7-30-2026

JULY 30 AUGUST 5, 2026 Founded 1991 • Vol. XXXVI N o . 25

Sam Mabry Dies at 86; Key AntiGrowther

Northern Virginia’s Newspaper

Falls Church, Virginia • w w w . fc n p . c o m • Free

‘Democracy Thrives In Sunshine’

CIVIC PRIDE

Elected Twice, Beaten Twice in Tumultuous Era

by Nicholas F. Benton

Falls Church News-Press

An uncommonly impactful member of the Falls Church City Council who was elected twice and who also lost twice, Samuel Albert Mabry, 84, passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 4 this summer.

Mabry was one of the most controversial members of the City Council in the modern era, spearheading efforts at limiting growth in Falls Church during the period of its most significant economic progress.

His major effort was an unsuccessful bid to pass a referendum designed to limit the growth of mixed-use projects in the downtown area of the City, an effort that failed to pass a general vote in 2006 and opened the City to serious development spearheaded by its West End and Founders Row mixed-use projects that came about

Continued on Page 3

FAMILIES GATHERED ACROSS Cherry Hill Park during Falls Church’s Civic Pride 250 celebration last Friday evening, enjoying live music, games, food, and community activities as residents came together to celebrate the city’s spirit and America’s 250th anniversary. (Photo: Gary Mester)

Table Of

NPR’s Tamara Keith: Her Love for the Little City

Contents

by Nicholas F. Benton

Editoral Page 6 Business News Page 7 Our Man In Arlington Page 8 Best Of FC Pages 10 Classads Page 12 Critter Corner Page 14 Calendar Page 15

Falls Church News-Press

Up at the crack of dawn. Get the kids up, fed and out the door on time, making sure they know you love them. That’s a daily routine for hundreds of Falls Church residents for most of the year, and if that isn’t

enough (with all that goes with it) to constitute a full time job, then it should be.

But that’s where things just get started for so many of us whose lives are defined by the hectic pace of politics in the nation’s capital.

And so it is for one of our relatively new Falls Church residents

whose name is already a household word for hundreds of thousands of Americans who tune into the Public Broadcasting System for their nightly news across the land and all the ships at sea.

Tamara Keith moved to the Little City of Falls Church in 2015 and she can’t get enough of it. She adores her

new home and neighborhood, as she told the News-Press in an exclusive interview last week. If ever there was one, she is a true believer in everything Falls Church.

“We moved to Falls Church in 2015 and feel so lucky to live here.

Continued on Page 4

PAGE 2 | JULY 30 - AUGUST 5, 2026

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

Falls Church News Briefs

Arlington Okays Two Large Mixed-Use Projects The Arlington County Board approved two large mixed-use redevelopment projects that together will add more than 1,400 new housing units while replacing aging office buildings with new residential, retail, and public spaces. The approvals are part of Arlington’s long-term strategy to increase housing and modernize commercial corridors while expanding public amenities in Rosslyn.

Board members also adopted Arlington’s Fiscal Year 2027-2036 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), authorizing approximately $4.9 billion in investments over the next decade. County officials said the plan prioritizes maintaining existing infrastructure while funding transportation, schools, parks, public safety facilities, and other capital projects needed to serve Arlington’s growing population.

New State Budget Boosts Funding to Arlington Virginia’s new state budget will provide Arlington Public Schools with almost $3 million more than leaders were previously expecting. The school system anticipates receiving $127,439,284 in state funding for the 2026-27 school year, according to a report prepared in advance of the July 30 School Board meeting. That number is up $2,864,097 from the figure included as a placeholder in the school system’s fiscal year 2027 budget, adopted before the state budget had been finalized.

State funding accounts for about 15% of the county school system’s annual revenue, far less than the 76% typically provided by the county government. Federal dollars represent only about 2.5% of APS funding. Total expected APS revenue for fiscal year 2027 will be $860,343,417, unchanged from previously reported figures because the extra state revenue will go toward replenishing reserves.

To close a budget shortfall, School Board members this spring had authorized the use of reserve funds for the coming year. With the extra state revenue, the need for reserve funding will be reduced to $16,372,280, school officials said. The estimated per-student cost for the coming school year will be $26,548 based on a projected enrollment of 27,776 students, according to school officials.

Trump Speech Riddled With Homophobic Humor Donald Trump’s speech at the Friday night White House Correspondents’ Dinner was chock-full of homophobic and transphobic jokes, including a jab at out CNN anchor Anderson Cooper’s sexuality, according to a report by Molly Sprayregen in the LGBTQ+ Nation.

“I like Anderson, actually, because he’s covered me well for many years,” the president said. “Then he went bad as soon as I went for politics ... Ya know he’s got a different persuasion than me, in many ways.”

The “different persuasion” likely refers to Cooper’s sexuality, meaning the entire punchline of the joke was supposed to be that Cooper is gay. A few people in the audience could be heard laughing.

According to the report, Cooper has long used his reporting to try to hold Trump accountable for his corrupt actions. In January, he spoke about a “staggering” New York Times report that found Trump’s personal wealth had grown by over $1.4 billion since he took office for the second time. And in May, he was distraught over the idea that a convicted child sex abuser could get money from Trump that he had promised to use to buy his victims’ silence.

Last year, Cooper slammed Trump for his repeated outbursts at reporters, fueled in part by the president’s anger over questions about the Epstein Files.

“I know diversity and actually treating people with decency and human kindness is not, you know, what’s popular today in some quarters,” Cooper said. “But I just don’t understand how somebody acts like this time after time, and everyone just pretends like, ‘Oh, that’s just what this guy does.’”

And apparently, Trump’s response to all this was to remind everyone that Cooper is gay. The Independent ranked it the second worst joke of the entire speech.

In his speech, the president also called CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins “a young, attractive woman” and told her she should smile more. “Smile, you have a nice position, you’re at CNN fake news, you should be a happy person, so smile, Kaitlan. Just smile.”

He mocked Collins for an award she won for her reporting on Trump’s tense 2025 meeting with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, claiming the award was “fake,” “all about me,” and that “she shouldn’t get the award.” No one laughed.

Trump then made a bizarre joke connecting Collins to trans activist and performer Dylan Mulvaney, who became the center of right-wing outrage after briefly partnering with Bud Light. “I thought Kaitlan had really made it big with a major new sponsorship,” Trump said, “but then I informed her that it wasn’t her on the Bud Light can, it was Dylan Mulvaney.” Presumably, this was meant to insult Collins by claiming she looks like a trans woman.

And Trump had more LGBTQ+ hatred to spread from there, saying out journalist Don Lemon had the “lowest IQ” on television.

The president has said this about Lemon in the past. In 2018, Lemon clapped back at the insult, saying, “The president has called a lot of people stupid. Some of those people are white. But I would just like to note that referring to an African American as dumb—remember, this is America—is one of the oldest canards of America’s racist past and present.”

