For anyone who drives into D.C., roundabouts are nothing new. They’re wildly popular in Europe, as anyone who watched the Tour de France bicycle race last week can attest. And throughout the Caribbean. They’re growing in popularity in this region, too. With the blessings of the Virginia Department of Transportation, some have already appeared in Loudoun County, Prince William, Fauquier and Orange counties. Now Falls Church is about to get its first. The signage has gone up at the intersection of Annandale Rd. and S. Maple St. and the work was slated to begin July 21 with traffic disruptions due to begin later this week. Construction time is estimated at 300 days, indicating a finish by late next spring. There will be temporary lane closures and sidewalk closures. At times there will be full closures of the
FILLING CONNOLLY’S SHOES
Walkinshaw Outshines Whitson in Big Debate
Republican to decidedly Democratic over the last 16 years.
The first consequential election since Trump won last fall is being held right in our own backyard. It is the special U.S. Congressional election in which early voting got underway this week in advance of a Sept. 9 election day in the 11th Congressional District of Virginia, a district just to the west of Falls Church that juts right up against the City in some areas.
The election follows the death of long-time Congressman Gerry Connolly on May 11, who represented that district from 2009 on and oversaw its shift from moderately
Now, the next U.S. representative from that area will either be Democrat James Walkinshaw, Connolly’s long-time aid and collaborator, now an effective Fairfax County Supervisor from the Braddock District, or Republican Stewart Whitson, the senior director of Federal Affairs at the conservative D.C.-based Foundation for Government Accountability, credited with achieving major cuts in the federal SNAP (food stamp) program.
Walkinshaw and Whitson squared off in a head-to-head debate this Monday hosted by the Reston Civic Association and held at the
Reston Community Center in front of about 300 noisy observers. If the debate were to be described as feisty or raucous, it would only be because the audience was, not so much the candidates. Despite repeated pleas from the moderator to desist, a dozen or so backers of Whitson continued to rile the audience with loud insults and objections to Walkinshaw’s remarks, in particular.
Walkinshaw’s supporters in the audience sought to match the noise with loud applause and cheers for their candidate when he scored strong points. The pro-Whitson noise-makers were particularly vocal when Walkinshaw tied his oppo-
nent to President Trump, and proWalkinshaw backers were loudest when their candidate championed the plight of federal workers and contractors who are being laid off in record numbers by Trump. Most media coverage of the race is suggesting that Walkinshaw is the strong favorite because of Connolly’s success in turning the district “blue,” winning his last election with a 65 percentage point majority. But while Walkinshaw demonstrated a dauntless and straightforward knowledge and ability to articulate the issues, his new opponent Whitson proved a daunting adversary, with well-spo-
DEMOCRAT JAMES Walkinshaw chatted with supporters following Monday’s well-attended debate with Republican rival Stewart Whitson in Reston Monday night. Early voting has begun in this race to fill the 11th Congressional District seat vacated in May by the passing of Rep. Gerry Connolly. Election Day is Sept. 9. (Photo: News-Press)
by Nicholas F. Benton Falls Church News-Press
Benton Falls Church News-Press
intersection with a detour that will reroute traffic.
Falls Church City Manager Wyatt Shields told the News-Press this week that the aim of the project, estimated to cost $2.3 million and change, utilizing federal and state grant money (not costing City residents a dime), is safety, not only for vehicular traffic but also pedestrians.
Yes, the City of Falls Church is advancing a major transportation improvement project to construct a modern roundabout at the intersection of Annandale Road and South Maple Avenue.
This key infrastructure upgrade is designed to improve traffic flow, enhance pedestrian safety, and support the City’s long-term vision of a more walkable and connected community.
“This project reflects our commitment to building safer, more efficient streets that work for everyone—drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users,” said Shields.
“The new roundabout will not only improve safety and reduce congestion, but also serve as a gateway to
our vibrant downtown area.”
The proposed single-lane roundabout will replace the current signalized intersection, which has been identified as a location with traffic congestion, pedestrian safety challenges, and inefficient vehicle flow. The roundabout will feature:
• A one-lane circular design to reduce conflict points and calm traffic
• Pedestrian crosswalks with refuge islands for safer crossings
• ADA-compliant sidewalks and curb ramps
• Native landscaping and potential public art in the center island
• Improved stormwater management and updated lighting By removing traffic signals and reconfiguring the intersection geometry, the roundabout will reduce vehicle delays and improve overall safety. According to national data, modern roundabouts can reduce injury crashes by up to 75 percent and nearly eliminate the most dangerous types of collisions.
Over the past year, the City has conducted public outreach
through community meetings, online surveys, and stakeholder discussions. Feedback has been largely positive, with residents and businesses expressing support for a safer, more accessible street design.
“We’ve heard from many in the community who are excited about the benefits this project brings— not only for traffic safety, but also for creating a more welcoming streetscape,” said the City’s new Department of Public Works Director Amanda Stouit Brain. “We are working closely with neighbors and local businesses to ensure a smooth construction process.”
Throughout construction, the City will maintain access to homes and businesses, with clear signage, detours, and phased work zones to minimize disruption.
The Annandale–South Maple roundabout project is part of the City’s broader Complete Streets initiative, which prioritizes transportation solutions that are inclusive, sustainable, and forwardlooking.
“This project is about more than just traffic,” said Mayor Letty
ken arguments for mostly traditional Republican talking points about taxation and regulation.
This race should, by no means, be taken lightly. Anti-governmentstatus-quo sentiment is running high, especially in a climate of growing unemployment, and would trend against Walkinshaw, who despite his own considerable qualifications, paints himself by his long association with Connolly and now his work as an elected member of the Fairfax Board of Supervisors as just that.
It comes as the U.S. House holds a slim majority for the Republicans, 220 to 213 with the deaths of two Democrats beside Connolly, Rep. Raul Grijalva of Arizons and Syvester Turner of Texas. Democrats are counting on winning control of the House next year on the strength of unpopular Trump policies, and this 11th District race will be vital for that (the winner will face another election in the fall of 2026).
