue him. Wiggins teased Varoutsos for his confusing “Egyptian-like” handwriting, which caused her to misunderstand his instructions on child support when she was his substitute. The JDR is a “difficult court,” Del. Patrick Hope said as he read the General Assembly proclamation honoring Varoutsos. His career often consisted, the judge has noted, of dealing with people on their worst days. But Varoutsos’ work with Project Peace, the Arlington program to curb intimate partner sexual violence, was praised by county board member Katie Cristol (whom Varoutsos thanked for renovating the courthouse). The judge’s support for the Safe Havens supervised visitation center and Stop Child Abuse Now of Northern Virginia was praised by SCAN Executive Director Leah Fraley, citing his help with “103 lives rewritten.” Falls Church Mayor David Tarter read a city council proclamation honoring Varoutsos, citing his work with the Aurora House residential counseling center for teen girls. Earl Conklin, Director of Court Services, joked that Varoutsos— despite being tough on teens who
drive without a license — dreaded retirement because he’d miss the fun of the license ceremony. A second sign, Conklin theorized, was that the judge will miss the office storage space for his sports memorabilia. (Disclosure: Varoustos is this columnist’s friend, and I’ve seen the sports curios lining his chambers.) A baseball signed by Commonwealth’s Attorney and Public Defender staffs was handed to the judge, who is preparing to attend his 32nd consecutive Super Bowl. “There’s no better job than being a JDR judge in Arlington,” said a tearful Varoutsos. Calling himself more of “an over-achieving Forrest Gump,” he added, “I get more credit than I deserve, but I’ll take it.” *** Local fans of live music will warm to the just-published “All Roads Lead to the Birchmere: America’s Legendary Music Hall,” written by (club founder) Gary Oelze and Stephen Moore. That concert venue and restaurant, beloved by nationally known performers on Alexandria’s Mount Vernon Ave., started in Arlington, in 1966 “between an A&P grocery and an aquarium store” in the Claremont Plaza Shopping Center at 2721 S. Wakefield St. This chatty history offers juicy behind-the-scenes anecdotes about royalty from the rock, folk, bluegrass, country, blues and comedy worlds. The byline on the book’s foreword is my neighbor, the tragically hip music critic Buzz McClain.
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Community News & Notes In-Person Choral Singing Set for Older Adults Fairfax County older adults who love to sing can join together again in person when Encore Creativity for Older Adults, America’s largest choral organization for adults over 55, returns to Fairfax, Falls Church, Vienna and Reston with its popular Encore Chorales, local groups that sing a fun and eclectic mix of music in many styles and from many different eras; Encore ROCKS, rock & roll choruses that take singers back to their favorite hits from the ‘50s through the ‘80s; and Sentimental Journey Singers, a choir for those with early Alzheimer’s or memory impairments and their care partners. Encore welcomes returning singers and new singers to the Fairfax Encore Chorale at St George’s United Methodist Church in Fairfax, the Goodwin House Bailey’s Crossroads Encore Chorale in Falls Church, the Encore Chorale of Reston at the Heritage Fellowship Church in Reston, Encore ROCKS Fairfax at Church of the Good Shepherd in Vienna and Sentimental Journey Singers at the award-winning Insight Memory Care Center in Fairfax. The 15-week winter/spring season begins the second week in January 2022. All programs consist of 90-minute sessions held conveniently during the day each week and led by well-known professional conductors from the area. No auditions are necessary. Encore’s mission is to provide an accessible arts education and performance opportunities for older adults regardless of ability or experience. For those who prefer to sing virtually, Encore is also offering its Encore University, a comprehensive online program of singing plus enrichment courses in music history, music theory, dance and movement classes and more. Singers can combine both in-person singing with online classes for a full musical experience. Sentimental Journey Singers is open to members of Insight Memory Care Center as well as the community at no charge.
Participants will engage in therapeutic music activities and sing familiar songs and new pieces in a social group setting. The program is now in its third successful season. “Singing is so uplifting for older adults, and we are thrilled to bring our in-person and online programs back to Fairfax County,” said Joshua Vickery, CEO of Encore Creativity for Older Adults, an Annapolis-based nonprofit organization celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2022. Tuition is $190.00 per person for each 15-week in-person chorale and ROCKS programs. Tuition for the 10-week all-inclusive online program with up to 150 classes is $185.00 per semester per person. Encore will follow all City, State and Federal Covid-19 guidelines. For more information and registration, visit www.encorecreativity. org or call 301-261-5747. Founded in 2007, Encore Creativity for Older Adults has more than 1,500 singers in 26 in-person ensembles across the nation, including Chorales and ROCKS programs and Sentimental Journey Singers, a choir for those with early Alzheimer’s or memory impairments, a vibrant online university, plus summer camp, winter retreat and travel abroad programs.