“Let me not mince words here,” Lemon added. “This president traffics in racism and is fueled by bullying.”

Missouri Library Faces Rainbow Legal Threat Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway (R) sent a legal threat to a local library for hosting a “Rainbow Story Time” event this past Saturday, suggesting that pornography would be shown at the event even though there was no reason to believe that it would be.

The Daniel Boone Regional Library in Columbia announced the event on its website, saying that it’s “a queer-led story time with an LGBTQ+ theme.”

Activities planned for the event included “share stories, sing songs, and do an activity with time to meet new friends at the end.”

The website said that it was for toddlers and preschoolers. The announcement showed a picture of two men and a baby with a picture book. The announcement made no mention of drag performers appearing at the 30-minute event.

According to KMIZ, a library spokesperson said in an email that the event would involve a reading of the books Rainbowsaurus and Big Wig. Rainbowsaurus, by Steve Anthony, is about a colorful dinosaur, and its only reference to LGBTQ+ people is that the family in the pictures has two dads. Big Wig, by Jonathan Hillman, is about a kid who dresses in drag.

“Neither includes sexual content,” the library spokesperson said.

That wasn’t enough to keep the state’s Republican attorney general at bay.

On Thursday, she sent a letter to the library threatening prosecution if the event involved “furnishing any material pornographic to minors” or “displaying explicit sexual material” where it can be seen by the public. The letter claimed that “local residents” requested she intervene on their behalf “to ensure that this event is conducted in a manner consistent with Missouri law,” and that Hanaway is “fully prepared to take appropriate action” if state law is violated.

Fairfax Boosts Opioid Overdose Training Fairfax County’s Revive! program provides free training to help residents recognize and respond to opioid overdoses. The program teaches participants how to administer naloxone (Narcan), a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and help save a life.

Why is this important? Opioid overdoses can happen quickly, and having someone nearby who knows how to respond can make a critical difference. Revive! training is available to community members, including individuals who may encounter someone experiencing an overdose, family members, friends, and anyone interested in learning this lifesaving skill.

How can the public get trained? Revive! trainings are free and available throughout Fairfax County. Participants learn how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose, administer naloxone, and understand what steps to take during an emergency.

Learn more about Revive! training and how to register here: Opioid Overdose and Naloxone Education (Revive! Kit Training).

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

JULY 30 - AUGUST 5, 2026 | PAGE 3

Mabry Elected Twice, Defeated Twice in Career on F.C. City Council

Continued from Page 1

as a result.

Mabry was first elected to the F.C. City Council in 1996.

He ran again in 2000 and lost, but came back to win another four-year term in 2002, being elected vice mayor by his colleagues. He chose not to run in 2006 to focus on the failed referendum and also declined to run in 2008. In his last bid, he lost a City Council race in 2015.

Samuel Albert Mabry, 84, of Falls Church, Virginia, passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 4, 2026. Known to everyone as Sam, he was born in Stockton, California, on March 27, 1942, to the late John Lawrence and Mary Catherine Mabry.

Sam grew up in the San Joaquin Valley surrounded by his extended family, including many Portuguese aunts that regularly doted on him. He enjoyed

spending time on the family farm and often reminisced about his experiences. He graduated from Manteca Union High School, received his Bachelor of Arts from Santa Clara University, and pursued a master’s degree at the University of the Pacific.

In 1965, Sam and Sandra “Sandy” Starbuck Mabry moved across the country from California and settled in Arlington, Virginia, and Sam began work for his hometown Congressman, John J. McFall, Majority Whip of the U.S. House of Representatives. He remained with Congressman McFall for 13 years and rose to become his Chief of Staff.

After McFall left office, Sam worked for the Speaker of the House, Thomas “Tip” O’Neill, Jr. Following his years of Congressional service, Sam transitioned to the private sector as Vice President of Government Affairs at Hercules, Inc., where

he remained for more than two decades before his retirement.

Not yet done with public service, Sam was elected to the Falls Church City Council and served as the vice mayor of the city for a number of years.

Because of the profound impact that Santa Clara and the Jesuits had on his life, Sam was determined to send his three children to Catholic liberal arts colleges. He then strongly encouraged them all to obtain graduate degrees and took great satisfaction in their accomplishments. He would proudly say that he had a teacher, a lawyer, and a dentist.

In 1984, Sam and Sandy found their dream home in Falls Church City. From the moment they moved into the historic Birch House, Sam was painting, wallpapering, refinishing floors and working in his yard. He cultivated an award winning garden which was often the high-

SAVE THE DATE!

03-07-2027 @ 307, 3:07pm The Heart of Local Art

Hosted by Art and Frame of Falls Church, 307 E. Annandale Rd.

light on the Falls Church garden tour and was featured twice in the Virginia State Garden show.

Above all, Sam was a devoted and loving grandfather to his five grandchildren. His grandkids were lucky to grow up with Sam in their lives. He rarely missed a band performance, sporting event, school assembly, or graduation, occasions upon which he happily served as the unofficial family photographer. Sam would also want us to mention the dogs in his life, Toby, Samantha, Kayla, Buttercup, Maggie, Holly and Daisy. They brought him joy and unconditional love. He relished when they excitedly jumped on him and covered him with kisses.

Sam is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Sandra; his daughter Catherine (Glen); daughter Susan (Adam); son Stephen (Megan) and grandchildren, Michael Savory,

Christina Medick (Will), William Lawrence, Katherine Lawrence, and Emma Mabry.

Services will be private.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Washington Jesuit Academy, in memory of Sam Mabry. wjacademy.org/

Sam Mabry. (Photo: Courtesy)

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NPR’s Tamara Keith, F.C. City Resident Who Loves It Here

Continued from Page 1

We love our neighbors and the greater Little City community,” she wrote in a follow up response to a question.

Her family’s two kids are rising 8th and 3rd graders “and we are big believers in FCCPS (Falls Church City Public Schools),” she wrote to us this week. The family home is near Lincoln Park, which she currently describes as “a very frustrating total disaster” because of ongoing renovations.

We are confident that assessment is only temporary.

After the kids are off to school, she finds her way to the national headquarters of PBS on N. Capital St. in D.C., unless, of course, she is on a special assignment like when she travelled to China this summer for the president’s latest summit there. She is frequently featured on nightly broadcasts either reporting on a

national affairs issue or providing commentary on one or another matter.

If the question is raised, as would be the case for many News-Press readers, how she got to where she is and at such a young age, the answer to that one is a story of the better side of what has made America great.

She is one of those people who was apparently born with a given vocational imperative, or put more simply, a job description. That became apparent as she entered her teenage years.

Her parents being educators who wanted out of the big city, they chose to move from giant L.A. to rural Hanford County in the spacious California central valley, when she was a toddler.

That’s where she grew up and the availability of opportunities there, while maybe more limited than in a metropolis, were nonetheless more accessible to

the kind of driven young woman she was.

