Falls Church News-Press 4-12-2018

April 12 — 18, 2018

FA LLS CHUR C H, V I R G I NI A • WW W. FC NP. C OM • FR EE

FOU N D E D 1991 • VOL. XXVIII N O. 8

F���� C����� • T����� C����� • M��������� • M�L��� • N���� A�������� • B�����’� C���������

I����� T��� W��� N�� J������ H��� S����� L��� U������� J.E.B Stuart High School has released its new logo as it prepares for the transition to Justice High School in the summer later this year.

SEE NEWS BRIEFS, PAGE 9

N�� A���-G�� V������� L������ P���� OK’�

Trophy Broad & Washington Project Wins Final Approval from Council 3 Unanimous Votes Clear Path for 2.68 Acre Mega Project

BY NICHOLAS F. BENTON

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

erable more relief coming to City taxpayers than just that, as well. In Richmond this week and next, the state legislature will mull Governor Ralph Northam’s plan to fund increased obligations to WMATA, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transportation Authority, to fix long-overdue repairs and improvements to the Metro rail line.

Not everyone at Monday night’s jammed, standing room only turnout at the Falls Church City Council meeting at the temporary Senior Center digs at the Falls Church Community Center stayed past 11 p.m. when the final votes were taken. But there were still plenty on hand to witness the Council vote unanimously three times, 6-0, 6-0 and 6-0 (with David Snyder absent), to approve the most ambitious mixed-use development project yet in the City’s history at its iconic central Broad and Washington intersection.

It’s taken nearly three years for this final OK, after the initial submission from Insight Development Group in August 2015 to put 295 rental apartments, 100,000 square feet of Class A commercial office space and retail construction (including 13,000 square feet for a restaurant and 6,000 square feet for a specialty grocery store), 90 feet at its highest point, 600 parking spaces, a public plaza, a public pocket park, a public office lobby and 5,000 square feet for a subsidized permanent home for its cherished Creative Cauldron acting troupe.

Countering fears that the project might delay its construction, the developer withdrew a request from a just a week earlier asking for an extension of the OK for five years, more than the three years usually offered by the City.

That request was withdrawn, and Insight’s principal Rick Hausler, who was present at the meeting, assured the News-Press that the construction would begin “as soon

Continued on Page 4

Continued on Page 5

Virginia Governor Ralph Northam signed Falls Church’s Del. Marcus Simon’s bill to create a new Virginia license plate with the message “Stop Gun Violence” into law.

SEE NEWS BRIEFS, PAGE 9

F���� B����: T���� S������, � T�� R��� �� U� S����� T������

“An attack on our country.”

That’s a blunt, unqualified phrase that you associate with planes dropping bombs or tearing into skyscrapers. It’s also an apt description of Russian interference in the 2016 election.

SEE PAGE 14

M���� B��� S����� O�� T� S����� S����� S���� George Mason High School’s boys soccer season is in full swing as the team took down longtime rival Central High School and higherclassified Lee High School last week to improve to 5-0-1.

SEE SPORTS, PAGE 16

INDEX Editorial.................6 Letters...................6 News & Notes10–11 Comment ........ 12-14 Calendar .......18–19

Classified Ads .....20 Comics, Sudoku & Crossword ..........21 Critter Corner......22 Business News ...23

CREATIVE CAULDRON founder and executive director Laura Hull celebrates Monday’s Falls Church City Council unanimous votes with Rick Hausler of the Insight Group. (P����: N���-P����)

A Penny Lopped Off New Tax Rate, More Reductions Due

BY NICHOLAS F. BENTON

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

A penny was shaved off the proposed real estate tax rate increase for the coming fiscal year by the Falls Church City Council this Monday, and more reductions may be in store before the final adoption of the City’s FY2019 budget on April 23.

The penny reduction — from a 5.5 cent increase to a 4.5 cent increase (per $100 assessed valu-

ation) as in City Manager Wyatt Shields’ recommendation — was authorized by the Council’s vote to issue $24 million in bonds for sale next month, down from $31 million as originally proposed.

The resulting added annual debt service will decline by about $400,000, and thus the City will need less money from taxpayers to balance its budget in the coming fiscal year beginning this July 1.

But there may be consid-

PAGE 2 | APRIL 12 - 18, 2018

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Come See US!

Upcoming Events!!

Free Comic Book Day Saturday, May 5 Victory Comics is here to meet the comic and gaming needs of the Washington Metropolitan area with our 3500 square feet of retail and in-store gaming space.

586 So. Washington St. Falls Church, VA 22046

Hours: Sun 11-6 Mon - Fri 11-9 Sat 10-9

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

APRIL 12 – 18, 2018 | PAGE 3

JD Sold More Homes Last Year in Falls Church Than Any Other Agent!

JUST LISTED!

*OPEN* SUN 4/15 2-4PM!

JD CALLANDER Top 1% of Realtors Nationwide

#1 Agent, COMPANYWIDE

703.606.7901

*OPEN* SUN 4/15 2-4PM!

$869,000

6436 South Street, Falls Church

*SUNNY* 4BR/3BA colonial home in convenient location!

Gourmet, eat-in kit w/ granite counters, SS appliances, bkfst bar, & bay window! Gleaming hdwd floors on ML; fresh paint; 2 car garage; brand new carpeting on UL & LL! The backyard boasts a beautifully manicured Japanese garden!

Per MRIS

$749,000

$499,000

6640 Moly Drive, Falls Church

*CHARMING* 3BR/2 full BA home in desirable McLean neighborhood! This home features an updated kit w/ granite counters; oak floors on the ML; freshly painted; two wood burning frpls! Beautifully manicured, level yard w/ new stone porch! Haycock, Longfellow, & McLean schools!

2603 Shelby Lane

GREAT OPPORTUNITY in this 4BR/2.5BA home on three levels with two car garage. Just moments from the Metro and W&OD trail!

JUST LISTED!

*OPEN* SUN 4/15 2-4PM!

JD@newNOVAhome.com www.newNOVAhome.com # 1 Listing Agent #1 Selling Agent #1 Total Volume #1 Total Transactions Weichert/Dolley Madison Office

9100 Falls Run Road, McLean

$1,699,000

301 S. West Street, Falls Church City

$1,249,000

Amazing renovated & expanded 1904 historic 4BR/2.5BA Victorian, in the heart of WOW! One of a kind park-like setting on this over 5-acre amazing home!

Upgrade and expand or build new. You couldn’t find a better location or property! Falls Church City! Old world charm w/all the conveyances of modern living including open floor plan, modern chef’s kit, bkfst area, & beautifully adorned master bath!

Home features 4BR/4.5 BA on 3 levels; daylight full basement; nestled in your Wrap-around porch and landscaped yard with privacy give a story book feel! own private nature sanctuary! Langley High School District!

Call Me Today for a Free Analysis of Your Home’s Value!

Weichert 1313 Dolley Madison Blvd McLean, VA 22101 703-760-8880

Bethany Ellis

Serving all of Falls Church, Arlington, McLean, Vienna, Great Falls & Northern VA markets.

If you're thinking about selling or buying, contact Bethany for a free, confidential meeting.

Open Sunday 2-4pm

Open Sunday 2-4pm Just Listed!

604 Highland Ave, Falls Church City

703-307-7003

bethany.ellis@longandfoster.com REALTOR ®, SRES, e-PRO, Corporate Relocation Specialist NVAR Lifetime Top Producer & Multi-Million Dollar Sales Club

Licensed in VA & DC

McLean Sales Office: 1355 Beverly Rd Ste 109, McLean VA 22101 • 703-790-1990 Office

www.buyandsellwithBethany.com

Absolutely stunning 4 BD/4.5 BA approx 4,239 square feet colonial featuring lightfilled spacious rooms, private yard and within walking distance to Metro and downtown FCC. Award Winning Schools! Offered at $1,265,000

207 Forest Dr, Falls Church City

Stately brick colonial on one of the most beautiful streets in Broadmont! Featuring 5 BD/2.5 BA on 4 finished levels.

Attached 2 car garage and spectacular lot. Walking distance to EFC Metro. Offered at $1,350,000

Coming Soon

Shredding Event

109 Lounsbury Pl, Falls Church City

2408 Lexington Rd, Falls Church VA 22043

Lovely 4BR/2.5BA home in Falls Hill! Large, fenced in yard (.39 acres) Updated kitchen and baths. 3 season room, patio and irrigation system. LIST PRICE $790,000.

SOLD

1943 N. Cleveland St. Arlington VA 22201

Charming 1948 home in Arlington that has been well loved, needs a new owner. Excellent location. 3BR/1BA with 3 levels. Sold as-is. PRICE PERFECTED $649,000

6704 Hallwood Ave, FALLS CHURCH, VA 22046

UNDER CONTRACT

113 N Liberty St Arlington VA 22203 Beautiful 4BR/3.5BA home in Spy Hill! Main level Master Suite. Fresh paint, new granite & SS appliances in gourmet kitchen. Walk out basement.

Updated and gorgeous! LIST PRICE $955,000

OPEN SUNDAY 2-4

3 BD/2 BA spacious home with kitchen & family room additions.

Hardwood floors throughout the house. Well maintained backyard that is fully fenced in.

FREE SHRED EVENT SAT. APRIL 28th 9-12 HAYCOCK ELEM SCHOOL

Wonderful light-filled end unit townhome in the heart of Falls Church City. This all brick home features 3 BD/3.5 BA, 2 car garage and steps out to a beautifully landscaped common area. Offered in the mid-$800s

Join us on Earth Day 2018 to shred your valuable papers and help protect the environment at the same time.

Breakfast provided by Kamelia Sacks at

Making sure it’s secure.™

Saturday April 21, 10am-12pm

Parking area behind 710 W Broad St, Falls Church

Louise Molton

Falls Church City Resident Phone: 703 244-1992 louise@moltonrealestate.com

710 W Broad St Falls Church, VA 22046 703-596-5303 Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

®

REALTOR

LO CA L

PAGE 4 | APRIL 12 – 18, 2018

•ENTRUST•

— to put into someone’s care or protection —

The Kensington Falls Church Brunch Open House April 22, 2018 • noon-3:00pm RSVP to 703-992-9868 or conciergefs@kensingtonsl.com RSVP to join us for a delicious Sunday brunch

SHARE YOUR FAMILY with us because it is our

privilege and our mission to care for them. Our team members— by nature—are moment makers, soul soothers, kindness bringers and friendship couriers. ey are also some of the most skilled professionals you’ll ever meet. ey are HEROES who take their responsibilities toward our residents seriously, whether clinical, emotional or social. at means you can feel at ease when you entrust their well-being to us.

Join us for brunch. Introduce yourself to us. Tell us your story.

We are listening.

(703) 992-9868 700 West Broad Street, Falls Church, VA 22046 www.TheKensingtonFallsChurch.com Kensington Park, another Kensington community located nearby in Kensington, MD

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Tax Rate Hike Lowered As Budget Talks Go On Continued from Page 1

On the prospect that local Northern Virginia jurisdictions would have to bear Virginia’s over $50 million share of that added money, Shields’ recommended budget last month included a “worst case scenario” of an added $1.1 million burden to be born by City taxpayers. If that turns out not to be the case, or less so, then as much as another 2.5 cents could be shaved from his recommended tax hike.

No one wants to predict yet what that amount may be, however, so as not to create expectations that may not be realized. However, it is almost certain that if not the entire 2.5 cents, at least a major chunk of that burden will be lifted, which could result in a tax hike more like 2 to 2.5 cents.

That would be a remarkable outcome given the amount of debt the City’s voters agreed to take on with the easy passage of the school bond referendum to build a brand new high school, renovate and expand City Hall and library, and do others things as well.

If the WMATA burden were lifted, even just a little, presumably that would increase the likelihood that the Council will agree to give the Falls Church City Public Schools the extra $300,000 over the 2 percent increase they were told to hold the line against last December. That would permit the Schools to offer a 3 percent cost-of-living adjustment to all its employees just as Shields proposes to do for all City government employees.

Still, some hardliners on the Council may want to hold the School system to the 2 percent growth limit, which would cut into the size of the salary increases it could offer its teachers and staff.

This remains to be seen.

Still, the School system’s supporters continue to press their case to the Council. Superintendent Peter Noonan offered a new way to look at the Schools’ request, which will go entirely for modest salary increases, by saying the request contributes to another big issue before the Council, housing affordability.

Noonan said at a town hall meeting on the budget last Sunday at the Community Center that the salary increase for the Schools translates directly into an increased affordability of City housing, as too few teachers’ salaries as it is now are capable of affording the high

price of housing in the Little City.

Farrell Kelly, the head of the Falls Church Education Association and a teacher at Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School for 10 years, told the City Council at its public hearing on the budget Monday night that going without usual “step” salary increases in two of the last five years had led to a net decrease in take-home pay.

It is frustrating, he said, “to have to fight to prove our value [as educators–ed.] every year,” especially after the City voters approved the school bond referendum by a wide margin last November.

A letter from a Mt. Daniel Elementary teacher, Dorothy Baden-Mayer, was also read at the hearing. In the letter, BadenMayer expressed how much she enjoys teaching in Falls Church, but that she is barely able to make ends meet even with the benefit of one of the rare subsidized teacher-workforce affordable housing units in the City.

“I barely get by at the end of each month and often end up having to add more expenses to my credit cards,” she wrote. “Folks have mused about the impact of giving a two percent increase, or a one percent COLA increase instead of three. For me, at three percent, I’ll be making $1,500 more for the entire year. At two percent, I only make $1,000 more and at one percent, I make a meager $500 more for the entire year.

It saddens me already that I’m worth the $1,500 raise this year.

Even the three percent is a hard pill to swallow.”

She added, “It’ll be the second year out of five without a step increase, so I am struggling at the bottom of the pay scale when I should have made much more progress by now. Contemplating a $500 raise after five years of service is deeply upsetting and simply unsustainable for me.”

Her letter continued, “It breaks my heart that for the first time I have to consider the economic viability of continuing to teach.