3rd Annual MLK Day March On January 21 The Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation and the Social Justice Committee of Falls Church and Vicinity will hold it’s 3rd annual Martin Luther King Day March on January 21st in the City of Falls Church, Virginia. The march will be followed by a program at the historic Falls Church Episcopal Church at 166 E. Broad Street in Falls Church. The march will begin at the Tinner Hill Civil Rights Monument at the corner of Lee Highway and Tinner Hill Road. The march will proceed due East along Lee Hwy (officially S. Washington St. in Falls Church City), and go approximately 3 ½ blocks to The Falls Church Episcopal on E. Fairfax Street. The commemoration program will take place in The Falls Church
THE NEWLY RENOVATED Birch & Broad shopping center celebrated its grand re-opening last week with a ribbon cutting ceremony and lighting of the outdoor fireplace. Mayor Tarter spoke along with members of Federal Realty. (Photo: Gary Mester) Episcopal Main Sanctuary, where there will be songs and tributes to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. There will be a keynote speaker (TBA). The Tinner Hill area in Falls Church has been recognized as the location where the first rural branch of the National Association for the Protection of Colored People (NAACP) in the United States was initiated. In 1915, The Falls Church Town Council proposed an ordinance that would have forced many African American property owners to sell their property to Whites and move to a section of town designated “For Colored Only”. This was unacceptable to the African American Community, who immediately mobilized and formed the Colored Citizens Protective League (CCPL), wrote letters to each Council member, community churches and businesses asking where they stood on the proposed ordinance, and also wrote a letter to W. E. B. DuBois of the NAACP. The town council did not vote on the ordinance, but scheduled a referendum vote on the issue, which passed. The CCPL challenged the vote in Fairfax Circuit Court. The judge would not rule on the issue, because a case (Warley vs Buchannan) was coming before the U.S. Supreme Court in the upcoming session. The decision of the Supreme Court
decreed that creating segregated districts within any municipality was unconstitutional, which made the ordinance in Falls Church unenforceable. Which meant a victory for the Colored Citizens Protective League. In 1918, the NAACP changed their by-laws which allowed smaller communities to form branches of the organization. The Colored Citizens Protective League received their charter in June, 1918. 2018 was the 100th anniversary of the Fairfax County Branch of the NAACP.
Recipients Named for Arts and Humanities Grants City Council recently approved the recommendations from the Arts and Humanities Grant committee to allocate $44,000 in funding for Arts and Humanities grants for Fiscal Year 2021-2022. The City will apply for an additional $4,500 of funding through a grant from the Virginia Commission for the Arts. Seven proposals were received for Project Grants for a total of $28,600, of which $23,500 were awarded. Four proposals were received for Operational Grants for a total of $30,378, of which $25,000 was awarded.
Recipients include Creative Cauldron, Falls Church Arts, Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation, The Little City CATCH Foundation, Washington Sinfonietta and the Falls Church Village Preservation and Improvement Society. Details on their projects and operational needs are listed below: Falls Church Arts: Two grants including $2,917 to expand their educational capabilities through new instructor recruitment providing a more diverse set of courses to the community, and an operational grant to help with gallery rental for $8,067. Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation: Three grants including funding for creating promotional, publicity and marketing materials for the 2022 Tinner Hill Blues Festival $4,083, funding for paint and equipment for completing a mural in the Tinner Hill Mural District $4,083 and an operational grant for administrative and general expenses $2,167. The Little City CATCH Foundation: One grant to fund Watch Night, the city’s free New Year Eve’s celebration for $3,334. Washington Sinfonietta: Two grants including a free holiday concert at the Falls Church Episcopal Church $2,333 and an operational grant to help cover their annual insurance premium $1,883.
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Creative Cauldron: Two grants including $4,500 to develop and premiere a new production as part of their justice, equity, diversity and inclusion initiative and an operational grant for office administration, utilities, and facility overhead $8,383 in City funding and $4,500 match from state funding. Falls Church Village Preservation and Improvement Society: one grant of $2,250 to fund a historic marker honoring the first Arbor Day in 1892.