In the 6th grade, when asked to write an essay on what she wanted to become, she chose a volcanologist (one who studies volcanoes). But that soon changed and the next thing you knew, she was writing a letter to management at National Public Radio (NPR) asking for advice on how to grow up to be like them.

Having been a stringer for the Fresno Bee and Hanford Sentinel, she soon found herself with an opportunity to draft an essay for NPR on the occasion of receiving her high school degree and the rest, as they say, is history.

She attended U.C. Berkeley, majoring in philosophy.

Philosophers, she noted, offered ways to reason and to think critically that were not attached to particular contemporary issues, and she liked that. Today, she

is developing a podcast called Swing Shift that looks for ways that people can see each other in their shared humanity.

Regardless of party, she noted the system “keeps failing people,” and neither party is speaking to this concern. A key is to treat audiences with respect, she said, and to heal the broken contracts between systems of thinking and people.

“People are craving authenticity,” she stated. “They don’t want to be depressed. We need to find more creative ways to reach our audiences. We are all human beings, after all.”

She’s been president of the White House Correspondents Association (2022-2023) and enjoyed a year as a special correspondent covering the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda.

She is very optimistic about the future of her podcast, which she is preparing for inclusion

in NPR’s programming in the coming months. Its key will be to explore understanding that is beyond differences. “All views are valid in their own place,” she said.

Even on those mornings when getting her kids ready for school may prove particularly challenging.

Tamara Keith at Ireland’s Four Provinces in Falls Church. (Photo: FCNP)

FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

JULY 30 - AUGUST 5, 2026 | PAGE 5

LOCAL

F.C. Civic Jam Celebrates the Nation’s 250th Birthday

BY AMY BOWKER

Cherry Hill Park was the place to be last Friday night, July 24, as a band serenaded a community gathered to honor the nation’s 250th birthday in style.

Positioned near the park’s playground, the celebration dubbed Civic Jam offered plenty of room to spread a blanket and enjoy live music from the park’s stage. Nearby, a bouncy house kept the kids occupied and volunteers handed out scorecards for those daring enough to enter the Civic Cup Competition.

Dozens of community organizations turned out for the event with booths extending down a long path across the lawn. The event also featured food trucks, a beer garden, a basketball toss game, axe throwing, and a mechanical bull.

The sheer volume of community booths at Civic Jam offered an unmatched opportunity to learn more about the wonderful organizations that help make Falls Church such an amazing place to live. My first stop was at the City of Falls Church 250 Committee booth where a volunteer gamely applied a “250” temporary tattoo to my arm. As an afficionado of temporary tattoos, I can tell you this was one of the best.

Nearby, the Victorian Society at Falls Church had an eye-catching display that included a cardboard cutout of the Statue of Liberty that rivaled the height of the volunteers at the booth. A display board detailed the history of the statue, which opened to the public in New York Harbor in 1886. The statue holds a torch in one hand, and a tablet inscribed with Roman numerals corresponding to July 4, 1776, in the other hand. The society participates in annual reenactments, such as a Civil War Thanksgiving held at Cherry Hill Farm, and they handed out a map detailing dozens of Victorianstyle homes in Falls Church.

The Friends of Cherry Hill Foundation also turned out for the celebration. The organization does essential work running programs at the Cherry Hill Farmhouse, including the recent Mother’s Day Tea preceded by a costumed docent who explained what life was like in the mid-19th century. The

foundation is actively looking for volunteers and members so please check them out online at: cherryhillfallschurch.org.

I stopped by the Falls Church Indivisible booth, a non-partisan organization that’s devoted to liberal democratic principles, including rule of law, civil discourse, fairness, and our constitution. They had a button-making machine on hand, so I selected a Statue of Liberty sketch with the words “With Liberty and Justice for all.”

A miniature doll’s house was part of the display booth for the Falls Church Climate Action Network (FCCAN).

The house’s solar panels, and other eco-friendly enhancements, were meant to represent the kinds of fossil-fuel alternatives offered to homeowners who want to switch to cleaner, all-electric devices. Through the City of Falls Church, residents can apply for a free home energy audit that will identify inefficiencies and ways to reduce operating costs while improving comfort and safety. The Residential Energy Audit Program is still accepting applications. Learn more at: fallschurchva.gov/ EnergyAudit.

The volunteers at the League of Women Voters booth were kind enough to offer me an extra clue for the location of the Civic Stand at the Falls Church, which is part of the Scavenger Hunt taking place in the Little City through August 4. (Hint: the Civic Stand is on Washington St. near Fairfax Dr.) If you haven’t checked out the Scavenger Hunt yet, I highly recommend it.

Other participating organizations included the Center for Spiritual Enlightenment, City of Falls Church Independent Media, Falls Church Arts, Falls Church Rotary Club, Homestretch, Learning Quest, Little City Concerts, Mary Riley Styles Public Library, the National Spiritualist Association, Northern Virginia Transportation Authority, Shepherd’s Center, the Tinner Hill Foundation, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9724, the Village Preservation and Improvement Society, and Welcoming Falls Church.

All in all, Civic Jam was a wonderful way to honor our nation’s 250th birthday, as well as celebrate the great Little City we all call home.

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Vol. XXXVI, No. 25 JULY 30 - AUGUST 5, 2026 • City of Falls Church ‘Business of the Year’ 1991 & 2001 • • Member, Virginia Press Association •

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Praise for Virginia Village Progress

Monday’s Falls Church City Council meeting was opened with a moving presentation by the manager Alex Kuczkowski of the Falls Church Little League team which had won for the first time in memory the championship of the District 4 region. The team showed up en masse and was applauded strongly by the audience in the Council chambers. The team’s road to the championship came through an arduous seven-week process that Coach Kuczkowski said won the support of legions of new supporters as the process unfolded. He hailed the sportsmanship of the team members and the sense of community that grew to encompass players, parents and fans alike. It was a new experience for Falls Church but one that enthused local citizens are intent will not be the last going forward.

So allow us to add our congratulations to the team as preparations are now underway for the fall season.

The spirit of that opening presentation Monday did not carry through the rest of the meeting however, as a citizen activist said he took as “personal and troubling” what were apparently some innocent clerical errors in reports on the shadow impacts of a prospective new development at the Virginia Village site on S. Maple. The remarks led City Manager Wyatt Shields to assure the community that while there were some mistakes, there was no ill intent in anything that was produced and errors were corrected.

The activist subsequently spoke again to walk back his remarks, saying he did not question the intentions of anyone involved. Nonetheless, the meeting wound up taking over four hours while minutiae of the proposed zoning and special exception components of new legislation were painstakingly discussed and ultimately passed unanimously.

We can take heart in the fact that this was ultimately resolved with a 7-0 vote. It is a far cry from days a decade ago when far more contentious Council meetings were held that also took long hours but led to split votes.