In Monday’s debate, Walkinshaw stressed continuity—promising to carry forward Connolly’s legacy and leverage his legislative experi-
as destructive Trump-aligned policies. Whitson, an Army veteran and former FBI agent, did not mention his role with the Foundation for Government Accountability in his self-identifying remarks.
While some in the audience jeered when Walkinshaw frequently linked his opponent to Trumpian policies, Whitson took positions over and over that were in fact in agreement with the Trump agenda, including fiscal restraint and immigration enforcement, criticizing Democratic spending and advocating for stricter Medicaid eligibility.
Walkinshaw rebutted support for sweeping tax and spending cuts, warning that over 320,000 Virginians risk losing healthcare coverage under the mega-bill that passed last week. He vowed to oppose it in Congress.
Whitson sharpened his critique:
“There’s a spending problem,” he argued, contending the legislation hasn’t reduced Medicaid cuts and wrongly attributed coverage losses to immigration fraud.
Walkinshaw leaned into his establishment credentials and endorsements—including
to underscore his readiness to represent a district dominated by federal employees.
Whitson portrayed himself as the underdog, promising to “shake things up” and hold Washington accountable, though facing long odds in this heavily Democratic district.
In the audience Q&A, Walkinshaw was often applauded for nuance on health care and economic stability. Whitson touted fiscal responsibility and immigration.
Wallkinshaw spoke directly to Whitson on some occasions, saying to him at one point that the Trump administration “is indiscriminately firing the very people you say you have sympathy for, and you could do something. You could start to denounce it. But you won’t do that. Because first and foremost, you are Donald Trump’s ally.”
Walkinshaw said he worried about the downstream effects of federal cuts on local businesses, and several times pointed to federal investments in local priorities, including transportation projects and low-income schools.
Whitson walked a finer line, emphasizing his good experiences
with his federal colleagues during his time in the FBI and calling federal workers “hardworking,” but not condemning the federal cuts. Whitson expressed sympathy for laid off federal workers, but said the solution is to “find you other economic opportunities” that would come from deregulation and lower taxes.
Whitson said he’d put forward the Regulations from the Executive In Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act, which would prevent federal agencies from developing rules that come with a price tag of $100 million or more without the approval of Congress. He also said he’d support rewarding federal agencies that do not spend all of their congressionally-appropriated budgets by the end of the fiscal year.
Walkinshaw said he’d support legislation to abolish the socalled Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE.
On Social Security, Whitson attacked Democrats for “pushing welfare onto healthy adults and creating dependency,” resulting in fewer employed people paying into the Social Security program
and more “able-bodied adults that are sitting on the couch playing video games.”
“Stewart, I recommend you talk to some of the thousands of federal employees who are out of work and ask them if they’re sitting on the sidelines or playing video games,” Walkinshaw replied. “That is an outrageous thing to say in a community that is suffering from job loss right now.”
Walkinshaw offered two proposals for keeping Social Security afloat: requiring the wealthiest Americans to pay more to fund the program, and welcoming immigrants to work in the U.S. and pay into the program.
“Rounding them up, scaring them, convincing them to selfdeport is self-defeating when it comes to the solvency of Social Security,” he said. He said recent escalations in immigration enforcement in Northern Virginia had not been focused on people with criminal records.
Whitson focused his comments about immigration on border security, citing his time with an FBI SWAT team in southern Arizona.
Kinky Boots Dazzles at LTA With Heart, Heels, Humor
by Patricia Leslie
When you leave a theatre performance and you’re kicking up your heels on the sidewalk with a song in your heart, you know the show was better than good.
You know it was fun! It was magical! It was opening night of “Kinky Boots” at the Little Theatre of Alexandria.
At show’s end, theatregoers buzzed in the lobby, they laughed, they were happy they saw “Kinky” with its action, songs and earlier, they enjoyed rubbing heels with choreographer, Michael Page, in his lilac four-inch spikes (he said he found them on the internet) to match his dancers and complement his ensemble.
The message of the play, based on a true story, presents sensitivities and differences among us, demonstrating the importance of flexibility for “when you change your mind, you can change your world.”
The star, Lola (Clayton Alex James) is a drag queen with sweeping arm gestures and posture in the shape of an S who needs new heels and lots of them for herself and her entourage of dancers, the Angels
(Marc Barbret, David Maeng, Danny Seal, and Tyler Ward).
In a bar scene (where else?) Lola meets Charlie (Matthew Rubin), another star of the night, who has inherited his dad’s shoe factory on the brink of bankruptcy.
What better rescue for a shoe factory than making high heels for “ladies”?
That’s the idea of one factory worker Lauren (Keenan Parker) who comes up with the brainy notion to make shoes for Lola and, slowly (or maybe not-so-slowly) she develops a crush on Charlie.
But wait! Is Charlie available?
Alas, he is engaged to a somewhat prissy woman, Nicola (Sophie Page), the sweetest girl you can ever imagine until… she’s not. (Page skillfully turns her character into an unattractive, bossy partner and who needs that?)
Cooper Sved is a Charlie understudy but on Saturday night, he was “Harry,” Charlie’s friend who tells Charlie to accept things the way they are.
Not!
Meanwhile, Richard (Andrew Harasty) and Nicola have cooked up a grand plan for Charlie to sell his
father’s manufacturing plant, but yo, the worker bees in the factory have got other ideas except for big, bad Don (Dino Vergura) who ridicules Lola and her dancers until they box!
They box? They box.
You see, Lola has some experience and surprises under her skirt.
Another big man on scene but as lovable as a panda bear, is the humorous Michael Blinde as George, the plant manager, whose size is no disadvantage when it comes to group love, especially when he parades in high boots wearing a sequined green top.
“Kinky” has children in it, too: Kiril French portrays young Charlie and Zuri Luis is young Lola, both bearing decent resemblances to their grown-up namesakes.
Also in the show are Josh Katz, Maria Ciarrocchi, Brian Lyons-Burke, David Reph, Carla Wheaden and featured dancers, Cara Stankewick, Karen Toth, Alexis Hooks and Maia Potok-Holmes, dance captain.