Drive-Through Nativity and Food Drive; A Success On Friday and Saturday, December 10 and 11, the McLean Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hosted a second annual drive-through live nativity display and food drive in the parking lot of its chapel on the corner of Great Falls Street and Kirby Road in Falls Church/ McLean. The event proved very popular. Organizers estimate that over 600 cars drove through during the two nights, with multiple people in most cars, so an estimated 2,000 people drove through the nativity scenes. “The community was exceptionally generous in donating food and other items to help the needy this year,” said Christy Lucia, president of the women’s Relief Society. “Our neighbors filled a semi-truck from back to front for SHARE of McLean, a local food bank operated by McLean Baptist Church. They also filled an SUV with similar items for the benefit of Komak Foundation, which serves the needs of Afghan refugees in Northern Virginia. We can’t think of a better way to honor Jesus Christ than to share with those in need.” The nativity displays included a manger scene and Bethlehem
scenery and marketplace, with shepherds, angels, and wise men scattered throughout various areas of the parking lot, and over 20,000 Christmas lights. Displays included live sheep, goats, donkeys, miniature horses, chickens, and rabbits. A podcast provided narration of the Christmas story and beautiful music for those attending. Jim Stansel of Arlington, President of the McLean Stake, a group of 8 congregations of the church in Arlington/McLean/ Falls Church, commented that “as with last year, we hoped this event would bring joy and hope to the community, which is still being affected by the pandemic. The drive through provided a safe environment to allow people to celebrate the life of Jesus Christ together while also coming together to provide Christian service. We appreciate the hundreds of our neighbors who joined us in this celebration.” Other Christmas information and service suggestions can be found at comeuntochrist.org and justserve.org.
Live World Premiere of Lisa Stephen Friday’s “Trans Am” The Keegan Theatre is proud to announce the live world premiere of Lisa Stephen Friday’s one-woman rock musical “Trans Am,” featuring the music of cultfavorite NYC glam rock band Lisa Jackson & Girl Friday and directed by Broadway’s Fred Berman. Opening January 29, 2022, as part of Keegan’s 25th Anniversary Season, “Trans Am” is an irreverent autobiography that explores the most complex and personal parts of the human experience through stories and music. Lisa shares her own trans journey as a means of understanding our common human desire for self-actualization and respect while calling out the absurdity of a world obsessed with
DECEMBER 23 - 29, 2021 | PAGE 11
ROCK STAR REALTY held their annual “Cocoa, Cookies & Carols” event at Mr. Brown’s park. They collected winter wear for Homestretch and hosted a silent auction for Aurora House. (P���� C������� �� R��� S��� R�����)
other-ness. “Trans Am” is making its live world premiere after almost two years of development with The Keegan Theatre. The concept for the show was born out of Lisa’s virtual “BRS live” cabaret performance, produced by Keegan’s Boiler Room Series in 2020. The first full-length version of “Trans Am” was produced for online audiences as part of Keegan’s 2020 virtual fall repertory, earning overwhelming acclaim for its “powerful, honest portrayal of a fascinating and gifted woman” (Broadway World) and Lisa’s “intimate, hilarious, sexy, sometimes sad, but always incredibly engaging” (MD Theatre Guide) storytelling. Lisa is a musician and actor who led the NYC-based rock band Lisa Jackson & Girl Friday, one of the most buzzworthy bands in the city during their performing years of 2000 – 2006. Backed by a loyal fan-base, Lisa and the band played standing room shows at some of the biggest and best clubs in the city (including headlining many shows at the monthly Homocorp
www.fcshelter.org Thank you to our wonderful Falls Church community for your support! We would not be able to operate the shelter for our neighbors experiencing homelessness without your time, kindness, and generosity. Happy Holidays! Friends of Falls Church Homeless Shelter
at the infamous CBGBs). As a touring band, Lisa Jackson & Girl Friday were one of the few queer bands at the time that were being featured at Pride events around the country, where they shared the stage with bands such as The Psychedelic Furs, The Motels, and Pat Benatar. Prior to her years with Lisa Jackson & Girl Friday, Lisa worked as an actor and singer in NYC, performing in numerous regional productions in theaters such as Goodspeed Opera House, Alabama Shakespeare Company, and The Ordway Theater. In 1999, Lisa toured the country in the National Touring Company of “The Buddy Holly Story” which also starred “Trans Am” director Fred Berman. The “Trans Am” artistic team also includes John Alexander (Lighting Designer), Jeremy Bennett (Projections Designer), Phoenix Henkle (Sound Engineer), Cindy Landrum Jacobs (Properties & Set Dressing Designer), Shee Shee Jin (Stage Manager), Matthew J. Keenan (Set Designer & Master Carpenter), Alberto Segarra (Associate Lighting
Designer), and Zavier Taylor (Associate Projections Designer). “Trans Am” runs January 29 — February 26, 2022 with evening performances Thursdays — Saturdays at 8 p.m. and matinees on Sundays at 3 p.m. To find more information about “Trans Am”, to purchase single tickets or build a custom tickets package visit www. keegantheatre.com.