I love my job. It’s my true passion. But I also feel the pain of an empty bank account and worry about ever feeling economically secure on my own. I don’t want to leave teaching, but if my salary continues to stagnate, I won’t have a choice. I have a masters degree, seven years of experience, and have excelled at my job. There’s no reason for me to live paycheck to paycheck if I can avoid it.”

LO CA L

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

APRIL 12 - 18, 2018 | PAGE 5

Insight’s Broad-Washington Project Approved by Council

Continued from Page 1

as possible,” although there are more steps required to get started, such as the OK of a site plan by the Planning Commission.

“The clock is ticking” for the Creative Cauldron, among other things, said Scott Adams, a representative for Insight, which is facing an end of its subsidized residency at the Pearson Square, where it is working with half the space it will have at the Broad and Washington project.

Adams also said Monday that his client had received a letter of intent for 20,000 square feet of the Class A office space, the entire top two floors of the office building, by Kiddar Capital, the operation headed by Todd Hitt that owns the land and is currently headquartered in the fourstory old Robertson Building at the site.

In addition to the Robertson Building, the site includes the current Applebee’s one-story build-

ing and a two-story office building just east of Applebee’s. The plan is to work to retain two other neighboring locally-owned restaurants, Clare and Don’s Beach Shack and Argia’s, that essentially link the site to the popular State Theatre live music venue.

A big issue Monday night was the effort underway to provide a median cut on N. Washington St. to enable traffic coming south to turn left into the City-owned parking lot behind Clare and Don’s and Argia’s, since once construction begins on the Broad and Washington property, it would become difficult for south-bound traffic on N. Washington to pull in and patronize the existing businesses now there.

A filing with the Virginia Department of Transportation has already been submitted to seek the median cut.

As recently as last Friday, the Insight Group offered more modifications to its plans to address concerns raised by the Council at

BE Y ERK IA .COM

its work session last week, including dropping the request to extend the expiration date of the approvals by two years, and also to allow flexibility in the project’s proffer for affordable housing, modifying its options for five or six percent of the rental residential units as subsidized affordable units, to allow for a cash-only payment by the developer for a contribution to a City affordable housing fund as an alternative.

Proponents who spoke at the public hearing portion of Monday’s City Council meeting included Andrew Painter representing the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce, who said a Class A office building at that site would attract not only more daytime employees (it is estimated there would be 311 new employees) to work and spend money in the City, but also more businesses, as well.

“It is an important trophy location,” he said.

Continued on Page 8

See page 11 for speakers

703 -237- 5000 • 1125 W E S T BROA D S T REE T FA L L S CHURCH, VA 220 4 6

Hello Spring!

SALES EVENT

APRIL LEASE OFFER

2018 KIA SOUL

$158/mo. $1,999 DOWN + tax , tags, & processing fee

36 Month Lease • 12,000 Miles/Year

Disclaimer: Offer is on 2018 Kia Soul Base (Model #: B1511). MSRP $17,250.00. $157.63 per month for 36 months, $1,999.00 down payment on approved credit. Total capital cost of $13,029.00. Must finance through KIA Motors Finance. Includes $650.00 acquisition fees and Freight. $2,156.63 due at signing. Does not include tax, tag, processing and $699 dealer doc fee. $0.00 security deposit required.

Customer responsible for $0.20 per mile over 12000 miles per year. Expires 04/30/2018.

PAGE 6 | APRIL 12 – 18, 2018



One of the Nation’s Foremost Weekly Newspapers, Serving N. Virginia

(Published Weekly by Benton Communications, Inc.)

FOUNDED IN 1991

Vol. XXVIII, No. 8 April 12 – 18, 2018 • 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 •

N������� F. B����� O���� � E�����-I�-C���� �������������.���

J��� F������ M������� ������

�������������.���

M��� D������ N��� E�����

�������������.���

N��� G��� A���������� S������� A������������ ����������.���

H���� W������ C����������

�������������.���

C������ C����, T�� W������ C��������� T�� W���� C��� E����� J���� I����� C���������� M������

�������������.���

T� C������ ��� N���-P���� �����: 703-532-3267 ���: 703-342-0347 �����: ���������.��� ������� ����������� ��������.��� ���������� ��� �������������.��� ������� �� ��� ������ ������������.��� ������������� ������������ � �������� �������������.���

WWW.FCNP.COM The Falls Church News-Press is published weekly on Thursdays and is distributed free of charge throughout the City of Falls Church and the Greater Falls Church area. Offices are at 200 Little Falls St., #508, Falls Church, VA 22046. Reproduction of this publication in whole or part is prohibited except with the written permission of the publisher. ©2018 Benton Communications Inc. The News-Press is printed on recycled paper.

E D I TO R I A L

E��������

Can Teachers Get 3 Percent?

Things are looking up for the ability of the City of Falls Church to move ahead with its ambitious plans to build a new high school and renovate and expand its City Hall and public library pretty much all at once. The cost of doing this will be held down by such minor increases in the City’s operational budget and the School Board’s needs — each of which involves a modest three percent cost of living adjustment for all employees — that the impact on real estate taxes is actually in the negative, and only the cost of debt service for the $26 million the City will borrow this fiscal year will require around a two to 2.5 cent rate increase (per $100 of assessed real estate valuation).

This is assuming that the state will pick up the tab on the $50 million in new costs to subsidize WMATA’s upgrades to the Metro rail system, as it looks might happen, though too soon to say as of yet. That will be determined by what happens in Richmond in the next week, now that the legislature, as of yesterday, has reconvened.

If that happens, it will eliminate a 2.5 cent add-on to the local real estate tax bill for City residents, which was recommended to prepare for a “worst case scenario” by City Manager Wyatt Shields last month. With the news, whatever it is, from Richmond due by the middle of next week, the Council will vote on the budget and tax rate on Monday, April 23.

But with all this potentially good news, the issue of whether or not the Schools will be able to give an across-the-board three percent costof-living adjustment (COLA) to its employees, the way the same will be provided to City employees, remains unresolved. We hope a majority on the Council will ease up on this issue and give the teachers and staff that contribute so much to one of the finest school systems in America this very modest salary boost.

We honestly do not believe the citizenry of Falls Church feels as stingily about this as some on the Council have. That citizenry walked into the polling places last November and voted by a wide margin to approve the largest school bond in the City’s history, fully aware that they’d have to pay for it with their taxes.

The Falls Church Public School System is responsible for seven hours a day of 19 percent of the City’s residents, those in its schools.

That’s a huge challenge and we’ve all benefited. For those who don’t directly have children in the system now, they’ve benefited from the “value added” of their housing and quality of life assets that a school system with such an outstanding reputation brings.

Frankly, it’s shameful that the Council should be hearing from teachers here about the pain and disappointment of having to live from paycheck to paycheck (see story, page 1).

L������

Shame If We Can’t Provide Teachers Adequate Pay Editor, I am wondering why Councilman Phil Duncan is pushing to not pay the hard working teachers of Falls Church City Public Schools?

We live in one of the wealthiest counties in the nation, and it would be a shame if we could not provide our own teachers with adequate pay. I would like to think that our teachers would be able to get their next step for the

pay increase.

We are, in fact, the number one school district in the Commonwealth of Virginia, it would be nice to pay the teachers that helped make that possible.

If we are not careful, we could be looking at a teacher strike just like West Virginia or Oklahoma.

Eric Wright Falls Church

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

P������� 1. Keep the news clean and fair.

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

3. Do not let the news columns reflect editorial comment.

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

5. Accept no charity and ask no favors.

6. Give “value received” for every dollar you take in.

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

ADVERTISE IN THE

The News-Press is delivered to every household and many businesses in the City of Falls Church (22046), and to many homes and businesses (but not all) in the adjacent 22041, 22042, 22043, 22044 and 22205 zip codes. Its total circulation of 15,000 per issue is greater than any other newspaper in the distribution area, including dailies. For complete advertising information, call us or check out our web site.

Call 532-3267 x2274 or visit www.FCNP.com

All original and some syndicated content is accessible via the Falls Church News-Press online site, www.FCNP.com.

FCNP.com also includes photos, stories, ads and more not appearing in the print edition.

For information on online advertising, please contact Nick Gatz at 703-532-3267 or ngatz@fcnp.com.

ONLINE

Tumultuous 1968 Was Quite a Memorable Year Editor, Thanks for the prompt obituary of the legendary Connie Lawn.

I didn’t know her personally and never met her, but I heard her speak as a guest on the Jim Bohannon radio show. It’s amazing she covered so many epic events during that tumultuous year of 1968. They don’t make years like 1968 anymore!

Speaking of 1968, last Saturday night I attended the Led Zeppelin tribute band show at the State

Theatre. Their singer mentioned that Led Zeppelin is celebrating the 50th anniversary of their founding in late 1968. Yes indeed, in the summer of 1968 the Yardbirds broke up and lead guitarist Jimmy Page formed the “New Yardbirds.”

They changed their name to Led Zeppelin in October 1968.

Greg Paspatis Alexandria

[ TALK TO US ] Email: letters@fcnp.com Mail: Letters to the Editor, c/o Falls Church News-Press, 200 Little Falls Street #508, Falls Church, VA 22046

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

CO MME NT

APRIL 12 – 18, 2018 | PAGE 7

G � � � � C � � � � � �� �� Lean Budget Supports Fair Wages for Teachers, Staff B� C������ B����, L���� D���� � M��� S������

With the recent recognition as “Healthiest City in America,” our city has a lot to be proud of – walkability, access to healthy food and exercise options and great schools.

Our school system prides itself in playing an essential role in the wellbeing of our city. We all hear time and time again from new families, “we moved here for the schools” and notice real estate ads boasting, “Falls Church City Schools!” Our school system not only teaches our children, it increases the value of our homes. Clearly, the strong show of support for the George Mason High School construction bond referendum demonstrates our residents understand the importance and needs of our school system. Of course, we realize the city has other important components – cultural venues, restaurants, community events, parks and walking trails, and an award-winning farmers market and library. We also understand the city has needs – public safety, street and pedestrian improvements and affordable housing to name a few. That is why we support the Falls Church City Public Schools’ (FCCPS) FY 2019 School Board budget request. The 2.8 percent requested increase is based on a prudent and lean budget, with the school system sacrificing two-thirds of requests from teachers and principals. The proposed budget will not require a tax rate increase

as revenue growth is higher than expected at 3.4 percent. It should be noted that both the proposed city and school budgets have a negative impact on the tax rate, allowing for a 3-cent reduction. The 4.5 cent tax increase is the result of the 3-cent reduction offset by

“FCCPS’ request is the lowest requested increase in the last six years.” servicing our debt (5 cents) and covering the cost of WMATA (2.5 cents). Our school leaders crafted a conservative budget. In fact, FCCPS’ request is the lowest requested increase in the last six years.

The centerpiece of the proposed budget is a 3 percent Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for all FCCPS employees. That not only includes our teachers but also our bus drivers, custodians, cafeteria workersevery employee of the school system – and the increase is identical to that proposed for City employees. As Governor McAuliffe left office, he stated that the number one challenge the new governor will face is the teacher shortage in Virginia. Our “human capital” is vital to the health of the system and as such a fair and competitive wage is necessary. Just as affordable housing is

important in our city, let’s compensate our staff so that they can afford to live here.

While the COLA will improve our teacher pay, on average FCCPS’ teacher salary scale is still below Arlington’s current salaries and many surrounding school systems are proposing salary increases, averaging 4.0 percent for their employees. The requested budget increase would also fund an additional school psychologist (our current ratio of one psychologist per 1,300 students is nearly double the recommended ratio of 1:700).

After accounting for all adjustments, FCCPS’ operating budget is only increasing by 0.8 percent. With reduced state funding, revenue beyond the 2 percent guidance from the City Council is essential to continue to offer the high-quality education Falls Church City expects from its schools. FCCPS has also made a good faith effort to scrub its budget and make reductions and realignments to fund its remaining Triennial Plan priorities.

While it is true that with a transfer of less than 2.8 percent, the COLA could still be covered, it would mean other areas would need to be cut. These areas include George Mason High School band instrument replacement, PYP Coordinator for Mt. Daniel and Thomas Jefferson, Mary Ellen Henderson Math Specialist, clerical support for Jessie Thackrey, a school psychologist and a special education specialist. Other options to cover the gap could include reducing the COLA (which at 3 percent is already below most of

our surrounding school systems) or eliminating teacher positions which could affect class size.

The FCCPS stated mission is to be the premier International Baccalaureate school division in the country. The School Board’s proposed budget provides support for the FCCPS mission while maintaining small class sizes.

We feel the 2.8 percent budget increase is vital as it will enable all our employees – teachers, staff, bus drivers, custodians, cafeteria workers — to receive a 3 percent cost of living adjustment without cuts to other critical areas.

The GMHS Athletic Boosters Association and the FCCPS Band Boosters Association also strongly support this budget.

Our organizations raise thousands and thousands of dollars each year to cover areas such as equipment and supplies, teacher grants and professional development opportunities. Every year the requests from our principals, teachers and staff exceed what we can fundraise. Understanding the fiscal challenges our city faces, we strongly support the School Board budget. It is conservative and lean, only covering what is necessary to keep our school system performing at the level our residents expect, and it supports fair wages for our teachers and staff.

Laura Downs is president of the Falls Church City Elementary PTA, Carolyn Bruce is president of the Mary Ellen Henderson PTA and Mary Stevens is president of the George Mason High School PTSA.

Q������� �� ��� W��� Should City of Falls Church teachers and staff receive a three percent pay increase this year?

• Yes

• No

• Not sure

Last Week’s Question:

Should the F.C. City Council grant a five-year extension for the development of the Broad-Washington project?

Log on to www.FCNP.com to cast your vote FCNP On-Line polls are surveys, not scientific polls.

[WRITE FOR THE PRESS] 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.