Makeup artist and hair stylist Jennifer Finn has created remarkably tall hair and makeup for the Angels. (How did Tyler Ward ever open her eyes with that truckload of mascara
on her lashes?)
Their costuming by Jean Schlichting and Kit Sibley is oh, la, la, la, la Lola! They flash, they shimmer in their short skirts (better to show some leg) and rise to the occasion, knocking us out with humor and entertainment while, along the way, changing a few impressions of “drag queens.”
Julie Fischer’s set of a manufacturing plant never grows tiresome despite the constant backdrop, overcome by the musical’s action and story.
A 10-member orchestra under the direction of alternating conduc-
tors Aimee Faulkner and Isabel Hernandez-Cata play backstage. Harvey Fierstein wrote the book and Cyndi (“Girls Just Want to Have Fun”) Lauper wrote the music and lyrics for the show which ran on Broadway for six years and received 13 Tony Award nominations and won six, including Best Musical. Little Theatre of Alexandria, 600 Wolfe St., Alexandria, VA 22314. All seats, reserved: $36. Sunday matinees, sold out. Thursday – Saturday nights, 8 p.m. through August 16, 2025. Box office, 703-683-0496, Main, 703-683-5778, boxoffice@ thelittletheatre.com.
The cast of Little Theatre of Alexandria’s “Kinky Boots.” (Photo: Matt Liptak)
6, 2025
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Vol. XXXV, No. 25
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Next month, the City of Falls Church will be graced with yet another topshelf restaurant, this one called GrillMarX Steak House. It is getting ready to open next month and could become the center of a fifth hub of dining and retail in the City’s 2.2 square miles, this one near the intersection of S. Washington and Maple Ave., in the wider Tinner Hill neighborhood.
It will be added to the list of other centers of fine dining and retail we’ve earlier identified in page one coverage, being the 10-acre West End project, Founders Row 1 and 2, the Broad at Washington City Center and the Eden Center. This fifth area will center on the big and classy GrillMarX but also the formidable Dolan Uyeghur restaurant where Pizzeria Orso used to be, as well as the Grocery Outlet going soon into the old Target space, the Happy Tart under new ownership on S. Maple, and a relocated Galleria Florist, the Tinner Hill Hair Salon and Dave’s Sauces. There are other businesses, too.
We’ve been mildly surprised to learn that a lot of people are unaware of the Uyghur people, much less the outstanding restaurant that members of the local Economic Development Authority, the late Bob Young in particular, and the Citizens for a Better City, led by Hal Lippman, pushed to locate a second Dolan location restaurant in the Little City, the other being on Connecticut Avenue in D.C.
In short, the Uyeghur population of 10 million is centered in the Xinjiang region of far northwest China, a population that has been systematically and viciously oppressed by the Chinese government because it is Turkish Moslem and it is thought might disrupt the Chinese belt-and-rail project to build rail infrastructure through its western regions en route to hooking up with European economies. The repression of the Uyeghurs is well documented, which is why making a special effort to support the Dolan restaurant in Falls Church is a good idea.
Dolan Uyghur Restaurant in Falls Church is described as a vibrant celebration of authentic Uyghur and Central Asian cuisine, located at 400 S. Maple Ave. Open daily—with brunch on weekends—this spacious, modern eatery offers a memorable dining experience rooted in Uyghur tradition. The restaurant was founded by Hamid Kerim, an Uyghur immigrant who fled the Xinjiang region. Naming the business “Dolan” after an ancient Taklamakan Desert tribe, Kerim created this space not just to serve food but to share Uyghur heritage and raise awareness of the struggles facing the Uyghur community.
The restaurant features traditional Uyghur dishes with influences from Turkish, Persian, and Arabic cuisines, showcasing healthy, flavorful meals made from scratch. Dishes are made in-house using traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients.
The décor features subtle Eastern touches with a modern twist. Restaurantji reviewers give it a 4.8/5 (133 ratings), praising the food’s authenticity, flavor, and festive atmosphere. Favorites include Laghman, Korma Chop, and baba ganoush.
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Falls Church Business News & Notes
Lynk Terminates Agreement with SLAM Corp.
Business Wire reports that Falls Church-based Lynk Global, Inc., announced termination of its Business Combination Agreement (BCA) with SLAM Corp. Both parties agreed to the termination. Lynk is now positioned to pursue a broader set of strategic and commercial opportunities and accelerating its mission to deliver mobile connections to anyone, anywhere, directly from space satellites.
Toy Nest Aids Flood Victims
Toy Nest is auctioning off a very special Barbie Dreamhouse in a local effort to support the flood victims in Kerr County, Texas. Bidding may be done through email or entered at the front desk in Toy Nest through August 20. Guests may enjoy the house for in-library play only, and it will be stocked with accessories and Barbies before it heads to its new home. All proceeds will go to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund.
Paragon Theater is Hiring
The new Paragon Theater in Founders Row is hiring with openings in every position. Those interested can complete an application on the website via the link: https://www.paragontheaters. com/employment. Call the theater with any questions at: 571-562-5683.
Falls Church Food Trek
A number of our restaurants have put together a summer passport program and offer the passports on site. Those who turn in a completed passport between August 18–31 will be entered for a chance to win a basket of gift cards and goodies from your favorite Falls Church restaurants. The program runs through August 31. Participating restaurants are Café Kindred, Ellie Bird, Panjshir, Solace Outpost, Westover Taco, Borek G, The Falls, Harvey’s, Ireland’s Four Provinces, Preservation Biscuit Co., Stray Cat Bar & Grill, and TeaDM.
New Bakeries Highlighted
Northern Virginia Magazine named six new bakeries to try in and around Arlington, two of which are in Falls Church. The Beat Bakery in the new Pop-Up District of Eden Center offers croissants and sweet Hong King egg tarts. Little Falls Café opened last month on Little Falls Street and received attention for the sweet crepes and coffee drinks.