Cocoa, Cookies & Carols Event Spreads Cheer On December 14, Rock Star Realty hosted their Annual Client Holiday Party at Mr. Brown’s Park— “Cocoa, Cookies & Carols.” They partnered with other local businesses and nonprofits including cookies from Lazy Mike’s and Clare & Don’s, heaters to keep guests warm from Sisters Stone and students from Meridian High School singing holiday carols. The event collected winter wear for Homestretch and partnered with local non-profit Aurora House, who hosted a silent auction to raise money for the college scholarship funds for the girls.
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News-Press Holiday Party Draws 75 of F.C.’s Finest
AFTER A YEAR’S ABSENCE due to Covid, the return of the annual News-Press Holiday Party drew 75 to the American Legion Hall to enjoy the company, the food catered by Anthony’s Restaurant and the live music provided by both a team of talented musicians from Meridian High School and a jazz trio headed by local collegian Huck Browne. (Photos: News-Press)
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All Around Falls Church, Holiday Colors and Lights
ALL OVER FALLS CHURCH this season, homes were blazened with holiday lighting and displays, some captured here by deft photographers (being a very difficult thing to do to make such photos come out well in print!). Citizens should take their own drive-around tours to see all the magic of this season. (Photos: Gary Mester)
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CALENDAR LOCALEVENTS
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23 Baby Storytime. Join TysonsPimmit Library for songs, rhymes, stories and activities for you and your baby. Build an early literacy foundation while enjoying time together in your lap. Meets in person at Tysons Pimmit Library. Space limited to 15 children with one caregiver each. No registration, customers will be allowed in on a first come, first served basis. Check in at the Children’s Information desk for tickets. This class is best for babies 0-18 months and their caregivers. (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). 10:30 — 11 a.m.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 27 Acrylic Pouring Art. Acrylic pouring art is fast, fun, and easy! Try out acrylic pouring art at TysonsPimmit Library to create your own fun and unexpected masterpiece with colors to celebrate the fall. You never quite know what it will turn out looking like, there’s no wrong way to do this. This program will take place at 3 p.m. for teens and 6:30 p.m. for adults. If you have questions about the appropriate age for a program or its content please call the branch at 703-790-8088 (option 4). (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). 3 — 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. Maker Mondays. Let your imagination run wild as you build and create with Thomas Jefferson Library’s Lego, Keva Planks, Squigz, Mega Magnets, MagnaCars, Marble Run, Gears, and more. This event is intended for school-age children. (1545 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 5 — 6 p.m.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 28 Snowball Bath Bombs. Come make your own bath bombs at Tysons-Pimmit Library. All supplies will be provided. Registration required on the library website. This activity will take place at 2 p.m. for ages 8 — 12 and 3 p.m. for ages 13 — 18. If you have questions about the appropriate age for a program or its content please call the branch at 703-7908088 (option 4). (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). 2 — 5 p.m. and 3 — 4 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29 Pre-K Time. Join Thomas Jefferson Library for stories, songs, and activities to get ready for kindergarten. Ages 3 — 5. Space is limited to ticketed attendees for in-person events. Tickets are free and first-come, first-serve at the information desk 30 minutes before each program. (1545 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 10:30 — 11 a.m. Needlecraft Circles. Want to get crafty? Each Wednesday Thomas Jefferson Library teaches a new needlecraft! Supplies provided. This activity is for adults. (1545 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 1 — 2 p.m. Outdoor Sharpie Tile Art. Creating your own tile art is fast and fun! Register to join Tysons-Pimmit Library outside and use Sharpies to create your watercolor-style artistic design that they’ll burn in for you. Weather permitting this program will be held outdoors in the grass, in the event of inclement weather it will be canceled. This program is for children ages 5-10 only, if you have questions about the appropriate age for
JIMI SMOOTH & THE HIT TIME will be performing live at JV’s Restaurant on Christmas Day, December 25, at 8 p.m. (Courtesy Photo) a program or its content please call the branch at 703-790-8088 (option 4). (7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). 5 — 6 p.m.
Todd Wright Live and in Concert. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $20 – $25. 8 p.m. 703255-1566.
Visit the National Parks. Park adventurer and guide John Bunker will provide his top 10 tips for planning your perfect trip to our National Parks at Mary Riley Styles. Learn about lodging, transportation, activities in the parks, and general safety. John will also share photos and stories from his own visits to over 40 National Parks, including Bryce, Canyonlands, Glacier, Yellowstone, and Zion. No registration required. Face masks must be worn while attending this program (regardless of vaccination status). (120 N Virginia Ave., Falls Church). 7 — 8 p.m.