Email: letters@fcnp.com | Mail: Letters to the Editor, Falls Church News-Press, 200 Little Falls St., #508, Falls Church 22046 | Fax: 703.340.0347

Foxes Music

LO CA L

Fyour inner musician!

AAUW USED STUDY WITH US! Book Sale ree

PAGE 8 | APRIL 12 - 18, 2018

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

PRIVATE LESSONS•DEGREED TEACHERS ALL INSTRUMENTS•ALL STYLES•ALL AGES

416 SOUTH WASHINGTON ST., FALLS CHURCH

703-533-7393

April 13-14 • SALES insLESSONS rga

Ba

RENTALS • REPAIRS

tion Fic iction -F Non

Fri. April 13...9 am-9 pmPRIVATE LESSONS•DEGREED TEACHERS Sat. April 14...9 am-4 pm Falls Church Community Center. 223 Little Falls Street (Near corner of Route 7 & Lee Hwy)

Buy a book, send a girl to College

Foxes Music

Free your inner

THE INSIGHT PROPERTY GROUP won approval Monday for its project at the intersection of Broad and Washington streets in the City of Falls Church. (R�������� �������� I������ P������� G����)

Broad-Washington Plan OK’d

PRIVATE LESSONS • DEGREED TEACHERS ALL INSTRUMENTS • ALL STYLES • ALL AGES

musician!

STUDY WITH US!

Continued from Page 5

416 SOUTH WASHINGTON ST., FALLS CHURCH

703-533-7393 LESSONS • SALES • RENTALS • REPAIRS T:11.5”

T:10.5”

EVEN WHEN IT’S JUST AROUND THE CORNER.

NEVER GIVE UP UNTIL THEY BUCKLE UP. VISIT SAFERCAR.GOV/KIDSBUCKLEUP

Voted #1 Again

ADC5_9551A0012_11-5x10-5_HPH_BWNP.indd Client: AD COUNCIL

Art Version: Paper:

Job#: ADC5-9551A0012

Title: “NHTSA Buckle Up”

Media Type: BW Fractional Newspaper Ad

Notes: None

Line Screen: Edit Round:

Initials

Final Art

Studio Manager: Proofreader:

R. Virginia

133

Art Director:

M. Heckart

1

Copywriter:

Bleed: 11.5” W x 10.5” H

Creation Date:

1-22-2015 11:57 AM

Creative Director:

Trim: 11.5” W x 10.5” H

Modified Date:

2-18-2015 10:49 AM

Production Manager:

Printed at:

None

Printed by:

Andrew McCarthy

Gutter: None

Run Date: None

Publication: None

Fonts: Avenir (95 Black), Minion Pro (Regular), Italian Plate (Bold)

Account Executive: Client:

Date

A. McCarthy

Fortune Gloss Text

Safety: 11.5” W x 10.5” H

Other proponents included Gina Caceci, Mark Werblood and former Falls Church Vice Mayor Marty Meserve of the Creative Cauldron board and two Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School students who extolled the virtues of the teaching theater component of the program. Both, at their young ages, were “veterans” of youth theater productions there.

Their testimony was augmented by the annual report of the Falls Church Arts and Humanities Council delivered

by Barbara Cram at the meeting. That report noted that, in Falls Church, the arts contribute $25,778,233 annually in economic activity to the local economy, generating $1,804,000 annually in tax revenues.

Others opposing or calling for a delay in the project were neighbors to the site, including Rebecca

W. Wood J. Morledge J. Adler-Kerekes B. Ehninger Ad Council

Links: ADC_14_228_A005_C012_1030YA_NP_K.tif (Gray; 252 ppi; 119%), NHTSA_Logo_K.ai (31.9%), ADCOUNCIL_Blk. eps (18.89%)

Inks

Black

Family, Cosmetic, and Implant Dentistry Federal Employees: We work with your benefits

703.532.3300

www.DoughertyDDS.com 200 Little Falls Street, Suite 506, Falls Church, VA 22046 We are located across the street from city hall

Tax of Clare and Don’s Beach Shack and Erik Pelton, owner of an office building nearby.

But the City’s planning staff, represented by Gary Fuller, expressed its continued support, noting the unanimous support for it, with provisos that were all subsequently addressed, by the Planning Commission. Becky Witsman of the City’s Economic Development Office said that the positive fiscal impact of the project will amount to between $805,492 to $1,196,901 in net tax revenue annually, which would rank it the third highest net revenue project in the City.

Adams focused on the “energy and vitality” the project will add to the City’s downtown, noting that the fiscal impact study is “conversative.” Four uses on the ground floor will be for a restaurant, the Creative Cauldron theater, a specialty grocery and 1,500 square feet in other retail uses.

The value of the subsidy to

the Creative Cauldron was put at $2.5 to $3 million, and the project included five or six percent of the residential units being dedicated to affordable housing (depending on the size mix) for life, or an alternative to provide an all-cash comparable alternative gift to the City’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund.

The project’s voluntary contribution to the City schools will be $2.1 million.

“Clearly, I like what I see,” said Councilman Dan Sze. “A lot of progress has been made,” said Councilman Ross Litkenhous, “This is a project we need in the City.”

“This is the kind of project we need to do time and time again” to maintain the viability of the City, said Councilman Phil Duncan.

“This project is exciting, a great thing for the City,” added Mayor David Tarter.

Those comment preceded the three unanimous votes in favor.

IT’S SPRING!!

Get your Lawn Service ad in our Business & Service Directory Today!

The grass is growing, the flowers are blooming.

Who’s going to cut the lawn & prune the hedges?

Call 703-532-3267 or email ads@fcnp.com

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

LO CA L

F� � � � C � � � � �

NEWS BRIEFS

APRIL 12 – 18, 2018 | PAGE 9

Welcoming New Patients

New Anti-Gun Violence License Plate OK’d Virginia Governor Ralph Northam signed Falls Church’s Del. Marcus Simon’s bill to create a new Virginia license plate with the message “Stop Gun Violence” into law. Del. Simon (HD-53) introduced HB 287 to create the specialty license plate. “Who would’ve thought it would’ve taken this much effort to get a little old license plate bill through the legislature? I’m grateful to the Governor for signing this bill even though we had to get a little creative to make the process work,” said Del. Simon when the law was signed last week. Supporters of the effort, spearheaded by Falls Church’s Carol Luten, collected more than 450 prepaid applications for the $10 cost of a new specialty plate. On the House floor, GOP House members amended the bill to make it a $25 revenue generating plate to raise money for mental health programs in Virginia. Ultimately Simon successfully amended the bill so that the DMV will honor the existing prepaid applications, and the increase won’t be effective until 2020. “As grassroots gun violence prevention advocates, we rested our faith and mission on these words from St. Francis of Assisi, ‘If you start by doing what is necessary, and then what is possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible.’ So keep the faith, and don’t lose hope, for everyone has the ability to create change,” said Luten. The bill will go into effect on July 1st and the plates will be available later this year.

Justice High School Logo Unveiled J.E.B Stuart High School has released its new logo as it prepares for the transition to Justice High School during the summer of this year. The new logo for Justice High was made public by Stuart High principal Penny Gros Monday. Stuart was renamed Justice High School by the Fairfax County School Board in October 2017. The logo reflects the school mascot, the Wolves, selected by students in January. Local design firm Startte provided more than 40 hours of graphic design labor at no cost and created a number of images for use on apparel, print and electronic formats.

Vietnamese-American Veteran Friendship Monument Sought Bob Smith of the Greater Falls Church Veterans Council presented to the Falls Church City Council Monday a plan for the construction of a Vietnamese and American Veterans Friendship monument at the intersection of E. Broad and Hillwood Avenue, just behind the 24 Hour Fitness facility at the far east end of the City. Smith stressed that no taxpayer dollars will be used, but that the monument will be an important national marker next to the Eden Center, one of the east coast’s most popular centers of Vietnamese-American commerce and culture. He said a dedication ceremony would attract important national figures. The matter will go before the F.C. Planning Commission for an OK.

Arbor, Earth Days Acknowledged by F.C. Council With the City of Falls Church designated as a “Tree City, USA” by the National Arbor Day Foundation for 40 consecutive years, and being the host of the first ever observance in Virginia of Arbor Day in Virginia in 1892, April 21 was proclaimed Arbor Day in the City by Mayor David Tarter and the F.C. City Council Monday night. This year’s “Tree of the Year” selected by the F.C. Tree Commission is the Pignut Hickory. The Council also proclaimed April 22 as Earth Day in the City, with citizens and businesses urged to reduce use of plastics, such as grocery bags and water bottles, and to ensure that, if used, they are recycled.

Dr. Mindy Nasuti

Now Open 9-5 Every Weekday & Until 8 on Tuesday and Wednesday 703-533-7555 • www.fmifc.com 124A East Broad St., Falls Church, VA 22046 Board Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine • Accepting Most Major Insurances

COMMUNITY NIGHT Springtime Is Here— Getting your home ready!

D OW N S I Z I N G A N D R E A L E S TAT E S E M I NA R

Thursday, April 12, 6:00 - 7:00

pm

If you are interested in downsizing or putting your home on the market, this is the PERFECT program for you!

Come hear how to get started in the process that can sometimes stops us in our tracks.

Topics include: • How do I get started cleaning out a house of 30 years?

• Stress free decluttering • Getting your house ready for sale • How much is my home worth? Appraisals • The downsizing and selling process Light refreshments will be served. Presented

by Bethany Ellis of Long and Foster Real Estate and Lisa Brewer of TAD relocation.

Stay for our Caregiver Support Group, 7:00 - 8:00

pm.

Space is limited. Please RSVP to Kelly Halteh at 703-531-0781 or email khalteh@cri-va.org.

‘Equal Pay Day’ Recognized in F.C. In conjunction with National Equal Pay Day being acknowledged across the U.S. this week, the Falls Church City Council chimed in with its own declaration Monday night, recognizing that women working full time still make only 80 percent of what men earn in the U.S. and over a lifetime, college educated women earn more than a half-million less than their male peers.

703-531-0781 | chesterbrookres.org | 2030 Westmoreland Street | Falls Church, VA 22043 A nonprofit, nondenominational community sponsored by Chesterbrook Residences, Inc. Coordinated Services Management, Inc.—Professional Management of Retirement Communities since 1981.

PAGE 10 | APRIL 12 - 18, 2018

LO CA L

News-Press

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Community News & Notes Pub Theology Comes To F.C. on April 18

DESPITE borderline frezzing temperatures, a collection of locals young and old turned out for the Ice Cream Social at Cherry Hill Park last weekend. Here, a young resident is trying to get involved in the ice cream-making process with a little help from a adult guide. (Photo: Courtesy Gary Mester)

Any residents interested in discussing religion, theology and the role of religious institutions in social issues can attend pub theology on Wednesday, April 18 at Argia’s Restaurant (124 N. Washington St., Falls Church) from 7:30 – 9 p.m.

The Rev. Laura Martin of Rock Spring Congregational United Church of Christ in Arlington will lead the discussion.

Martin spoke at Dulin United Methodist Church about her experience leading a triage unit at a Charlottesville hospital during the tragic events last August that led to a woman’s death and dozens of injuries. She has lead previous pub theology evenings at Falls Church’s Café Kindred and

the Mad Fox Brewing Company.

Several Rock Spring Church members live in Falls Church.

Historically, pubs have been gathering areas to talk about life, philosophy, faith and deep questions of meaning. Increasingly, people all over are rediscovering a safe, open space where they can explore and express their own doubts and questions, learn from others and engage people of varying religious traditions.

The format is simple – beer, conversation and God. Residents are encouraged to bring their questions and their curiosity. Be ready to engage with people of varying religious traditions, philosophical perspectives and life experiences.

Attendees are welcome to purchase food or drinks of your choice during the gathering.

To help the restaurant save enough space, RSVP to info@ rockspringucc.org with the guest(s) name and number of people attending.

Falls Church Rotary’s Test Essay Winners Announced Winners of the Falls Church Rotary Club’s Middle School Four Way Test Essay Competition were announced at last week’s meeting on Thursday, April 5.

The contest winner was Daniel Lian with Victoria Chen taking second place and Faraz Ali Mirza earning third place winner. The top three finishers were joined by their parents as well as Falls Church Rotary Club President-Elect Stephanie Arnold and Longfellow Middle School English teacher’s Leslie

A HOST of locals were out and about during the March for Our Lives protest that took place in the nation’s capitol on March 24. These Falls Church women (left) were in good spirits upon debarking the Metro at the East Falls Church Station following the mass demonstation in Washington, D.C. on March 24. Also recouping from the March was the Falls Church-McLean Chapter of Mom’s Demand Action on Gun Violence (right). (Photos: Left: News-Press/Right: Courtesy Seton McIlroy)

Send Us Your News & Notes!

The News-Press is always on the lookout for photos & items for Community News & Notes, School News & Notes and other sections of the paper. If you graduate, get married, get engaged, get an award, start a club, eat a club, tie your shoes, have a birthday, have a party, host an event or anything else you think is worth being mentioned in the News-Press, write it up and send it to us! If you have a photo, even better! Because of the amount of submissions we receive, we cannot guarantee all submissions will be published, but we’ll try our best!

Community News & Notes: newsandnotes@fcnp.com | School News & Notes: schoolnews@fcnp.com Mail: News & Notes, Falls Church News-Press, 200 Little Falls St. #508, Falls Church, VA 22046

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Nightingale and Bruce Wilson.

The Four-Way Test that Rotarians try to live by is, “Of all the things we think, say or do: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?”

Lian’s winning essay was forwarded to the Rotary District Contest. The Rotary Club of Falls Church is celebrating 66 years of community “Service Above Self” in 2018 and meets the first and third Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. at the Harvest Moon Restaurant (7260 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). See FallsChurchRotary. org for more information.

Free Shredding Event For Residents at RE/MAX In honor of Earth Day 2018, residents can join the team at RE/ MAX West End (710 W. Broad St., Falls Church) for a shredding event where attendees can safely dispose of valuable papers and help protect the environment at the same time on Saturday, April 21, from 10 a.m. – noon, in the parking lot behind the building A complimentary breakfast will be provided by Kamelia Sacks with Stewart Title.