It is an encouraging sign that the Virginia Village project will actually come to pass, even if the process will take a long time and be fraught with delays.

It is gradually getting across that this is about adding affordable housing, not about a developer’s grab for big profits. As such, frequently reminding the public that this is, indeed, the purpose behind all this effort, that the eventual achievement of concrete results will occur.

The bottom line for us is the recognition that this City Council has evolved and is considerably more sophisticated than ones of the past. Only one member now seems intent on throwing monkey wrenches in the process and the frustration at an inability to get her way as in days of old is becoming evident to all.

WWW.FCNP.COM The News-Press is certified by the Commonwealth of Virginia to publish official legal notices including probate, abc notices, small and foreign estates. We will provide the appropriate paperwork. A comprehensive book on the 36 year history of the News-Press, “The Life and Times of the Falls Church NewsPress”: by Charlie Clark (History Press, 2023), can be purchased at local bookstores or online.

The Falls Church News-Press is published weekly on Thursdays and is distributed free of charge throughout the City of Falls Church and the Greater Falls Church area to over 140 locations. Offices are at 105 N. Virginia Ave., #310, Falls Church, VA 22046. Reproduction of this publication in whole or part is prohibited except with the written permission of the publisher. ©2025 Benton Communications Inc. The News-Press is printed on recycled paper.

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WHAT BROKE

WHAT THEY CLAIMED

Their lies come out of your wallet. Insurance fraud costs everyone in Virginia $1,000 per year. Learn how to spot it and report it at TheCostOfFraud.com.

Virginia T Treasury Announces a New Record for Unclaimed Property Funds Reunited to Rightful Owners!

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JULY 30 - AUGUST 5, 2026 | PAGE 7

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B������� N��� � N���� Sessions on Virginia’s Paid Family & Medical Leave Program Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) is holding a series of virtual listening sessions in the coming weeks as it begins the work of promulgating regulations for Virginia’s mandatory paid family and medical leave insurance program as required

by Chapters 981 and 1093 of the 2026 Acts of Assembly. There are specific sessions offered for Workers, Employers, Self-Employed, and Small Business Owners. More information is available at: covaconf.webex.com/webappng/sites/covaconf/webinar/webinarSeries/register/3535298f52a84ce5b867d0a65fb6051b

Protecting Yourself and Your Business Stacy Tucker of State Farm Insurance leads this free webinar on Wednesday, August 5, noon – 1 p.m. online. Business insurance protects you from the unexpected costs of running a business.

Accidents, natural disasters, and lawsuits could threaten the business if you are not protected with the right insurance. Learn about the types of insurance and how to pick the right one for your business. More information and registration is available at: wbcnova.centerdynamics.com/ workshop.aspx?ekey=10460057

Apply Now to the CO—100 Top Business of the Year The CO—100 (by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce) honors small businesses who are driving innovation, growth and impact, both locally and globally. You can enter your business in up to five of the ten available categories. Benefits include gaining national visibility for your business, connecting with experts, leaders, and other founders, access to exclusive experiences, and more. Applications close August 7. To learn more and submit an application, visit: uschamber.com/co/co-100?utm

Local Alloy Personal Training Receives Spotlight FFXNow recently highlighted local business Alloy Personal Training. The personal training company focuses on helping adults over 40 who want to lose weight, build strength, and improve their overall health. The article reports that in the last two years, Alloy has helped over 500 adults throughout Northern Virginia. A complimentary Starting Point Session is currently being offered at their Falls Church, Reston, and Fairfax City locations. For more information, visit: ffxnow.com/2026/07/16/what-actually-happens-during-your-first-visit-to-alloypersonal-training-all1/

Zoumana Named MVP Forward Diarra Zoumana has been voted the NPSL Mid-Atlantic Conference Most Valuable Player. He has had a banner year beginning with the Spring UPSL Season, scoring 13 goals in the Virginia North Conference, earning the Golden Boot Trophy, and scoring 9 goals in the regular NPSL season with 2 more in the playoffs. Virginia Dream FC begins the 2026 UPSL Fall Season on Sunday, August 16 at 7 p.m, when they host Hub City FC. Updates and information are available at: instagram.com/virginiadreamfc.

Paragon Ranks One of Best Places to View The Odyssey Paragon Founders Row just received a plug from Washingtonian as one of the best places to experience The Odyssey in the DC area. The movie was filmed entirely on an IMAX camera on 70mm film and there are only 25 theaters in the country where you can view the film as intended. While our local Paragon theater doesn’t show the film in 70mm, it does offer films in Premium Large Format (PLF) for wall-to-wall screen and higher resolution projection.

Code Ninjas Arlington/Falls Church Open House Code Ninjas Arlington/Falls Church is hosting an Open House on Saturday, August 1, where you can check out Dojo, the high-tech, STEM-driven space, and explore a variety of activities such as MakeCode Arcade, Roblox, Minecraft, robotics, 3D printing, drones, VR and more. The Open House runs 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Learn more here: business.fallschurchchamber.org/events/details/code-ninjas-arlington-fallschurch-open-house-08-01-2026-85192?calendarMonth=2026-08-01

Continued on Page 14

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

COMMENT

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“100 Years Ago This Month”: The national news in July of 1926 reflects some issues that echo with today’s headlines: immigration and July 4th celebrations. The Independence Day activities included an event in Philadelphia, with President Coolidge warning against prioritizing material wealth over the “spiritual truths” that built the nation. Closer to home, State Senator Frank Ball, in a speech at Washington and Lee High School, stated that “... the glory written in the thought behind the Constitution forms a spiritual force that will make America eternal.” In immigration news, “Quota 5 Years Ahead” was the headline for an article about 1,000 immigrants stranded at the Canadian border, with a quota that required five years of waiting for some of those immigrants.

For local news, I turned to the sports pages to find out what folks were doing for recreation. There were several men’s baseball leagues, generally organized around Arlington neighborhoods (e.g., the Ballston Eagles, the Cherrydale Cherries). What caught my eye was a sentence in an article about the Ballston team: “The Ku Klux Klan nine goes against the Eagles at 3 o’clock.” Yes, there was a KKK team, and its nickname really was “the Klansmen.” Obviously, those leagues were “whites only.” For the Black communities of Green Valley and Hall’s Hill, their teams played in a regional league of Black teams. The first Black baseball team in Arlington, named The Old Virginia Blues, started in 1910, and played their home games near the current Long Bridge Park.

The newspapers printed summaries of criminal cases brought by Arlington’s Commonwealth Attorney, William Gloth. Two “bookmakers on horse races” were arrested in a pool room on Hume Avenue (near Potomac Yards). When taken to jail, they emptied their pockets and a “quantity of racing tickets” was discovered. In addition to gambling concerns, there were two other societal problems that caught my attention: the effects of Prohibition, and strict divorce laws.

There were numerous arrests in the region

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related to the bootlegging of liquor. My favorite article recounted the arrest of an alleged “farmer” with 210 gallons of corn liquor hidden under a load of cabbage. The most disturbing article involved the burning of eighteen homes in Arlington, resulting in the death of one person. Three separate fires in a 12-hour stretch had been started in an area of East Arlington referred to as “Hell’s Bottom” (in the general location of the Air Force Memorial).

There were many rumors that the fires were the result of a “bootleg war.” As far as I could discover, no arrests were ever made.

The most interesting criminal charge was the crime of bigamy. The headlines were straightforward: “Infidelity Alleged In Divorce Suit” and “Four Seek Marital Freedom.” In Arlington, William Stevens of the District was charged with bigamy based on his marriage in Clarendon to Thelma Berkely, also of the District. The arrest warrant was sworn out by her father, on the grounds that Stevens was already married, and that Stevens’ wife was still living with him. It gets worse, as the more recent bride, who had been listed on the marriage license as being 21 years-old, was actually 15 years-old. Sadly, I could not find any follow-up about this arrest, though it must be said that Mr. Stevens was lucky that Mr. Berkely did not take the law into his own hands. The criminal charge of bigamy was common in those days, as it was very difficult (and expensive) to get a divorce.

While the problems with Prohibition went away quickly (Prohibition was repealed in 1933), the problems involving divorce have taken a long time to get resolved. A weak version of “no-fault” divorce was passed in Virginia in 1960, but it took sixty years to get rid of the limiting requirement to have a “corroborating” witness. This month another law took effect that abolished the requirement for six months of separation (which has been cited as a cause for increased domestic violence and financial instability). Perhaps these recent changes can be attributed to the record number of women in the 2026 Virginia General Assembly (56 women out of our 140 elected members – in 1960, there were only three women in the General Assembly).

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JULY 30 - AUGUST 5, 2026 | PAGE 9

LOCAL

High-Energy ‘Catch Me If You Can’ Delights Audiences

BY PATRICIA LESLIE

The Little Theatre of Alexandria has done it again! They’ve produced another big, beautiful musical hit, “Catch Me If You Can,” based on the true story of a man who juggles several false careers while the police are hot on his trail. Alexandria’s version is based on Steven Spielberg’s 2002 DreamWorks movie of the same name. (A Broadway version in 2011 was nominated for four Tonys, including Best Musical.)

Before the curtain opens, two flight attendants stand on either side of the stage at audience level and silently mimic spoken cell phone directions, and from there, away we go, up into the air taking off from the Miami International Airport on a rollicking police chase after the man who masquerades as a pilot, a surgeon, a lawyer, and even a Lutheran. (A Lutheran?)

Cam Powell stars as Frank Abagnale, Jr. and dominates the stage as he cons his way in and out of jobs with contagious enthusiasm

and energy duplicated by the highly talented ensemble of ten who dance and sing the night away in fantastic strip-tease fashion designed

by Lourdes Turnblom. The group has no trouble executing Kristina Friedgen’s masterful choreography, their steps always in unison, never missing a beat.

My favorites in the show had to be the three amigos, the three goofy musketeers - whoops, I mean FBI agents - who assist the chief investigator (Thomas Stratton as the perfect Hanratty with glasses kinda, sorta positioned sideways on his nose) as he hunts for Abagnale. The three agents are played by Michael Page, Kevin Donlan, and Mylo Cuff, under the splendid direction of Jarod Glou.

In their first scene, Agent “Cod” (Donlan) slowly sinks in a chair while listening intently to the boss before falling asleep with his head slung back. These three slip, they slide, they prance in sync like American saddlebreds. Plus, their costumes help “make the men,”

dressed like John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd in the “Blue Brothers” (and/or NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani), with narrow black ties, white shirts, black suits, black hats and shoes.

Amid the many women Frank encounters in his myriad career choices, he finally finds “the one,” Brenda (Katherine Leverenz) whose sunny looks and disposition pop up like a sunflower, accompanied by her hilarious parents (Jenny Gleason and Jonathan Uffelman) who show more concern for coming to Jesus than the profession(s) of their daughter’s fiancé.

Since life, sadly, is not all fun ‘n’ games, Frank’s life takes a more serious turn with his father (Steve Cairns in a stellar performance) who taught his son the skills of “the trade,” but who is left alone, without Frank’s mother who has jilted her husband for another man.

Mr. Abagnale Sr. is barely able to eke out a living, spending most of his time in bars. In a prissy, frilly role, Megan Galant elegantly plays

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Frank’s mother.

Under the direction of Owen Posnett and Aimee Faulkner, a 12-member band sits elevated as a shadowy backdrop of the story, their music a huge part of the show’s success. Noah Beye’s small sets are more than adequate, swiftly changed by crew, to provide hints of locale shifts.

They say that truth is stranger than fiction and it’s true here.

“Catch” is a delightful way to spend two and a half hours and be happy at the end, with or without someone else. Ensemble members are Alexandra Lagos (also as “”Cheryl Ann”), Lauren Fagan, Justin Harmon, Alexis Hooks, Meredith Kilmartin, Brooke Matthews, Maia Potok-Holmes (co-dance captain with Michael Page), Alfred Reid, Danny Seal and Tiffani Stitz.

Crew members include producers Kadira Coley, Eleanore Tapscott, and Rachael Hubbard; stage managers Kody Alexander and Jacqueline Williams Rocco; Natalie Foley, properties; Jake Gunter, lighting;

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Emily “EJ” Jonas, intimacy choreography; Ava Silberman, hair and makeup; Natalie Turkevich, assistant director; Russel M. Wyland, rigging; and Austin Wydrzynski, sound.

Thursday through Saturday nights at 8 p.m. and a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. through August 8. Tickets are $40. Little Theatre of Alexandria, 600 Wolfe St., Alexandria 22314. 703-683-5778.

Plenty of free area parking, including at the nearby Capital One Bank. thelittletheatre.com.

CAM POWELL IS FRANK Abagnale, Jr., surrounded by a Pan Am crew in Little Theatre of Alexandria’s “Catch Me If You Can.” (Photo: Matt Liptak)

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Hope Remains Through Season of Uncertainty

BY NICK GATZ

Another summer has nearly come and gone.

In just a few weeks, pools will close, backpacks will come out of the closet and parents everywhere will begin another year of carpools, homework and wondering how their children managed to grow up so quickly.

That’s middle age in America.

You spend your twenties building a life.

Your forties are spent trying to keep up with it.

Where do we stand as a country? It depends on who you ask. Politically, we’re divided.

Economically, people are cautiously optimistic but still feel the pinch every time they visit the grocery store or pay another insurance bill.

Most families simply hope next year costs a little less and offers a little more.

Still, life moves on.

This summer many of us checked off a vacation, watched our children compete in sports, tackled projects around the house or simply enjoyed evenings together that become harder to find as kids grow older. Those aren’t headline-making accomplishments, but they’re often the ones that matter most.

Now another school year begins.

And with it comes one of the best seasons of the year in Virginia. Friday night football returns. College football Saturdays once again dominate the television. NFL Sundays remind every fan that this might finally be their team’s year. The humidity fades, mornings cool off and fall once again becomes the reward for surviving another hot Virginia summer.

Northern Virginia also continues to grow. The latest project surrounding Dulles International Airport promises more jobs, more business opportunities and perhaps another economic boost for the region. Or maybe it simply means more traffic and more airplane noise. Like so many large public investments, the answer is probably somewhere in between.

Time will tell.

Then there’s baseball.

How many of you have actually been to Nationals Park this season?

That’s becoming a fair question.

The Nationals once again find themselves approaching the trade deadline with familiar decisions. Will they once again trade away expiring veterans for prospects? Will they finally signal that the rebuilding years are ending?

Or is the plan simply to continue operating with one of the lowest on-field payrolls in Major League Baseball while charging some of the highest prices for tickets, parking and concessions?

LOCAL

Fans deserve an answer.

The frustrating part is that this team is actually fun to watch.

You don’t need advanced analytics to see it, although the numbers certainly back it up.

Depending on which offensive metrics you prefer, the Nationals have developed one of baseball’s best offenses. Their young hitters compete every night, score runs and provide legitimate hope that the next winning core has finally arrived.

Unfortunately, they’ve also paired that offense with what sometimes feels like one of the worst bullpens ever assembled, on pace to shatter the blown saves record.

Too many quality starts have disappeared in the late innings. Too many comeback wins have become heartbreaking losses. Too many nights end with fans asking the same question: How can a team that scores this much continue to lose so many close games?

At some point, rebuilding has to become competing. That’s why this trade deadline feels different. Fans aren’t asking for reckless spending or blockbuster headlines. They’re asking for evidence that ownership is ready to build around a talented young core instead of endlessly planning for tomorrow.

Perhaps the Nationals have become the perfect metaphor for where many of us are today: patiently waiting, cautiously optimistic, still hoping, but with few answers and no clear end in sight.

That feeling extends well beyond baseball.

We’re waiting for life to become a little more affordable. Waiting for the country to become a little less divided. Waiting for answers about the economy, our communities and what 2027 may bring. Like Nationals fans, many Americans remain optimistic, but they’re also wondering when patience will finally be rewarded.

The good news is that life has a way of reminding us what matters most.

Another school year is about to begin.

Friday night lights are almost back. Family calendars will once again fill with practices, games and school events. Kids will make memories they’ll never forget, and parents will once again wonder where the time went.

The future remains uncertain—for America, for the economy and maybe even for the Nationals.

But hope has a funny way of returning. Just as Opening Day arrives every spring, every new school year offers a fresh beginning. And as another Virginia fall settles in, perhaps that’s enough reason to believe the best chapters are still ahead.

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C L AS S I F I E DS

PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD PUBLIC HEARING

Music Thanks LLC, trading as Music Thanks, 6795 Wilson Blvd., Suite 18, Falls Church, VA 22044, is applying to the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Authority for a Beer and Wine Restaurant license to sell alcoholic beverages. Hung Yen Nguyen, Owner.

NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted 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 by calling 1-800-552-3200.

The City of Falls Church Historic Architectural Review Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, August 6, 2026 at 7:00 PM in City Hall’s Dogwood Room (first floor), Park Ave, Falls Church, VA 22043 to consider the following:

Ian Sushi VA Inc., trading as Ian Sushi, 112 S. West Street, Falls Church, VA 22046, is applying to the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Authority for a RestaurantBeer, Wine, Mixed Beverages, Consumed on and off Premises License to sell alcoholic beverages. Yu Suk Kim President. NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted no later than 30 days from the publication date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or by calling 1-800-552-3200.

Information or copies of the proposed alteration can be viewed at the Community Planning and Economic Development Services (CPEDS) counter at City Hall, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, VA, Monday through Friday (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).

You may contact the Planning Division at plan@fallschurchva.gov with any questions or concerns.

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF FAYETTE COUNTY STATE OF GEORGIA IN RE: PETITION OF YVONNE PHILLIPS, for Adoption of: E.Z.C., a male Minor Child ADOPTION NO. 2026-A-0009 NOTICE OF SERVICE BY PUBLICATION TO: Jaya Dominique Jenkins Unknown Address Notice is hereby given that YVONNE PHILLIPS, Petitioner in the above-styled case, by and through the undersigned, filed her Petition for Termination of Parental Rights and Petition for Adoption in the Superior Court of Fayette County, Georgia, on or about April 21, 2026, seeking to adopt the Minor Child, E.Z.C., a male Minor Child born in 2019.

You are hereby summoned and required to file an Answer in writing with the Clerk of the Superior Court of Fayette County, Georgia, whose address is One Center Drive, Fayetteville, Georgia 30214, within sixty (60) days from the Notice for Service by Publication, and serve a copy upon Petitioner, by and through her attorney of record, Chloe James, Esq., Slepian & Schwartz, LLC, 42 Eastbrook Bend, Peachtree City, Georgia 30269.

This 15th day of July, 2026.

SLEPIAN & SCHWARTZ, LLC /s/ Chloe James CHLOE JAMES, ESQ. Georgia State Bar No. 553364 Attorney for Petitioner 42 Eastbrook Bend Peachtree City, Georgia 30269 Phone: (770) 486-1220 Facsimile: (770) 631-2340 Email: chloejames@slepianfirm.com

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PROPOSED ALTERATION OF 303 E BROAD STREET; The proposed changes include the construction of a screened porch addition at the rear of the residence.

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‘Foyle’s War’ TV Series Sets Stage for Today Nicholas F. Benton FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS

The TV series “Foyle’s War” is one of the most engaging the relevant programming in this era, even though the series originally appeared via PBS over two decades ago.

One of the most compelling aspects of the show was its historical accuracy owing to writer Anthony Horowitz’ deep research into the events of the days in which the series was set, namely, the onset of World War II in southern England.

Real world events like the black market, fuel rationing and German spies as the basis for plots provided a context for the story lines which led to its characterization as “exceptionally accurate.”

The series was ended by Horowitz based on a lack of authentic materials to continue even though it ran for 13 years, even taking in periods following the war. Its singular star Michael Kitchen appeared in a couple of the James Bond films (the ones starring Pierce Brosnan.) His Foyle’s War character is his signature role. He largely retired after the series run concluded.

What the series provided the public was an extraordinary look at what life was like in the opening days of the second World War when in the minds of many, a successful invasion of the British Isles by Hitler was almost a given.

It challenged the public with a great conundrum, whether to compromise their values in order to go with a perceived “winner,” or to stand strong with their loyalties to the British nation.

By all measures, it certainly did look as if the Naziis were likely to become the future for England, even though the consequences of that were horrible.

It was an environment that made disloyalties and secret alliances with the enemy of England far more common than they otherwise might have been.

The main character, Detective

Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle, played masterfully

by Kitchen, had the unenviable task of rooting out the enemy and its covert operations, including spy operations that were part of preparations for a Nazi invasion of the British Isles that was an imminent fear but never actually materialized.

The almost miraculous citizen-led evacuation of the British military from Dunkirk and related heroic actions on the part of the British people were instrumental in foiling Nazi invasion plans in the war’s early days.

The parallels from that era to today are clear. In the U.S., the temptation since the rise of Trump in 2016 has been to side with the enemies of the U.S. out of a sense of despair, if nothing else, that included the infamous January 6, 2021 insurrection at the Capital.

Only very lately has the mood of the nation begun to change as the extreme duplicity of the enemy, centered in Trump, himself, has finally begun to sink in.

The danger has not yet passed, but there is now for the first time in a decade a light beginning to show at the end of the tunnel. It could result in great danger arising in response to this fall’s midterm election, but at least we’re beginning to see a more robust reaction from elements of the national mainstream that could rise fo the occasion and block some of the more egregious efforts of the current administration to impose an anti-democratic mandate.

If the “Foyle’s War” series were able to play a role in this, itself, it could come as Americans seek a reasonable alternative to Trumpism, grounded as it must be in the rule of law and a revival of a sense of civility and civic values.

In the meantime, the drive to turn this fall’s midterm elections into a rout of the MAGA Republican agenda needs to be escalated, and the temptation to back off the full exercise of its fury must be overcome.

This is a critical period for our nation and even as the countdown to the midterms continues, there needs to be no stone left unturned to restore pride in the nation’s core values. “Foyle’s War” as an historic study provides a strong starting point for this.

COMMENT

A Penny for Your Thoughts

JULY 30 - AUGUST 5, 2026 | PAGE 13

By Penny Gross Former Fairfax County Supervisor

Watching a Donald Trump speech or news conference is like watching a train wreck. You know it’s going to be appalling but it’s hard to turn away. The lies, egotism, sarcasm, bluster and obfuscation from anyone other than the President of the United States normally would be considered rantings and ramblings of an erratic person. When the comments are from Donald Trump, reputedly the most powerful man in the world, journalists have no choice but to report every word. Trump’s appearance at the rescheduled White House Correspondents Association dinner was supposed to be the big draw, but his hour-long ramble from the head table was awkward and embarrassing. Veering often from the teleprompter, his attempts to be humorous fell flat. More groans than applause was the order of the evening.

Presidential power is a given; presidential prowess is not. John F. Kennedy’s 1960 election ushered new energy into the White House.

The young Massachusetts Senator had no executive experience, but he tapped business executives and able contemporaries for cabinet and advisor positions. Lyndon Johnson’s career focused on legislative accomplishments, although his time as vice president offered some limited experience at the executive

level. Richard Nixon squandered his opportunities and resigned in disgrace, with cabinet officers and high-level advisors convicted for their roles in the Watergate scandal.

Gerald Ford may have been the least prepared to assume the presidency, serving as unelected vice president for a mere nine months before Nixon resigned, but he, too, brought decades of legislative experience to the office. Jimmy Carter had no federal legislative experience but had been governor of Georgia, the first state executive to assume the presidency since Franklin Roosevelt more than four decades previously. Ronald Reagan was best known as a movie star before his ascension to the governorship of California and the presidency. He could play the role of president but also had practical executive experience. George H.W. Bush may have had the broadest experience in federal service – vice president, CIA Director, ambassador, and Congressman – and World War II combat pilot. Bill Clinton was a young man in a hurry, serving as Arkansas Attorney General and Governor before becoming president at the age of 47. George W. Bush became the second son of a president in history to assume that office, but he also had experience as a one-term governor of Texas.

Barack Obama had limited legisla-

City of Falls Church Crime Report

Week of JULY 20 -26, 2026 Larceny, Hillwood Ave, Jul 20, between 12:40 p.m. and 1:17 p.m., an unknown suspect stole the victim’s unsecured silver Huffy bicycle.

Shoplifting, W Broad St, Jul 20, 7:18 a.m., an unknown suspect stole merchandise. The unknown suspect is described as a male, wearing a white shirt, blue jeans, and black hat.

Larceny from Building, W Broad St, Jul 20, between 10:15 a.m. and 3:15 p.m., two unknown suspects stole the victim’s ring.

Larceny, Roosevelt Blvd, between 4:00 p.m. on July 20 and 11:21 a.m. on July 21, an unknown suspect stole the victim’s package from a mail room.

Shoplifting, Wilson Blvd, Jul 21, 2:42 p.m., two unknown suspects stole merchandise.

Larceny of Vehicle Parts, W Greenway Blvd, between 11:00 p.m. on July 20 and 3:35 p.m. on July 21, an unknown suspect stole a license plate from the victim’s vehicle.

Residential Burglary, N. Underwood St, between 11:45 a.m. on July 16 and 3:30 p.m. on July 22, an unknown suspect broke a window to gain entry to the home and stole valuables.

Theft of Motor Vehicle, S Virginia Ave, Jul 22, between 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m., an unknown suspect stole the victim’s gray 2017 Jeep Wrangler.

Shoplifting, W Broad St, Jul 22, 8:19 p.m., an unknown suspect stole merchandise. The unknown suspect is described as a Black male, with short black hair, mustache, and beard, wearing a black t-shirt, grey shorts, long black socks, and white and black Jordan style sneakers.

Fraud – False Pretenses, Wilson Blvd, Jul

tive experience – less than one term in the U.S. Senate – and became the first American president of color, born in Hawaii, and again under 50 when he assumed office. Joe Biden had decades of legislative experience and eight years as vice president before becoming the oldest man elected to the presidency prior to Donald Trump.

All of these men grew into the presidency, even if a bit timidly or awkwardly at first. But halfway into his second term, Donald Trump has never learned how to be President.

He hasn’t the empathy, the intellectual curiosity, the appreciation and respect for American history or government, or the understanding of what makes an efficient and effective democracy. Born into a wealthy family like Kennedy and the two Bushes, Trump never learned that the benefits of wealth should be shared; that giving back to society and community is a mandate for the most fortunate. Ford and Carter were valued post-presidency for their humanitarian and public policy perspectives. Conversely, it’s hard to imagine that Mr. Trump has any redeeming qualities in those areas.

The Donald Trump regime will end, but his lies, egotism, sarcasm, etc., will continue to dominate news cycles. We don’t have to be drawn into that train wreck. It’s okay to turn off the noise and work to ensure that our own empathy, intellectual curiosity, and respect for the rule of law is heightened, secure, and passed along. Democracy is only as strong as its advocates, and that should be each one of us.

23, 2:59 p.m., victim reported a fraudulent transaction was made from their business account.

Larceny from Building, W Broad St, Jul 23, 4:20 p.m., an unknown suspect stole the victim’s phone.

Fraud – False Pretenses, W Broad St, Jul 24, 6:02 p.m., victim reported sending money to an unknown suspect claiming to be a law enforcement officer with a warrant for their arrest.

Shoplifting, W Broad St, Jul 25, 4:40 p.m., an unknown suspect stole merchandise. The unknown suspect is described as a tall Black male, skinny, with long black dreadlocks, wearing a beige sweatshirt and black jeans.

Shoplifting, S Washington St, Jul 26, 8:08 a.m., an unknown suspect stole merchandise. The unknown suspect is described as a Black male, bald, with glasses, wearing a green t-shirt, gray hooded sweatshirt, black pants, and gray and black sneakers.

Harassing Phone Calls, Gibson St, Jul 24, 12:22 p.m., victim reported an identified suspect is harassing them.

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Defense Tech Company Lyntris Files for IPO Lyntris Inc., a newly formed defense technology company headquartered in Falls Church, has filed to go public on the New York Stock Exchange under LYNX. The company builds advanced sensor hardware and software systems for the U.S. military and allies. The technologies are used for quick military response to threats by land, air, sea, and space.

National Night Out at Cherry Hill Farmhouse Join the City of Falls Church Police Department for National Night Out, Tuesday, August 4, 6 – 8 p.m., at Cherry Hill Farmhouse. It’s an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie, making our neighborhoods safer and more caring places to live. This year’s event will include a chance to meet K9 Faro and will feature activities such as Touch-a-SWAT-Truck, plus games and activities for all ages.

Meet the officers and staff who keep the police department running, learn how they operate, and enjoy an evening of festivities.  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.

LIVING LIFE ONE sunny branch at a time.

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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM

JULY 30 - AUGUST 5, 2026 | PAGE 15

CALENDAR

This Week Around Falls Church Thursday, July 30 Democracy Rocks!

Civics Scavenger Hunt July 19 – August 4

Participate in the City of Falls Church’s civics scavenger hunt and learn more about local government, history and the community. The scavenger hunt concludes Tuesday, Aug. 4. Visit fallschurchva.gov for participation details.

Falls Church Arts 2026 All Member Show (M–Z Artists)

July 18 – August 23

The second session of the 2026 All Member Show features works by Falls Church Arts members whose last names begin with M–Z. Visitors can view a wide variety of paintings, photography, sculpture, and mixed-media works. Gallery guests may also vote in person for the People’s Choice Award through August 7.

Falls Church Fiber Artists 10:00 a.m. – Noon

Mary Riley Styles Public Library

A gathering for local fiber artists and others interested in knitting, crocheting and related crafts.

Summer Storytime 10:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Mary Riley Styles Public Library

Stories, songs and early-literacy activities for young children and their caregivers.

Bushmaster Band Featuring Gary Brown 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Cherry Hill Park, 312 Park Ave., Falls Church

The Tinner Hill Music Concert returns for a special make-up performance featuring the Bushmaster Band with Gary Brown. The group will perform soulful blues and funk.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket.

Historical Commission Meeting

3D printing, drones, virtual reality and other activities. The open house is free.

Laurel Room, Falls Church City Hall

16th Annual Lizzie Borden Axe Throwing Competition

7:00 – 9:00 p.m.

The Falls Church Historical Commission will meet to discuss local history and historic-preservation matters. The meeting is open to the public.

Friday, July 31 Baby Play Time

10:30 a.m. – Noon

Mary Riley Styles Public Library

Babies and their caregivers can enjoy open play, socialization and age-appropriate early-literacy activities.

Arts Grant Application Deadline

The deadline for the arts grant opportunity featured by the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce is Friday, July 31.

VOX POP 7:30 p.m.

Creative Cauldron, 410 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church

VOX POP brings an energetic evening of contemporary vocal music, blending rich harmonies, inventive arrangements, and dynamic performances in Creative Cauldron’s intimate theater.

Saturday, August 1 Civitan Open Air Flea Market

7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

4001 15th St. N., Arlington

Looking for that perfect accessory?

The Civitan Open Air Flea Market features more than 100 vendors selling books, clothing, furniture, garden tools, household goods, jewelry, shoes, toys, records and much more.

Code Ninjas Arlington/ Falls Church Open House 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Code Ninjas Arlington/Falls Church

Visit the Code Ninjas Dojo, a hightech, STEM-focused space where families can explore MakeCode Arcade, Roblox, Minecraft, robotics,

Registration begins at Noon; axes in the air at 1:00 p.m.

American Legion Post 130, 400 N. Oak St., Falls Church

American Legion Post 130 presents its annual Lizzie Borden Axe Throwing Competition. The event is open to the public and participants must be at least 16 years old. Those younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is $30 for axe throwing, food, a T-shirt and souvenir, or $20 for axe throwing and food. Food-only admission is $10. All axe-throwing participants must sign a liability waiver.

Open-toed shoes are prohibited.

Information: 703-533-1945.

Eli Lev & Friends 7:30 p.m.

Creative Cauldron, 410 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church

Award-winning singer-songwriter Eli Lev returns with Friends for an evening of heartfelt folk, Americana, and storytelling featuring original songs and exceptional musicianship.

Sunday, August 2 Board Game Sunday for Adults 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Mary Riley Styles Public Library

Adults can gather at the library to play a variety of board games.

Main Street Market: Fairfax’s Monthly Shopping Event Mode on Main by Mara

Shop from local businesses and vendors during Fairfax’s monthly Main Street Market.

Monday, August 3 Summer Storytime 10:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Mary Riley Styles Public Library

Stories, songs and early-literacy activities for young children and their caregivers.

Tuesday, August 4 Last Day: Democracy Rocks! Civics Scavenger Hunt Tuesday, Aug. 4

Tuesday, Aug. 4, is the final day to complete the City of Falls Church’s community civics scavenger hunt.

8th Congressional District Democratic Primary Election Day – Polls Open 6:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, August 5 McLean Art Gallery Sun-Drenched Exhibition and 7Members Show Opening Day: Gallery hours Wednesday –

Sunday, Noon – 6:00 p.m.

McLean Art Gallery, 6224B Old Dominion Drive, McLean

Celebrate summer with the McLean Art Society’s “Sun-Drenched” exhibition, on view Aug. 5–30. The exhibition features original artwork inspired by long summer days, flourishing gardens, colorful still lifes, sunlit landscapes and the simple pleasures of the season.

Visitors can also browse paintings, drawings, photography, sculpture and works in wood, glass and ceramics by McLean Art Society artists. The gallery is located in the Chesterbrook Shopping Center near Starbucks. Admission and parking are free.

Have events?

Send an email to calendar@fcnp.com

PAGE 16 | JULY 30 - AUGUST 5, 2026

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