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LIVEMUSIC THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23 Gerry Timlin. Ireland’s Four Provinces (105 W Broad St., Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703-534-8999. Big Joe Maher & Friends. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8 p.m. 703-2419504.
Gerry Timlin. Ireland’s Four Provinces (105 W Broad St., Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703-534-8999. Sookie Jump Band. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 7:30 p.m. 703-2419504.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25 Jimi Smooth & the Hit Time. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8 p.m. 703-2419504.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 26 Josh Christina Band. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 3:30 p.m. 703-2419504. Open Mic Night with Bob Sheppard. Falls Church Distillers (442 S. Washington Street, Ste A Falls Church). 5 p.m. 703-8589186. Bobby Thompson. Jammin’ Java
(227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $15. 7 p.m. 703-255-1566. Maysa Live and in Concert. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $69.50. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500. Doug Belford Live and in Concert. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8 p.m. 703241-9504.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 27 Tom Saputo & Friends. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 7:30 p.m. 703-2419504. Max Weinburg’s Jukebox. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $65. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29 Hank Williams Tribute Performance Live and in Concert. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria). $29.50. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500. Smylin Jack Band Live. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8 p.m. 703-2419504.
Calendar Submissions Email: calendar@fcnp.com | Mail: Falls Church News-Press, Attn: Calendar, 105 N. Virginia Ave., #310, Falls Church, VA 22046
Be sure to include time, location, cost of admission, contact person and any other pertinent information. Event listings will be edited for content and space limitations. Please include any photos or artwork with submissions. Deadline is Monday at noon for the current week’s edition.
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NEWS BRIEFS
Virus Fears Force Cancellation of New Year’s Eve Fete
Watch Night, the City of Falls Church’s signature New Year’s Eve event, is being canceled this year by its organizers, the CATCH Foundation. “Local Covid-19 case counts are increasing significantly which presents an unpredictable scenario in the ability to have an event in 10 days that is safe for all,” the group said. “While there was a ground swell of support earlier to celebrate Watch Night this year, the situation has now changed for us, our partners, and ultimately the potential visitors that may or may not attend such an event, even if outdoors,” organizers said in a statement issued by City Hall.
McKay Offers Statement Hailing Fairfax Co. Achievements in 2021 Jeff McKay, chair of the Fairfax Board of Supervisors, issued the following summary statement of the county’s achievements in 2021: “Despite the impacts of the pandemic and its havoc on our budget, our priorities in Fairfax County remain the same: to have one of the best education systems in the US, to build affordable housing throughout the County, to protect our environment by reducing our waste and carbon emissions, to provide increased access to public transit, and to reform public safety practices while remaining the safest jurisdiction of our size in the nation. This is all thanks to a heavily engaged public and well trained first responders.”
Bill Introduced to Support, Protect Local Journalism U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter of Colorado, joined U.S. Rep. Mark DeSaulnier of California, U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland and U.S. Rep. David Cicilline of Rhode Island to introduce two pieces of legislation aimed at supporting and protecting local journalism, and honoring its role in bolstering democracy, holding government accountable, and informing the electorate. The Saving Local News Act (H.R. 6068) would make it easier for newspapers to become non-profits, allowing them the flexibility to focus less on maximizing profits and more on producing quality content. The local news resolution (H.Res. 821) recognizes the importance of local media outlets to society and expresses the urgent need for Congress to help stop the decline of local media outlets. “Local and accurate sources of news are becoming more and more important for our community and our country. I believe Congress has a role to play to ensure legitimate media
outlets are able to better adapt to the changing media landscape and continue to inform Americans in every community,” said Rep. Perlmutter. “Local journalism has been the bedrock of American democracy for centuries. I have seen firsthand how journalists for local newspapers have kept our community informed, educated voters, and held power to account,” said Rep. DeSaulnier. “As local newspapers are being bought up and taken over by large corporations, it is incumbent on Congress to act to protect this public good. My legislation would do just that and ensure newspapers in every community can continue to provide high-quality local coverage that millions of Americans rely on and deserve.”
F.C.’s Library Suspends Use Of Conference Rooms Due to Covid Due to concerns about the recent increase in Covid-19 transmissions in the area, all inperson library programs and use of library conference rooms are suspended until mid-January 2022, it has been announced. Group study rooms may still be reserved, but are limited to groups of three or less. All visitors aged two and over, regardless of vaccination status, are required to wear a mask in the library and all other City of Falls Church government buildings.