Creative Cauldron Premieres ‘Witch’ This Weekend “Witch,” a world premiere musical starring Broadway legend Florence Lacey and Helen Hayes Award Winner Iyona Blake, begins its run on Thursday, April 12. Weaving a thread from the Salem Witch trials through modern day politics, “Witch” examines the complex and compelling stories of women who’ve been labeled as witches throughout the centuries.

Tickets prices are as follows: $30 Adult, $26 Seniors/Military, $20 Students and $18 groups of 10 or more. Performances Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m. and

LO CA L

APRIL 12 - 18, 2018 | PAGE 11

7 p.m. at the Creative Cauldron (410 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church). 703-436-9948 creativecauldron.org/witch.html

Home Show & Garden Expo Set for Saturday Arlington Home Show and Garden Expo will be taking place this Saturday, April 14 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Kenmore MIddle School (200 S. Carlin Springs Rd., Arlington).

This is a family-friendly community event featuring an “Ask the Master Gardener” table.

Topics covered include composting, soil fertility, and turf alternatives. Free. Advance registration requested at mgnv.org.

Questions, telephone 703-2286414 or email mgarlalex@gmail. com.

Accordion Society Holds Concert in Sleepy Hollow The Washington Metropolitan Accordion Society will host Peregrine Road in concert, featuring Rachel Bell on accordion and Karen Axelrod on piano and accordion, this Sunday, April 15 at 4 p.m. at Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church (3435 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Falls Church).

A donation of $8 is requested of nonmembers. Refreshments will follow the concert. For more information, see washingtonaccordions.org or call 703-9195701.

Student-led Protest at NRA HQ on April 14 Residents can show their support for the efforts of youth across the country who are speaking truth to power and demanding change to U.S gun laws at the Student Protest at the National Rifle Association’s headquarters (11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax) on Saturday, April 14 from noon – 2 p.m.

This month’s NRA Vigil is

NATIONAL PUBLIC SAFETY Telecommunicators’ Week” was recognized by the Falls Church City Council this week, hailing those dispatchers who are the �irst to act in an emergency involving police services. “Emergency communications Technicians are the �irst and most critical contact that our citizens have with emergency services,” the proclamation stated. Members of the F.C. Police Department posed for a photo with the City Council after Mayor David Tarter signed the proclamation. (P����: N���-P����) being planned by youth from Virginia, Maryland, Florida and Connecticut.

Interested attendees can come listen to these kids, who have set the theme for this event as “Protect Kids Not Guns.”

Student speakers at the event are: Aalayah Eastmond — a survivor of the shooting at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, who spoke at the March for Our Lives event in Washington D.C. on March 24; Jenny Wadhwa — a junior at Newtown High School in Connecticut and member of the Jr. Newtown Action Alliance; Michael Solomon — a sophomore at Springbrook High School in Silver Spring, Maryland and co-president of MOCO

(Montgomery County) Students for Gun Control who spoke at a rally on the National Mall he helped organize on March 14; Olivia Mumma — a senior at Patriot High School in Nokesville, Virginia who helped organize a school walkout and arranged buses for youth from Prince William County to attend March for Our Lives in D.C. on March 24; Fifth graders from George Mason Elementary School in Alexandria, Virginia who helped organize a walkout on March 14 to promote school safety and to honor lives lost to gun violence.

If attendees are willing to shuttle people from the Vienna Metro to the NRA, contact Heather Wiemer at heathertheslp@gmail. com.

Arrive Alive Program Visits Yokrtown High on Friday The Arrive Alive Tour will be at Yorktown High School (5200 Yorktown Blvd., Arlington) on Friday, April 13 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

The program uses a high-tech simulator, impact video and a number of other resources to educate the public about the dangers of texting while driving and intoxicated driving. The simulator allows participants to experience the potential consequences of distracted and impaired driving in a controlled environment.

These events reinforce the subjects that schools and parents teach them daily. For more information, call Todd Betzold at 888.436.3394 ext. 6388.

CO MME NT

PAGE 12 | APRIL 12 – 18, 2018

A Penny for Your Thoughts

News of Greater Falls Church

By Supervisor Penny Gross

This week marks the annual series of public hearings about Fairfax County’s proposed FY2019 budget. County residents and others interested in, or affected by, the budget proposals sign up to urge the Board of Supervisors to support, or sometimes not support, the budget recommendations. Prior to the public hearings, there are town hall meetings in all magisterial districts, budget committee meetings with the School Board, and countless individual communications with constituents. Fewer than 140 persons or groups have signed up, a far cry from my first budget, in 1996, when more than 800 people signed up to speak, and the Board added an extra day — all day on a Saturday — to accommodate the number of speakers.

Both the budget schedule and technology have changed since then. At the request of the Board of Supervisors, the budget is presented in mid-February, rather than the end of February, to allow more time for public review before the Board must advertise a proposed tax rate. Back in 1996, most communications were via telephone or regular mail; today’s budget comments are almost exclusively via email.

Truth be told, though, I have fielded budget comments in the grocery check-out line and even in the dentist’s office!

The first evening of speakers usually includes formal testimony on behalf of county stalwarts like the Economic Development Authority, the Fairfax Education Association, the Park Authority, firefighters and paramedics, sheriff, police, and the Employee Advisory Council. Other speakers include library supporters and environmental advocates. Perhaps the issue area with the largest number of speakers is human services. Providing support for vulnerable populations – children, the elderly, and those with disabilities – helps define Fairfax County as a caring

and inclusive jurisdiction. As the cost of providing some services continues to increase, sometimes because of state and federal unfunded mandates, it can be a struggle to maintain levels of service as local budgets become more constrained. The county partners with non-profit organizations to make the dollars stretch, via Community Funding Pool competitive grants. The proposed FY2019 budget includes an additional $8.78 million for human services priorities, including early childhood care slots, the opioid task force, and expansion of Opportunity Neighborhoods into the Culmore community.

Overall, the proposed FY2019 budget includes $465,581,474 for Health and Welfare, nearly 11 percent of the total county budget. For comparison, the transfer to the school system is 52.8 percent of the budget, or $2,264,250,633. The other 36 percent of the budget funds all other county operations, including public safety (police, fire and rescue, sheriff, and emergency operations) at $510,383,677. Budget mark-up is scheduled for April 24, with adoption on Tuesday, May 1. The FY2019 budget takes effect on July 1.

With a very diverse population of more than 1.1 million people, Fairfax County is larger than seven states – Montana, Rhode Island, Delaware, South Dakota, North Dakota, Vermont, and Wyoming – and the District of Columbia. Although state budgets may be larger, Fairfax County’s $4.29 billion in General Fund disbursements is the largest of all local jurisdictions in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and continues to ensure that Fairfax County remains a great place to live, work, learn, play, and worship.  Penny Gross is the Mason District Supervisor, in the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. She may be emailed at mason@fairfaxcounty.gov.

before anything else, we’re all human rethink your bias at lovehasnolabels.com

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

From the Front Row: Kaye Kory’s

Richmond Report Mass shootings are all too common in our country, and have become part of our national lexicon.

We have become inured to the horror and tragedy of a mass shooting, failing to recognize these murders as the crises that they are.

“No more thoughts and prayers — we need immediate action.”

This is now the politically correct response to the deaths of so many innocent Americans.

Unfortunately, the newest addition to this politically correct reaction is that we must bullet and death-proof our schools. As if the lack of fortification of our public schools is the problem. The problem is our public policies and laws. The problem is how we constantly defer to gun ownership and the NRA. The problem is how lax we are as a society when it comes to who can own a gun and who cannot. The problem is how we pretend that the prevalence of untreated mental illness is not a serious problem. And the problem is how we pretend that “throwing resources” at a growing social crisis is not a solution. (Have we really tried throwing resources at treatment for the mentally ill? Have we really tried throwing resources at background checks, safer firearms and enforcing stricter limits on where and when guns are appropriate?) What’s that saying — “don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it”? Well, we haven’t tried it.

There are several other responses to the proliferation of public shootings that we haven’t tried. One is utilizing tools available through existing law. Did you know that in 2004 the General Assembly enacted Section 15.2915.2 “Regulation of transportation of a loaded rifle or shotgun”?

This Code section gives authority to any governing body of any county or city to, by ordinance, make it unlawful for any person to transport, possess or carry a loaded shotgun or loaded rifle in any vehicle on any public street, road or highway within such locality.

Ordinances to this effect have already been enacted by the City of Alexandria, and Fauquier, Loudon and Albemarle Counties. What about Fairfax County? What about Fairfax City? Falls Church City?

My answer to what about Fairfax County is that I have partnered with Senator Scott Surovell to write and circulate a letter to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. The letter was signed by nearly all the Delegates and Senators representing Fairfax County. We

delivered the following letter last week. Chairman Bulova replied that she would place this item on the BOS agenda for April 10.

Dear Madame Chairman and Hon. Supervisors: Section 15.2-915.2 of the Code of Virginia gives all local governments in Virginia the authority to ban loaded shotguns and loaded rifles on public highways. § 15.2915.2. Regulation of transportation of a loaded rifle or shotgun.

The governing body of any county or city may by ordinance make it unlawful for any person to transport, possess or carry a loaded shotgun or loaded rifle in any vehicle on any public street, road, or highway within such locality.

A similar ordinance has been enacted in the counties of Fauquier, Loudoun, Madison, Albemarle, Chesterfield, Clarke, James City, King George, New Kent, Northumberland, Surry, Warren and the cities of Alexandria, Fredericksburg, Petersburg, Richmond, Roanoke, Virginia Beach, and Williamsburg.

We, members of the Virginia General Assembly representing Fairfax County, do not believe that there is a need for loaded shotguns or loaded rifles on Fairfax County’s public roads. High emotions that come with traffic congestion in our region have led to instances where firearms have been discharged in incidents of road rage. Requiring that shotguns and rifles are not loaded at the beginning of a trip will help to reduce the potential for such splitsecond, life-changing decisions to occur in a moment of anger. Such an ordinance will also help to protect the driver and passengers, including children, as well as law enforcement from the accidental discharge of one of these weapons.

For example, in 2006, Virginia State Trooper Kevin C. Manion was killed after a loaded rifle went off during a wreck cleanup in Clark County.

We recognize that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors considered this issue in 2015. However given recent events, we believe that it is important at this time for all our localities to use their existing authority to foster gun safety and protect the driving public. We hereby ask that you initiate the processes necessary to change Fairfax County’s ordinances to prohibit the transportation of loaded shotguns and loaded rifles to the fullest extent possible under Virginia Law. We look forward to working with you on this important initiative.

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Donate A Boat or Car Today!

“2-Night Free Vacation!”

800 - 700 - BOAT (2628)

w w w.boatangel.com

sponsored by boat angel outreach centers

STOP CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN

WET BASEMENT???

CRACKED WALLS???

We Fix: Basements, Crawlspaces, Cracked/Settling Foundations, Bowing Walls

800 -772-07 04 FREE ESTIM ATES

Serving you since 1972 Call Now! 10% Limited Time Coupon Some Restrictions Apply

SHELTER PET & GLOBALLY RECOGNIZED PIANIST Amazing stories start in shelters and rescues. Adopt today to start yours.

KEYBOARD CAT 8M+ YouTube Views

CO MME NT

Our Man in Arlington

By Charlie Clark

Like many who venture to the kingdom of Ballston, I am impatient for the never-ending renovations to be over.

Tina Leone, CEO of the Ballston Business Improvement District, was happy to promise me that the rewards for us patrons of Arlington’s most central community will unfold in September— with staggered openings continuing through May 2019.

Sept. 2018 is the target date I see posted every time I hit the Sport and Health gym (don’t ask how often), one of six commercial establishments bravely staying open during Ballston Common’s “pardon our dust” renovation.

Others include the nationally embattled Macy’s, the persistent Regal Cinema, the basic CVS, the well-capitalized CapitalOne Bank and the unique Kettler Capitals Iceplex. (Lenscrafters endured the disruption for a while but bailed.)

I must offer three cheers for those lonely Ballston Common parking attendants.

But keep in mind that this sadsack Ballston mall lies at the heart of the larger Ballston Quarter.

The neighborhood has roots as an Arlington crossroads dating to the 18th century (there was a tavern, a polling station near today’s Macy’s). By 1907, there was a trolley hub at Fairfax Dr. and Glebe.

Today’s Ballston is a 25-block neighborhood with more than 8.3 million square feet of office space,

1 million square feet of retail footage and 8,000 residential units.

The Rosslyn-Ballston Metro corridor has the highest concentration of 18-34-year-olds in the United States, the BID claims, with an educated, affluent population of 42,683 within a square mile.

Pardon the hype: Ballston’s planners bill it as a space “with untraffic, unaggravation, unsuburbs, unboredom and a totally uncommon way of life. Ballston Quarter is a true urban village filled with people who want to live where they also work and play—people who want to live life to the fullest,” the BID says modestly. “This is the new American Dream.”

Construction has permeated life in Ballston since the 2008 Great Recession. We watched the demolition of the Wilson Blvd. pedestrian bridge and chunks falling from the Ballston Mall parking garage. We lost a key tenant in the National Science Foundation.

Now the old Mazda dealer at Glebe and Wilson is being replaced with a Target, 2,000 new apartments are in preparation in the area, and the Jefferson retirement community is completing renovation.

Driving around, you’ll spot orange-and-white plastic standards that brand the area and offer the wifi app’s slogan: “To find all things Ballston, Ballston Connect.”

Inside the 360,000 square-foot mall itself, Leone points to a roster of planned new eateries and

C i t y o f Fa l l s C h u r c h

CRIME REPORT Week of Apr. 2 - 8, 2018 Driving Under the Influence, 6757 Wilson Blvd (Eden Center), Apr 2, 12:56 AM, a male, 38, of Burtonsville, MD, was arrested for Driving Under the Influence.

