Falls Church News-Press 6-27-2024

June 27 - July 3, 2024

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. XXXIV No. 20

The City of Falls Church’s Independent, Locally-Owned Newspaper of Record, Serving N. Virginia

No Fireworks A CHEERFUL HIGH SCHOOL REUNION In F.C. Next Week, Maybe Never Again F.C. Council OKs New Tinner Hill District

by Nicholas F. Benton

Falls Church News-Press

Falls Church City Manager Wyatt Shields broke the news to the F.C. City Council this Monday that the City’s longstanding tradition of providing the community with a free fireworks show every July 4 is ending right now, such that there will be no show next week. He added it is unlikely that there will be shows in the future, as well.

Concern for the maintenance demands of pricey artificial turfs on the athletic fields at Meridian High School was given as the reason. Fireworks shows have gone on, based at the high school complex, to the delight of local and area families and residents for upwards of half a century, with interruptions only due to extraordinary circumstances.

This year, the installation of new turf on the baseball diamond was given as the reason for calling off the show, and Shields then added that ongoing maintenance at the high school fields means that it is unlikely there will be shows going forward.

He noted that, nonetheless, the annual July 4 public reading of documents seminal to the founding of American democracy, an event always hosted by the F.C. Village Preservation and Improvement Society, will provide locals with a way to celebrate the nation’s birthday. That event will be held in the historic

Continued on Page 3

THE ALL-CLASSES REUNION of graduates of Falls Church’s Mason-Renamed-Meridian High School was held around the Little City last weekend, and hundreds came to be introduced to the new high school campus (shown here) and revive old friendships. (photo: FCNP Brian Reach)

Meridian High All-Class Reunion Was a Blast

by Brian P. Reach

Falls Church News-Press

The Little City was abuzz last weekend as the George Mason and Meridian Alumni Association hosted its first All-Class Reunion in ten years. The three-day celebration, running Friday through Saturday, brought together alumni from all graduating years across two school names with old friends uniting and new connections forming over a joyous and nostalgic weekend.

The festivities commenced on Friday, with several smaller class groups gathering at local venues up

and down Broad St. The 50-year reunion for the George Mason High School class of 1974 was held at Solace Outpost, with about one third of class alumni showing up to reconnect. Just down the street the class of 1979 gathered at Dogwood Tavern, while an energetic group of alumni from the mid-1980s filled the Harvey’s patio.

Saturday morning saw over 100 participants eagerly gathering for a tour of Meridian High School, led

by Falls Church City Public Schools superintendent Peter Noonan, Mayor Letty Hardi, and other city representatives. After their remarks,

attendees worked their way to the school’s fifth floor, where a presentation by the school’s robotics team (who showcased an impressive ring-tossing robot) kicked off a tour of the newly-built school. The tour highlighted the school’s stateof-the-art facilities and underscored the community’s dedication to providing top-tier education.

Excitement continued into Saturday evening with a sold out main event at Clare and Don’s Beach Shack, where 250 attendees filled the Shack with laughter and camaraderie while enjoying live music, the summer heat, and

beachy drinks. Despite hosting a Bat Mitzvah in addition to the event, the staff at Clare and Don’s managed the crowd with remarkable efficiency, ensuring everyone had a memorable time and keeping lines moving quickly.

Sunday’s event at Cherry Hill Park provided a relaxed conclusion to the reunion weekend. Around 100 alumni gathered under the pavilion and throughout the park grounds, enjoying the beautiful (but hot) weather and live music from the farmhouse stage before saying

Continued on Page 4

PAGE 2 | JUNE 27 - JULY 3, 2024

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS BRIEFS F.C. School Board Gets Advisory Group Reports

‘Patch’ Reports on July 4 Of a Different Annandale

During last night’s Falls Church School Board monthly work session, the Board received written reports from the School Board Advisory Committees and School Affiliated Organizations, as well as oral reports from a few of the Committees. The discussions included the use of technology in schools and an update on the State Budget. The update highlighted several key points: 1. The General Assembly adopted an amended FY 2024 budget and a 2024-2026 biennial budget, which the Governor signed into law. 2. Changes in sales tax distributions resulted in decreased state funding for school divisions, while funding for the Infrastructure and Operations Per Pupil Fund increased, 3.

Overall, the state budget impacts on FCCPS for FY 2025 include minor adjustments in funding allocations, with a recommendation to restore recurring funding for two positions and defer action on remaining available funds for potential future needs.

The ‘Patch’ news outlet belied its ostensible “local news” claim this week by publishing a story about Northern Virginia’s Annandale plans for July 4 by citing the wrong Annandale, namely one in Minnesota, complete with the day’s schedule for a parade, carnival, fireworks and a tractor pull.

Biden Grants Pardons To Same-Sex Vets Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan, chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus, released the following statement following President Biden’s proclamation on granting pardons to veterans convicted of unaggravated offenses based on consensual, private conduct: “I thank President Biden for taking this important step to right the wrongs of the past and restore honor to LGBTQI+ Americans who bravely served their nation in uniform.

This is an important step forward in addressing the wrongs of anti-equality policies.”

Since World War II, more than 100,000 Americans are estimated to have been discharged from the military because of their sexual orientation. Those forced out of the military may have left with discharge statuses of “other than honorable,” “general discharge” or “dishonorable,” depending on the circumstances. As a consequence, many of these service members may be disqualified from accessing certain benefits that they earned and are entitled to, and may not be able to claim veteran status. The consequences of a negative discharge also include preventing some veterans from voting or making it more difficult for them to acquire civilian employment.

This week, President Biden issued a proclamation granting a full, complete and unconditional pardon to individuals with courtmartial convictions for violations of former Article 125 of the UCMJ based on conduct that involved consensual, private conduct with persons age 18 and older.

Fairfax Co. Unveils Its First African-American Marker In what is characterized as a significant step towards acknowledging the contributions of African Americans, Fairfax County unveiled the first Black/ African American Historical Project marker dedicated to civil rights activist Lillian Blackwell at Oakton High School earlier this month.

In 2021, the Fairfax Board of Supervisors initiated the Black/African American Historical Marker Project to help ensure a more comprehensive and inclusive telling of the county’s diverse history. According to County Board chair Jeff McKay, “The project aligns with the county’s One Fairfax policy to intentionally consider equity when making policies or delivering programs and services.”

SCOTUS OK’s U.S. Contacts With Social Media Platforms The U.S. Supreme Court Wednesday rejected a challenge to its contacts with social media platforms to combat what administration officials said was misinformation.

The court ruled that the states and users who had challenged the contacts had not suffered the sort of direct injury that gave them standing to sue. The decision, by a 6 to 3 vote, left fundamental legal questions for another day. Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr, joined by Justices Clarence Thomas and Neil M. Gorsuch, dissented.

Virginia U.S. Senator Mark Warner, chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, issued a statement saying, “Glad to avert a catastrophic outcome here, but today’s ruling is only a partial victory. We need to permanently protect the ability of the U.S. government to share vital information with U.S. communications platforms about foreign-based threats, as the Senate Intel Committee’s bipartisan investigation concluded. It’s essential to the security of our elections and our nation.”

JUNE 27 - JULY 3, 2024 | PAGE 3

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

No More F.C. City Fireworks; Tinner Hill District Gets OK’d

Continued from Page 1

church building on the campus of the Falls Church Episcopal Church on the 4th at 11:40 a.m.

Other fireworks shows in the area on July 4 are led by the massive show on the National Mall in D.C., followed by shows at the Marine Corps War Memorial, the Netherlands Carillon, downtown Manassas, Mt. Vernon, Signal Hill Park in Greater Manassas, Fairfax City High School, Yeonas Park in Vienna, Turner Farm Park in Great Falls, Langley High School in McLean, the Workhouse Arts Center, and the Oronoco Bay Park in Alexandria. Most include live music, festivals, rides, vendors and concessions, and one in Fairfax City includes a parade.

Other developments at Monday’s F.C. City Council meeting were highlighted by the unanimous vote to create the Tinner Hill Cultural and Historic District around the neighborhood where the first rural chapter of the NAACP was formed.

Proclamations were read and commented on, a first in recognition of Disability Month, a second declaring July 2024 as Parks and Recreation Month and a third honor-

ing the milestone of David Snyder’s 30 years of public service as a member of the F.C. City Council.

Snyder read a statement of appreciation for the declaration, saying, “In a larger sense it should be considered a recognition of all citizens and their families who have come forward to serve on City Council, the School Board, the Planning Commission, every other board and commission, and every citizen who has otherwise given of themselves to this community.”

He added, as presented in the written version of his remarks that he provided the News-Press, “In the early days I was extremely fortunate to have been schooled in local government by the people, including the publisher of the News-Press, who literally created the Falls Church we know today. Many had lived through the Great Depression, helped defeat Nazi Germany in World War 2, and continued to play important roles in national and international forums.

Locally, they embedded in our fabric of government the values of excellent public schools and a responsive and effective local government that strives to do everything well with a strong commitment to public safety,

environmental, cultural, historic and neighborhood preservation, high ethical standards and regional leadership.”

The City’s new Public Information Office director, City resident Mary Catherine Chase, was introduced to the Council by Shields.

An update on the City’s bike master plan was provided, including two walking tours this week (today’s debarking at 6 p.m. at S. West and Parker), it was noted that City Treasurer Jody Acosta has been elected president of the Virginia State Association of Treasurers, and a lengthy update on actions of the Richmond state legislature was provided by Deputy City Manager Cindy Mester and her department intern Alex Li. They reported that 845 bills were passed in the recent session, and 201 vetoed by the governor.

In particular, there were gains made in the effort to limit the practice of “predatory towing,” further allowances for automated enforcement at high-trafficked intersections, and the use of religious properties for affordable housing.

The Council unanimously adopted the amendment to the

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Tinner Hill Foundation founder Ed Henderson noted the roles of Councilman Snyder and U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly in acquiring the land on which Tinner Hill educational efforts now sit, and Nikki Henderson cited the 11 ethnic restaurants that are in the newly-formed district.

Vice Mayor Deborah ShantzHiscott noted the great achievements of the foundation’s annual music festival, colorful murals (including the one that adorned the cover of the News-Press last week), Council member Erin Flynn noted 2024

as the 60th anniversary of the first African-American to graduate from integrated Falls Church City Schools, Council member Marybeth Connelly underscored the importance of the designation, and Council member Justine Underhill recognized the Tinner Hill’s music festival, mural unveiling and Juneteenth celebration last week.

Mayor Letty Hardi concurred with “the hard work” that the foundation has done in the City, adding, “When we know better, we do better.”

The Council unanimously approved annual compensation terms for the City Manager, City Attorney and Clerk.

EVERYBODY ASSOCIATED with the effort to designate the new Tinner Hill Cultural and Historical District stood for this historic photo at City Hall this week. (Photo: FCNP)

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PAGE 4 | JUNE 27 - JULY 3, 2024

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Meridian All-Class Reunion Brings Hundreds to Little City

Continued from Page 1

their goodbyes.

For Will Stewart (Class of ‘07), the event organizer and president of the George Mason and Meridian Alumni Association, the most rewarding part of the weekend was hearing stories of old high school exploits, and even of high school sweethearts who went on to get married. As a coach, he particularly enjoyed tales of previous coaches, teams, and players. His favorite event was the Sunday picnic, appreciating the opportunity to relax under the trees and connect with fellow alumni in a peaceful setting.

The George Mason Alumni Association, which was founded in 1988, has organized All-Class Reunions over the years, including in 1999 and 2014. A planned 2020 reunion was canceled due to the pandemic, but the association, renamed after the high school’s name change, resumed planning for the 2024 event, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of the city’s independence.

The planning committee, comprising Stewart and several dedicated members, played a crucial role in the event’s success. They included

Vice President Robbie Werth (Class of ‘70), Secretary Katie Clinton (‘85), Luke O’Hara (‘60), Cricket Moore (‘64), Connie Donnelly (‘71), Debbie Rowan (‘71), Diann Bullock (‘73), Tom Clinton (‘83), and Marybeth Connelly, City Council member and FCCPS director of strategic planning and community engagement.

The efforts of Stewart and the rest of the planning committee paid off, with impressive turnout throughout the weekend’s festivities. Many alumni traveled from out of state to attend the events, with some flying from as far as Guam and Hong Kong. Current plans are to offer all-class reunion events every five years. Stewart encourages alumni to keep in touch by providing their contact information.

This year’s All-Class Reunion was a testament to the enduring bonds and shared history of Falls Church’s alumni, promising even more memorable gatherings in the years to come. To stay connected, alumni are encouraged to visit tinyurl.com/FCNP0624aa to share their contact information with the alumni association or email Stewart directly at wfs2711@gmail.com.

HUNDREDS OF ALUMNI spanning six decades of George Mason and Meridian High School graduates enjoyed a weekend of reunion events, including a picnic at Cherry Hill Park. See Photos on Page 8. (Photo: Brian Reach).

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JUNE 27 - JULY 3, 2024 | PAGE 5

F.C. Red All-Star Team Shows Determination in Tournament Season

by Erika Toman

The Falls Church Red’s All-Star team, composed of talented young players aged 8-10, is making waves in their tournament season with an impressive display of resilience and skill. Currently standing at 2-2 with two games left to play, the team has encountered both triumphs and heartbreaks on their journey.

Their season began with an emphatic 8-2 victory over Arlington American, a game highlighted by outstanding performances on both the mound and at bat. Spencer Allan led the charge as the winning pitcher, showcasing his prowess by allowing only two hits and two runs over four innings while striking out six batters. CJ Mullin provided solid relief pitching, maintaining a clean sheet with zero hits surrendered across two innings. Behind the plate, the team’s hitters were on fire with Ryan Richards, Will Talbert, and Gavin Kuczkowski each contributing two hits, supported by Evan Iweagwu and Timmy Verasin with crucial hits of their own.

In their second game, Falls Church Red engaged in a high-scoring affair against McLean National, emerging victorious with a decisive

21-10 scoreline. The team’s offensive mastery was evident as multiple players, including Richards, Talbert, Kuczkowski, Iweagwu, Mullin, Allan, and Adam Dunbar, contributed with hits that kept the scoreboard ticking.

Despite these impressive wins, the team faced two close losses that tested their mettle. Both defeats came by just one run at the end of the games, with one on the road vs. perennial juggernaut Vienna and one at home vs. big rival McLean America. Both one-run losses showcased the team’s tenacity and determination. In their loss to McLean American, the game remained tightly

contested until McLean edged ahead 2-1 in extra innings. Spencer Allan, who started as pitcher, continued his stellar form by striking out five batters and conceding only one run. The team’s defense supported the equally strong pitching and kept them in both close losses with several clutch impressive defensive plays by Richards, Dunbar, Kuczkowski and Hunter Roy. Manager Alex Kuczkowski expressed pride in his team’s performance, emphasizing their relentless effort and positive attitude throughout the season. “Our players have shown incredible growth and determination dur-

ing the past four weeks,” Coach K remarked. “They play with heart, play for each other, and never give up, which is exactly what you want to see in young athletes.”

With two more games ahead, the Falls Church Red All-Star team remains focused on finishing the season strong. For the game dates and locations, go to www.fckll.org.

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Since 1991, an award-winning LGBT-owned general Interest community newspaper.

Vol. XXXIV, No. 20 June 27 - July 4, 2024 • City of Falls Church ‘Business of the Year’ 1991 & 2001 • • Certified by the Commonwealth of Virginia to Publish Official Legal Notices • • Member, Virginia Press Association •

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classified & Legal ads classads@fcnp.com letters to the editor letters@fcnp.com News & Notes newsandnotes@fcnp.com Obituaries obits@fcnp.com subscriptions distribution & delivery delivery@fcnp.com 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 105 N. Virginia Ave.., #310, Falls Church, VA 22046.

Reproduction of this publication in whole or part is prohibited except with the written permission of the publisher. ©2024 Benton Communications Inc. The News-Press is printed on recycled paper.

E ditorial

E D I TO R I A L

Bezos Turning Post Into Fox News

Reporting on the recent internal changes at The Washington Post continues to ignore the importance of billionaire owner Jeff Bezos’ move to hand over control of the paper to seasoned and dangerous Fox News-style proteges of Rupert Murdoch, starting with new CEO Will Lewis but running much deeper.

Oh, by the way, it’s Sir William Lewis to us, as The Financial Times (of London) reports in a lengthy article this week entitled, “Bezos’ Love Affair With Washington Hits a Rocky Patch.” As chief executive, Will Lewis, the FT reports, “is facing a newsroom revolt triggered by his radical attempts to stem losses which last year hit $77 million.” But not taken seriously enough even by the FT is Lewis’ ties to the Murdoch organization. It is not even the fact that Lewis’ “ethics in previous roles” has been called into question. No, it’s his resume that is the cause for the greatest alarm, of his “earlier career as a senior editor of Rupert Murdoch’s media empire.”

The elevation of Lewis last year and his more recent attempt to install his partner in crime Robert Winnett as editor of The Post stands in sharp contrast to the historic role The Post has played in mainstream journalism, as the antithesis of what many in Washington, D.C. clearly recognize as the devious, slanted nature of Fox News and all Murdoch’s media entities.

Murdoch’s slant is sharply to the right, dismissive of truth and historically at odds with the professional standards that have undergirded The Post for decades, from before the time The Post played a critical role in the defense of American democracy with its handling of the Pentagon Papers scandal in the early 1970s that led to the resignation of Nixon.

Initially seen as “a good guy” for his willingness to buy The Post for a mere $250 million to keep it operating, Bezos in more recent times appears to think that investing not only in terms of enhancing his own growing empire as the owner of Amazon is moral, but also now in advancing a political agenda that would be an extension of his personal radical libertarian values, values that, of course, permit the use of any means to enhance his empire.

Bezos is smart enough to know the consequences of this for democracy, and the central role of honest newspapers in that. But apparently his ridiculous wealth is blinding his ability to appreciate this. He needs to be awakened to the realization that maximum accumulation of personal wealth does not equate to the public good. On the contrary, first it requires distorting or withholding truth in order to maintain its control and that therefore means that news and truth, themselves, become subordinate to personal greed.

Such greed deludes itself into equating that greed with the public good, a deeply self-serving falsehood.

Most fundamentally, it is the notion of civic virtue that must counter the influence of this kind of greed for the good of all.

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Letters to Editor Too Much Parking in Falls Church City?

Editor, We have too much parking in Falls Church. On many residential streets, the parking lanes sit empty.

Rather than a narrow canyon of parked cars, drivers see a space wider than a freeway lane and speed accordingly. That makes us fear for our safety and our cars’ integrity if parked on the street.

Those who can park off-street do.

We call for the police, but we can’t afford enforcement on every street, all the time. Many parking lanes are so empty that local bicyclists fight traffic calming projects that would narrow the road — they see a de facto bike lane with the occasional parked car.

Downtown parking is balkanized across lots and “reserved for” signs. “Do not leave the premises” signs threaten the tow truck. This degrades walkability. There won’t be a walkable connection between the coming Stratford Garden beer garden parking lot and the Broaddale lot for fears of people parking on one lot and patronizing the other business – how dare you

walk 100 yards, not drive, for a beer after getting a haircut. Sure, the spot in front of Starbucks or Northside is probably full as you read this but parking is often empty a block away. Counterintuitively, that parking spot in front becomes less valuable as our businesses grow – if it’s always full and more customers come anyway, is it that valuable? On one of the busiest days downtown, Memorial Day, we prohibit parking on Park Ave. and Little Falls St. and still host thousands of people.

We need some parking, not too much. Is “Come to Falls Church for the parking lots” our pitch? Or do we want to be a city famous for its great community, pleasant and vibrant streets, and awesome local businesses (worth walking a block for)? Could the empty asphalt for parking become bike lanes for kids to safely get exercise and confidence on the way to school, trees that are pleasant to walk beneath, or businesses whose prices don’t need to cover building parking spots at over $25,000 each?

Andrew Olesen

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JUNE 27 - JULY 3, 2024 | PAGE 7

Where the Independence Day Fireworks Are Happening National Mall Fireworks

Fairfax City Fireworks

Date: Thursday, July 4 Time: 9:09 p.m.

Location: National Mall, Washington, DC

Date: Thursday, July 4 Time: Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

Location: Fairfax High School, 3501 Rebel Run, Fairfax, VA

Description: The most iconic fireworks display in D.C., with fireworks launched from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. It offers a stunning view against the backdrop of the city’s monuments. Free to attend.

Description: Includes a parade, live entertainment, and a fireworks display. Free and open to the public.

Fireworks on the Potomac Date: Thursday, July 4 Time: 9:15 p.m.

Location: Various viewing spots across the Potomac River, including the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial and the Netherlands Carillon Description: Provides an alternative viewing experience of the National Mall fireworks from across the river. Free to attend.

Old Town Manassas Fireworks Date: July 4, 2024 Time: Fireworks at 9:15 p.m.

Location: Historic Downtown Manassas, 9201 Center St., Manassas, VA Description: Ring in the 4th of July with a festival starting at 3:00 p.m. with rides, concessions, vendors, and activities, culminating in fireworks at dark. Free to attend.

Mount Vernon Fireworks Date: June 28 — 29, 2024 Time: Fireworks at 9:15 p.m.

Location: George Washington’s Mount Vernon, VA Description: A patriotic evening featuring fireworks over the Potomac River, musical performances, and 18th-century entertainment. Free and open to the public.

Manassas Park Fireworks Date: Thursday, July 4 Time: Fireworks at 9:15 p.m.

Location: Signal Hill Park, 9300 Signal View Dr., Manassas, VA

Description: An Independence Day celebration culminating in fireworks at dark. Free and open to the public.

Vienna Fireworks Date: Thursday, July 4 Time: Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

Location: Yeonas Park, 1319 Ross Drive SW, Vienna, VA

Description: An evening of festivities culminating in a fireworks display. Free and open to the public.

Great Falls Fireworks Date: Thursday, July 4 Time: Fireworks at 9:00 p.m.

Location: Turner Farm Park, 925 Springvale Road, Great Falls, VA Description: A community celebration with fireworks, food, and family-friendly activities. Free and open to the public.

McLean Fireworks Date: Saturday, June 29 Rain date: Sunday, June 30 Time: 6:30 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.

Location: Langley High School, 6520 Georgetown Pike, McLean, VA

Description: Free admission.

Come celebrate Independence Day with MCC. The whole family will enjoy music, food trucks, giveaways and at dusk, a huge fireworks display. There is a limited amount of free onsite parking and additional free satellite parking with shuttle bus service (accessibility equipped). For details and information regarding directions, shuttle buses, weather alerts, satellite parking and site location, visit mcleancenter.org.

Workhouse Arts Ctr. FireWorks Date: Saturday, June 29 Time: 6:00 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.

Location: Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, VA

Description: Bring a chair or a blanket to relax on the lawn and enjoy a breathtaking display of vibrant colors, brilliant lights, and ground-shaking explosions, while also providing amazing

and fun entertainment for all ages! A live DJ will lead the party on the Quad with special performances from local music and dance groups. Food trucks and beverage options (food, soft drinks, craft beer, and wine available for a la carte purchase). And much more! You can also splurge on a VIP ticket and enjoy an indoor lounge, buffet dining, reserved outdoor seating for fireworks viewing, and more. Price starts at $40 per vehicle in advance; $45 onsite.

Old Town Alexandria Fireworks Date: July 8, 2024 Time: Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

Location: Oronoco Bay Park, 100 Madison St., Alexandria, VA

Description: Alexandria’s 274th birthday celebratation kicks off at 6:00 p.m. and includes performances, poetry, speeches, and more, ending with fireworks at dusk. Free to attend.

PAGE 8 | JUNE 27 - JULY 3, 2024

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Six Decades of Alumni Attend GM-MHS All-Class Reunion

SEVERAL HUNDRED ALUMNI from George Mason (now Meridian) High, from classes of 1959 to 2023, came to the all-class reunion. (Photos: Brian Reach, Will Stewart)

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

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JUNE 27 - JULY 3, 2024 | PAGE 9

News-Press

Community News & Notes Falls Church Forward Hosts Solstice S’Mores Social

Falls Church Forward celebrated the start of summer with a Solstice S’Mores Social at the Cherry Hill Park Pavilion on June 21. Attendees enjoyed music, watermelon and s’mores over an evening fire — despite the heat wave.

Ed Henderson II from the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation read excerpts from his new book “The Grandfather of Black Basketball: The Life and Times of Dr. E.B. Henderson,” a contemporary biography of his grandfather, and shared stories about our city’s civil rights history.

Falls Church Forward’s mission is to imagine, advocate, and work for a Falls Church that is welcoming, vibrant, and sustainable for current and future generations. To learn more, join the summer potluck, volunteer for the leave the leaves campaign, help create a city welcoming packet, or paint public art, please visit FallsChurchForward.org.

Local Sewing Academy Graduates Praise Class

A sewing academy long supported

by Islamic Relief USA graduated its 11th annual class on Tuesday, June 11, during a ceremony at Dar-alHijrah Islamic Center (3159 Row St., Falls Church).

The class of six beginner-level graduates and three students from the advanced-level class praised their instructor, Asma El-Bakkari, for strongly supporting them during the intensive three-month course.

The graduates originally came from Somalia, Palestine,

DESPITE THE HEAT, Falls Church Forward’s fireside “Solstice S’mores” was enjoyed by many on Friday. (Photo: Justine Underhill)

Afghanistan, Egypt, Morocco, and Pakistan.

Winner Announced in First F.C. ‘I Voted’ Sticker Contest

On Monday morning the City of Falls Church Electoral Board announced the winning design for their first ever “I Voted” sticker contest. The winning sticker, by a landslide, was designed by local student Rion Miller.

The Electoral Board is assigned two youth representatives through an initiative of local nonprofit Citizens for a Better City (CBC), and this year’s representatives were students Megan Carpenter and Preston Lieu.

The Electoral Board discussed with Carpenter and Lieu running a sticker contest in the schools, and they enthusiastically agreed and began advertising in the schools. The contest received 12 submissions from six middle- and high-school students.

The Electoral Board and the Youth

Reps then made a selection of the top five submissions and sent them out to the student body for a vote. Out of 150 ballots cast, Rion Miller’s design won with 88 votes. Second and third place submissions received 26 and 17 votes, respectively.

In a statement Monday, The Electoral Board recognized several talented student designers for their submissions, including Rion Miller, Brenna OhAilin, Colleen Carpenter, Aislin Beaupain, Lukas Wansley, and Selene Trevino. They also thanked Carpenter and Lieu for a fantastic job running the sticker contest, and congratulated Miller for their winning design submission.

Miller’s design will be made into the official “I Voted” stickers that will be available in the Office of Elections at City Hall starting Friday, September 20 (the first day of early voting for the November 5 Presidential Election). The stickers will also be available to all voters at all

SIX BEGINNER AND three advanced graduates of a F.C. sewing academy praised their instructor for strong support. (Courtesy Photo)

A NEW STICKER design for Little City Voters has been chosen after a contest was held among student artists. (Photo: City of F.C.)

City polling places on Election Day. The Electoral Board will attend the City Council meeting on September 9, prior to early voting beginning, to recognize Miller for their winning design, and Carpenter and Lieu for their hard work run-

ning the contest.

For information on voting, including registering, locations and times, and more, visit fallschurchva. gov/vote. Check the status of your mail-in ballot at vote.elections.virginia.gov/VoterInformation.

Chamber Music by McLean Symphony 11:40 & After Program 12 noon to 1:15 pm

–

A hot bowl of pho at Eden Center.

Voted best shopping center in the DMV!

PAGE 10 | JUNE 27 - JULY 3, 2024

Tonight’s Biden V. Trump Debate: On Epochal Scale Nicholas F. Benton FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

Tonight’s scheduled debate between President Biden and convicted felon Donald Trump is being touted as maybe one of the most important such events in history, possibly eclipsing the Nixon-Kennedy debate in 1960 that likely changed the outcome of the presidential election that year.

While we wait to see if Trump actually shows up for this, millions of viewers will be looking to see whose policy priorities will be better represented and whose personal mental impediments and such will be more revealed.

The report that a gaggle of hard rightwingers have convened in Arizona to discuss abandoning support for Trump in favor of Gen. Michael Flynn needs to make it clear that those folks are far more concerned about Trump’s declining mental state, as exhibited to all to see at his recent rallies, than anything else.

The meeting of Trump with top corporate CEOs last week made his deteriorated mental condition evident, as many of those CEOs stated, if in muted tones, afterwards.

But the talk of rightwingers seeking an alternative to Trump underscores one big point, and that is this: It is not Trump, per se, but what Trumpers, so to speak, hope to do to America and democracy which should be the overriding concern for us all.

Their more comprehensive agenda is outlined in the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 report that spells out a vision for a sweeping reorganization of government, removing all career government specialists across the entire federal government with far right ideologues. This report represents one of the most chilling publications of the modern era and there is no way to describe it except that it is antidemocratic to the highest degree, or, in other words, truly fascist.

Advancing the political career of Trump was a huge step forward for this effort, but it will not depend on him to achieve it going forward.

Therefore, it will take far more

than just an electoral defeat for Trump to remedy this very dangerous situation. It is going to take a “Sputnik moment” revival of core American values at all levels in our culture to turn this around.

It was World War II itself that turned the nation around the last time it seriously flirted with fascism, when Hitler and Mussolini were running the show on the European continent and exterminating six million Jews, among other unthinkable things.

Before the U.S. got involved in the war, pro-Nazi rallies were being held all across the nation, including one that filled Madison Square Garden to the rafters. On the verge of winning the Republican nomination for president in 1940 was the popular head of that movement, the aviator Charles Limburgh. The outbreak of the war called forth the still stirring democratic sentiments of the population that had been cultivated by FDR’s New Deal and other policies that were defining our government as on the side of the common man.

Therefore, the American role in World War 11 was as a rallying for democracy and the values of justice and fair play, and they carried over for the first decades after the war.

Even though pro-fascist elements still existed here, they were severely diminished despite the best efforts of Sen. Joe McCarthy and his “red scares.” The great heroes of the war were the ordinary GIs, who fought so valiantly and with such a positive attitude toward the nation’s democratic ideals.

Following the McCarthy years, the pro-fascist right took to a new approach as key figures among the financial and corporate elites here found in the retrenched dictatorships in the Soviet Union and elsewhere allies to thwart the growing movement for democracy and rights for the working classes.

In the early 1970s, anti-war and pro-equality counter cultural entities saw their ideals quashed beneath the demand for a hedonistic assault on civility and justice.

In that era, the Soviets discovered Trump, and wrote favorably of him as their chosen future U.S. president of choice as long ago as 1987.

It was NBC which then popularized and groomed him for the job with its long-running TV show, The Apprentice.

Today, Joe Biden stands for the values of the FDR era, and Trump is the agent of fascism once again.

CO MME NT

A Penny for Your Thoughts

News of Greater Falls Church

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

By Penny Gross

The house I grew up in had three bedrooms and one bathroom, a wood stove for heat, a wringer washer for laundry, and a long double clothesline in the backyard for drying.

Lilacs and camellias were in the front yard, a peach tree, rhubarb, and loganberries in the back. The square footage of the house was slightly under 1200 square feet, larger than the Levitt-style bungalows of the 1950s, but smaller than the 1970 average of 1500 square feet. Today, the average size of a single-family house in the United States has nearly doubled, to 2273 square feet.

Many newer houses in Northern Virginia neighborhoods top out at 4500 to 5000 square feet, and some custom homes are even larger.

Regardless of size, homeownership is out of reach for many, whether young professionals or retirees. The 2024 Area Median Income (AMI) in Fairfax County, a gauge used to determine qualifications for rental or purchase of affordable housing owned or managed by the county, is $108,300 for an individual; $154,700 for a family of four. A recent workshop for first-time home buyers revealed that the median price of a home in Fairfax County is about a million dollars, and a

buyer must have an income of $302,000 just to qualify for a mortgage. That is prohibitively expensive for a young couple seeking to purchase their first home, and doesn’t account for taxes, insurance, utilities, and all the other costs of owning a home. Higher mortgage interest rates, higher asking prices, and a dearth of “product” have combined to put the American dream of homeownership on hold.

The problem is getting worse, not better.

A Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) forecast predicted that the region will add 1.5 million more people and one million more jobs by 2050. That means more housing will be needed in a market that already is behind in housing production of all types – apartments, condominiums, townhouses and detached homes. The COG board of directors, in 2019, determined that more than 300,000 housing units would be needed in the region by 2030. The Covid19 pandemic intervened and slowed building even more, but even without a pandemic, housing development can take a very long time. A developer’s proposal must “pencil out,” which means meeting

the requirements set by their financial backers, essentially a very large construction loan.

Community opposition to new construction, the length of time needed to get zoning approval and building permits, and availability of qualified labor make reaching housing goals, like those set by COG, very challenging. What is now the Alta Crossing multi-family development on Columbia Pike near Bailey’s Crossroads, that will lease in 2025, was first proposed in 2005. And it’s been more than ten years since the First Christian Church of Falls Church proposed developing some of its excess property for affordable senior housing. If time is money, these decades-long journeys to housing development means that the end product will be much more expensive, for the builder and the buyer/renter, than originally planned.

Does size matter? Can our housing problems be resolved by building smaller homes, like those “starter” homes that created so many of our neighborhoods decades ago? If we want to inspire, and aspire, to make housing both affordable and attainable for current and new residents, smaller homes may be just the ticket.

C i t y o f Fa l l s C h u r c h C R I M E R E PO RT Week of June 17-23, 2024 No Valid Operator’s License, W Broad St, June 17, 1:46 PM, a male, 27, of Fairfax, was arrested for No Valid Operator’s License.

Assault and Battery, Greenwich St, June 17, 4:22 PM, victim reported they were assaulted by a known party. On June 18, a female, 21, of the City of Falls Church, was arrested for Assault and Battery.

Defrauding an Innkeeper, W Broad St, June 18, 3:52 PM, victim reported an unknown male suspect ate a meal and left without paying their bill.

Larceny from Motor Vehicle, N Roosevelt St/16th St, June 19, 1:54

AM, victim reported that while sleeping in their vehicle they were awoken by an unknown suspect, described as a Hispanic male, reaching through a rolled down window and stealing a wallet from the glove box.

Trespassing, W Broad St, June 20, 9:32 PM, a male, 54, of no fixed address, was arrested for Trespassing.

Stolen Automobile, W Broad St, June 21, 1 PM, victim reported a motor vehicle stolen. Incident is under investigation.

No Valid Operator’s License, E Broad St, June 21, 11:48 PM, a female, 44, of Fairfax County, was arrested for No Valid Operator’s License.

Public Intoxication, Hillwood Ave,

June 22, 1:45 AM, a male, 24, of Fairfax County, was arrested for Public Intoxication.

Defrauding an Innkeeper, W Broad St, June 22, 6:26 PM, victim reported an unknown suspect ate a meal and left without paying their bill. The suspect is described as a black female with a short ponytail, wearing a red Scotty Pippen basketball jersey and sunglasses.

Public Intoxication, Parker Ave, June 23, 2:14 AM, a male, 44, of Fairfax County, was arrested for Public Intoxication.

Public Intoxication, W Broad St, June 23, 11:05 AM, a male, 41, of Annandale, was arrested for Public Intoxication.

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

CA L E NDA R

JUNE 27 - JULY 3, 2024 | PAGE 11

THIS WEEK AROUND F.C. THURSDAY JUNE 27

Chamber Neighborhood Coffee Hour

Learn the advantages of being part of the Chamber from representatives of the membership committee and board over coffee. Lobby (3110 Fairview Park Dr., Falls Church), 8:30 a.m. — 10:00 a.m.

South West Street Community Meeting

South West Street Community meets. S. West St. (near intersection with Highland Ave., Falls Church), 6:00 p.m. — 7:30 p.m.

Founders Groove: Wentworth & Friends

Wentworth & Friends perform steel drum Caribbean music. Part of the Founders Groove free concert series Thursdays through July 25. Founders Row (109 Founders Ave., Falls Church), 6:30 p.m. — 8:30 p.m.

Historic Architectural Review Board Meeting

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

What Strange Beast

Concerts Series, weekends through August 24. Tickets at creativecauldron.org. Creative Cauldron (410 S. MapleAve., Falls Church), 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY JUNE 29 Falls Church Farmers Market

Shop the award winning market every Saturday, year-round! City Hall Parking Lot (300 Park Ave., Falls Church), 8:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m.

Summer Storytelling Fun and Games

SUNDAY JUNE 30

WEDNESDAY JULY 3

FCA All Member Show (A-L)

Ask the Council Session

Participating FCA member artists showcase their work. View or purchase in the FCA gallery or online at fallschurcharts.org through July 14. Free to attend. Falls Church Arts (700-B W. Broad St., Falls Church), 9:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m.

The public is welcome to attend this session to meet with Council members and ask questions in an informal setting. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Oak Room, Falls Church), 9:00 a.m. — 10:00 a.m.

Planning Commission Lavender Con Meeting Commission meets.

LGBTQIA+ Book Festival Planning City Hall (300 Park Ave., Coun-

FRIDAY JUNE 28

MONDAY JULY 1

Goddard School Spring Festival

Evening Art Critique Group

A tribute to the successful music duo. Part of Cauldron's Summer

Economic Development Authority Meeting

Economic Development Authority meets. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.

Celebrate LGBTQIA+ authors and stories, Saturday and Sunday. Tickets at lavendercon.com. National Press Club (529 14th St. NW, Washington, DC), 9:30 a.m. — 6:00 p.m.

The Simon & Garfunkel Songbook Tribute

TUESDAY JULY 2

Better Said Than Done presents "All Fun and Games: Story About Playtime." Tickets at bettersaidthandone.com. Clare and Don's Beach Shack (130 N. Washington St., Falls Church), 6:00 p.m.

Enjoy groove rock by What Strange Beast. Part of the free Summer Concerts in the Park series co-hosted by the City and the Village Preservation and Improvement Society, Thursdays through August 8. Cherry Hill Park (312 Park Ave., Falls Church), 7:00 p.m.

A free festival with a face painter, petting zoo, moon bounce, and more. The Goddard School of F.C. (2921 Telestar Ct., Falls Church), 12:30 p.m. — 2:30 p.m.

held the first and third Monday of the month, with the exception of August and December when only one meeting is held. These meetings are open to the public and are conducted to allow Council Members to discuss upcoming legislation and policy issues; the public is not generally invited to speak. Watch the meeting live or on-demand at fallschurchva.gov/CouncilMeetings or on FCCTV. City Hall (300 Park Ave., Dogwood A-B, Falls Church), 7:30 p.m. — 11:00 p.m.

Bring a piece of art for feedback from a community of artists. Free and open to all. Meets the first Monday every month. Falls Church Arts (700-B W. Broad St., Falls Church), 7:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.

City Council Work Session

City Council Work Sessions are

cil Chambers/Court Room, Falls Church), 7:30 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.

THURSDAY JULY 4

Independence Day Remembrance

A meaningful program remembering the role of Virginia and brave colonists in the independence our country, the founding documents and contributions to democracy.

Walk out refreshed with new patriotism and appreciation for our country and our freedoms. Sponsored by the Village Improvement Society, vpis.org. Free and open to the public. The Falls Church Episcopal (115 E. Fairfax St., Falls Church), 11:40 a.m. — 12:55 p.m.

ACTON ACADEMY learners checked out the Falls Church Arts All Member Show, on display through July 14. (Photo: Acton Academy F.C.)

PAGE 12 | JUNE 27 - JULY 3, 2024 Legal Notice Legal Notice

C L AS S I F I E DS of 14.8 feet instead of the 15 feet minimum to construct a second story addition at premises known as 608 Laura Drive, RPC #52-605-005 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned R-1A, Low Density Residential.

Notification is hereby given that JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., 1111 Polaris Parkway, Columbus, Ohio 43240 has filed an application with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (the “OCC”) on or about June 27, 2024, as specified in 12 CFR Part 5, for permission to establish a domestic branch at the northwest corner of the intersection of Leesburg Pike (aka West Broad Street) and Haycock Road, Falls Church, Fairfax County, Virginia, 22043. If you have any additional comments, you can send them to the Director for Large Bank Licensing, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, 7 Times Square, 10th Floor Mailroom, New York, New York 10036 or LicensingPublicComments@occ.treas.gov., within 30 days of the date of this publication. The public portion of the filing is available upon request from the OCC. The public may find information about the filing (including the closing date of the comment period) in the OCC’s Weekly Bulletin available at www.occ.gov.

Public comment and questions may be submitted to zoning@fallschurchva.gov until 4:30 pm on July 11, 2023. Agenda and application materials will be available the week prior to the scheduled hearing at: http://www. fallschurchva.gov/BZA

Legal Notice

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Notification is hereby given that JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., 1111 Polaris Parkway, Columbus, Ohio 43240 has filed an application with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (the “OCC”) on or about June 27, 2024, as specified in 12 CFR Part 5, for permission to establish a domestic branch at northwest corner of the intersection of John Marr Drive and Tom Davis Drive, Annandale, Fairfax County, Virginia, 22003. If you have any additional comments, you can send them to the Director for Large Bank Licensing, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, 7 Times Square, 10th Floor Mailroom, New York, New York 10036 or LicensingPublicComments@occ.treas.gov., within 30 days of the date of this publication. The public portion of the filing is available upon request from the OCC. The public may find information about the filing (including the closing date of the comment period) in the OCC’s Weekly Bulletin available at www.occ.gov.

The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) of the City of Falls Church, Virginia will hold a public hearing on July 11, 2024 at 7:30 PM in the Council Chambers, located at 300 Park Avenue, for consideration of the following item: -Variance application V1650-24 by Kevin Bradley, applicant and owner, for a variance to Section 48-238(3)(a) to allow a rear yard setback of 29 feet instead of the 40 feet minimum to construct a upper story addition with a gable roof at premises known as 108 East Jefferson street, RPC #53-102-020 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned R-1A, Low Density Residential.

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

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

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-Variance application V1651-24 by Elizabeth Killingsworth, applicant and owner, for a variance to Section 48-238(a) to allow a rear setback of 15 feet instead of the 40 feet minimum for the purpose of constructing a screened in porch at premises known as 312 Shadow Walk, RPC #51-110-078 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned R-1A, Low Density Residential.

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-Variance application V1652-24 by 608 Laura DR, LLC (Harold La Torre), applicant and owner, for a variance to Section 48-238(3)(a) to allow a front yard setback of 25 feet instead of the 30-foot minimum and a side yard setback

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We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap. All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.

For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-8530. Toll free call (888) 551-3247. For the hearing impaired call (804) 367-9753.

Outside Dining • Delivery Food • Farmers Market Vendor • Tacos • C Craft Beer • New Restaurant

JUNE 27 - JULY 3, 2024 | PAGE 13

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

WHO’S THE BEST?

The News-Press BEST OF FALLS CHURCH reader vote is back and it’s time to cast your ballot for your Falls Church-area favorites! Our 15th annual contest features a host of categories — now 42 in all — for readers to vote on the best eating, drinking, shopping and more in and around the Little City.

Winners will be featured in a special BEST OF FALLS CHURCH edition of the News-Press on August 15!

Vote for Your Falls Church Favorites:

FOOD & DRINK

American • Asian • Outside Dining • International • Brunch • Bar/Brewery • Burger • Pizza Treats and Sweets • Favorite Little City Experience • New Restaurant • Lunch Spot Dinner Spot • Seafood • Vegetarian

RETAIL & SERVICES Mortgage/Bank • Professional Services •Real Estate Agent • Real Estate Group • Property Management Doctor • Dentist • Orthodontist • Therapist • Physical Therapist/Chiropractor Auto • Dry Cleaners • Retirement Community • Hair Salon/Barbershop • Gym/Fitness/Yoga • Nail/Day/Skin Spa Live Entertainment • Pet Services • Specialty Store • Private School • Camp Home Improvement • Landscapers/Garden services Architect • Builder/Remodeler • New Business • Accountant

BEST OF FALLS CHURCH ISSUE COMING AUGUST 15!

NEWS-PRESS

2024 BESTOFFC.COM

1ST ROUND VOTING ENDS JULY 21! #BESTOFFC2024

CAST YOUR BALLOT NOW AT BESTOFFC.COM

LO CA L

PAGE 14 | JUNE 27 - JULY 3, 2024

SEND US YOUR PICTURES!

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

C ritter C orner

See your Pets in the News-Press

Pets@fcnp.com Coming July 25th

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MEET NOLAN, a rescue pup that just turned six years old on Monday! He was adopted by the Huffman family from Lost Dog and Cat Rescue, where he was for 277 whole days before his family found him! Nolan is a hilarious, smart, loving, delight — and a wonderful addition to the family!

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Sue Johnson: sjohnson@fcnp.com

(Photo: Pamela Huffman)

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

The LGBTQ+ Reach

by Brian Reach

Falls Church News-Press

I’ve previously shared with our readers that I — along with many in our community — was bullied a lot in school. At my request, I spent all but four years of my secondary education attending schools outside the neighborhood district, changing schools six times before graduating.

Being bullied in school teaches you some hard lessons: adults aren’t always able or willing to protect you, friends sometimes remain silent to avoid becoming targets themselves, strangers repeat gossip out of pure boredom, and parents of bullies are often unrepentant bullies themselves.

When you’re young, you’re kinda stuck where you are… at least until your parents pick you up. Because my parents both worked full-time, between being pupilplaced and their work schedules I spent a lot of time in School Aged Child Care (SACC) before and after the school day during elementary school.

Having been bullied in bathrooms before, I refused to use one for the remainder of my childhood. I recall regularly enduring deep, blinding stomach pains while waiting to be picked up, terrified to use the shared facility, focusing all of my energy on keeping my suffering undetectable to avoid any unwanted attention.

When the issue of Trans kids using the bathroom that aligns with their gender identities, I remember the agonizing waves of pain, biting my cheeks as hard as I could until the pain receded, breaking into a sweat.

It wasn’t until well into my 20s that I would use a public restroom under any circumstances. To this day, my inner monologue still has to encourage me into using one.

Despite progress over the last decade for LGBTQ+ individuals, the queer experience is still sub-par on the ground. Even if there are only a couple bullies out of hundreds of students… that is no comfort to the students being bullied. Being distracted harms educational outcomes.

The Little City is the most progressive part of the Commonwealth, with about two thirds of voters choosing progressive candidates. This may mean nearly all electeds are Democrats, but it also means that one in three individuals is willing to either support extreme anti-LGBTQ+ views, or accept those views in candidates they support in pursuit of other interests.

One in three means the day-to-day lives of all LGBTQ+ individuals are still riddled with pervasive microaggressions, hostility, gatekeeping, and antagonism — from people who don’t know then, but actively seek to harm them.

On Sunday I attended a local LGBTQ+ welcoming congregation, and this week the sermon made an increasingly-common mistake. In referencing the recent evolution of the denomination surrounding LGBTQ+ inclusion — and the internal battle that took place within the congregation — so much effort was taken to avoid criticizing antiLGBTQ+ views that it almost undermined the church’s inclusive stance.

The most frustrating challenge the

LGBTQ+ community faces is not the hate from those who oppose us; it’s the silent submission they are able to bully into our allies.

We saw that in the Democratic primary last year, where many elected progressives willingly turned a blind eye to homophobia, so willing to sacrifice the LGBTQ+ individuals they claim to support for deeper pockets.

That politician, who lost their primary after more than two decades in office, just published a book calling our editor a “flamboyant leftist with a public loathing of traditional Christianity.” For the record, our editor has his Master’s degree in Divinity and attends a church. I also wouldn’t call him flamboyant, but the homophobic often miss the nuances.

The fight for LGBTQ+ equality has been hard-fought over centuries, but the last decade has seen nearly all of the progress.

That progress happened because people spoke up, not because people changed their minds. LGBTQ+ people came out, and many families chose them over hateful ideology. The silence was broken.

Often attempts to show objectivity result in rewarding hateful views and behavior with implied credibility through “equal” time.

In a court setting, the burden of proof is supposed to lie with the accuser. In any other setting, including the “court” of public opinion, damage is done by an accusation being made regardless of proof.

Forty years ago this October, The New York Times reported scientific “evidence” that AIDS may be transmissible through saliva (it was two more years before this was proven incorrect).

Thirty years ago in the mid-1990s, students like myself watched videos about Ryan White, a young boy who contracted HIV from a blood transfusion, and as a result was denied access to his middle school in 1985. This was part of a public education campaign intended to humanize the virus and battle stigma based on disinformation (in particular debunked myths related to the aforementioned Times report), largely an effort to reinforce that HIV-AIDS cannot be transmitted through water fountains, public pools, kissing (even “deep-throat kissing,” a term I wish had never been uttered).

Twenty years ago last month, Massachusetts became the first state to allow same-sex couples to be legally married.18 years ago, 57 percent of Virginia voters supported a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage in the Commonwealth.

This October marks ten years since gay marriage became legal in Virginia. As I write this on Wednesday, it is nine years to the day since the Supreme Court legalized gay marriage across the United States.

In contrast, it was more than 100 years after slavery was abolished that Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated… and another 60 years later we still see racism behind efforts to ban books, whitewash history taught in schools, justify (if not celebrate) excessive police force, and myriad evidence of pervasive and systemic gatekeeping by “polite society.”

Silence is only polite to the oppressor.

Speak up!

Fa l l s C h u r c h

JUNE 27 - JULY 3, 2024 | PAGE 15

Business News & Notes Locals Make the Top Workplaces 2024 New Editions Consulting and Apple Federal Credit Union, both members of the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce, have been named to the Washington Post Top Workplaces 2024. This is the 9th year on the list for New Editions Consulting.

The list also includes General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT), HITT Contracting, MHG Restaurant Group, and CTAC.

Apple Federal Credit Union Merger Two local credit unions, Apple Federal Credit Union and NextMark Credit Union, have announced the intent to combine this year. Apple FCU has $4.4 billion in assets and NextMark CU with $532 million in assets, plan to close the merger by November with Apple FCU President and CEO Andy Grimm continuing in his role and leading the combined institution and NextMark President and CEO Joe Thomas becoming the executive president and strategic advisor. The move will keep it competitive with banks and other credit unions and increase opportunities for employee professional development.

RetirePath Another Introduction to RetirePath Virginia webinar will be held on Tuesday, July 2, 12:00 p.m. — 1:00 p.m. The session will provide an overview of the Commonwealth’s automatic-enrollment, state-facilitated individual retirement account savings program. The last webinar will be offered on August 6, 12:00 p.m. — 1:00 p.m. Webinar attendees are automatically entered into a $50 Etsy gift card giveaway.

Founders Row Presents Founders Groove!

Founders Row hosts live music, food and vibes to celebrate community on Thursdays through July 25. Tonight, 6:30 p.m. — 8:30 p.m., enjoy the Caribbean sound of Wentworth & Friends on steel drums.

Creative Cauldron Summer Concert Series The annual Summer Concert Series launches June 28 and runs through August 24 featuring musicians from the metro area and beyond. Musical styles and genres include Latin, jazz, blues and acapella. Friday evening, 7:30 p.m., enjoy “The Simon & Garfunkel Songbook” presented by Newmyer Flyer. On Saturday, 7:30 p.m., hear The Fly Birds, an award-winning alternative bluegrass and Appalachia band from Winchester, Virginia.

V egetarian and Vegan Food Found in Falls Church Arlington Magazine has reviewed 10 spots for vegetarian and vegan food, two of which are found in Falls Church. Bakeshop carries a selection of vegan sweets to include everyday cupcakes and specialties by order, cookies, ice create cookiewiches, bread and pie. Preservation Biscuit carries vegan biscuits, as well as versions of the Southern Belle, PBC Sammie, and sweets.

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

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PAGE 16 | JUNE 27 - JULY 3, 2024

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