Rep. Connolly Seeks Support Vs. Fairfax School Board Recall Fairfax County-based U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly has issued a statement calling for support against a recall effort targeting School Board member Laura Jane Cohen. “In July, a judge in Fairfax County dismissed a recall effort against School Board member Elaine Tholen,” Connolly wrote this week.”Fortunately, that ruling ended the saga for Elaine, but it left a window open for other recall efforts still in motion, and School Board member Laura Jane Cohen is their next target. “Since they couldn’t win at the ballot box, they are trying to overturn the will of the voters. The local GOP sounds a lot like the Republicans in Washington pushing the Big Lie and refusing to accept Biden as president.“
New City Resident Arrives: Roman Sexto Rahim Roman Sexto Rahim was born on Dec. 11 at 8 lbs. 20 oz. as the first grandson of proud Falls Church independent business woman Susy Lozada. The parents are Kathleen and Haroon Rahim.
DECEMBER 23 - 29, 2021 | PAGE 15
C i t y o f Fa l l s C h u r c h
CR IM E RE PORT Destruction of Property, Roosevelt Blvd, between 11 PM, Dec 12 and 8 AM, Dec 13, unknown suspect(s) smashed a window and riffled through a vehicle. Fraud, W Broad St, Dec 13, 10:27 PM, an incident of Fraud was reported. Motor Vehicle Theft, Wilson Blvd, Dec 14, 1:02 AM, unknown suspect, described as a female wearing a dark gray sweater, black pants, and black shoes, took a vehicle which was recovered later the same day on I-270. Larceny from Building, S Maple Ave, Dec 14, a delivered box was missing it’s contents. Motor Vehicle Theft, W Broad St, Dec 16, 5:30 PM, owner reported his vehicle was stolen Dec 12, between 4 AM and 2:30 PM. Driving Under the Influence, S Washington St, Dec 17, 4:01 AM, a male, 27, of Manassas, VA, was arrested for Driving Under the Influence.
Fraud-Identity Theft, Noland St, Dec 17, 11:34 AM, an incident of Identity Theft was reported.
10. Put into service 11. Topaz or opal 19. Agricultural plots 21. John Wayne film 23. Part of mpg 24. Modify 26. Brief message 27. Hard metal 28. Spotted 29. Canaveral or Horn 30. Floating
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
PUZZLE NO. 116
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PAGE 16 | DECEMBER 23 - 29, 2021
31. “____ Darn Cat!” 35. To’s counterpart 38. Laid off 40. Wobble 44. Considerate 46. Gesture of greeting 47. Santa’s ride 48. Strong desires 49. Some are personal 50. Chop 51. Copy 53. Paver’s goo 54. Snoop
Copyright © 2022, Penny Press
ACROSS 1. Real 5. High point 8. Medicine 12. Charged atoms 13. Hooter 14. Luxury 15. Long narrative 16. “____ More Night” 17. Wineglass part 18. Reattach a label 20. Fearful admiration 22. Dad 25. Bert’s friend on “Sesame Street”
29. Provided food 32. Yarn 33. Hearth residue 34. Unwanted breeze 36. Foot digit 37. “War and ____” 39. Fake 41. Moth-____ 42. Ripped 43. Solicit 45. Full of gossip 49. Woeful word 52. ____ a boy! 55. Yarn 56. Foolish person 57. Brief sleep 58. Constant
59. Drove very fast 60. Towel off 61. Ruby and cerise DOWN 1. Cake layer 2. Strong cord 3. Group of soldiers 4. Run away 5. Also 6. ____ up (confess) 7. Not guilty, e.g. 8. Arid land 9. Hamelin pest
ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 116
CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING
SPORTS QUIZ By Ryan A. Berenz 1. What team selected 17-year-old Jermaine O’Neal in the first round of the 1996 NBA Draft? PUZZLE NO. 118
21. Serious plays 33. Vulgar
2. Name the ESPN game show that had contestants taking on statistician Howie Schwab in a show36. Least 23. Snarl down of sports trivia knowledge? common 24. Skirt style 25. Bird of ill
39. Involved with
27. Mama’s
43. Flat hill
29. Egg
46. Tint
3. During the 2012 and ‘13 seasons, what Cincinnati Reds pitcher threw the 279th and 280th no40. Crate ____ hitters in Major League Baseball history? 26. Titanic’s foe 42. Client 4. What legendary Dutch striker played for Manchester United (2001-06) and Real Madrid (2006-10), 44. Pound fellow and scored 35 goals for the Netherlands national team from 28. 1998-2011? 45. Beret Amazed 5. Name the Tennessee Titans wide receiver who scored the winning touchdown the____ Buffalo beverages 47.versus Pen and Bills in the “Music City Miracle” AFC wild-card playoff game in 2000? 49. Contend 30.January Toil 6. What World Golf Hall of Famer was the first Mexican golfer -- either male or female -- to achieve the world No. 1 rank? 7. What short-lived Marvel Comics series, first published in 1991, centered on an ex-NFL player who derived special crime-fighting powers from spilled chemicals and a nearly indestructible football Copyright © 2022, Penny Press uniform? ACROSS 1. Night hooter 4. Apiece 7. Sailing vessel 12. Big hairdo 13. “Where the Boys ____” 14. Royal headwear 15. Blow upon 16. Disappointed 17. Transform 18. Tired 20. Anxious 22. ____ space 24. Riot crowd 27. Scenic view 30. Shade of green 31. Roused