Drug Violations, 600 blk E Columbia St, Apr 2, 12:56 PM, a male, 20, and a male, 19, both of Falls Church, VA, were issued summonses for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia.

Drug Violations, 100 blk S Washington St, Apr 3, 11:14 AM, a male, 27, of Pasadena, MD, was issued a summons for Possession of Marijuana.

Larceny from Vehicle, 1000 E. Broad St (24 Hour Fitness), Apr 2, 5:30 PM, an item of value was taken from a vehicle.

Assault, 1000 blk N Tuckahoe St, Apr 3, 7:04 PM, a female, 19, of the City of Falls Church, was arrested for assault.

Hit and Run, 800 blk Lincoln Ave, between Mar 31 and Apr 3, a vehicle was struck by another vehicle which left the scene.

Residential Burglary, 300 blk Grove Ave, Apr 3, 9:22 PM, suspect(s) entered an occupied

but unsecured home and took items of value.

Residents heard noise but never saw suspects. A K-9 search was undertaken and many of the stolen items were recovered nearby.

Investigation continues.

Urinating in Public, S Maple Ave/ Wallace St, Apr 4, 9:35 AM, a male, 62, of Falls Church, was issued a summons for Urinating in Public.

Drunk in Public, 127 E Broad St (Applebee’s), Apr 4, 9:56 PM, a female, 30, of Falls Church, was arrested for being Drunk in Public.

Smoking Violations, 6757 Wilson Blvd, #15 (H2O Café), April 5, 1:11 AM, a male, 43, of Silver Spring, MD, was issued a summons for Smoking in a Restaurant.

Assault, 100 blk N Fairfax St, Apr 5, 7:38 PM, motorist was flagged down by unknown suspect and assaulted following a verbal dispute. Suspect described as a white male in his 60`s, approximately 6` tall, balding with gray hair, and wearing a gray jacket. He was accompanied by a white female of approximately the same age, medium build, short, with gray hair.

Smoking Violations, 6795 Wilson Blvd, # 2 (Café Gio), Apr 6, 6:36 PM, a male, 56, of Arlington, VA, was issued a summons for

APRIL 12 – 18, 2018 | PAGE 13 21st-century entertainment outlets that grows almost daily. Names like Cookology, Nook, the Punch Bowl Social, 5 Wits. Forty percent of it is food, she said, and the hope is to create “Instagramworthy moments.”

The Target store differs from [nearby] Macy’s in that is more for household goods,” she told me. There are still vacancies, and “We’re a little short on service, such as nail salons, dry cleaners.”

The only setbacks in the race toward renewed Ballston civilization are a few communications lapses in warning residents of construction noise and blocked thoroughfares, she said.

There are plans to add more trees in areas such as the Fairfax Dr. entrance to I-66. And yes, you can also expect more “placemaking,” perhaps some festival lighting.

“Once we get through this,” Leone assured her restless interviewer, “people will be happy with the results.” *** A graduate of Yorktown High School class of ’83 was fortunate recently to recover his old school ring. He posted a photo of it on the Facebook page “I Grew Up in Arlington, Va.” Several of us noticed that if you look carefully at the jewel, you can see what clearly is a Confederate flag. I queried Mike McClain to find out what prompted that custom-ordered design.

Said he, “It was battle flag of Northern Virginia history and heritage.”

Smoking in a Restaurant Destruction of Property, 200 blk S Lee St, Apr 6, 9:59 PM, a window was damaged by a rock.

Suspects described as two Asian or Hispanic males and one white male all dark haired and approximately five foot three inches, wearing dark clothing. Last seen running North on S Oak. Hit and Run, 6793 Wilson Blvd (Eden Center), Apr 7, between 8 and 8:40 PM, a vehicle was struck by another vehicle which left the scene.

Assault, 400 blk E Broad St, Apr 8, 12:12 AM, an Uber passenger assaulted the driver.

A male, 27, of Falls Church, VA, was issued a summons for Assault and Battery.

Assault, 306 Hillwood Ave (Lesly Restaurant Bar & Grill), Apr 8, 2:19 AM, a male, 36, of Fairfax, VA, was issued two summonses for Assault and Battery.

Smoking Violations, 6757 Wilson Blvd, #24 (Le Billiards), Apr 8, 2:40 PM, a male, 62, of Falls Church, VA, was issued a summons for Smoking in a Restaurant.

Larceny from Vehicle, 900 blk W Broad St, Apr 8, 2 PM, taxi driver reported an item of value missing from vehicle.

OTHER ARRESTS Apr 7, 2 PM, a male, 28, of Manassas, VA, was arrested by Prince William County Police on a Capias from the City of Falls Church. Underlying charge was Driving Under the Influence.

PAGE 14 | APRIL 12 – 18, 2018

NATI O NA L

The President As Racketeer

The FBI raid of the office, home and hotel room of Trump’s personal attorney, his go-to fixer, Michael Cohen, this Monday has elevated the special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation of the president’s potential wrongdoing to a whole new level.

Now, suddenly, it’s not about Trump’s collusion with the Russians to corrupt the outcome of the 2016 presidential election. Nor is it about hush money and coercion utilized to shut up an affair with a porn star.

Now, it’s about organized criminal activity. According to the New York Times, the FBI agents who raided Cohen’s digs seized evidence of a range of possible federal crimes ranging from bank fraud, wire fraud and campaign finance violations. The FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS raid was conducted by the “Public Corruption Unit” of the federal attorney’s office in Manhattan, and deemed justifiable by a wide range of high level law enforcement and judicial brass.

There is, as the Times pointed out in its editorial yesterday entitled, “The Law is Coming, Mr. Trump,” no protection of “attorney-client privilege,” despite Trump’s protests, when attorney-client communications are in the furtherance of a crime.

The “law” was also the subject of the Washington Post’s editorial yesterday, entitled, “No One is Above the Law.” In that one, the Post counterposes Trump’s hysterical reaction (“A total witch hunt”) to the raid to what a thoughtful president, almost any of those we’ve had except for Trump, would have said.

Yes, it’s the “law” coming for the president of the United States now, and it’s beyond the point that Trump can exercise his presidential powers to shut it down. It goes without saying that there is an added incentive by the nation’s most powerful law enforcement entities to bring Trump to justice because of his enmity toward them all from day one of his presidency. Like the guilty crook he is, he’s tried to deflect any attention to or probe of his long history of activities as a corrupt hood in New York by soiling the reputations of those looking into him.

In fact, his behavior on these matters bears all the appearances of a small time thug, and that’s what will be the substance of the charges that will most assuredly come down against him. He’s an organized crime figure, and my guess is that the same legal statutes that have brought down Mafia figures, the types that Trump worked with for years, will bring him down. That is, RICO statutes, the laws against racketeering!

Yes, Mr. Trump is a common crook, even more so than Nixon was.

His methods, paranoia and thuggish personality during the entirety of his presidential run, election and period in the White House reek of it.

One of his most severe critics this whole time has been the Post’s conservative columnist Michael Gerson, who has been as relentless in his harsh critique of Republican lawmakers and religious evangelical leaders for their slavish acquiescence to the ways of Trump.

Although he’s been on-going and pervasive in his indictments, in a June 2017 column Gerson unleashed a scathing, almost rhythmic assault on Trump that should win some kind of prize. Taking a deep breath, he wrote, “Trump has been ruled by compulsions, obsessions and vindictiveness, expressed nearly daily on Twitter. He has demonstrated an egotism that borders on solipsism. His political skills as president have been close to nonexistent. His White House is divided, incompetent and chaotic...He has told constant, childish, refuted, uncorrected lies, and demanded and habituated deception among his underlings. He has humiliated and undercut his staff while requiring and rewarding flattery. He has promoted self-serving conspiracy theories. He has displayed pathetic, even frightening, ignorance on policy matters foreign and domestic. He has inflicted his ethically challenged associates on the nation. He is dead to the poetry of language and to the nobility of the political enterprise, viewing politics as conquest rather than as service.”

He went on in this vein with another paragraph of equal length that read in part, “He has invited criminal investigation through his secrecy and carelessness. He has publicly attempted to intimidate law enforcement.” Now, with the benefit of law enforcement’s methodical and thorough ways since then, we’re finding out why.  Nicholas Benton may be emailed at nfbenton@fcnp.com.

Nicholas F. Benton

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Trump Seethes, And Americans Tremble

“An attack on our country.”

That’s a blunt, unqualified phrase that you associate with planes dropping bombs or tearing into skyscrapers. It’s also an apt description of Russian interference in the 2016 election: something that President Donald Trump has steadfastly refused to accord the proper language or outrage.

But a lawful raid on his attorney’s office and hotel room is what prompted the president to use those immensely weighted words. They’re a signal — make that a siren — of how cornered he feels, how monstrously large his belief in his own persecution has grown and what a perilous situation America is in.

He claimed “a whole new level of unfairness” in Robert Mueller’s investigation into any ties between NEW YORK TIMES NEWS SERVICE his presidential campaign and Russia. That yanks us to a whole new level of uncertainty about what happens next.

The sacking of Mueller? A purge at Justice? Some unrelated swipe at perceived enemies or random assertion of potency by a man who cannot bear any image of impotence and is always ginning up distractions, as both a matter of strategy and a function of temperament?

If you doubt those scenarios, you’ve paid no heed to his presidency so far. And you’re denying the rawness and rareness of that extraordinary language during those extraordinary minutes at the White House on Monday night, when he called Mueller’s team and, presumably, top officials at the FBI “the most biased group of people,” accusing them of a prejudice and partisanship for which there is no compelling evidence.

He was telling us, yet again, not to trust our own government. And he was reminding us, in shocking fashion, about his readiness to sell (and buy) fictions if they serve his self-interest, which he reliably puts before all else.

His thrashing and wailing continued Tuesday morning — on Twitter, of course. “Attorney-client privilege is dead!” he tweeted shortly after 6 a.m.

Then, a minute later: “A TOTAL WITCH HUNT!!!”

We haven’t been in a safe space since Nov. 8, 2016, but we’re in especially dangerous territory now. Trump seems closer than ever to decisions that could plunge the country into crisis. And there’s nothing in his bearing or behavior to suggest that he cares all that much about sparing America that chaos and pain.

From his understandably panicked perspective,

Frank Bruni

investigators keep reaching further, wider and deeper into corners of his life that he didn’t expect to be invaded.

He has long consoled himself with the mantra that there was “no collusion,” “no collusion,” “no collusion.” But in a manner that’s entirely legal, not to mention an echo of President Bill Clinton’s experience, the investigation has traveled in additional directions and examined additional wrongdoing.

Having subpoenaed the Trump Organization, Mueller and his team now possess his business records. Having executed a warrant for material in the possession of Michael Cohen, federal officials will sift through the secrets of an insider who is not just Trump’s lawyer but also his longtime fixer and friend.

Even though Cohen is the apparent focus of their interest, Trump, too, must feel hideously exposed.

This is a man who refused, despite intense pressure, to release his tax returns, as candidates before him had done. Now information that may be much more private, and much more damning, is in strangers’ hands.

A single sentence in a story about the Cohen raid by my colleague Matt Apuzzo brilliantly hinted at Trump’s vantage point, from which he sees any moat around him vanishing and his castle under siege.

Apuzzo wrote: “His longtime lawyer is being investigated in Manhattan; his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, is facing scrutiny by prosecutors in Brooklyn; his former campaign chairman is under indictment; his former national security adviser has pleaded guilty to lying; and a pair of former campaign aides are cooperating with Mr. Mueller.”

It’s in that context that Trump, during a meeting that was supposed to be about Syria, went on and on about the “disgrace” (he used that word seven times) of Mueller’s investigation, toyed with the idea of getting rid of him, excoriated Jeff Sessions anew, once again branded James Comey a liar and, for good measure, kicked around Hillary Clinton some more.

It was the full martyr complex and all the greatest hits in one meltdown. Mike Pence sat stone-faced on one side of him, John Bolton without much expression on the other. It’s hard to imagine either of them having the rapport with Trump to calm him down.

There is no Hope Hicks anymore, no Rob Porter, no Gary Cohn, no H.R. McMaster: The ranks of people who either gave Trump a sense of comfort and stability or sought to steer him away from his most destructive impulses have thinned. He’s more alone than ever.

He must be more frightened, too. But not half as scared as the rest of us should be.

LO CA L

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

APRIL 12 – 18, 2018 | PAGE 15

UNVEILING a commemorative plaque with the names of various faith groups that helped the Falls Church-McLean Children’s Center reach its 50th anniversary is the school’s president, Jane Auerbach (left) and executive director Elizabeth Page. The school’s focus has always been aiding in the childrearing of low-income families as 60 percent of its students experience some kind of economic obstacle that prevents full-time parental care. (P����: N���-P����)

F� � � � C � � � � �

S����� N��� � N���� Congressional Students Win Eco-Friendly Award Students in a sixth grade Global Perspectives class at the Congressional School are celebrating after being named winners of a Project Green Schools 2018 Green Difference Award for their project entitled “Blueprint for a More Sustainable School.” The project, which won in the category of Outstanding Commitment to Greenovation [Green + STEM + Innovation], involved student research and the creation of a large model of sustainable elements designed to enhance Congressional School’s environmentally friendly and energy efficient practices.

After completing the researchbased phase of the project, the students each created small models of sustainable elements relating to water conservation, landscape management, solar, wind, and geothermal energy and combined them to form a large-scale model.

After completing the project, the students presented their findings to other students in the school and to members of the school’s senior administration On Friday, April 13, Denise Yassine will attend a ceremony in Boston, Massachusetts to receive the award on behalf of her students.

Mason Senior to Perform at National Portrait Gallery Blake Myles Hopkins, a senior at George Mason High School,

auditioned for Paris-based artist, Lee Mingwei and the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery staff and was subsequently selected for the opportunity to perform at the Gallery’s celebration of 50 years of defining the nation’s history through portraiture on two upcoming dates: Saturday, April 14 and April 28 from 2 – 4 p.m.

As one of the selected singers for this project, Hopkins will perform at the critically acclaimed performance piece “Sonic Blossom” by Mingwei as part of the participatory artwork, the latest iteration of the museum’s “Identify” series, which will provide visitors with the chance to receive “the gift of song in German.”

Hopkins will share songs by composer Franz Schubert in the Portrait Gallery’s “Great Hall” for this project as a gift to visitors. This marks the first time that this work is being presented in Washington, D.C. For more information, visit npg.si.edu/sonic-blossom

Mason Students Recognized for Art & Writing Success The Alliance for Young Artists & Writers has awarded 2018 Scholastic Art & Writing medals to George Mason High School students Estelle Timar-Wilcox and Annie Castillo for poetry, and Tenzin Namgyel for photography. The three were among eight Mustangs to have won Gold Keys in the regional competition in February. They join a

legacy of celebrated artists who have received this award including Robert Redford, Andy Warhol, and Joyce Carol Oates. The award presentation will be in June at Carnegie Hall.

Last Call for Henderson Career Fair Volunteers The annual Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School (7130 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church) Career Fair is this Friday, and this popular event is still looking for a few more presenters. Residents are encouraged to consider sharing their career with the students on Friday morning. There’s no need for a prepared speech, just a willingness to have a conversation with interested students as they circulate at the event. To sign up and for more information, contact school counselor Matt Sowers at sowersm@fccps.org.

Mustang Robotics & Cyclebar Join Forces for Fundraiser The George Mason High School Robotics team, 1418, will team up with Cyclebar (301 W. Broad St., Falls Church) this Sunday, April 15 at 3:30 p.m. to help the team fundraise for its trip to the World Championships and for materials to build up their robot.

A $30 donation includes admission for the class, cycling shoe rentals, towels and a water bottle.

To sign up, visit Mason robotics’ page at fitmetrix.io/webportal/ ClassList.

Vision problems often prevent children from reaching their full academic potential Call today to schedule a vision screening and make sure your child isn’t being left in the dark

Eye Exams By Independent Doctor of Optometry, Dr. Peter Ellis

701 W. Broad St. (Rte 7) Falls Church VA

703-237-6500

www.pointofvieweyewear.com

PAGE 16 | APRIL 12 - 18, 2018

LO CA L

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

This Week in Sports Mason Soccer Remains Unbeaten

by Matt Delaney

Falls Church News-Press

SOPHOMORE PITCHER Kelly Fischer cocks her arm back as she prepares to send a strike down home plate. Strong performances by the Mustangs have made last year’s winless record a thing of the past, as they currently sit at 2-2 in the young season. (Photo: Carol Sly)

George Mason High School’s boys soccer season is in full swing as the team took down longtime rival Central High School, 7-0, as well as higher-classified Lee High School, 2-0, in the last week.

The Mustangs (5-0-1) have started this year determined after an abridged finish last season that saw them exit in the opening round of the 2A Region tournament. It’s clear their focus is heightened, as they’ve outscored opponents (including some of the best in Alabama and Tennessee, and intrastate rival Maggie Walker Governor’s School) by a margin of 20-5 in six games this season.

A chippy Central team was on the receiving end of Mason’s redemption tour when they played on April 6.

“We went into Woodstock with a huge chip on our shoulders and with a mission that we followed through with,” Mason head coach Frank Spinello said.

Mason tallied their first goal against the Falcons when freshman midfielder Declan Quill knocked in a second chance attempt that sophomore midfielder

Zorhan Boston missed on the first go around. Though maintaining frequent possession, the Mustangs wouldn’t score again until the 35th minute when sophomore midfielder Henry Brorsen sent a cross to senior forward Peter Scardino, who kicked the ball mid-air to improve Mason’s halftime score to 2-0.

Following the intermission, the Mustangs returned with a noticeable edge. Senior forward Carlos Mercado racked up two goals in a four minute span right out of halftime to put the game out of reach for Central.

Even with the victory virtually in hand, Mason didn’t let up.

Wells performed a little trickeration to really deplete the Falcons morale by eluding three defenders facing him straight-up to drive home how much the Mustangs wanted that win.

“You cannot coach speed,” Spinello continued. “[Wells] was totally determined to score on that play, he saw the opening when no one else did and made them pay.”

Senior defender Tim Andrianarison and sophomore defender Hunter Broxson rounded out the scoring in the final six minutes to secure Mason’s 20th

victory in as many matches over Central.

The game against Lee on April 4 was lighter on scoring due to windy conditions, but picked up as the wind died down later in the match.

Junior defender Miles Lankford launched a free kick into the Lancers’ penalty box that wound up on Andrianarison’s foot.

Feeling pressure from both sides, Andrianarison backheeled the ball toward the goal in impromptu fashion and caught Lee’s goalie off his mark for game’s inaugural score.

In the opening minute of the second half, Mason struck again when sophomore midfielder Cole Hellert, Brorsen and Boston had a three-man passing game going up the length of the field.

Eventually, the short passing series ended with Brorsen receiving the final touch before sending a sharp, low cross that Wells finished at point blank range for the game’s decisive margin.

The Mustangs will play their next game on the road against Loudoun County High School tonight before facing Rappahannock County High School at home on Friday.

Spring Plays on the Bill at F.C. Schools

by Matt Delaney

Falls Church News-Press

This spring’s high school theater offerings in the Falls Church area are right around the corner and are sure treats for audiences.

‘The Little Mermaid’ at J.E.B. Stuart High School

IT’S BEEN A ROUGHER GO for Mason’s baseball team, as they have struggled to string together consistent wins with their record currently at 1-5. The lone bright spot came against John Paul the Great Catholic School on April 6, where hot bats, including junior catcher Sean Butler’s (picture) helped the Mustangs earn a 17-3 win and some needed morale in the dugout. (Photo: Carol Sly)

“The Little Mermaid” is a musical based on one of writer Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and the classic Disney animated film. With music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater and a compelling book by Doug Wright, it is a heart-warming, family friendly story featuring some of the best-known songs from the past 30 years.

J.E.B. Stuart (Justice) High School (3301 Peace Valley Lane, Falls Church). Show dates: April 12 – 14, at 7 p.m., and a 2 p.m. matinee on April 14. More information is available at stuartdrama.org.

‘Metamorphoses’ at George Mason High School “Metamorphoses” is based on the Roman poet Ovid’s transfor-

mation myths. The play is a series of vignettes that touch on themes that are interlaced throughout human history such as love and necessary adaptations that make living in new times and new society’s possible. Throughout the production, which is centered around a pool of water in the middle of the stage, the play covers multiple story angles while creating a complex, yet relatable picture of humanity.

George Mason High School (7124 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). Show dates: April 26 – 28.

‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’ at Marshall High School Marshall High School’s 2017 - 2018 season closes with the musical “Thoroughly Modern Millie.” Based on the 1967 Academy Award-winning film set in 1922, the frivolity and excess that the”Roaring Twenties” were known for ended in a loud crash known as the Great Depression.

Taking place in the wake of a traumatic World War I, even the largest of problems and issues could be swept under the rug with a perfectly timed party. The head of the theatre program at Marshall,

Jason Tamborini, has been working to educate the cast, crew and community on sensitive subjects in the show including subplots of human trafficking and racial discrimination.

George C. Marshall High School (7731 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). Show dates: April 26 - 28th and May 4 & - 5 at 7:30 p.m. plus matinees on April 28 and May 5 at 2 p.m.

‘Arabian Nights’ at Falls Church High School King Shahryar discovers his wife is with another lover and murders them both for the betrayal. Now alone, the king decides to marry a new woman at night and spitefully kill her in the morning after, setting a deadly trend in motion. This went on until a young woman named Scheherezade daringly wed herself to the king and began telling a fanciful and elaborate tale each evening and continuing through until dawn, suspending her death sentence for one thousand and one nights.

Falls Church High School (7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church).

Show dates: May 3 – 5 at 7 p.m.

More information is available at fchsdrama.org

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

A RTS & E NTE RTA I NME NT

APRIL 12 – 18, 2018 | PAGE 17

Providence Players’ ‘The Front Page’ Brings The Life of 1920s Journalists to the Masses

by Orrin Konheim

Falls Church News-Press

In their penultimate play of the 2017-2018 season, the Providence Players of Fairfax tackle the world of yellow journalism and Chicago crime in the classic 1928 stage comedy “The Front Page.”

The original play, which is presented word-for-word here minus the racist language, is a significantly different beast because it has two male leads (played here by Chuck O’Toole as Hildy Johnson and David Whitehead as Burns). Rather than a budding romance, the central relationship is not an opportune union but a troublesome codependency.

With the entirety of the play confined to a single set — the reporter’s bullpen of the Cook County courthouse — the play is largely a comedy of errors: People frantically leaving and entering the scene with various states of incomplete information.

As such, the primary laughs come here from physical comedy rather than dialogue-based humor.

Whitehead cuts an imposing physi-

cal presence as Burns and knows how to milk physical humor from his growls and frenzied hand motions.

When asked why the Providence Players chose “The Front Page,” director Michael Donahue spoke of the desire to do a period piece and something that could accommodate many of his adult male actors.

Watching this play, it’s not surprising that there might be a dearth of male talent as the actresses steal many of the scenes including Andra Whitt as Molly Malloy, Jaclyn Robertson as Peggy Grant (Hildy’s fiancé) and Susan D. Garvey as Mrs. Grant. Additionally, it’s clear that the costuming department had a field day with this one as the characters are dressed in full-period detail with extra attention to give the reporters a blue collar look.

If there’s one weakness of the production, it is that much of the play’s first act is mired in heavy dialogue which lacks the engaging bounce and rhythm of a screwball comedy. It can muddle together much of the quick plot turns and physical hijinks that don’t take place until the second act. The density of

the dialogue can also make it difficult to gain key plot points such as the political motivations behind staying the execution or the contrast between what the death row inmate Earl Williams (played by Bobby Welsh) was charged with and just how dangerous he actually is.

Playwrights Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur were rival reporters in that 1920s Chicago crime scene before connecting in New York literary circles and partnering professionally. The circulation wars between Chicago’s leading newspapers was so fervent that it’s often linked to the heyday of yellow journalism. One of the most famous examples, occurring the same year “The Front Page” was released, was when reporter Tom Howard outscooped his competition by sneaking a camera through his ankle into an execution chamber and capturing a prisoner being electrocuted.

When Hildy laments to the other reporters that they’ll all be working on a copy desk until they’re 90, it’s an eerie reminder to many who either recognized the value of or work in journalism, that throughout every area, it’s a profession of financial

DAVID WHITEHEAD (left) plays Walter Burns, one of the “The Front Page’s” two male leads, who is seen here talking tough to rival journalist Bensinger, played by Michael Bagwell. (Photo: Courtesy Chip Gertzog/The Providence Players)

uncertainty. The film started out as an indictment of yellow journalism and much of the criticisms of Chicago’s era also apply today in yellow journalism’s modern-day equivalent of click bait. At the same time, the film serves as a loving ode to an era when reporting was vital and exciting for those involved in it.

The most innovative contribution to Donahue’s staging is the transition of scenes with the simulation of a flash bulb using sound effects and a quick fade out in lighting. As

written in the program in the director’s notes, “It is my desire to capture that photo album nostalgia that the playwrights of ‘The Front Page’ created.” Whether you’ll like the characters or find them flawed, it’s a sure bet that the play will take you to an exciting era worth visiting.

“The Front Page” will be playing at the James Lee Community Center (2855 Annandale Rd., Falls Church) this weekend and next weekend. Tickets can be purchased at providenceplayers.org.

DENTAL Insurance

FREE Information Kit

Physicians Mutual Insurance Company

A less expensive way to help get the dental care you deserve If you’re over 50, you can get coverage for about $1 a day* Keep your own dentist! You can go to any dentist you want No wait for preventive care and no deductibles – you could get a checkup tomorrow

Coverage for over 350 procedures – including cleanings, exams, fillings, crowns…even dentures

1-855-738-7132 www.dental50plus.com/268

NO annual or lifetime cap on the cash benefits you can receive *Individual plan.

Product not available in MN, MT, NH, NM, RI, VT, WA. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN) 6096E-0917 MB17-NM008Ec

CA L E NDA R

PAGE 18 | APRIL 12 – 18, 2018

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

FALLS CHURCHCALENDAR COMMUNITYEVENTS THURSDAY, APRIL 12 Middle School Book Club. April Book: “A Bone from a Dry Sea”

by Peter Dickinson. Book discussion group for teens in Grade 6-8. Copies of the book are available at the Youth Services Desk.

Registration required for the school year, spaces are limited.

Call or visit the Youth Services Desk for more details. Mary Riley Styles Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Falls Church). 703-248-5034.

FRIDAY, APRIL 13 DMV 2 Go Bus. The accessible mobile office provides all DMV transactions including: Applying for and renewing driver’s licenses; applying for hunting and fishing licenses; obtaining E-Z pass transponders; obtaining ID cards (including photos) and Virginia’s veterans ID cards; obtaining copies of driving records, vehicle titles,

license plates, decals, and transcripts; obtaining certified copies of Virginia vital records including birth, marriage, divorce and death certificates. Ordering disabled parking placards or plates; taking road and knowledge tests and updating an address after a move for DMV and voter registration.

The limited DMV Connect service conducts all DMV transactions listed above, except vital records and testing. Customers should be prepared with the required documents to complete transactions.

All 2018 dates for both DMV 2 Go and DMV Connect are available on the City’s website at fallschurchva.gov. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Falls Church). 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

703-248-5450.

SATURDAY, APRIL 14 Community Clean-Up & Litter Pickup. Interested residents can clean up the City of Falls Church and keep litter out of local waterways during this volunteer opportunity that’s perfect for communi-

ty groups, church groups, families and individuals who want to help maintain the Little City. Volunteers should meet at the Community Center where they can either request or be assigned to a specific work area. All work will be done outdoors, so volunteers should wear comfortable clothes that can get dirty and closed toe shoes. The City will provide trash pickers, trash bags, recycling bags, gloves, and reflective vests for volunteers to wear. No registration required. Community Center (223 Little Falls St., Falls Church).

10 a.m. – noon. 703-248-5456.

Spring Signs. Residents can explore springtime with American Sign Language, from April showers to May flowers and everything in between. Signing storyteller Kathy MacMillan, author of “Nita’s First Signs” and “Little Hands and Big Hands: Children and Adults Signing Together,” leads stories, songs and more as attendees learn about communicating with their hands and eyes. No registra-

tion required. Mary Riley Styles Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Falls Church). 11 – 11:45 a.m. 703-2485034.

TUESDAY, APRIL 17 PAWS to Read @ the Library.

Children can come and read with a canine companion. Readers rising grades K-5th. Registration opens two weeks prior to the date of every program at the Youth Services desk by phone or in person. Registration is not accepted by email. Mary Riley Styles Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Falls Church). 5 – 6 p.m. 703-248-5034.

Senior Book Discussion. A book discussion geared toward seniors held roughly every six weeks.

Focuses on a variety of fiction and nonfiction titles selected in advance by the group. This month’s books is “Commonwealth” by Ann Patchett. Drop-in. Mary Riley Styles Library (120 N. Virginia Ave., Falls Church). 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. 703-248-5035

The Providence Players

THEATER&ARTS

FRIDAY, APRIL 13 “Witch.” From the dawn of time, women have been demonized, feared and objectified whenever their power challenged the traditional order. Weaving a thread from the Salem Witch trials through modern day politics, this world premiere musical examines the complex and compelling stories of women who’ve been labeled as witches throughout the centuries. Building on a year of strong productions, both visionaries Matt Conner and Stephen Gregory Smith bring their new work to the stage with music by Conner and book and lyrics by Smith. Creative Cauldron (410 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church). $30. 8 p.m. creativecauldron.org.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY SATURDAY, APRIL 142 “The Little Mermaid” The Little Mermaid is a stage musical produced in cooperation with Music Theatre International, and is based on one of writer Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and the classic animated film.

Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” is about a mermaid who dreams of

20th

Final Two Weekends! – Don’t Miss This Hit

Anniversary Season!

Performance Dates and Times Thurs, Fri and Sat Evenings 7:30 pm Sun Matinees 2:00 pm

Through April 21

PERFORMING AT

James Lee Community Center Theater 2855 Annandale Road Falls Church, VA 22042

FCNP Reader Discount

ALWAYS AFFORDABLE

20% Off Your Total Online Ticket Purchase Use Coupon Code:

Adults $20 Students/Seniors (62+) $17

At Online Checkout – Not Valid At The Door

Email: providenceplayerstickets@cox.net Phone: 703-425-6782

FCNPTFP20

www.providenceplayers.org

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

the world above the sea and gives up her voice to find her life’s true love. J.E.B. Stuart (Justice) High School (3301 Peace Valley Ln., Falls Church). $15. 7 p.m. stuartdrama.org

“The Front Page.” The classic comedy set in a 1920s Chicago Criminal Courts press room.

Reporter Hildy Johnson wants to break away from journalism and get married, but all that changes when there is a jailbreak and an escaped convict, Earl Williams, falls into the reporter’s hands.

Hildy’s daunting challenge now is to get Williams out of the building to a safe place for an interview before rival reporters or triggerhappy policemen discover him.

Fast paced, and filled with crisp dialog and sharp humor, this irresistible comedy of both stage and screen fame packs a wallop of nostalgic Americana. James Lee Community Center (2855 Annandale Rd., Falls Church). $20.

7:30 p.m. providenceplayers.org.

SUNDAY, APRIL 15 ”John.” In the midst of the holiday bustle, young Brooklyn couple Elias and Jenny escape on a much needed getaway to a cozy bedand-breakfast in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. However, under the watchful eye of the cheery, if slightly off, innkeeper, a ghost seems to haunt their crumbling relationship. With her trademark rough-edged humanity, observant humor and lyrical beauty, The Flick playwright Annie Baker blends the hyper-real with flickers of the supernatural in a quietly suspenseful and transfixing work.

Signature Theatre (4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington). $40. 2 p.m. sigtheatre.org.

19th Street Band. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8:30 p.m. 703-241-9504.

Torrey B. Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad St., Falls Church). 9:30 p.m. 703-237-8333.

FRIDAY, APRIL 13 Herb & Hanson. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack. (130 North Washington St., Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703-532-9283.

Happy Hour: Shartel & Hume.

JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703241-9504.

An Evening With Janiva Magness.

Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $18 – $25. 8 p.m. 703255-1566.

Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute Show.

JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 9 p.m. 703241-9504.

Tainted Cabaret. The State Theatre (220 N Washington St., Falls Church). $15 – $20. 9 p.m.

703-237-0300.

Huntley. Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad St., Falls Church). 10 p.m.

703-237-8333.

SATURDAY, APRIL 14 Carol & The Bee Charmers. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 4 p.m. 703-2419504.

THURSDAY, APRIL 12 Brook Yoder. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack. (130 North Washington St., Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703-532-9283.

Almost Queen. The State Theatre (220 N Washington St., Falls Church). $23 – $25. 9 p.m. 703237-0300.

An Evening With Kim Richey (Trio Show!). Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $20 – $22. 7:30 p.m. 703-255-1566.

The VI-Kings. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 9 p.m. 703-241-9504.

Pat McGee Band with Chris

APRIL 12 – 18, 2018 | PAGE 19

Trapper (encore performance the following night at the same time). Wolf Trap (1645 Trap Rd. Vienna). $30 – $35. 8 p.m. 703255-1900.

Britton James. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack. (130 North Washington St., Falls Church). 6 p.m. 703-532-9283.

LIVEMUSIC

CA L E NDA R

Dogwood Tavern 10-Year Anniversary Show ft. Left on

THE GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF WASHINGTON, D.C. will be at Wolf Trap in Vienna on Sunday. (Photo: GMCW.org)

Lincoln. Dogwood Tavern (132 W. Broad St., Falls Church). 10 p.m.

703-237-8333.

Maddie-Palooza feat. The Speaks and more! (at Union Stage).

Union Stage (740 Water St. SW, Washington, D.C.). 10:30 p.m.

703-255-1566.

E, Vienna). $15. 4 p.m. 703-2551566.

Ave. E, Vienna). $15. 7:30 p.m.

703-255-1566.

Irits. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack.

(130 North Washington St., Falls Church). 5 p.m. 703-532-9283.

Icognito with Maysa. The Birchmere (3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria). $59.50. 7:30 p.m. 703-549-7500.

SUNDAY, APRIL 15

Steve Jacobs’ Going Away Party.

JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 9 p.m. 703241-9504.

Dixieland Direct. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 1:30 p.m. 703-241-9504.

Low Red Moon, Hunted Hare.

Galaxy Hut (2711 Wilson Blvd., Arlington). $5. 9 p.m.

Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, D.C. with Small Ensembles Extravaganza. Wolf Trap (1645 Trap Rd. Vienna). $40 – $45. 4 p.m. 703-255-1900.

MONDAY, APRIL 16

Josh Christina Band. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 4 p.m. 703-2419504.

Sweet Yonder with Elisa Zhai Autry: Chinese Bluegrass Fusion.

Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave.

Mark Wenner with The Blues Warriors. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8:30 p.m. 703-241-9504.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18

Wolf Blues Jam. JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church). 8:30 p.m. 703-241-9504.

Sirens of Spring Tour 6 feat.

Mama’s Black Sheep + Christine Havrilla & Gypsy Fuzz. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna). $15 – $25. 7:30 p.m. 703-2551566.

Poly Action, Woodgrove. Galaxy Hut (2711 Wilson Blvd., Arlington). $5. 9 p.m.

The Suffers with Aztec Sun. Wolf Trap (1645 Trap Rd. Vienna). $22 – $27. 8 p.m. 703-255-1900.

TUESDAY, APRIL 17

Open Mic with Vernon Santmyer.

JV’s Restaurant (6666 Arlington Blvd., Arlington). 8:30 p.m. 703522-8340.

Soraia with Olivia Mancini & The Mates. Jammin’ Java (227 Maple

Calendar Submissions Email: calendar@fcnp.com | Mail: Falls Church News-Press, Attn: Calendar, 200 Little Falls St., #508, 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.

PAGE 20 | APRIL 12 - 18, 2018

CLEANING SERVICES

House Cleaning Service Available 7 days a week Weekly - By Weekly - Monthly or by Time Move Out - Move In • 14 years Experience Good References • Senior Discount For Further Information: Call Susy • Cell (703) 901-0596

A Cleaning Service since 1985

Insured, Bonded and Licensed Independently owned Commercial & Residential

703-892-8648

www.acleaningserviceinc.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT YOUR HANDYMAN LLC JOSEPH HOME Drywall • Paint Exterior / Interior, Carpentry, Painting, Drywall Repairs, Power Washing, Back Splashes, Tile, Minor Plumbing/Electrical Bathroom/Kitchen Upgrades, Finish Basements

Visit: www.yourhandlymanllc.com Call Pete: 571-243-6726

ANDERSON CONSTRUCTION HOME IMPROVEMENTS BBB + Angie's List Contractor 34 YEARS EXPERIENCE • LICENSED AND INSURED

BATHROOMS/KITCHENS/BASEMENTS (Mention ad and get 15% off )

ANDERSONBATHS.COM 703-799-0187

Bath & Kitchen Remodeling, Basements, Ceramic Tile, Deck, Fences. Patios, Electric, Plumbing, Clean Garage, All Kinds of Hauling.

Joseph www.josephhomeimprovements.com Joselozada27@yahoo.com Licensed & Cell 703-507-5005 Insured Work Tel 703-507-8300

Handyman Service All repairs, plumbing, drywall, doors, windows, rotted wood, siding, gutters, lighting + more FREE estimates, insured Call Doug (703)556-4276

www.novahandyman.com

fcnp.com

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

PRO SERVICES

OTHER SERVICES

Robert Beatson II Attorney/Accountant, Former IRS Attorney All Federal, State, Local & Foreign Taxes Admitted to DC, MD, VA & NY Bars 703-798-3590 or 301-340-2951

R

www.beatsonlaw.com

rbeatsonatty@netscape.com

Michael F Beatson CPA

Prior Big 4 Experience Licenses in MD, DC, and VA Tax Preparation and bookkeeping services.

Michael Beatson, CPA 9818 Glynshire Way Potomac, MD 20854

301-602-7470

The Law Firm Of Janine S. Benton Couselors & Attorneys At Law

Janine S. Benton, Esq jb@jbentonlaw.com

classads@fcnp.com

We Assist: government contractors small & large businesses

Tel: 703.217.2632 Fax: 703.832.3236 400 Maple Ave., So., Suite 210, Falls Church, Virginia 22046

C L AS S I F I E DS Cemetery Plots NATIONAL MEMORIAL PARK Falls

Church, VA Block BB, Lot 303, Sites 3-4.

Prices just increased to $6400 each. Will sell both for $11,500/OBO.443 305-2442.

SPACES AVAILABLE FOR Powhatan

Nursing Home Spring Yard Sale Saturday April 21, 2018 6ft table and space $20 2100 Powhatan Street, Falls Church, 22043 703538-2400 x135 or activities@powhatannursinghome.com

MULTIFAMILY YARD SALE Saturday,

For Sale

April 14, 9-2. Everything from Beanie Babies to antique glassware. 203-205 W. Westmoreland Road

HOUSE FOR SALE

Estate Yard Sale

5729 Norton Road Alexandria VA 22303 $508,440 Phone: 202-742-7290 Senate Realty Corporation 909 U Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 FAIR HOUSING & EQUAL OPPORTUNITY REALTOR

Help Wanted SEEKING PERSONAL ASSISTANT.

Must be over 18. Own transportation preferred, but not necessary. Job will be primarily essential tasks such as correspondence and calendar (time management). Flexibility to include some child care assistance as time progresses. $20/hr., between 6-8 hours per month. Please call or text contact information: 571-241-4123. Initial interview and references required.

Services PIANO TUNING.. Quality service.

Falls Church resident with 25 years experience. Official tuner for BalletNova. steve@offuttemail.com 703-283-4326

Wanted Donate your used car to help homeless and disabled veterans recover their lives. Fee paid. 703-298-3327

Yard Sale POWHATAN NURSING HOME Spring

Yard Sale Saturday April 21, 8am-1pm 2100 Powhatan Street Falls Church, Virginia 2243

fcnp.com

ESTATE SALE 3311 Golodboro Place Falls Church. Friday & Saturday April 13 and 14 10-4 PM Details Visit WWW.DOMINIONESTATESALES.COM

Public Notice NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY COUNCIL CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA The ordinances referenced below were given first reading on March 26, 2018.

Public hearings are scheduled for Monday, April 9 and Monday, April 23, 2018, with second reading and final Council action scheduled for Monday, April 23, 2018at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matters may be heard.

(TO18-02) ORDINANCE FIXING AND DETERMINING THE BUDGET OF EXPENDITURES AND REVENUES, APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2019: GENERAL FUND; SCHOOL OPERATING FUND; SCHOOL COMMUNITY SERVICE FUND; AND SCHOOL FOOD SERVICE FUND; CABLE ACCESS FUND; SEWER FUND; AND STORMWATER FUND (TO18-03) ORDINANCE FIXING AND DETERMINING THE FY2019-FY2024 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM BUDGET AND APPROPRIATING EXPENDITURE AND REVENUE FUNDS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2019 (TO18-04) ORDINANCE SETTING THE RATE OF TAX LEVY ON REAL ESTATE FOR TAX YEAR 2019 AND ON PERSONAL PROPERTY, MACHINERY AND TOOLS AND ALL OTHER PROPERTY SEGREGATED BY LAW FOR LOCAL TAXATION IN THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH VIRGINIA FOR TAX YEAR 2018 The proposed real estate tax rate for the tax year beginning July 1, 2018 is: $1.385 upon each $100.00 of assessed val-

ue of real estate in the City of Falls Church.

The proposed tax rate for tangible personal property, and machinery and tools, and all other property segregated by law for the tax year beginning January 1, 2018 is: $5.00 upon each $100.00 of assessed value on tangible personal property, and machinery and tools, and all other property segregated by law for local taxation within the City, including the property separately classified by Section 58.1-3500 et seq. of the Code of Virginia except such personal property as is exempted; and except that pursuant to Section 58.1-2606 of the Code of Virginia, a portion of assessed value of tangible personal property of public service corporations shall be taxed at the real estate rate.

All public hearings will be held in the Council Chambers, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia. For copies of legislation, contact the City Clerk’s office at (703-248-5014) or cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov. The City of Falls Church is committed to the letter and spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, call 703-248-5014 (TTY 711).

CELESTE HEATH, CITY CLERK

ABC LICENSE EL PATRON BAR & GRILL INC, Trading as: EL Patron Bar and Grill, 418 South Washington Street, Falls Church, Virginia 22046-4412. The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) for a Wine, Beer and Mixed Beverages On Premises. license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages. Carlos Ventura, Member. 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.

classads@fcnp.com

Gay Studies Best Seller Nicholas Benton

Extraordinary Hearts Reclaiming Gay Sensibility's Central Role in the Progress of Civilization Larry Kramer wrote: "A vital moral book about who we are and who we should be. I admire it and its author enormously."

Order it from Amazon

We are pledged to the letter andspirit 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.

A RTS&E NTE RTA I NME NT

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Crossword

ACROSS

By David Levinson Wilk 1

2

3

4

5

6

8

9

10

11

15

14 17

29

22 26

25

27

30 32 36

44

28

34

35

37

38

42 45

23

31 33

41

13

19

21

24

12

16

18

20

40

7

39

43

46

47

51

52

56

57 62

53

48

54

55 58

60

61

65

66

67

68

69

70

59

63

64

© 2017 David Levinson Wilk

Across

49

50

1. Everyone working in an office 6. Fragrant wood 11. Hiking trail reference 14. "____ Go Again" (1987 #1 song) 15. African nation renamed in 1997 16. First in a Latin 101 trio 17. It lasted from circa 3100-30 BC 19. "Far out!"

20. Vinyl albums, for short 21. Salt, chemically 22. Get around 24. Latvia neighbor: Abbr.

26. It lasted from 1095-1291 29. Where bombs are bursting, per Francis Scott Key 31. Pantomimes 32. Chick-____-A 34. Corp. bigwig 35. Eavesdropping org.

36. It lasted from 1837-1901 40. Org. with a "100 Years ... 100 Movies" list 42. Camera named for a goddess 43. Its govs. have included Mario and Andrew Cuomo 44. Roughen before repainting 47. Odds' opposite 51. It lasted from circa 1300-1700 55. Ibuprofen target 56. Like a five-star Yelp review 57. Slithery fishes 59. Original "King Kong" studio 60. Co. led by Baryshnikov in the 1980s 61. Apt four-word description of

STRANGE BREW

1. Everyone working in an office

APRIL 12 – 18, 2018 | PAGE 21 34. Prefix with gender 36. Brief scene 37. Supreme leader?

38. ____ contact 39. Click "Going" on a Facebook event, e.g.

40. Supermodel Lima 41. Item strapped over a horse's head 45. Anaheim nine, on scoreboards 46. Like many old lanterns 48. Breadwinner 49. Popular cameras 50. Ski resort vehicle 52. Backing 53. Like mesh 54. Peyton's QB brother 58. Duck variety 62. Keep ____ short leash 63. Convent inhabitant 64. 1970s-'80s band inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017

17-, 26-, 36- or 51-Across 65. Turner of pages in history 66. Language from which "kayak" comes 67. Justice Kagan 68. Sensitive conversation topic 69. Aster relative 70. Razzie Award word

DOWN

1. "Would you like me to?"

2. Tough pickup for some bowlers 3. Record label founded by Clive Davis 4. Doctor's charge 5. Hero role in "The Force Awakens" 6. Brno native 7. Two under par 8. Like some home improvement projects, briefly 9. Sculptor/collagist Jean 10. Examination do-over 11. With Pelé, co-winner of FIFA's Player of the Century award 12. Best Picture of 1984 13. John ____, 1990s White House Chief of Staff 18. Pec pic, perhaps 23. ____ deferens 25. Player of oldies when they were newies 27. Court star Nadal, informally 28. NCAA women's basketball powerhouse 30. Slowing, in music: Abbr.

33. Fertile soil JOHN DEERING

6. Fragrant wood

1

2

3

E U R O

B O L A N

A R E N A S

A B D O S T

Sudoku Level:

11. Hiking trail reference

D H E D

Last Thursday’s Solution

B M A J

I P S O

T B O L U N I H E S E E B E H A V L B S N J O B R O A A L B H I P R I M T O I R I O V A J O B U I E T A T S C R E A T I S C O T B A O M T H O M S Y N E O P

D S K Y Y E P L E A N A M P M I O R E T T A S D C A S T S T H R H O O B O E A B I N D L D I N G S I A N G J O B S I O N I C O S A K A S E N O R

By The Mepham Group 4

14. "____ Go Again" (1987 #1 song) 15. African nation renamed in 1997 16. First in a Latin 101 trio 17. It lasted from circa 3100-30 BC 19. "Far out!"

20. Vinyl albums, for short

1

21. Salt, chemically 22. Get around 24. Latvia neighbor: Abbr.

26. It lasted from 1095-1291

LOOSE PARTS

DAVE BLAZEK

29. Where bombs are bursting, per Francis Scott Key 31. Pantomimes

Solution to last Sunday’s puzzle

NICK KNACK

1

© 2018 N.F. Benton

4/15/18

Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit 1 to 9.

For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudoku.org.uk.

© 2018 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.

LO CA L

PAGE 22 | APRIL 12 – 18, 2018

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

BACK IN THE DAY

dog. lazy ick qu The fox sly p e d j u m the over dog. lazy is the Now for all time cows good co me to aid to the the ir of t u r e . pas

20 s Yearo Ag

is the Now for all time cows good co me to aid to the the ir of t u r e . p a s is the Now for all time cows good me to co to aid of the their.

20 & 10 Years Ago in the News-Press Falls Church News-Press Vol. VIII, No. 6 • April 23, 1998

Falls Church News-Press Vol. XVIII, No. 7 • April 17, 2008

Critter Corner It is now the time fo r all good to go cows to aid of the p a s their ture . * * * Throw * * Pour it up. it up

10 Year s Ago

It is now the time fo r all good to go cows to aid of the p a s their ture . * * * Throw * * Pour it up. it up

Council Has Will, Finds Way; School Board Budget OK’d with No Tax Hike

Referendum Issue Splits F.C. Council Candidates in Debate

When the Falls Church City Council meets this Monday night, it will have before it a revised FY99 budget proposal that contains no real estate tax increase, and the full request of the School Board for the coming year. The Council hammered out these at a late night work session last Monday night. The Council also agreed to eliminate the proposal for an Amusement Tax on the new State Theatre, and to provide the equivalent of 1 percent cost-ofliving adjustment to City employees.

In the first of two faceoffs before the May 6 City of Falls Church municipal election, six seats on the City Council debated the best pathways to a sustainable future last night. The sharpest divide came on the final question of the hour-and-a-half long televised debate in front of a packed house in the City Hall’s Council chambers.

It dealt with the referendum question that will be on the May ballot that would mandate stiff residential development in the City’s commercially zoned areas.

THE DUNCAN FAMILY celebrated the birthday of The City’s Oldest Feline on April 1 — Trilby, who’s still purring at age 22.

Trillby has lived long enough to see her doctor, Steve Rodgers, retire and continues to rule the roost on S. West St. Just because you’re not famous doesn’t mean your pet can’t be! Send in your Critter Corner submissions to crittercorner@fcnp.com.

KNOW FOR SURE

IF YOUR CHILD IS IN THE RIGHT CAR SEAT.

#DadJokesRule fatherhood.gov

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

LO CA L

APRIL 12 – 18, 2018 | PAGE 23

F� � � � C � � � � �

B������� N��� � N���� Dogwood Tavern Celebrating 10 Years With Party Saturday Dogwood Tavern is celebrating its 10 year anniversary this Saturday, April 14. The Falls Church restaurant and bar, part of the Vintage Restaurant Group that also owns William Jeffrey’s Tavern, Ragtime and Rhodeside Grill, will start the festivities and hand out limited edition 10 year anniversary souvenir pint glasses (while supplies last) at 6 p.m. Guests can enjoy drink specials all evening while Dogwood co-owners Chris Lefbom, Adam Lubar and Wilson Whitney each take a turn behind the bar. Local band Left on Lincoln will take the stage at 10 p.m. and perform until 1:30 a.m. Dogwood Tavern is located at 132 W. Broad Street in Falls Church. For more information, visit www.dogwoodtavern.com.

Workshop on Breathing Techniques Set for April 15 The Center for Spiritual Enlightenment is hosting a workshop on breathing techniques with Rev. Leonard Justinian on Sunday, April 15 from 1 – 3 p.m. The workshop will address the effect of breathing on a mudra (symbolic hand gesture from India) and how some breathing techniques can heal parts of the body and help build mental and moral spirituality. The Center for Spiritual Enlightenment is located at 222 N. Washington Street.

For more information, visit www.cse.org.

Kiddar CEO Speaking at F.C. Chamber Luncheon on April 17 Kiddar Capital CEO Todd Hitt will be the featured speaker at the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce’s networking luncheon on Tuesday, April 17 at Mad Fox Brewing Company. Headquartered in Falls Church, Kiddar Capital is a global alternative asset management firm that has invested significantly in Falls Church. Hitt will discuss the benefits of cross sector collaboration and public private partnerships. Advanced purchase tickets are $27 for Chamber members and $32 for nonmembers. Walk-ins, should space be available, will be charged an additional $5. To register or for more information, visit www.

FallsChurchChamber.org.

Free Bike Maintenance Class at Conte’s Next Wednesday Conte’s Bike Shop is hosting a free bicycle maintenance class on Wednesday, April 18 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. at 7121 Leesburg Pike, Suite 101. The class will cover how to change a tire, how to inflate a tire, how to clean a bike, and how to adjust a derailleur. Conte’s Bike Shop is located at 7121 Leesburg Pike, Suite 101 in Falls Church. For more information, visit www.contesbikes.com.

Grace Christian Academy Hosting Gala on April 29 Grace Christian Academy will host its second annual gala on Sunday, April 29 at 6 p.m. at the McLean Hilton. The event, which will include a keynote address by Joe Jacoby, former Redskins’ lineman and founding member of the famous “Hogs” offensive line, a reception and both live and silent auctions, will benefit the school’s tuition assistance program which helps children from low-income families obtain a quality education in a Christian setting. Grace Christian Academy serves an extremely diverse student body comprised of over 50 percent minorities, children of active-duty military and a large percentage of families that live at or near the poverty line. The evening will begin with a cocktail reception in the ballroom atrium where guests will have a chance to mingle and bid in the silent auction, which will feature handmade items by the Grace Christian Academy scholars, and items such as sporting, museum and theater tickets, jewelry, rounds of golf, and many other experiential items. Pastor Kevin Wattles will offer the invocation for the sit-down dinner, followed by performances by the Grace Christian Academy scholars and a presentation by Principal Patrick Hurley. For more information, visit www.graceva.org.

6 days to Tax Day! You can’t avoid it any longer Taxes are due TUESDAY!

Trunk Show at Pursuing Vintage Saturday Pursuing Vintage is hosting a Homebody Brands trunk show on Saturday, April 14 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Candles and bath and body products made with quality, healthy ingredients will be available along with Pursuing Vintage’s new and timeless home accessories and gifts. The shop is located at 260 W. Broad Street, with a separate entrance on the north side of Zoya’s Atelier. For more information, visit www.pursuingvintage.com.  Business News & Notes is compiled by Sally Cole, Executive Director of Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. She may be emailed at sally@fallschurchchamber.org.

Certified Public Accountants (703) 241-8807

125 Rowell Ct, Falls Church

PAGE 24 | APRIL 12 - 18, 2018

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

DONBEYERVOLVO.COM • 703-237-5000 • 1231 WEST BROAD STREET

NOW IN-STOCK

VOLVO XC40

INNOVATIVE • SPACIOUS • VERSATILE

R C ST R R ealty™ Group

Falls Church City- Open Sunday 2-4

ROCK STAR Realty ... ROCK STAR Service

TM

Call ROCK STAR Realty when buying or selling your home ~ 703-867-8674

NEW PRICE!

NEW PRICE!

Open Sun 1-4

Open Sun 1-4

1007 Kennedy St, Falls Church City $ $849,900

2,888 sq ft

4 Bedrooms

3 Bathrooms

3753 Tennis Ct, Falls Church $ $999,900

5,829 sq ft

6 Bedrooms

COMING SOON!

5.5 Bathrooms

COMING SOON!

4 bedroom plus Den 2 1/2 bath Townhouse with contemporary flair! Hardwood floors, Sunroom, fireplace and two car garage!

Walk to bike trail, shopping and Metro. Priced at $749,900!

1006 Steeples Ct., Falls Church, VA 22046.

Falls Church City

Falls Church City

FC City Schools

1,584 sq ft

FC City Schools

4,187 sq ft

3 Bedrooms

2 Bathrooms

5 Bedrooms

4 full, 2 half baths

703-867-8674

Proud Supporter of ®

REALTOR

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

2101 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201

Lifetime Top Producer

Housing Commission, Vice Chair

Tori@ToriRocksRealEstate.com ToriRocksRealEstate.com 2012–2017

© 2018 Tori McKinney, LLC