Report: Americans Have High Trust in Nonprofits
The Independent Sector has released a new report, Trust in Nonprofits and Philanthropy, which reflects 57 percent of Americans has “high trust” in nonprofits. This is ahead of small businesses, corporations, and the federal government. Nonprofits were also considered the most competent and ethical, outpairing by the military and small businesses. Many also want to see greater distance between the nonprofit sector and elected politicians.
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.
News & Notes
CBC Renews Integrity Pledge For Upcoming Election Campaign
Renewing the Candidate Integrity Pledge it developed in 2023, the Falls Churchbased Citizens for a Better City (CBC) civic organization has again urged all City Council and School Board candidates running this fall in Falls Church to sign it and notify CBC leaders of their decision by August 1, 2025.
The pledge, which all seven Falls Church City Council and School Board candidates signed in July 2023, was developed in response to a situation that arose during the 2021 local election when, for the first-time, there was an infusion of large scale contributions to candidates from outside interests and individuals with no direct history of involvement in City affairs, according to the CBC’s Hal Lippman.
Lippman said, “These contributions from outside sources, which have continued, reflect the pattern across our country in recent times of out-of-control campaign financing and incivility in our national, state and, increasingly, local elections. The purpose of the Pledge was and remains to ensure that Falls Church City elections are conducted with civility and remain local, affordable,and accessible to all citizens.”
Local Artist’s Work Featured In Paragon Theater Lobby
The new Paragon Theater complex in Founders Row unveiled local autistic painter Michael Lindsay’s abstract “Story in Blue,” prominently displayed in the seven screen, 600-seat movie theater lobby. Lindsay’s 48 x 72-inch poured acrylic-oncanvas “Story in Blue” is constituted of “bold action-oriented color splashes.”
Wanting to “give back to the Falls Church community,” Paragon Theaters’
Founders Row owners, Michael Whelan and Michael Wilson, of Florida, commissioned Lindsay – who’s on the autism spectrum and is also epileptic – to paint the work. Paragon Theaters provides “Sensory Friendly Screenings” for neurodivergent audiences and family members on Saturdays, allowing those with noise, hyper-stimuli and other sensitivities to enjoy major-release films in a comfortable, toned-down setting.
Seeking Answers to Tough Queries on Tariff Impacts
Ranking Member Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) this week led the entire Massachusetts congressional delegation, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, in writing to Susan M. Collins, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, requesting additional information on the impact of tariffs on small businesses, including crosstabulations showing the expected and realized impacts of tariffs on small businesses broken down by industry, importer status, and firm size. In the letter, the lawmakers write, “Recent tariff actions announced by President Trump, including a proposed 10 percent across-the-board tariff and higher, targeted rates on certain trading partners, are already causing hardship in our communities. Small firms across Massachusetts tell us they face rising input costs and price uncertainty, and they question how much of those costs they can pass on to customers without losing sales. National reporting indicates that U.S. businesses are bracing for broader supply chain disruption as these measures roll out. Federal Reserve Beige Book reporting similarly points to tariff-related price pressures emerging in several regions, including the Boston District.”
Drs. Love & Miller, PC
Drs Love and Miller provide a family practice with special emphasis on healthy and beautiful smiles for adults and children Both doctors graduated from the Medical College of Virginia and have been practicing together in Falls Church for over 25 years
We take time to listen to our patients so that we truly understand their needs With emphasis on overall health, we o er services including composite restorations, metal-free crowns, implant restorations, veneers and other cosmetic procedures Our oral hygiene program excels at understanding the vital relationship between oral health and other systems in the body. Drs Love and Miller, along with our amazing team, greatly appreciate the community’s trust and support
Mark A. Miller, DDS, Melanie R. Love, DDS
important financial and policy decisions.”
Sen. Warner Introduces Bill For Financial Stress Tests
Virginia’s U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner and Sen. Todd Young of Indiana introduced the Fiscal Contingency Preparedness Act, bipartisan legislation to require the Department of Treasury to conduct annual “stress tests” on the federal government’s finances.
This legislation would require Treasury to examine the U.S. government’s financial ability to respond to potentially catastrophic events – like an economic recession or a significant natural disaster – and put forth a report on the short- and long-term fiscal risks and impacts associated with such a response.
“The past decade has taught us the importance of bracing for the unexpected – whether that be a world-wide pandemic, a devastating weather event, or a cyberattack on major infrastructure,” said Sen. Warner. “This legislation will allow the government to take a hard look at our nation’s financial resilience in the face of various crises, disasters, and other extraordinary events, and provide Congress with critical context needed to make
Fairfax 4-H Fair Begins At Frying Pan Farm Park
The Fairfax County 4-H Fair and Carnival begins today, July 31, at the Frying Pan Farm Park through August, featuring old-fashioned family fun and the passion of community and youth leadership with the 4-H program.
This summer, the 4-H Fair offers farm demonstrations, animal exhibits, live music, and delicious food. The carnival — open all four days — features exciting rides, games, a carousel, and a playground.
As America’s largest youth development organization, 4-H aims to provide kids and teens with real-world experience in critical societal issues. That includes engaging in civil discourse and advocating for equity and inclusion. Hands-on projects in health, science, and agriculture help encourage leadership and civic engagement.
THE NORTHERN Virginia Senior Softball (NVSS) American Conference Tournament Champion, Team Gold, celebrated after winning at Braddock Park last week. Hal Lippman of Falls Church is in the front row on the right. (Courtesy photo)
SAHEL PERFORMED at Falls Church’s Creative Cauldron last Friday night, interpreting musical genres influenced by African culture around the world, including Reggae, Samba, Funana, Salsa, and Zouk. Jean-Francis Varre led the performance, singing in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Wolof. The Cauldron has cabaret performances this weekend, as well. (Photo: News-Press)
American Food
• The Falls
• Dogwood
• Cafe Kindred
• Dominion Wine and Beer
• Harvey’s International
• Maneki Neko
• Ireland’s Four Provinces
• Panjshir • Banh Mi Oi
• Saffron Brunch
• Godfreys • Harvey’s
• Northside Social
• Ireland’s Four Provinces
• Cafe Kindred
Treats and Sweets
• One1ea Taiwanese Cafe & Tea House
• Bakeshop
• Lil City Creamery
• Northside Social
• Lazy Mike’s Outside Dining
• Clare & Don’s Beach Shack
• Ireland’s Four Provinces
• Banh Mi Oi
• Godfrey’s
• Northside Social Bar/Brewery
• Solace
• Ireland’s Four Provinces
• Audacious Aleworks
• Dogwood Tavern
• SpaceBar
New Restaurant
• Banh Mi Oi
• RH Bistro
• Seoul Prime
• Dolan Uyghur Restaurant
• Semicolon
Best Latin
• El Tio
• La Tingeria
• Taco Bamba
• Cuates
• La Pupuseria Familiar Asian
• Banh Mi Oi
• Lucky Thai
• Maneki Neko
• Roll Play
• Elevation Burger
• Dogwood
• Ireland’s Four Provinces
• Harvey’s • Five Guys Pizza
• Badd Pizza
• 10 Pizza
• Flippin Pizza • Anthony’s
• Vocelli’s Vegetarian
• Northside Social
• Clare and Don’s • Saffron
• Loving Hut • Lazy Mike’s Seafood
• Clare & Don’s Beach Shack
• Chasin’ Tails • Harvey’s
• Dogwood Tavern
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Sandwich
• Banh Mi Oi
• Lazy Mike’s • Godfrey’s
• Harvey’s • Ireland’s Four Provinces
Gluten-Free Menu
• One1ea Taiwanese Cafe & Tea House
• Happy Tart • Harvey’s
• The Falls • Lazy Mike’s Professional Services
• Point of View
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Mortgage/Bank
• Truist • PNC
• John Marshall
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Real Estate Agent
• Kelly Thompson
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Real Estate Group
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• Stylish Patina Home
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Doctor
• Point of View
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Dentist
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Retirement Community
• Verso Founders Row
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Home Improvement
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Dry Clean
Nail/Day/Skin Spa
• Present • Nail Bonita
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Gym/Fitness
• Nova Fencing and Archery Club
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• Burn
• Orange Theory
• KiPS Family Gymnastics Specialty Store
• Botanologica
• Point of View
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Private School
• The Falls Church
Episcopal Day School
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• Congressional
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Physical Therapists/ Chiropractor
• Bodies in Motion PT
• Ascension Chiropractic
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• Dr. Dolbin
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• Semicolon Cafe
• Paragon Theaters
• ArtWorks Barbershop
• Neighborhood Barbershop
• Barbers Club Neo
• Around the Corner
• Westover • Father and Son
Live Entertainment
• State Theater
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• Clare & Don’s Beach Shack
• Creative Cauldron
• JV’s
Pet Services
• Capital Pet Sitters
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Property Management
• Peake
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Landscapers/Garden Services
• Rimble
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• Wheat’s Landscape Architect
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Builder/Remodeler
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TriVistaUSA
Backyard Homes Accountant
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Financial Forecast
Johnson & Johnson CPAs PC
Berman & Masoud
Our Man In Arlington
Bill Fogarty
Parking spaces and stormwater flow. These are two crucial factors that need to be addressed whenever there is any new development. They are especially critical in residential development, whether it involves the construction of one house or a multi-family building.
There are many practical and legal issues to consider. For example, the first owner of a new house will want to make sure that the stormwater flows away from the house and not into the basement. Similarly, the neighbors want to be sure the stormwater flow does not flood their backyard and their basement. “Does that builder have the right to drain water into my yard?” is a common question asked of real estate attorneys. The answer, of course, is always nuanced. “It depends...” is a common answer that satisfies no one.
Parking seems to be the most critical factor, as it affects the day-to-day life of the owner and of the neighborhood. Zoning laws have evolved since the advent of zoning regulations in the early 20th century, and now it is common to have a formula for a specific number of required off-street parking spaces with any new housing. But what happens when you live in a neighborhood that was created before cars came to Arlington?
That last question was faced by the Arlington County Board in the 1960s, and their legislative solution involved the Aurora Highlands area. The first subdivision plat in Aurora Highlands was recorded in 1896, when no one was contemplating the need for public street parking. By the 1960s, Crystal City (which abuts Aurora Highlands) was already filled with many office buildings. To avoid paying parking garage fees, many Crystal City commuters went looking for free parking within walking distance – which meant they were parking on the narrow streets in Aurora Highlands. With clogged streets, and significant noise and traffic during rush hours, the residents were bringing many complaints to the Coun-
ty Board. With the contemplated opening of a Metro station in the mid-1970s, the County Board tried to get ahead of the problem by passing an ordinance requiring permits for parking in a six-block area in Aurora Highlands. Commuters were allowed to park in this area, but they would have to pay a fee.
A lawsuit to overturn the ordinance was filed by several commuters. The lawsuit in the Circuit Court was successful, and the County went back to the drawing board, with a detailed study of a nine-block area, consisting of 101 residences and 192 possible parking spaces on the streets. On the day of the study, 188 parking spaces were used, with 156 spaces occupied by commuter vehicles. With the study in hand, the County Board passed a new ordinance, this time limiting parking to residents during business hours. A lawsuit again was filed by a number of commuters, but also by a plaintiff who lived right outside the zoned area. He complained it was not fair that his neighbors could park in front of his house, but he could not park in front of their house. In other words, the ordinance violated “the equal protection of the law.”
The County again lost at the Circuit Court level and then lost on appeal to the Virginia Supreme Court. But a miracle happened, and the U.S. Supreme Court took up the appeal. To the amazement of all (but especially to the lawyers), the Warren Burger Court, in 1977, issued a two-paragraph per curiam opinion which held that such an ordinance was “rationally related” to public goals of improving quality of life and reducing dependence on automobile usage.
This ruling changed the way that localities throughout the nation could regulate public street parking. And it is this ruling which paved the way (pun intended) for Arlington’s robust Residential Parking Permit Program. There are at least 26 different restricted parking zones in Arlington, many of which are centered around Metro stations. But it all started in a neighborhood where the lots and streets were created in a subdivision plat recorded at a time when developers were worried only about making accommodations for a horse and buggy.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY COUNCIL CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA
The following public hearing was set at the June 16, 2025 City Council Meeting. Public hearing and possible City Council action are scheduled for Monday, August 11, 2025 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard.
(TR25-12) RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO UPDATE CHAPTER 10: “HOUSING A COMPLETE COMMUNITY” TO ADD “AFFORDABLE LIVING POLICY”
The following were given first reading at the July 14, 2025 City Council meeting. Public hearings, second readings, and possible City Council actions are scheduled for Monday, August 11, 2025 at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard.
(TO25-10) ORDINANCE TO VACATE A 4,133 SQUARE FOOT PORTION OF A PLAT THAT ESTABLISHED THE SIDEWALK LOCATION AT 111 EAST BROAD STREET; TERMINATE THE PUBLIC SIDEWALK EASEMENT ASSOCIATED WITH THE VACATED SIDEWALK; APPROVE A REVISED PLAT ESTABLISHING A 4,092 SQUARE FOOT RELOCATED SIDEWALK LOCATION AT 111 EAST BROAD STREET; AND ACCEPT A PUBLIC SIDEWALK EASEMENT OVER THE RELOCATED SIDEWALK
(TO25-11) ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CODE OF THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH, CHAPTER 26 “MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC” ARTICLES I AND III, TO GRANT CERTAIN ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY TO PUBLIC SAFETY AIDES EMPLOYED BY THE CITY’S POLICE DEPARTMENT
(TO25-12) ORDINANCE TO AMEND ORDINANCE 1321 TO INCREASE THE SALARIES FOR THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF FALLS CHURCH
The proposed increase would raise the salaries for Planning Commission members from $100 per month to $250 per month, and for the Planning Commission Chair from $150 per month to $300 per month.
All public hearings will be held in the Council Chambers, 300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia. All persons desiring to present their views on the items will be heard. Comments may also be sent to cityclerk@fallschurchva. gov. Remote participation information at www.fallschurchva.gov/publiccomment. For copies of legislation and other information, contact the City Clerk’s office at 703-2485014 or cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov or visit www.fallschurchva.gov/councilmeetings.
The City of Falls Church is committed to the letter and spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, call 703-248-5014 (TTY 711) or e-mail cityclerk@ fallschurchva.gov.
CELESTE HEATH, CITY CLERK
PUBLIC
NOTICE
The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) of the City of Falls Church, Virginia will hold a public hearing on August 7th, 2025, at 7:30 PM in the Council Chambers, located at 300 Park Avenue, for consideration of the following item:
- Variance application V1665-25 by Gloria Walker and Tatte Bakery (Applicant), on behalf of West Broad Holdings LLC, (Owner), for variances to 1) Section 48-1265(1) to allow wall sign quantity of 5 instead of the maximum of 2 wall signs per business, and 2) Section 481269(b) to allow aggregate maximum number of permitted signs of 6 instead of the maximum of 4 signs at 1001 West Broad Street, RPC#52102-070 of the Falls church Real Property Records, zoned B-1, Limited Business District.
-Variance application V1666-25 by Patience
Shaffer, (applicant), on behalf of Technology Drive Self Storage, LLC, (Owners) for the following variances: 1) Section 48-1265(1) to allows wall sign quantity of 3 instead of the maximum of 2 wall signs per business, and 2) Section 48-1265(a) to allow wall sign area of 159.64 square feet, 89.64 square feet, and 89.64 square feet instead of the maximum 50 square feet, and 3) Section 48-1269(b) to allow aggregate sign area of total amount of 338.92 square feet instead of the maximum 125 square feet at the premises known as 1000 E Broad Street, RPC# 53-216-003 of the Falls Church Real Property Records, zoned B-3, General Business District.
Public comment and questions may be submitted to zoning@fallschurchva.gov until 4:30 pm on August 7th, 2025. Agenda and application materials will be available the week prior to the scheduled hearing at: http://www.fallschurchva.gov/BZA Information on the above application is also available for review upon request to staff at zoning@fallschurchva.gov.
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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.
4,700 Wire Transfers? How Key Was Trump to Epstein?
Nicholas F. Benton
The most damning revelation of the last few days of the Epstein coverup scandal is the report that there were over 4,700 wire transfers of money from Trump to Epstein.
Now, what could those have possibly been for? Evidence is pointing more and more to the fact that Trump wasn’t just a partaker of Epstein’s child trafficking network but a co-conspirator and investor, a player who played a vital role in making and keeping it happening.
This could turn out to be one of the most spectacular scandals in U.S. history. And it is not just about corruption and illegality, it is about the abuse of real people’s lives and moreover there is the element of the demise of Epstein in prison. In other words, murder.
It boggles the mind to look at the evidence that’s even out in the open now about all this. People who are not at this level of evil have a very hard time grasping it in its full implications. Just like people who are not hardcore nasty have difficulty figuring out why their adversaries who are nasty keep one-upping them.
Clearly, the Democrats have this problem. They are not weak, but they are nice. They are more like what people are supposed to be like. They practice basic courtesy and manners, recognizing that they are virtues taught and applied to hold civilization together.
But Trump and Trumpians don’t play by those rules at all. They are ruthless and deceitful in ways that ordinary nice people simply aren’t. Is the answer to turn nice people into nasty ruthless ones? Do we really need lawyers coming on late night TV with their ads boasting how ruthless they are, because that gets results?
I don’t think so. The problem is to solve the problem of how to effectively counter sociopathic behavior and persons. The Founding Fathers, for one thing, faced similar types of problems.
People didn’t stop being nice with the Reagan Revolution. There is an abundant record of shootings, knifings, poisonings as well as lying, raping and corrupting that marr our history as a nation right up to the present. The difference now is only a matter of degree.
But you can imagine there are people in high places in this land who do not think that Hitler’s holocaust was such a terrible thing. And they go to church on Sunday, the kind of church that will allow their fantasies to rage on the promise that simply by showing up there they need not otherwise have a conscience.
One of the somewhat overlooked atrocities of this period is the ruling by the IRS that it’s now OK for churches and non-profits to get into the politics game. Not that they haven’t since the rise of the religious right in the 1970s, but this new sanction will help them be more overt about their prejudices in the political arena.
Polls seem to be showing that in these extraordinary times, people are deserting the church. Well, that is if you buy the notion of the malleable media and politicians who equate the so-called Christian Nationalist version with anything equivalent to legitimate faith.
In fact, there is a move back toward the embrace of real faith by a huge block of folks, including younger ones who seek authenticity and a non-exploitive community. Trump is causing many of us to find pathways to be not like him.
It could be a special legacy for him that he unleashed something more pure and authentic in the population, something so revulsed by his behavior that it causes an entire generation and more to be uncommonly civil and generous toward all.
There are two endings to the phrase beginning, “It is always darkest…” One ending is, “Just before dawn.” The other is, “Just before it goes completely black.”
The direction we go, in fact, is up to the mental fortitude of a majority of us. As Abraham Lincoln said, “One is as happy as one decides to be.” Lincoln coined the phrase in his second inaugural address that is a key to everything. He spoke of the “higher angels of our nature.” They are there. Invoke them.
A Penny for Your Thoughts
By Penny Gross Former Fairfax County Supervisor
Donald Trump has a penchant for prisons and locking up people – former Presidents, First Ladies, an FBI Director, elected officials, immigrants. Now, his sights seem to be trained on locking up homeless persons, especially those who may exhibit mental health issues and/or substance addiction. A recent Executive Order would force them into institutional settings to “restore public order.” Never mind that the federal government has little or no authority for such involuntary moves. State and local laws govern the process for involuntary commitments. Trump’s executive order would usurp local authority and, as written, offers no funding for building or staffing additional hospitals. More tent cities, a la “Alligator Alcatraz” perhaps?
It is not a crime to be homeless. There are many reasons why someone may face losing that place we call home. High housing costs, domestic abuse, loss of employment, or an unexpected medical issue frequently are cited as homelessness triggers. The age-old question of which came first, the chicken or the egg, may have some implications here. Did homelessness lead to mental health and substance abuse, or did mental health and substance abuse lead to homelessness? The
answers probably are as varied as the individual homeless persons. A high school student was living in a Fairfax County shelter after being thrown out by his family. Nonetheless, every day after school this young man was doing his homework diligently in the shelter’s dayroom, on his way to graduation. An elderly former professor who suffered from mental decline and lost his housing ended up at the same shelter. A mother and her young children escaped their domestic abuser and found help (and safety) at a family shelter operated by a non-profit in Annandale. They were the fortunate ones, able to access a shelter facility rather than living on the street, in the woods, or pitching a tent in a public park.
In 1948, a Hollywood movie titled “The Snake Pit” described the terrors of a mental institution for the insane and led to some states changing the way their state hospitals were administered. When I was in high school, junior classes routinely took field trips to the Oregon State Hospital in Salem (the same location featured in Ken Kesey’s “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” novel and Academy Award-winning movie). My mother refused to sign a permission slip so, mercifully, I was spared that bizarre experience. Who thought it would
City of Falls Church Crime Report
Week of July 21 - 27, 2025
Larceny from Building, Hillwood Ave, between 12:00 a.m. on July 17 and 6:00 p.m. on July 18, an unknown suspect stole musical equipment.
(Delayed report)
Shoplifting, W Broad St, July 19, 5:20 p.m., an unknown suspect stole merchandise without paying. The suspect is described as a male wearing a Baltimore Ravens hat, Calvin Klein
shirt, blue shorts, red tennis shoes, and carrying a shopping bag. (Delayed report)
Shoplifting, W Broad St, July 21, 1:32 p.m., an unknown suspect stole merchandise without paying. The suspect is described as a Black male, approximately 5’10” in height, wearing a black hat, white shirt, black Adidas shorts, black and white shoes, and carrying a white shopping bag.
Larceny from Vehicle, W Falls Station Blvd,
be a good idea to expose patients and high school students to what amounted to a “human zoo” visit?
State and local governments struggle to provide adequate care for those suffering from mental health issues and substance abuse. Many state hospitals closed because the buildings were old and inadequate, lacking appropriate staff, and too costly to operate. Modern best practices recommend that treatment be in the community closer to patients’ homes and families, but treatment still is extremely expensive. Health insurance often does not cover the cost and there are not enough psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and other staff, either public or private, to address the lengthy waiting lists for inpatient or outpatient treatment. Forcing involuntary commitment, per the Trump executive order, exacerbates an already difficult issue but does nothing to help restore patients to healthy living.
“Perfect” and “beautiful” appear to be two favorite Trump words, used to describe everything from letters from North Korea’s despot to fossil fuels and military equipment. Well, Mr. Trump, life is neither perfect nor beautiful. Excepting your billionaire friends and their luxury homes, airplanes, and yachts, many folks have struggled at some time in their lives, whether it’s affording the rent or paying for a sudden car repair. For most, that’s a very temporary situation, but for some it can be the beginning of a slide into anguish and despair. That’s when they need our compassion and assistance, not cruelty and spite.
between 9:00 a.m. on July 19 and 4:35 p.m. on July 21, an unknown suspect stole a ladder and folding knife from the victim’s vehicle.
Fraud – Swindle, W Broad St, July 21, 4:21 p.m., victim reported an unknown suspect had previously bought multiple gift cards and brought the gift cards back for a refund. The suspect then retained the gift cards when the refund was completed.
Driving on Suspended License, E Broad St, July 24, 2:56 a.m., a male, 22, of Alexandria, was arrested for Driving on Suspended License.
Larceny from Building, Gordon Rd, between 12:00 p.m. on June 17 and 10:00 a.m. on July 24, an unknown suspect stole electronics.
In Memoriam: Kathleen Diehl Thomas
Kathleen Diehl Thomas DOB –1/23/1947 DOD – 7/19/2025
Loving wife, mother, sister, Babi, dog mom, teacher, author, multi-sport kids coach, swim team rep, gardener, tennis lover, world traveler, volunteer, and true friend; Kathleen (Kathy) Diehl Thomas left this world on July 19, 2025 after a long battle with brain cancer.
Kathy is survived by her husband of almost 54 years, Kenneth Thomas; daughter Sarah Thomas Foote and her husband Bill; daughter Maria Thomas Oven and her husband Chris; son Andrew Thomas and his wife Cami; daughter Emily Thomas Temme and her husband Sebastian; son Ted Thomas, and daughter Carrie Thomas; as well as her sisters Lin Simon and Kori Diehl.
In addition, she is survived by her 8 grandchildren: Connor, Thomas, Logan, Will, Noah, Charlie, Claire, and James; and her pups, Babe and Ace.
Kathleen (Kathy) Thelma Diehl was born on January 23, 1947 in Washington, D.C. to parents Commander, USN CE (Ret) Charles and Florence Mary Diehl (nee Griffin). As a Navy family, they traveled the country, adding sisters Linda (Lin) and Florence Anne (Kori) to the family in subsequent years. The family eventually settled in the Washington, DC area. Kathy attended Duquesne University and then graduated from The College of William and Mary where she studied to be an elementary school teacher earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree. She later finished her Masters of Education at George Mason University.
Kathy was happily married to Ken for over half a century. They met in Williamsburg where she began her teaching career after college and where he was stationed in the Army. They married in 1971 when he returned from his combat tour in Vietnam.
Kathy spent much of her life dedicated to raising babies (6 in the course of 16 years), driving carpools, coaching multiple youth sports teams, leadership positions in St. James PTA, and volunteering for church, school, and extracurricular events. She was the classic “never stay at home Mom.” She was always on “Kathy time” which everyone understood to be at least 20 minutes late.
When her youngest children were old enough to go to school, Kathy pursued a Master of Education Degree (in curriculum development and instruction) from George Mason University while working full time at the Falls Church Episcopal Day School. She worked there for over thirty years as a teacher, assistant director, and finally, as the director (principal). Her job and the success of this school became one of her greatest joys and sources of professional pride. Under Kathy’s direction, it was truly a teaching Christian school, not a day care facility. She simply loved working with the children and the teachers every day. One of her former teachers said recently: “…she was the best mentor ever. I would never have survived without Kathy. None of us would. We still laugh when we remember Kathy coming down the hall in the morning saying, ‘stay low under the radar today, ladies.’ She is one of the best people I’ve ever known.” Another professional education friend recently said, “…she was clearly a strong woman in this world.” Another professional colleague said “…I just love and admire her. She’s the kind of woman I always wanted to be when I grew up.” Another friend said of her long suffering ordeal with brain cancer, “…this is just so not fair.”
Kathy became Babi in 2004. She loved being Babi (instead of Grandma) and took much delight in each and every one of her grandchildren, spoiling them at Christmas, supporting them at their sport games and school performances, and going on travel adventures with them to make memories that they will cherish forever.
Kathy and Ken were able to travel the world and especially loved visiting new places with treasured friends including Brazil, Caribbean, Alaska, Ireland, Scotland, England, France, Spain, Italy; and the Great Canyon Parks of the Western USA.
But perhaps Kathy’s favorite thing in life was to be at home on her back porch, surrounded by family, friends, and dogs, enjoying a meal, a drink, and good conversation. Kathy, Mom, Babi, leaves a big hole in many hearts.
Please remember her fondly, speak of her often, find her in places you hold dear. And know that she loved you, too.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Kathy’s honor to the scholarship program at the Falls Church Episcopal Day School.
115 E Fairfax St, Falls Church, VA 22046.
A mass of Christian burial will take place on Friday, August 1st at 1 PM at St. James Catholic Church in Falls Church, VA
To share condolences with the family or for more information please visit www.murphyfuneralhomes.com
C ritter C orner
MY NAME IS LUCY and I am the sweetest dog my owner has ever had.
Just because you’re not famous doesn’t mean your pet can’t be! Please send in your Critter Corner submissions to crittercorner@fcnp.com.
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
This Week Around Falls Church
Thursday, July 31
Falls Church Fiber Artists
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Mary Riley Styles Library
Summer Storytime (Ages 2–4)
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Location: Mary Riley Styles Library
Concerts in the Park: Big Tow (Rock/Blues)
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Cherry Hill Park
Historical Commission Meeting
Time: 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Location: City Hall, Dogwood Room A&B
Ribbon Cutting: SeoulSpice
Time: Time TBA
Location: Chamber Event
Sip & Sculpt Event
Time: Time TBA
Location: Skin Lab Med Spa
Friday, August 1
Falls Church Fiber Artists
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Mary Riley Styles Library
Ukulele Baby Lap Time
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Location: Mary Riley Styles Library
Matt Trimboli’s Big Night Out (Passport Music Festival)
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: Creative Cauldron, 127 E. Broad St
Saturday, August 2
Falls Church Farmers Market
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: City Hall Parking Lot
Parent Workshop: Boundaries and Connection
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Mary Riley Styles Library
Griefcat (Passport Music Festival)
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: Creative Cauldron, 127 E. Broad St Loose Change with Katy Morse (Live Music) Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Hosted by local church, call 703-534-6461 for details
Wednesday, August 6
Stuffie Sleepover Drop-Off
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Mary Riley Styles Library
Women in Business Networking
Time: Time TBA
Location: Falls Church Chamber
An Evening with David Andrew Johnson
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Clare & Don’s Beach Shack (The Swamp)
Elida Almeida (Cape Verdean Afro-pop Concert)
Time: Time TBA
Location: Creative Cauldron, 127 E. Broad St
Falls Church Arts announced the winner of the People's Choice Award for the All Members Show M-Z. Artist, Claire Willard, won for her acrylic painting, "The Worth of a Woman: Marilyn as Lucretia." The piece will be on view until August 10. (Photo: Falls Church Arts)