56. College cheer 32. Complainer Last Week’s Answers 34. Wooden pins DOWN 35. Snatching 1. Packers Not ons • 2. Daniel Alfredsson 37. 1.Newspaper The Green Bay 2. Covering spots 3. A rabbit 3.punch Swoopes TO PUZZLE NO. 118 Sole • 4. SherylANSWER 38. Lariat 5. Oklahoma State University • 6. The Eephus pitch 4. Meadow 39. Bakery 5.7.Memorable Vlade Divac worker time 41. Morsel 6. Exchange 45. Fine(c) dishes 2021 Kingfor Features cash Syndicate, Inc 48. December 31, 7. For men only e.g. 8. Easter 50. Briny expanse flower 51. Cousins’ 9. Cookie grain moms 10. Prospector’s 52. Moral crime find 53. Hazardous 11. Accepted curve standard 54. Type of tea 19. Cozy CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS corners USE AMERICAN SPELLING 55. Golf gadget
STRANGE BREW
JOHN DEERING
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM Public Notice NOTICE OF EAST COAST TRUCK & TRAILER SALES, INC.’S HEARING ON OPERATION OF DEALERSHIP BY MANUFACTURER The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), under the Code of Virginia §§ 46.2- 1572(4) and 46.2-1573 is conducting a formal evidentiary hearing at the request of East Coast Truck & Trailer Sales, Inc., a Commonwealth-licensed motor vehicle manufacturer. East Coast Truck & Trailer Sales, Inc. seeks an eligibility determination to be both a manufacturer and a dealer of franchises in the community or trade area of Manassas, Virginia. According to Va. Code § 46.2-1572(4), East Coast Truck & Trailer Sales, Inc. must establish that there is no dealer independent of the manufacturer available in the above-mentioned community or trade area to own and operate the franchise in a manner consistent with the public interest. The formal evidentiary hearing will take place on January 21, 2022, starting at 10:30 a.m. EST at the offices of DMV, 6306 Grovedale Drive, Alexandria, VA 23310. Any party interested in this matter is invited to attend the hearing and provide relevant information.
DECEMBER 23 - 29, 2021 | PAGE 17
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We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap. All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-8530. Toll free call (888) 551-3247. For the hearing impaired call (804) 367-9753.
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LO CA L
PAGE 18 | DECEMBER 23 - 29, 2021
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
BACK IN THE DAY
Critter Corner
25 & 10 Years Ago in the News-Press Falls Church News-Press Vol. VI, No. 40 • December 19, 1996
Falls Church News-Press Vol. XXI, No. 41 •December 22, 2011
Council, School Board Closed Door Sessions Puzzle Public
McDonnell Proposes K-12 & Medicaid Cuts in New Va. Budget; Battles Loom
Unusual circumstances surrounding secret, behind-closed-doors “executive sessions” of both the Falls Church City Council and School Board during the past week have both heightened curiosity and called further attention to a growing debate at City Hall over the use of such sessions by City bodies.
Area lawmakers made their first trip to Richmond in anticipation of the upcoming 203843A01 state legislative session. The occasion was the presentation by Gov. Bob McDonnell of the first state budget he’s crafted on his own. Predictably, the McDonnell proposal is predicated on no tax rate increases
Faces of Falls Church —
5 1/4"
“That Mexican guy is pretty smart.”
200503 C200492ar1.tif 2 11:10 12/2/02 JC
85
PENNY HARPER is excited for the treats, toys, and friends to play with this Christmas!
Iris 1
Just because you’re not famous doesn’t mean your pet can’t be! Send in your Critter Corner submissions to crittercorner@fcnp.com.
Together we can stamp out prejudice. It only takes one voice to make a difference. Find yours at www.freedomcenter.org
2 1/16" NOTE TO PUB: DO NOT PRINT INFO BELOW, FOR ID ONLY. NO ALTERING OF AD COUNCIL PSAs. Racial Cooperation - Newspaper - B&W - URFYR2-N-03105-K “Mexican Guy” 2 1/16 x 5 1/4 85 line screen film at Schawk: (212) 689-8585 Ref#: 203843
I RAN INTO MICHELLE as she was wrapping up her day and leaving Lemon Lane Children’s Consignment on West Broad St. where she has worked for the last 5 years. A native of Sydney Australia, Michelle has been in the States for 11 years now.
It’s her future.Do the math.
SM
www.girlsgotech.org
(Photo: J. Michael Whalen)
NOTE TO PUB: DO NOT PRINT INFO BELOW, FOR I.D. ONLY. NO ALTERING OF AD COUNCIL PSAS. Girl Scouts - Newspaper (2 1/16 x 2) B&W GSUGSU-N-09209-G “It’s Her Future” 85 screen
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Fa l l s C h u r c h Business News & Notes
DECEMBER 23 - 29, 2021 | PAGE 19
Virginia Employers: Get Reimbursed for Staff Bonuses The Return to Earn initiative, launched in June, is an effort to assist small businesses and organizations in finding and retaining talent while also bringing the unemployed back into the workforce. There are basic eligibility requirements and the SkillSource Group, Inc. and Virginia Career Works Northern are available to make access to this program easy and the application, enrollment, and reimbursement process as simple as possible. The program encourages a $500 reimbursable bonus as helpful to retention and workplace morale for qualified businesses. To learn more, go to https://vcwnorthern.com/ return-to-earn.
Falls Church Cited as Model for Mixed-Use Community The Fairfax County Planning Commission met in Tysons last week and cited downtown Falls Church, Merrifield’s Mosaic District and Reston Town Center as examples of mixed-use communities where people can live, shop, work, and play. This is what they’d like to see developers and governments pursue. Localities are reviewing congestion and safety to balance the needs of different road users, bikers, pedestrians, and drivers.
Plastic Bag Tax Approved The Falls Church City Council approved a 5-cent plastic bag tax which begins April 1, 2022, at grocery stores, convenience stores and drug stores. The tax won’t apply to a number of items like ice-cream, meat and dry cleaning that use bags. The ordinance is aimed to discourage the use of disposable bags.
Older Adults Invited to Sing Encore Creativity, a nonprofit choral organization for adults over 55, is inviting Northern Virginia residents to register for in-person or online programs and get the opportunity to sing at local venues. They also manage the Sentimental Journey Singers, a choir for those with early Alzheimer’s or memory impairments and their care partners. The winter and spring sessions begin in January and are led by well-known local professional conductors. The mission is to make arts education and performance opportunities accessible for older adults regardless of ability and experience. Encore also offers Encore University for those looking for online programs for singing, music theory, dance and more. Visit www.encorecreativity.org, or call 301-261-5747 for more information.
FY2023 Virginia Commission for the Arts Grants are Open Earlier this week, the VCA released the FY23 applications for General Operating Support and Project Grants, as well as the FY23 Guidelines for Funding. In addition, the list of Long/Short form applicants for returning grantees has been posted. Applications are available via Foundant (the online grant system). For a full list of grants, eligibility requirements, deadlines, and more, review the FY23 Guidelines for Funding at www.arts.virginia.gov/grants-guidelines. An application workshop is also available.
Clark Construction Pledge Clark Construction Group announced its pledge to award $2.5 billion in subcontracts over the next decade to the graduates of its Strategic Partnership Program (SPP). This was announced at the launch of SPP ENCORE, Clark’s new continuing education program for the more than 1,200 small and diverse business owners and leaders who make up the SPP alumni network. The pledge and new SPP ENCORE programming is intended to foster inclusive growth within the construction industry.
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@fallschcurchchamber.org.
Make Your Pet a Star!
Critter
Corner
Just because you’re not famous doesn’t mean your pet can’t be!
Snap a pic of your critter and email it to: CRITTERCORNER@FCNP.COM
PAGE 20 | DECEMBER 23 - 29, 2021
Traveling for the Holidays?
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For Rent in Falls Church City!
Beautifully updated 2bed/1bath condo in the heart of Falls Church City. This beautifully updated home features an outdoor patio, great for entertaining, an updated kitchen and bath, new flooring, and is walking distance to all the joys of living in The City of Falls Church. The open living space is filled with natural light from the large floor-to-ceiling windows. The updated kitchen has new stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, white cabinetry, and a breakfast bar for additional seating. Both bedrooms have large closet space allowing for extra storage. The updated bathroom has a spacious double vanity and detailed tile throughout. This unit is an easy walk to West Falls Church Metro, shopping, restaurants, and both the middle and high schools as well as the newly expanded W&OD Trail. Easy commuter access to 66, 267, 495, and minutes away from Tysons and DC. Walk Score - 85. Rent is $2,100 and includes all utilities except electricity. Both short and long-term leases are available.
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM