SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026 Founded 1991 • Vol. XXXVI N o . 33
Northern Virginia’s Newspaper
Falls Church, Virginia • w w w . fc n p . c o m • Free
‘Democracy Thrives In Sunshine’
The Fields: SERVING UP FALL F.C.’s Latest Affordability Challenge Buyers Eager to Bid on 96 Key Affordable Units by Nicholas F. Benton
Falls Church News-Press
Just as the City of Falls Church is now fully engaged in the effort to dedicate 4.5 acres in the center of the city known as the Virginia Village for new affordable housing, its other major affordable housing site, The Fields apartments on Ellison Street, has officially come up for sale, and the clock is now ticking for action on that one on whether or not subsidised affordable housing can or will be sustained there. The Fields is a 96-unit committed affordable housing property in the City of Falls Church. The property to date has been made affordable through the use of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (Housing Credits) that are set to expire in 2026. Under Virginia Housing’s extended use agreement, the units will remain affordable for a full three years after the
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Table Of Contents News Briefs Page 2 Editoral Page 6 Health and Wellness Pages 7 - 11 Classads Page 16 Calendar Page 17 Sports Page 18
THOUSANDS PACKED THE Falls Church Festival last Saturday, enjoying picture-perfect weather, local vendors and the annual Taste of Falls Church, featuring 16 local restaurants. See the Taste of Falls Church winners on Page 2. (Photo: Gary Mester)
AI Reaches Airports, Groceries, Gas and Medical Records by Nick Gatz
Falls Church News-Press
Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.) is calling for the immediate suspension of a new AI-supported system being deployed by the Federal Aviation Administration at Washington-area airports, less than two years after 67 people were killed in a midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Beyer is hardly alone in asking how far artificial intelligence should be allowed to go and who should be watching it. HillGraph’s AI Policy Dashboard currently iden-
tifies 120 AI-related bills in the 119th Congress, covering issues ranging from national security and health care to jobs, privacy, education and safeguards intended to keep increasingly powerful AI systems under human control. Here in Virginia, the issue is coming from nearly every direction. Gov. Abigail Spanberger this week called on congressional leaders to establish national AI guardrails, warning about potential impacts on privacy, employment and resource consumption, while her administration has created a Virginia AI Task Force focused on workforce displacement,
data privacy and cybersecurity. Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) is pushing stronger cybersecurity protections for Americans’ medical information and challenging a federal proposal involving identifiable health information from millions of federal employees, retirees and their families. He has also focused on “surveillance pricing,” questioning how personal information and algorithms can influence what consumers pay. Then there is the gas pump. Plaintiffs in a federal lawsuit accuse some of the nation’s largest gasoline retailers of using an AI-powered
pricing platform in a manner that coordinated prices rather than allowing retailers to independently compete. Those allegations are contested and have not been proven in court. Del. Marcus Simon (D-Falls Church), meanwhile, has questioned the risks created by interconnected surveillance databases capable of tracking people’s movements. Falls Church Police Chief Shahram Fard has said the City has no fixed Flock cameras and no relationship with Flock, while Fard and Sheriff Matt Cay are among local officials con-
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
F���� C����� N��� B����� Taste of Falls Church Winners Announced
The Falls Church Festival took place last Saturday, with 16 local restaurants taking part in the Taste of Falls Church. GrillMarx won Best Taste, Café Kindred won Best Menu and Hot N’ Juicy Crawfish won People’s Choice. GrillMarx is located at 510 S. Washington St., Café Kindred at 450 N. Washington St. and Hot N’ Juicy Crawfish at 116 W. Broad St.
Falls Church Arts: Plein Air Festival and Geometrix Win The Plein Air Festival culminates in a People’s Choice Award and a Quick Draw Competition on Saturday, September 26 that’s free and open to the public. The Quick Draw Competition takes place from 8 – 11 a.m. and is open to all levels and ages with a $15 entry free. Participating artists have been painting outdoors during this unique festival that began on August 29 and runs through September 25. Winners for the award and competition will be announced at noon on Saturday, FC City Hall grounds, 300 Park Ave. For details visit: FallsChurchArts.org. In more Falls Church Arts news, the People’s Choice Award for the current Geometrix exhibit has been awarded to “Withhold,” a graphite-on-acrylic work by artist Jasper Simons. Geometrix is an all-media exhibit on display at Falls Church Arts, 700-B West Broad St, until October 4.
City Council Evening Hours at Taco Rock on September 30 The Falls Church City Council will be offering evening office hours on the last Wednesday of each month. This month, on September 30, City Council Member Arthur Agin will be available to answer questions and listen to feedback from 6:30 – 8 p.m. at Taco Rock, 1116 West Broad St. Since this will not be a private setting, members of the community are also welcome to contact the City Council directly. Contact information can be found on the Council’s web page at: https://www.fallschurchva.gov/384/CityCouncil
WHEN SOMETHING ISN’T RIGHT
Splash & Seek Scavenger Hunt The hunt begins on Monday, September 28! This city-wide scavenger hunt will take you to parks throughout the Little City where you’ll pick up fun facts about local waterways and the environment. Beginning Monday and running for three weeks. Pick up the scavenger hunt sheet at the City of Falls Church Community Center, Kenneth R. Burnett Building. Participants can earn a color-changing Rec & Parks water bottle. Visit fallschurchva.gov for more information.
KNOW WHEN TO STEP IN & HOW TO HELP Interactive • Role-Play • Skill-Building “When you see something that is not right, not fair, or not just, you have a moral obligation to do something or say something about it.” — John Lewis
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Sherrow Avenue Bridge Replacement Project Update Construction on the Sherrow Avenue Bridge is expected to begin with site preparation in mid-September and active construction in October. Construction is expected to last for 10 months and conclude in July 2027. Sidewalk detour starts the week of September 21 with only one side of the sidewalk closed at a time. Safety fencing will also go up this week. While the aim is to keep the road open until mid-October, there may be possible road closures. These timelines are subject to change.
Artists Open Their Workspaces in Arlington Visual Art Studio Tour The ninth annual Arlington Visual Art Studio Tour takes place this weekend, with studios open in South Arlington on Saturday September 26, and in North Arlington on Sunday September 27. Hours are from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. on each day. Nearly 60 participating artists will open their workspaces to the public. The artists represent a range of media that includes painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, ceramics, papercutting, glass, letterpress, and jewelry. For more information, visit: arlingtonartstudiotour.org.
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LOCAL
SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026 | PAGE 3
Clock Ticking on The Fields as City Weighs Future Options
Continued from Page 1
Housing Credits expire, until 2029. But the entire project has gone up for sale and the development challenges the City with coming up with a plan to retain it as affordable. At the end of August, a deadline for the acquisition of the entire project passed and a number of potential developers responded. According to a lengthy report on the City’s website, “with information from the City and engagement with the non-profit and for-profit owners of The Fields, consultants have a solid understanding of the long-term intentions of the current owners, as well as their capacity and ability to preserve the property as an affordable multifamily rental.” With this, the consultants have provided valuable context and outlined crucial steps the
City must undertake to protect the property’s affordability and the residents who live there. Firstly, according to the report, “it should be acknowledged that the City recognizes the value The Fields brings to the community of Falls Church, and recognizes that the long-term affordability of The Fields is at risk.” As of the end of this August, potential buyers of the property faced a deadline to submit offers to the current owners, with no indications of whether or not maintaining affordability would be a feature of their future ownership. According to consultants writing on the City’s website, while “It is admirable that the City is taking action to maintain the affordability of the property six years prior to the expiration of the Housing Credits, and nine years prior to the loss of affordability, what became clear through extensive stakeholder
engagement, and as is explained in further detail below, however, is that there is no silver bullet that will ensure the longterm preservation of the property at this time. As economically motivated entities, the party/ parties currently controlling the property recognize the immense potential future value of the land once the affordability restrictions expire, which limits the options the City or anyone else may have at the current time.” “Any new owner will also aspire to maximize profits once any affordability restrictions expire. Though there are no immediate actions the City can take to transfer ownership of the property, there are steps that the City can and should take to better position themselves to negotiate with the owner(s) when that time comes,” the consultant said. Even though the entire complex is changing hands, individual apartments are still not for
sale to personal homebuyers. It will remain an entire multi-family rental community. Meanwhile, there is no evidence the City has as yet done anything to keep the project affordable other than to commission a report in 2020 on future options. No information on what prospective redevelopers intend for the site has been made public to date.
However, Falls Church housing officials have confirmed that the current owner of The Fields is independently seeking a partner “to help preserve its affordability.” According to the consultant’s report filed online, updates on the effort, including any potential partnership, are expected to be reviewed by the City Council later this fall.
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LOCAL
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Who’s Watching the AI Watching Us in Everyday Life?
Continued from Page 1
fronting increasingly complicated rules surrounding surveillance technology, data retention and information sharing. The national debate is moving even further. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Rep. Greg Casar (D-Texas) have proposed temporarily pausing advanced AI development until federal safety rules are established, permanently prohibiting artificial superintelligence as defined by their legislation and creating a cabinet-level federal agency to oversee advanced AI. Airports, medical records, grocery prices, gas prices, cellphones, license plates, jobs and data centers may sound like completely different stories. Taken together, they help explain why Congress is suddenly confronting 120 different pieces of AI-related legislation. For Beyer, the immediate concern is what is happening above Northern Virginia.
“The FAA should not use my constituents as guinea pigs for an unproven AI air traffic control system,” Beyer said Monday in calling for suspension of the FAA’s Strategic Management of Airspace Routing Trajectories system, known as SMART. The FAA says SMART centralizes approximately 200 streams of information involving weather, flight paths, traffic flow, controller staffing and other conditions, using AI to help aviation specialists anticipate congestion and other problems. The system provides information and recommendations rather than replacing air traffic controllers, and nothing identified by the News-Press establishes that SMART itself is unsafe. Beyer’s concerns include whether controllers were sufficiently involved in developing and testing the system and whether adequate independent testing occurred before deployment. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association has said it was not involved in SMART’s
design, testing or implementation. Those questions carry additional weight here following the Jan. 29, 2025 collision between an American Airlines passenger jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac, which killed all 67 people aboard the two aircraft. The crash had nothing to do with artificial intelligence, but the National Transportation Safety Board’s investigation identified systemic safety failures and produced 74 findings and 50 safety recommendations. Beyer also recently led a bipartisan group of House members calling for congressional action following reported incidents involving increasingly capable AI agents. As AI moves beyond answering questions and generating pictures into systems capable of accessing databases, writing code, operating software and interacting with other computer systems, the concern becomes less about science fiction and more about what technical barriers exist when an AI system is given permission to act.
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Spanberger argues that some of those questions require national rules. “Our AI Task Force is focused on addressing the significant risks to our jobs, our privacy, and our cybersecurity posed by the real, rapid development of AI,” she said this week, while calling on Congress to establish nationwide guardrails. Warner is raising similar questions about information Americans already consider among their most private. He and Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) have introduced legislation requiring minimum cybersecurity standards for health care organizations, while Warner and Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) are separately challenging an Office of Personnel Management proposal involving identifiable health information from federal employees, retirees and family members. The same technology is also moving closer to the price tag. Warner’s “surveillance pricing” concerns involve the potential use of personal information and algo-
rithms to determine what individual consumers may be willing to pay. The Kalibrate lawsuit raises a different allegation: that competing gasoline retailers relying on the same pricing technology reduced ordinary price competition. Those allegations remain unproven. And Northern Virginia isn’t simply using this technology — it is helping power it. Loudoun County says it has the highest concentration of data centers anywhere in the world, with approximately 233 data center buildings and 56.5 million square feet built or under construction as of March 1. The questions surrounding all of it are becoming increasingly difficult to separate: Who controls the information? What can artificial intelligence do with it? Who establishes the boundaries? And who is watching when those boundaries fail? This story continues online at FCNP.com, where the News-Press digs deeper into AI safety.
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LOCAL
SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026 | PAGE 5
Falls Church Forward Spreads Community Spirit in the Little City
I love living in Falls Church. One thing that sets us apart from other cities is our strong sense of community. We have lots of events that bring us all together, like the Fall Festival that just took place last weekend, and the Memorial Day parade where we can celebrate the start of summer. We also have a mayor that works hard for us, a city council that keeps our best interests in mind, and local groups that value our community spirit. One of those local groups is Falls Church Forward. I recently caught up with them during their monthly member Happy Hour; this one held at Solace Outpost. They were kind of enough to take a picture with me and I learned about the kinds of things that are important to this group, such as making
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everyone in the community feel welcome (I did!), creating affordable housing for everyone in the city, making sure our city is safe for people to walk and has lots of trees and green spaces, and also creating a place where local businesses can thrive. The group is made up of regular residents and also elected city leaders. In fact, Mayor Letty Hardi is one of the co-founders of Falls Church Forward. I have to admit, I wasn’t entirely sure what a mayor actually does, or even a city council, even though they are titles that are very familiar. “The City Council, including the mayor, sets the laws and budget for Falls Church,” Mayor Hardi told me. “The mayor runs the City Council meetings and acts as the face of the city for public events, but she gets one vote like the other six Councilmembers and has no special powers otherwise. The City Council listens to the community on their priorities and works with city staff on making those priorities come to life.” Falls Church Forward also has a member of the Falls Church City Council on their board, Justine Underhill. After the Happy Hour, I contacted Justine for her thoughts on what being a member of the City Council
means to her. Justine told me, “One of the things I’ve learned on City Council is how much the way we design a city shapes our everyday lives. It determines whether a child can safely walk or bike to school, whether neighbors run into each other and get to know one another, and whether people of different ages and abilities can really be part of their community.” Justine’s comments really emphasized to me how much the City Council works to make everyone in the city feel included. “I think if we build a city where kids can safely and independently get around, play,
and explore, we’re usually building a city that works better for everyone,” Justine said. “Part of our job on City Council is making sure we’re thinking about everyone who lives here, including people who may never speak up at a City Council meeting.” Falls Church Forward events aren’t just for adults. Next month they’re sponsoring a Halloween Bike Parade on October 25, from 3 – 5 p.m. and everyone is welcome. Details on the event and where to meet will be posted soon, so look for updates at fallschurchforward.org.
Falls Church Forward members meet Stuf�ie at a Solace Outpost happy hour. (Photo: Amy Bowker)
PAGE 6 | SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026
Editorial
Since 1991, an award-winning LGBT-owned general interest community newspaper. Vol. XXXVI, No. 32 SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026 • City of Falls Church ‘Business of the Year’ 1991 & 2001 • • Member, Virginia Press Association •
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The Fields: Eminent Domain Awaits
Is it too early to raise the specter of condemnation, otherwise known as a taking or the exercise of eminent domain, in the cases facing the City of Falls Church in its efforts to maintain and expand its stock of affordable housing? Last week, the City government moved very decisively to rank respondents to its RFP to redevelop the so-called Virginia Village site on S. Maple in the City for upgraded affordable housing uses. It went with a plan offered by Urban Atlantic to place 200 or more new units on that property. Now, here comes another challenge for affordability in the Little City represented by the near-term expiration of federal tax credits that have maintained as affordable 96 units at The Fields, the apartment complex on Ellison Street. As the owners recognize the enormous financial potential in the sale of that land for redevelopment at market rates, it has been put up for sale and the response has been brisk. Someone stands to make a killing if they can build 100 or so fancy units on that site that would go at market rates. Despite what anyone may say, this outcome could be far more profitable than keeping the project affordable, even with a new round of federal tax credits. Someone using those credits could trade them in for funding to build, but if they are limited to affordable units, then their potential returns will be limited and nothing like what market-rate products could yield, as we see it. So the pressure will be to let the credits expire and go with a sale at market rates. We have not seen any of the proposals for acquisition of the total project yet, but the financial incentive for a buyer to pursue the full market-rate potential of the property is obvious. One option available to the City in such a case could ultimately be a taking, also known as an exercise of eminent domain through condemnation of the land. Such a step would not be simple. Virginia law places significant restrictions on eminent domain, requiring a legitimate public use and just compensation to the property owner, among other requirements. State law also recognizes the promotion of affordable housing for low- and moderate-income residents as a public purpose. So, yes, the possibility of condemnation looms over this case, and it should be recognized as a potential factor right away. Developers are very aware of the powers available to local governments, and their potential use can affect what is considered for a valued piece of land. So let’s cut to the chase and recognize that this could play a significant part in what will happen to The Fields. That is, unless someone decides to ignore its potential and go with something more lucrative, at the expense of the general public interest, of course
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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. A searchable archive of all issues of the Falls Church News-Press since 1991 can be found at bit.ly/44kt6Sc.
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Health and Wellness
SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026 | PAGE 7
Special Section
Health and Wellness
and Wellness
Pages 7-11
PAGE 8 | SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026
Health and Wellness
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Digital Detox: Does It Actually Work for Mental Health?
BY FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
For many Americans, “screen time” no longer means watching television after work. The screen is work. Between computers, smartphones, email, social media, text messages and an endless stream of notifications, it can be difficult to find a part of the day that isn’t connected to a device. That has helped popularize the idea of a “digital detox,” deliberately stepping away from phones, social media or other technology for hours, days or even weeks. But does it actually make us healthier? Research suggests the answer is complicated. Taking a break may help some people, but simply turning everything off isn’t necessarily a cure. A recent study published
in JAMA Network Open followed young adults ages 18 to 24 who voluntarily reduced their social media use for one week. Among 295 participants who completed the intervention, anxiety symptom scores declined 16.1 percent, depression symptom scores fell 24.8 percent and insomnia symptom scores dropped 14.5 percent. Researchers did not find a significant change in loneliness. The findings are notable, but the study was not a randomized controlled trial. That means researchers could identify improvements associated with the week of reduced social media use, but could not establish that reducing social media alone caused those changes. An earlier randomized controlled trial produced similarly encouraging results. Researchers assigned 154 adults
either to stop using Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok for one week or continue their normal habits. After seven days, the group taking the break reported better well-being and lower levels of depression and anxiety. That sounds like a strong argument for logging off. But when researchers examine multiple studies together, the picture becomes less clear. A 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis examined 10 studies involving 4,674 participants. Researchers found no significant overall improvement in positive emotions, negative emotions or life satisfaction from temporarily abstaining from social media. They also found no evidence that longer periods of abstinence produced greater benefits. A separate 2024 meta-analysis, which examined 10 stud-
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ies involving 2,503 participants, found that digital detox interventions were associated with reductions in depressive symptoms. However, researchers did not find statistically significant improvements in overall mental well-being, life satisfaction or stress. There may be a simple reason for the mixed results: technology itself isn’t necessarily the problem. Phones and computers are also how people work, communicate with family, maintain friendships and participate in their communities. A 2019 randomized study involving 68 participants even found that people assigned to abstain from social media experienced greater loneliness and negative emotions and lower life satisfaction compared with those who continued using it. Instead of disappearing from
the digital world for a week, a more practical “detox” may be changing how technology fits into the day. That can mean turning off unnecessary notifications, keeping phones away during meals, establishing periods without social media, reducing recreational screen time and taking regular breaks from the computer during the workday. The research does not show that everyone needs to abandon their devices. Instead, the emerging evidence suggests that the relationship between technology and health depends on how, why and how much we use it. The goal may not be to disconnect completely. It may simply be to make sure we are controlling our screens instead of allowing our screens to control us.
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Health and Wellness
SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026 | PAGE 9
Every Eight Hours: This September, Make Checking In a Habit
BY JOHN F. CROWNOVER
Every eight hours, Virginia loses someone to suicide. In 2023, 1,230 Virginians died by suicide, and nearly four out of five were men. They were fathers, sons, coworkers and neighbors. Suicide is a leading cause of death for Virginians ages 15 to 34, the years when many young men are trying to build a career and a family, often convinced they have to do it alone. September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and a good month to start a habit worth keeping. Here are three things Northern Virginians can do, starting this week. First, learn QPR, the “CPR” of suicide prevention. QPR stands for Question, Persuade and Refer. Like CPR, it teaches ordinary people to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and get someone to help. The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board offers
the training free as a 60-minute virtual class, open to anyone 16 and older. The next session runs Sept. 29 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Register at fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/prevention/qpr. Second, walk out of the darkness. On Saturday, Oct. 3, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention holds its Out of the Darkness Fairfax Walk at the Mosaic District. Check-in opens at 11 a.m., the opening ceremony begins at 12:30 p.m. and the walk steps off at 1 p.m. Registration is free, and the money raised supports suicide prevention research, advocacy and education programs across Virginia. Sign up at afspwalks.donordrive.com/Fairfax. Third, put prevention on your bumper. A campaign called Matthew Matters is working to bring a Suicide Prevention and Awareness license plate to Virginia. The plate honors Matthew Herron of Ashland, who died by suicide in December 2021 at age 18. His parents designed it in teal and purple,
the colors of suicide prevention, with a semicolon, the words “You Matter” and the 988 crisis line. The DMV requires 450 prepaid applications before the plate goes into production. A standard plate costs $10, refunded in full if the plate is not approved. Learn more at suicideawarenessplateva.wordpress.com. The proposed Suicide Prevention and Awareness plate, designed by Matthew Herron’s parents. (Image courtesy of Matthew Matters) And whatever else you do, check in. Prevention usually starts with a conversation. Ask how someone is really doing, then ask again. The first answer is usually “I’m fine.” Take warning signs seriously: hopelessness, pulling away from friends, giving away possessions or talking about being a burden. Ask about suicide directly. It does not put the idea in someone’s head. It gives the person a chance to talk. Store firearms and medications securely, one of the most effective prevention steps a household can take. And
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post the number for 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which is free, confidential, and available around the clock by call or text. Men in particular often need permission to say they are not okay. In my work with men and boys across Northern Virginia, I have watched what happens when they get a room where they can speak honestly. They stay connected, and they ask for help sooner. One Virginian every eight hours. We can bring that number down. Take the training, join the walk,
order the plate, and check in on somebody this week. Then do it again next month. If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988. In Fairfax County, the Community Services Board’s 24-hour emergency and mobile crisis line is 703573-5679. John F. Crownover is the Founder & Lead Coach of Men Talking, a Falls Church-based life coaching and emotional wellness practice for men. realmentalking. com
PAGE 10 | SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026
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HELP THEM SUCCEED ON AND OFF THE COURT. Empower young people to make good choices about alcohol.
Being prepared to talk to young people about the risks of underage drinking and answer questions will show that you care about their overall health and wellness. For tips on how—and when—to begin the conversation, visit www.underagedrinking.samhsa.gov #TalkTheyHearYou
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Health and Wellness
Investing in Yourself: Health Is One Expense That Pays Off
by Falls Church News-Press
With the cost of nearly everything rising, families are paying closer attention to where their money goes. Housing, groceries, insurance, transportation and other necessities compete for a larger share of household budgets, making it tempting to postpone expenses that do not seem immediately necessary. But taking care of yourself is one area where putting something off today can create much greater costs tomorrow. Health care is often discussed in terms of doctors, hospitals and insurance premiums, but personal health extends far beyond treating an illness after it occurs. Preventive dental care, regular exercise, maintaining strength and mobility, mental wellness and addressing small health concerns before they become serious can all be viewed as investments in long-term quality of life. That investment can begin with something as routine as taking care of your teeth. Regular examinations and preventive care can identify problems before they require more complicated treatment. Local practices such as Purple Plum Dentistry, Love & Miller Family & Cosmetic Dentistry and Nova Premier Dental provide options close to home for residents looking to make oral health part of their overall wellness routine. Physical health also requires attention long before a problem becomes an emergency. Maintaining strength, flexibility and balance becomes increasingly important with age, but building those habits can begin at virtually any stage of life. At Club Pilates, exercise focuses on strength, flexibility, balance and controlled movement. For people looking at health more broadly, Elite HWC Health & Wellness Center offers another local resource for making personal wellness a priority. The benefits of staying active can also extend into everyday life. Strength and flexibility can make routine activities easier, from carrying groceries and climbing stairs to keeping up with children and grandchildren. Establishing healthy habits earlier can also make it easier to continue those activities as the years pass. Maintaining independence is especially important as people grow older or encounter an injury, disability or temporary physical limitation. Mobility City of Fairfax County focuses on mobility equipment and services designed to help people remain active and independent. Mobility is more than simply getting from one place to another. It can
affect a person’s ability to work, socialize, shop, exercise and participate in everyday life. Mental and emotional wellness deserve the same attention. People routinely schedule appointments when something physically hurts, but stress, isolation and emotional strain can be easier to ignore. Men Talking LLC provides a resource centered on men communicating and addressing issues that are too often left unspoken. Making time for mental well-being can be just as important as taking care of the rest of the body. There is an economic argument for all of this as well. The financial impact of poor health is not limited to the cost of treatment. Health problems can mean missed days of work, additional transportation costs, medication expenses or the need for help with activities that were once handled independently. For families already balancing tight budgets, even a relatively short health setback can create expenses and disruptions that ripple through the household. Healthy people still get sick, active people still suffer injuries and preventive care cannot eliminate every medical problem. But prevention and early intervention can help identify problems sooner, maintain function and potentially reduce the disruption that health problems create in everyday life. That makes health one part of a household budget where the cheapest option is not necessarily doing nothing. Delaying a dental appointment, ignoring persistent stress or waiting until mobility becomes a serious problem may save money in the immediate moment, but it does not necessarily save money over the long term. Perhaps the most important shift is to stop viewing personal wellness exclusively as another expense. Joining an exercise program, scheduling a dental appointment, addressing mental health or finding equipment that helps maintain independence all require time and, often, money. Yet those decisions can also represent investments in something difficult to replace: your ability to live the life you want. In a year when people are watching their budgets carefully, spending wisely matters. So does remembering what those budgets are ultimately supposed to support. Your health is part of your wealth, and investing in yourself may be one of the most important investments you make.
SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026 | PAGE 11
Mobility City of Fairfax County
Mobility City of Fairfax County
PAGE 12 | SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026
JFK’s Spirit on the Walls Of the Kennedy Center Nicholas F. Benton FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS
As tens of thousands work actively to block plans of the current president to demolish the Kennedy Center, we are reminded of the many ways in which President Kennedy’s vision for the arts is inscribed across the marble and glass of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts campus, particularly along the River Terrace and near the Grand Foyer. I ran across these on one of my first visits to the Kennedy Center and found them to be truly inspiring. Several of Kennedy’s statements on the arts are displayed throughout the memorial. Additional featured inscriptions emphasize that art is a form of truth rather than propaganda, the necessity of setting the artist free, and how the arts lie close to the center of a nation’s purpose. Other prominent displays note that the arts incarnate the creativity of a free society, connect public achievement with artistic progress, serve as an instrument of understanding, and call for America to reward artists. Here are some examples: “I look forward to an America which will not be afraid of grace and beauty… an America which will reward achievement in the arts as we reward achievement in business or statecraft. I look forward to an America which will steadily raise the standards of artistic accomplishment and which will steadily enlarge cultural opportunities for all of our citizens. And I look forward to an America which commands respect throughout the world not only for its strength but for its civilization as well.” (Remarks at Amherst College upon receiving an honorary degree, October 26, 1963). “I see little of more importance to the future of our country and our civilization than full recognition of the place of the artist.” (Remarks at Amherst College upon receiving an honorary degree, October 26, 1963). “This country cannot afford to be materially rich and spiritually poor.” (Annual Message to the Congress on the State of the Union,
January 14, 1963) “To further the appreciation of culture among all the people, to increase respect for the creative individual, to widen participation by all the processes and fulfillments of art, this is one of the fascinating challenges of these days.” (“Look magazine, ‘The Arts in America’ (552),” December 18, 1962, Public Papers of the Presidents: John F. Kennedy, 1962.) “There is a connection, hard to explain logically but easy to feel, between achievement in public life and progress in the arts. The age of Pericles was also the age of Phidias. The age of Lorenzo de Medici was also the age of Leonardo da Vinci. The age of Elizabeth was also the age of Shakespeare. And the New Frontier for which I campaign in public life, can also be a New Frontier for American art.” (Response to a letter sent by Miss Theodate Johnson, Publisher of Musical America to the two presidential candidates requesting their views on music in relation to the Federal Government and domestic world affairs. Then-Senator John Kennedy’s answer was dated September 13, 1960 and published in the October issue of the magazine.) “I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” (Remarks at a Closed-circuit Television Broadcast on Behalf of the National Cultural Center (527), November 29, 1962, Public Papers of the Presidents: John F. Kennedy, 1962.) “Our most basic common link is that we all inhabit this small planet. We all breathe the same air. We all cherish our children’s future. And we are all mortal.” (Commencement Address at the American University, June 10, 1963) “If more politicians knew poetry, and more poets knew politics, I am convinced the world would be a little better place in which to live.” (Remarks of Senator John F. Kennedy at Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, June 14, 1956) “... art knows no national boundaries. Genius can speak at any time, and the entire world will hear it and listen.” (Remarks at a Closed-circuit Television Broadcast on Behalf of the National Cultural Center (527), November 29, 1962, Public Papers of the Presidents: John F. Kennedy, 1962.)
COMMENT
A Penny for Your Thoughts
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
By Penny Gross Former Fairfax County Supervisor
How dumb does Donald Trump think we are? Now he’s calling his proposed 250-foot high triumphal arch a “military complex” that will house drones, snipers, and ammunition. Trump appears to be mesmerized by drones and snipers. He’s already released photo interpretations of drones, snipers, and helicopters atop his East Wing ballroom; now it’s the arch. One wonders when it will dawn on him that the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has even more rooftop space for his favorite military “security” equipment. It would be amusing if it wasn’t just so sad, and so wrong. Trump provides comedians and satirists so much material for their routines. How will historians explain Trump’s insane attempts to remake the Nation’s Capital, and the nation’s democracy? The Trump White House trumpets (pun intended) that it is the most transparent presidential administration in history. If transparency means raiding taxpayer funds for his own vanity projects, making deals with authoritarian regimes for his and his family’s enrichment, and demanding ransom from
law firms and universities, then the Trump Administration aptly fits the description. However, criminal activity practiced in the open still is criminal activity. Since Trump’s Justice Department, led by his former defense counsel, will not investigate multiple cases of sleaze by the current administration, future Justice Departments must be tasked to resume their constitutional role of rooting out corruption, undeterred by the whims of the occupant in the White House. For someone obsessed with security, it’s curious that Mr. Trump is so open about what he wants to incorporate into his vanity projects. Placement of drones, snipers, ammunition, bunkers, etc., used to be highly confidential, shared only with a limited number of people and agencies, not broadcast by the President himself. Now the whole world, including our arch-enemies, is aware of planned security measures and their premiere locations. The National Capital Region always is a major target; now they might as well include a huge red bulls-eye on individual structures in the construction specs, thanks to Mr. Trump’s
City of Falls Church Crime Report
Week of September 14 - 20, 2026 Trespassing, Wilson Blvd, Sep 14, 11:14 a.m., a male, 55, of no fixed address, was arrested for trespassing. Simple Assault, W Broad St, Sep 15, 11:39 a.m., victim reported an identified suspect assaulted them. Fraud – Identity Theft, Park Ave, Sep 16, 1:13 p.m., an unknown suspect accessed the victim’s airline miles and converted them to a gift card. Shoplifting, Rowell Ct, Sep 16, 9:39 p.m., an unknown suspect stole merchandise. The unknown suspect is described as a Hispanic male wearing a dark gray hoodie, black sweatpants, a camouflage du-rag, and a camouflage Nike backpack. Trespassing, W Broad St, Sep 16, 10:53
p.m., a male, 20, of Fairfax County, was arrested for attempted commercial burglary, attempted tampering with automobile, and wearing a face covering in public.
big mouth. A recent T-shirt slogan noted a new interpretation of MAGA – Morons Are Governing America! The arch. The ballroom. The Kennedy Center. Banning news outlets from the White House press room. The war with Iran. Tariffs. Interfering with the voting process. Grocery costs. Gas and diesel prices (the day before Trump attacked Iran, I paid $22.48 to fill up my aging Honda Fit; on Sunday, at the same station, using my Giant points again, the fill-up cost $34.36). Trump acolyte Steve Bannon famously strategized to “flood the zone” during Trump’s first term. Bannon is not at the White House now, but his strategy appears to be on steroids in the second term. It’s exhausting everyone, even Trump, it seems, who appeared to fall asleep during the 9/11 remembrance at the Pentagon. Distraction, doubling down, democracy-bashing, demonizing – all are efforts by Mr. Trump and his cadre to move from democracy to autocracy, from shared common values to culture clashes, from solving problems facing the American people to making everyday life more expensive for those same constituents. With the midterms approaching, the ship of state can begin to change direction but, like any large vessel, it will take time and determination to avoid the shoals, both literal and figurative.
ed for domestic assault and battery, strangulation, and prevent person from calling 911. Property Damage Only, N West St/Park Ave, Sep 15, 8:21 a.m. Property Damage Only, N Washington St/W Jefferson St, Sep 17, 8:11 a.m.
Trespassing, W Broad St, Sep 17, 2:37 p.m., officers responded to an assault in progress call for service. A male, 27, of no fixed address, was arrested for trespassing and public intoxication. Driving under the Influence, W Broad St, Sep 18, 10:42 p.m., a female, 62, of Harrisonburg, was arrested for driving under the influence and refusal to submit blood/breath sample. Destruction of Property, Shirley St, Sep 20, 4:55 p.m., victim reported an identified suspect destroyed their personal belongings. Domestic Assault and Battery, S Maple Ave, Sep 20, 10:21 p.m., a male, 34, of the City of Falls Church, was arrest-
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Fa l l s C h u r c h Business News & Notes
2026 Business Leaders Survey: Q3 In partnership with NVC, Pinkston, and a coalition of Northern Virginia chambers for the 2026 Business Leader Survey, the Falls Church Chamber of Congress now has the 3rd Quarter survey available online. Input will contribute to a report shared with elected officials and media outlets. This ensures that decision-makers will hear the realities and priorities that drive our economy. Results will be available just prior to the public release on October 6. Please complete the survey by 5 p.m. on September 25. pinkston.iad1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/ SV_9pNaBF1B7FInQns?chamber=FC
Sunset Cinema Returns Come out for Sunset Cinema in Cherry Hill Park for a free, all ages movie night featuring the film, Hoppers, on Friday, September 25, 7:15 p.m. There will be popcorn and candy for sale. Bring a blanket and lawn chairs .
Grant for the Self-Employed:
The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) has a $4,000 growth grant that it offers on a rolling basis. Only members are eligible to receive up to $4,000 for your small business through the NASE Growth Grants program. Since 2006, the NASE has awarded nearly $1,000,000 to members through the Growth Grants program by providing small business grants. Grants can be used for marketing, advertising, hiring employees, expanding facilities and other specific business needs. Applications submitted by the end of September will be reviewed in October.
250th Series: Demystifying Democracy As part of America’s 250th celebration, this presentation on Saturday, September 26, 2 – 3:30 p.m. at Mary Riley Styles Public Library offers a practical “how-to” guide to civic engagement featuring elected officials sharing their own stories, lessons learned, and advice for getting involved! Panelists include Don Beyer, U.S. Representative (D-VA-08); Saddam Salim, Virginia State Senator (D-37); Letty Hardi, City of Falls Church Mayor; and Bethany Henderson, FCCPS School Board Member. Bring questions, leave with ideas, and find your own way to make an impact in Falls Church. Attendance is first-come, first-served until seating is filled.
Welcome an Honor Flight Tonight! Join the community on Thursday, September 24, 5 – 5:30 p.m. to welcome The Rio Grande Honor Flight group. They land at Reagan National Airport and will arrive at Hilton Garden Inn at approximately 5 p.m. The community is invited to welcome the World War II veterans upon their arrival. Bring your flags, family, friends, and scouts, and express your appreciation for these veterans.
September Fine and Decorative Arts Auction Friday, September 25, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. – Quinn’s Auction Galleries presents the September Fine and Decorative Arts Auction, featuring a diverse selection of fine and modern art, furniture, silver, art glass, Asian and ancient objects, and decorative arts. Highlights include works by Edward Ross, Joe Tilson, Luke Anguhadlug, Heywood Hardy, and Maria J. C. a’Becket. Also included are glass by Tiffany Studios, and Steuben, Chinese export porcelain, Byzantine glass, religious objects, and scientific instruments.
Neighborhood Fall Festival Saturday, September 26, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Kensington Falls Church hosts the Annual Neighborhood Fall Festival. Bring your loved ones, kids, grandparents, neighbors, and join them for live music, games, an adorable petting zoo, and delectable bites and beverages crafted by Executive Chef, Daniel Powers. Be sure to RSVP via the link: thekensingtonfallschurch. com/events/fall-festival/
It’s National Preparedness Month This is a reminder to have a plan in place before disaster strikes. Discuss family plans on preparations for different scenarios, who to contact, and where to meet up. Collect contact information, media sources, and keep a written plan in a central location. Plus, make an emergency kit. Additional information is available at fallschurchva.gov/274/Make-A-Plan 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.
SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026 | PAGE 13
Our Man In Arlington Bill Fogarty
I have picked September 1957 for my history column this month, mainly because I am deep into the history of that month, as part of my research for an Encore Learning class I am teaching this fall. The course covers the history of Massive Resistance to school integration, concentrating on Arlington’s responses from 1954 to 1959. But before I delve into some of those stories, let me start with some lighter news from 1957. One story that caught my eye was a reference to an experiment conducted at the Clarendon bowling center “during the first season of the robots.” Robots?! It turns out that the bowling center was experimenting with automatic setups, in place of using “pin boys.” I imagine it did not take long until the occupation of pin boy was phased out. In local sports news, it was noted that Washington-Lee High School was coming off a championship season, but they had lost their excellent coach, Bob Waldorf, who was now coaching at Western Maryland College. Meanwhile, there was a notice in the paper for the annual “Fall Planning Conference” scheduled for the Veterans Memorial Branch YMCA. Due to the segregation of recreational facilities, earlier that decade the Black community in Arlington raised funds for a YMCA facility in the Green Valley neighborhood. Segregation was, unfortunately, a part of everyday life for Arlington’s Black residents (schools, parks, movie theaters, and more). There were laws on the books that could lead to criminal convictions. Arlington officials decided that year to enforce an obscure state law, known as the Public Assemblage Act (which required public meetings to be segregated). The Arlington League of Women Voters decided to test that law. One of their White members, Faith Bissell, was arrested at a candidate forum sponsored by the LWV. Her crime: sitting in the Black section in the auditorium. Bissell was prosecuted and convicted by our local officials. On September 4, 1957, the Virginia Supreme Court held a hearing on the appeal filed by local attorney Edmund Campbell. He thought he had a sure winner of a case on constitutional grounds. The Supreme Court did dismiss the case,
but they cleverly (and sneakily, in my opinion) avoided the constitutional issue. The judges noted that there was nothing in the trial court record that indicated that Bissell was White, and therefore they dismissed the case on the technicality that there was no proof that a White person sat in the Black section. The big segregation news that September was based on the 1956 lawsuit filed by the NAACP, with seven Black students trying to integrate the Arlington schools, in the face of massive resistance by the State, and also (it must be noted) resistance by Arlington’s school board and elected officials. Five Black parents were called to testify at a hearing on September 11, and they were grilled by the defendant’s attorneys – our own former state senator Frank Ball, and the Attorney General, Lindsay Almond. Reading the trial transcript made me appreciate the remarkable courage of these parents: Dr. Harold Johnson; Robert Eldridge; Dorothy Nelson; Arthur Costley; and Dorothy Hamm. Ball was especially hard on Mr. Eldridge, to the point where Judge Bryan had to intervene and instructed Ball to stop his cross-examination. September 1957 was a tense time for civil rights advocates in Virginia and all the South. President Eisenhower ordered federal troops to Little Rock, Arkansas, that month, including a tear gas unit from the Fort Myer base in Arlington. For those seven Arlington students and their parents, the pressure must have been intense, especially when Judge Bryan ordered, on September 17, that those students had to be admitted to the White schools within a week. An appeal by our school board delayed that implementation for seventeen months, but the omni-present tension for the Black community was captured in a stark headline in the Washington Star, involving one of the parents, Dr. Johnson: “Police Report Cross-Burning at Doctor’s Home.” Yes, there were cross-burnings in Arlington. Let me end with a plug for the many high-quality lifelong learning and social opportunities offered by Encore Learning, with courses in the spring and fall, and special-interest clubs and programs throughout the year. It is not too late to sign up for some courses!
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PAGE 14 | SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026
LEGAL NOTICE
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA STATE CORPORATION COMMISSION NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC OF A PETITION BY VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY FOR REVISION OF A RATE ADJUSTMENT CLAUSE, DESIGNATED RIDER DIST, UNDER § 56-585.1 A 6 OF THE CODE OF VIRGINIA CASE NO. PUR-2026-00126 On August 12, 2026, pursuant to § 56-585.1 A 6 (“Subsection A 6”) of the Code of Virginia (“Code”), Virginia Electric and Power Company (“Dominion” or “Company”) filed with the State Corporation Commission (“Commission”) a petition (“Petition”): (1) For revision of the rate adjustment clause (“RAC”) designated Rider DIST, pursuant to Subsection A 6, for the recovery of: (a) projected and actual costs related to certain electric distribution grid transformation projects that the Commission has approved as part of the Company’s plan to transform its electric distribution grid (the “GT Plan”), (b) costs associated with the Company’s Strategic Underground Program (“SUP”), and (c) costs associated with the Company’s Rural Broadband (“RBB”) projects (“Request 1”); (2) For approval of the incremental costs above previously-approved cost caps for Phase III Mainfeeder Hardening, Phase II Distributed Energy Resources Management System (“DERMS”), Phase II Fault, Location, Isolation, and Service Restoration (“FLISR”) (operation and maintenance (“O&M”)), and Phase II Cyber Security, as the projects are now complete, and for certain subsets of projects within Phase II Physical Security and Phase II Substation Technology Deployment (“Request 2”); and (3) For approval of the rate year commencing June 1, 2027, through May 31, 2028 (“Rate Year”), including a Rider DIST revenue requirement of approximately $463.46 million (“Request 3”). Regarding the Company’s GT Plan, in Case Nos.PUR-2018-00100 and PUR-2019-00154, the Commission approved the Company’s investments related to eleven GT Plan projects for the years 2019, 2020, and 2021 (“Phase 1”). In Case No. PUR-2021-00127, the Commission approved additional investments related to fourteen GT Plan projects for the years 2022 and 2023 (“Phase II”). In Case No. PUR-2023-00051, the Commission approved costs associated with the continuation of twelve previously approved GT Plan projects and two new GT Plan projects for the years 2024, 2025, and 2026 (“Phase III”). In 2024, the Commission approved the new RAC designated Rider DIST and the consolidation of Riders GT and U, in Case No. PUR-2024-00137 (“2024 Rider DIST Proceeding”). In the 2024 Rider DIST Proceeding, the Commission approved the Company’s proposed cost cap increase for Phase I physical security but denied the Company’s other nine cost cap increase requests without prejudice. In 2025, the Commission approved the consolidation of Riders DIST and RBB in Case No. PUR-202500136 (“2025 Rider DIST Proceeding”). In the 2025 Rider DIST Proceeding, the Commission also approved recovery of the incremental capital costs for Phase II Voltage Island Mitigation, FLISR, and the enterprise asset management system (“EAMS”). With respect to Request 1 of the instant Petition, Dominion seeks cost recovery for a total of 19 projects across all three phases of the GT Plan. These projects include: (1) Mainfeeder Hardening; (2) Targeted Corridor Improvement; (3) Voltage Island Mitigation; (4) Hosting Capacity Analysis; (5) the Locks Campus Microgrid; (6) Physical Security; (7) the Smart Charging Infrastructure Pilot Program; (8) Telecommunications; (9) Cyber Security; (10) Customer Education; (11) Intelligent Grid Devices; (12) FLISR; (13) DERMS; (14) EAMS; (15) Voltage Optimization Enablement; (16) Substation Technology Deployment (“Substation Technology”); (17) Outage Management System; (18) Non-Wires Alternatives Pilot Program; and (19) the Image Management and Analytics Program. The Company represents that the Commission previously approved these Phase I, II, and III projects as reasonable and prudent up to the estimated capital and O&M costs for each project. The Company further represents that should costs exceed the cost caps, those costs would be incurred at the Company’s risk, and it would be the Company’s burden to demonstrate the reasonableness and prudence for any such incremental investment. The Company notes that in the 2024 Rider DIST Proceeding, the Commission adopted the Chief Hearing Examiner’s recommendation that the Company be permitted only to seek recovery of incremental costs above the applicable cost cap upon completion of the relevant phase for the specific project. As to the 2025 Rider DIST Proceeding, however, the Company notes the Commission’s adoption of the Hearing Examiner’s recommendation that the Company demonstrate in the instant Petition the reasonableness and prudence of any subsets of completed projects within a given phase. Dominion provides an update on Phase IX of its SUP, and states that it converted a total of 952 individual tap lines to underground, consisting of approximately 291.4 miles of underground conversions of overhead distribution tap lines and associated facilities. The Company states that it estimated a per-mile cost for Phase IX of $798,015 per mile and the final per-mile cost was $773,117 per mile, which exceeds the statutory threshold of $750,000 per mile set forth in Subsection A 6. Accordingly, the Company has adjusted its costs for Phases VIII and IX in this proceeding to reflect only recoverable costs up to the $750,000 per-mile statutory cap.
The Company represents that proposed SUP Phase X would include tap line conversions completed between June 1, 2026, and May 31, 2027, and would underground approximately 945 tap lines, equating to roughly 295 miles of outage-prone overhead lines. The Company estimates Phase X conversions would cost approximately $230.1 million, with an estimated per mile cost of $780,027 and $9,396 per customer. The Company projects that the associated overhead lines directly serve 12,109 customers, with another 12,380 customers served “down line” from those conversions. The Company states that these tap lines have experienced approximately 4,307 outage events over a ten-year period, equating to 14.6 events per mile. The Company requests to recover Phase X costs for only those projects that would be completed prior to the beginning of the proposed Rate Year or June 1, 2027. The Company requests Commission approval for recovery of Phase X capital investments through Rider DIST, subject to true-ups. Regarding RBB, in its Petition the Company provides an update on previously approved rural broadband projects and requests cost recovery for costs associated with these projects as part of Rider DIST. The Company asserts that as fiber capacity is installed as part of rural broadband projects, the Company will also have the ability to utilize broadband capacity for grid operational purposes. Given the dual capacity of fiber installed as part of the Rural Broadband Program, Dominion asserts that it is necessary to allocate costs between distribution grid operations and broadband utilization. The Company proposes continuing to use the methodology previously approved in Case No. PUR-2020-00197 and applied in subsequent Rider RBB and Rider DIST proceedings to allocate costs between the rural broadband projects and approved GT Plan telecommunications projects. With respect to Request 2, Dominion seeks recovery of incremental costs for Phase III Mainfeeder Hardening, Phase II DERMS, and Phase II Cyber Security, as the Company asserts that those projects are now complete. The Company is also seeking recovery of incremental costs for certain subsets of projects within Phase II Physical Security and Phase II Substation Technology. The Company further seeks a prudency determination of the Phase II FLISR (O&M) incremental dollars in this proceeding. Dominion asserts that projects where the projected costs exceed the cost caps—Mainfeeder Hardening, DERMS, FLISR (O&M), Cyber Security, Physical Security, and Substation Technology— are still reasonable to pursue and requests that the Commission approve the incremental costs of these GT Plan projects as reasonable and prudent. The Company asserts that the total actual and projected costs for the Grid Transformation portfolio are approximately $46 million under the total Commissionapproved cost cap. With respect to Request 3, the proposed Rate Year for this Rider DIST is June 1, 2027, through May 31, 2028. The Company seeks approval of a total revenue requirement of approximately $463.46 million for Rider DIST, consisting of a revenue requirement of $196.03 million for the GT Plan Phases I through IIIB; $230.32 million for previously approved Phases I through IX and proposed Phase X of the SUP; and $37.11 million for the previously approved projects of the RBB Program. For this proceeding, the Company includes an actual cost true-up period of calendar year 2025 for Phases I, II, and III of the GT Plan, Phases I through VIII of the SUP, and the previously approved projects of the RBB Program. Regarding its methodology to calculate jurisdictional and class allocation factors for the consolidated Rider DIST, Dominion represents it adapted the previously approved Rider DIST allocation methodology, which was already weighted by each GT Plan project group’s contribution to the overall revenue requirement and included the SUP and RBB allocation factors, to create a single jurisdictional-level allocation factor. Dominion asserts that as a proposed consolidated rider, Rider DIST consolidates three distribution riders using the same allocation methodology approved by the Commission in the 2025 Rider DIST Proceeding. If the proposed Rider DIST revenue requirement for the Rate Year is approved, Dominion asserts that the typical residential customer’s monthly bill, reflecting 1,000 kilowatt hours used per month, would increase by $3.46 compared to the combined impact of the current Rider DIST. The Company proposes Rider DIST to be effective for usage on June 1, 2027, or the first day of the month that is at least 15 calendar days following the date of any Commission order approving Rider DIST for the Rate Year beginning June 1, 2027, through May 31, 2028. Interested persons are encouraged to review the Company’s Petition, testimony, and supporting exhibits for additional details concerning this matter.TAKE NOTICE that the Commission may apportion revenues among customer classes and/or design rates in a manner differing from that shown in the Petition and supporting documents and thus may adopt rates that differ from those appearing in the Company’s Petition and supporting documents.
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FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026 | PAGE 15
LEGAL NOTICE continued from previous page
The Commission entered an Order for Notice and Hearing in this proceeding that, among other things, scheduled a public hearing on Dominion’s Petition. On February 17, 2027, at 10 a.m., the Hearing Examiner will hold a telephonic portion of the hearing, for the purpose of receiving the testimony of public witnesses. On or before February 10, 2027, any person desiring to offer testimony as a public witness shall provide required contact information to the Commission. This information may be provided to the Commission: (i) by filling out a form on the Commission’s website at scc.virginia.gov/case-information/ webcasting; or (ii) by calling (804) 371-9141. This public witness hearing will be webcast at scc.virginia.gov/case-information/webcasting. On February 17, 2027, at 10 a.m., or at the conclusion of the public witness portion of the hearing, whichever is later, in the Commission’s second floor courtroom located in the Tyler Building, 1300 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, the Hearing Examiner will convene a hearing to receive testimony and evidence offered by the Company, respondents, and the Commission’s Staff on the Petition. To promote administrative efficiency and timely service of filings upon participants, the Commission has directed the electronic filing of testimony and pleadings, unless they contain confidential information, and has required electronic service on parties to this proceeding. Electronic copies of the public version of the Petition may be obtained by submitting a written request to counsel for the Company: Jontille D. Ray, Esquire, McGuireWoods LLP, Gateway Plaza, 800 East Canal Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, or jray@mcguirewoods.com. Interested persons also may download unofficial copies from the Commission’s website: scc. virginia.gov/case-information. On or before February 10, 2027, any interested person may submit comments on the Petition electronically by following the instructions on the Commission’s website: https://www. scc.virginia.gov/case-information/submit-public-comments. Those unable, as a practical matter, to submit comments electronically may file such comments by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the State Corporation Commission, c/o Document Control Center, P.O. Box 2118, Richmond, Virginia 23218-2118. All comments shall refer to Case No. PUR-2026-00126. On or before November 9, 2026, any person or entity wishing to participate as a respondent in this proceeding must do so by filing a notice of participation with the Clerk of the Commission
at: scc.virginia.gov/clk/efiling. Those unable, as a practical matter, to file a notice of participation electronically may file such notice by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the Commission at the address listed above. Such notice of participation shall include the email addresses of such parties and their counsel. A copy of the notice of participation as a respondent also must be served electronically on counsel for the Company, any other respondents, and the Commission’s Staff. Pursuant to 5 VAC 5-20-80 B, Participation as a respondent, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure, 5 VAC 5-20-10 et seq. (“Rules of Practice”), any notice of participation shall set forth: (i) a precise statement of the interest of the respondent; (ii) a statement of the specific action sought to the extent then known; and (iii) the factual and legal basis for the action. Any notice of participation filed by a person not represented by counsel shall also set forth why the filer’s positions in this matter are not adequately represented by another party to this proceeding and cannot be expressed through written or oral public comments as provided for in this proceeding. Any organization, corporation, or government body participating as a respondent must be represented by counsel as required by 5 VAC 5-20-30, Counsel, of the Rules of Practice. All filings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2026-00126. On or before December 7, 2026, each respondent may file electronically with the Clerk of the Commission at scc.virginia.gov/clk/efiling any testimony and exhibits by which the respondent expects to establish its case. Any respondent unable, as a practical matter, to file testimony and exhibits electronically may file such by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the Commission at the address listed above. Each witness’s testimony shall include a summary not to exceed one page. All testimony and exhibits shall be served electronically on the Commission’s Staff, the Company, and all other respondents. In all filings, respondents shall comply with the Commission’s Rules of Practice, as modified by the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, including, but not limited to: 5 VAC 5-20-140, Filing and service, and 5 VAC 5-20-240, Prepared testimony and exhibits. All filings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2026-00126. Any documents filed in paper form with the Office of the Clerk of the Commission in this docket may use both sides of the paper. In all other respects, except as modified by the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, all filings shall comply fully with the requirements of 5 VAC 5-20-150, Copies and format, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice. The Commission’s Rules of Practice, the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, and the public version of the Petition and other documents filed in this case may be viewed on the Commission’s website at: scc.virginia.gov/case-information.
VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY
Movie Review: Practical Magic 2
by Lisa Sinrod
This recently released PG-13 film is as light and flimsy as fairy dust, yet undeniably endearing. What the script lacks in substance and structure, it partly makes up for with the winsome chemistry between Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as the Owens sisters. The movie is a sequel to 1998’s “Practical Magic”, also starring the duo and continuing their family saga nearly three decades later. The original film was based on Alice Hoffman’s bestselling novel of the same name, while “Practical Magic 2” is based on Hoffman’s 2021 novel “The Book of Magic.” Although the original movie was not a box-office success, it developed a devoted cult following over the years, likely contributing to the decision to make this sequel 28 years later.
The Owens sisters have inherited the curse which has befallen the women of the family for generations. Originating with Maria Owens in the 17th century, the curse means that any man an Owens woman truly loves is destined to die. This lineage of the Owens family can also practice magic, which includes feats such as spell casting, telekinesis, and other forms of supernatural manipulation. Sally Owens, played by Sandra Bullock, has made great efforts to keep magic out of the lives of her two young adult daughters. She has already lost two husbands to the family curse. Sally is in turmoil about the potential dangers of witchcraft and wants normal lives for her girls. Sally’s sister Gillian, played by Nicole Kidman, is a free spirit and full of fun and frolic, in contrast to the more contemplative and
worry-prone Sally. The best news about this sequel is the return of Bullock and Kidman in the lead roles. They play off of each other flawlessly with humor and authenticity, and are good friends in real life. Their off-screen friendship began during the making of the first “Practical Magic” in 1998. Despite the far-fetched nature of the plot and the lack of a physical resemblance, they are believable as sisters. The sequel introduces a new generation of Owens women, Sally’s daughters, played by established young actors Joey King and Maisie Williams. In their roles as Kylie and Antonia Owens, they add sparkle and sweetness to the storyline. Veteran actors Stockard Channing and Diane Weist are also back as two of Sally and Gillian’s eccentric witch aunts.
It is no surprise that they also turn in quality performances. The central story in this sequel is that Kylie, Sally’s younger daughter, is falling in love with her boyfriend. She learns of the effects of the curse and feels betrayed that her mother didn’t inform her of the dire consequences of it. She, along with her mother and aunt, try to break the effects of the curse in order to save her boyfriend and to finally rid the Owens women of the curse’s tyranny. The plot becomes confusing as the film reveals ominous looking images of a bygone time, alluding to a possible explanation of the curse’s origin. Kylie finds clues which lead her to England in an effort to extinguish the curse once and for all. We are introduced to a male practitioner of magic, Tom Lockland, who is also an offshoot of the Owens family line and not previously known by Sally or Gillian.
His appearance further adds to the confusion, although most things are loosely explained by the film’s ending. There is also an appealing romantic subplot involving Sally and Ian Wright, an occult scholar and professor whom Sally encounters upon following Kylie to England in search of clues. If all this sounds silly, it is, and yet the charm factor of the principal actors interacting is effective enough to make what could have been a better film still worthwhile for many. Fans of the 1998 film will likely feel a wave of nostalgia as they return to the Massachusetts town where the Owens women have lived for generations. In other words, the actors are wonderful and the script is erratic. Best not to take it too seriously, know what you are getting, and sit back and enjoy the show. The movie’s ending appears to bring this chapter of the Owens family story to a close.
PAGE 16 | SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026 PUBLIC NOTICE ABC NOTICE Zevian Food, LLC, trading as Sfizi Cafe, 800 W Broad Street, Unit: 90, Falls Church, Falls Church City, VA 22046-3142, is applying to the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Authority for a Mixed Beverage Restaurant license for beer, wine, and mixed beverages for on- and off-premises consumption. NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 1-800-552-3200.
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SEPTEMBER 24 - 30 , 2026 | PAGE 17
CALENDAR
This Week Around Falls Church
Thursday, Sept 24
Expressive Pastels Landscape
Neighborhood Fall Festival
Falls Church Fiber Artists
McLean Art Gallery
The Kensington Falls Church
11 a.m.
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Mary Riley Styles Library
10 a.m. – Noon
This meet-up is for knitters and crocheters 18 years+. Free. 210 N. Virginia Ave.
Fall Storytime 10:30 – 11 a.m.
Mary Riley Styles Library
For ages 18 months to 4 years with a caregiver (younger siblings are welcome). Space often fills before start time.
Playtime with Early Literacy Center Mary Riley Styles Library
11 – 11:30 a.m.
Free play for an hour after story time. No registration required. For Preschool (ages 2-4). 120 N. Virginia Ave.
Library Closed at Lunchtime Mary Riley Styles Library
Noon – 2:30 p.m.
The library will be closed during this time so that the staff can attend the City’s annual employee picnic.
Folger Salon Folger Shakespeare Library
4:30 p.m.
Visual depictions of 18th-century actresses, with Anne-Claire Michoux, Jagrut Raval, and Mads Sheahan. Free. Seating is limited. For more information: folger.edu. Great Hall East, 201 East Capital St, SE, DC.
Raising Resilient Teens Center for Counseling Families
7 p.m.
This free online supportive group is designed to help parents of pre-teens and teens better understand their children and improve communication. Starting September 24 and running every Thursday for eight weeks. This is an online event. To learn more and register email autumnpowellcfcf@gmail.com.
Friday, Sept 25 Library Closed All Day Mary Riley Styles Library
All Day
The library will be closed all day for staff training.
Homegrown Herbal Tea Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia (Online)
10 – 11:30 a.m.
Discover some easy-to-grow native plants that can be used to make herbal tea and learn about their medicinal benefits. Master Gardeners Becky Halbe and Cindy Robertson lead this free online discussion. Visit mgnv.org to sign up for link.
This free demo by Bryan Jernigan will includes tips on pastel use, bold color, and keeping your work fresh. For free tickets vist: pastel-landscape.eventbrite. com. McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean.
Senior Driving Safety Seminar Martha Washington Library
2 p.m.
Safety Expert Kurt E. Gray will discuss how aging can affect driving ability, warning signs that risk may be increasing, and more. Free Registration is required and space is limited. Visit: librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/17124329 for link to register. Event location: 6614 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria.
The Sound of Peace George Mason University
4:45 – 6 p.m.
Join Brazilian cellist and Rotary Peace Fellow Diego Carneiro for an interactive experience that includes live cello, storytelling and conversation. Free. Register at: carter-school.ticketbud.com/ the-sound-of-peace. Vernon Smith Hall, 5th Floor, Room 5183, 3434 Washington Boulevard, Arlington.
Sunset Cinemas: Hoppers Cherry Hill Park
7:15 – 9:30 p.m.
This free outdoor movie series continues with Hoppers. Snacks and drinks available. Leashed dogs welcome. 312 Park Ave.
Saturday, Sept 26 Falls Church Farmers Market City Hall Parking Lot
8:00 a.m. – Noon
This award-winning market is open yearround. 300 Park Ave.
Saint Ann Fall Festival Saint Ann Parish & School
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Free family festival with rides, games, bingo, food, live music and dance performances. (A 1.5-mile Family Fun Run starts at 9:30 a.m. with $15 registration fee.) 980 N. Frederick St., Arlington.
Sing Books with Emily Mary Riley Styles Library
11 – 11:30 a.m.
This singing story time features picture books based on songs for children and includes Emily’s fun Symphony of Silly Instruments. Free. For Preschool (ages 2-4) and Grades K-2. Performances often fill before 11 a.m. Tickets are given out beginning at 10 a.m. See children’s desk for tickets. 120 N. Virginia Ave.
This annual celebration includes live music, games, a petting zoo, and food and beverages. RSVP at thekensingtonfallschurch.com. 700 West Broad St.
Demystifying Democracy Mary Riley Styles Library
2 – 3:30 p.m.
Want to get more involved in your community? Gain advice from Falls Church Mayor Letty Hardi, Virginia Senator Saddam Salim, and FCCPS School Board Member Bethany Henderson. Registration is not required. Attendance is first-come, first-served until seating capacity is reached. 120 N. Virginia Ave.
Sounds of Peace Concert Rotary District 7620
2 - 4 p.m.
This concert features Brazilian cellist and Rotary Peace Fellow Diego Carneiro. $30 suggested donation. Benefit for Friends of Music in the Americas in support of Orchestrating Peace through Music. Bar T Ranch, 2914 Roderick Road, Frederick, MD.
Sunday, Sept 27 Fall Book Sale Burke Centre Library
1 – 3 p.m.
Choose from a large selection of books, DVDs, CDs and more. 5935 Freds Oak Road, Burke.
Monday, Sept 28 Fall Storytime
10:30 – 11 a.m.
For ages 18 months to 4 years with a caregiver (younger siblings are welcome). Space often fills before start time. Mary Riley Styles Library, 120 N. Virginia Ave. mrspl.org.
Playtime with Early Literacy Center Mary Riley Styles Library
11 – 11:30 a.m.
Free play for an hour after story time. No registration required. For Preschool (ages 2-4). 120 N. Virginia Ave.
Family Movie Night: Toy Story Mary Riley Styles Library
6 – 7:30 p.m.
Enjoy a free screening of this classic family movie. For preschool (ages 0-4 and 2-4), infants, school age, teens, middle grade, and high school. Registration required. Caregivers can join their child for the movie or stay in the library for the duration of the screening. Caregivers
of children under 9 must remain in the room. 120 N. Virginia Ave. mrspl.org.
Visit: mrspl.org to register. Main level conference room, 120 N. Virginia Ave.
English Conversation Group
Wednesday, Sept 30
Mary Riley Styles Library
6:30 – 8 p.m.
This English conversation class helps you practice with others and improve your skills. Free, for adults 18+. Main level conference room, 120 N. Virginia Ave.
City Council Action Meeting City Hall
7:30 – 11 p.m.
The public is invited to address the Council during the comment period. To sign up to speak or learn more details, visit fallschurchva.gov. Council Chambers/Courtroom, 300 Park Ave. The meeting can also be viewed at fallschurchva.gov/CouncilMeetings.
Tuesday, Sept 29 Beyond Ancestry.com Mary Riley Styles Library
6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Explore genealogical databases with trained historian Madeline Feierstein in this free workshop. Participants are welcome to bring laptops, but it’s not required. For Adults 18+. Reservations required.
Mindfulness Meditation Mary Riley Styles Library
10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Take some time to slow down with this free meditation workshop for adults 18+. No prior meditation experience necessary.120 N Virginia Ave.
Early Release Crafternoon: Collages Mary Riley Styles Library
3:30 – 4:15 p.m.
This music is crafting session is for kids in grades K-5. Registration is required. Free. 120 N. Virginia Ave.
Hands-On AI for Everyday Life (Waitlist Only) Mary Riley Styles Library
6 – 7:30 p.m.
TechWise Coaching will lead a free interactive session on ways AI can make life easier. Please note: capacity has already been reached, but you can register to be placed on the waitlist. Adults 18+. 120 N. Virginia Ave.
PAGE 18 | SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
Meridian Sports Recap: 9/14 - 9/21 C ������ C �����
BY DINOS SIMCOX
Meridian football took a tough loss to the Millbrook Pioneers, 29-6. While the Mustangs passing offense struggled, the run game was surprisingly good, considering the box score. The Mustangs lone touchdown came with just four seconds on the clock, at the hands of senior running back Abram Ellis. The Mustangs defense was also strong for most of the game, but they unfortunately allowed multiple big plays that allowed Millbrook to set up most of their scoring drives. Their next game is on Friday, September 25th, against Fauquier High School, where the Mustangs hope to establish some rhythm after starting the season 2-2. Field hockey let up their first goal of the season against Fauquier, but that didn’t stop them from continuing their incredible season and extending their undefeated record to 7-0 with a 3-1 win. After two close wins, this past contest versus Fauquier and another against Alexandria City a few days prior, the Mustangs will face their biggest challenge yet, as they face off against one of the best teams in the district, the Kettle Run Cougars. The Cougars are 6-1, just behind Meridian. This game could very well determine who has the top seed in the region come playoffs. Girls volleyball suffered their first loss of the season, falling 3-2 to Kettle Run. They quickly rebounded, with a tie
and two wins in their next three games. Their record now stands at a stellar 8-11, one of the best records in the region. The Mustangs do play Kettle Run again this season, and this time they will host the Cougars on Monday, October 5th. Until then the Mustangs will have some stiff competition to play, with teams like Skyline, Brentsville, and George C. Marshall all sporting winning records. The latter two are 7-3 and 12-2 respectively, so Meridian will have their hands full with their next stretch of games. Boys volleyball won their only game of the week in dominant fashion, beating the Annandale Atoms 3-0. Their record now sits at 3-5 on the year, and this win marks their first time wining multiple games in a row. While their record isn’t very flattering, the season is long, and the team still has time to turn it around and make the playoffs. Back-to-back 3-0 wins is a great start, but their next game will be a tough one. 9-2 West Potomac will come to town in hopes of ending the Mustangs’ win streak before it truly begins. A tall task lies ahead of Meridian. Meridian golf picked up a tournament win in the Bryan Gunter Invitational on Wednesday, September 15th, with a total score of 298 across their six golfers. The tournament, held at Shenandoah Valley Golf Club, was the final one before districts. Districts will take place on Thursday, September 24th, once again at Shenandoah Valley.
MUSTANGS JUNIOR QUARTERBACK Luke Micciche(#12). (Photo: Arlo Firestone)
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ZEUS IS 6 1/2, but retains the maturity of a puppy. When on a walk he confidently strides down the street, one paw pointing straight ahead and the other taking a sharp right, like he’s always turning a corner. While he’s not the friendliest with most humans or about 65% of other dogs, he has a zest for life and is very tolerant of deer. Although he spends most of his time in Arlington, he’s been known to enjoy regular visits with his grandmother, Lola, in Falls Church, where he stifles his barking as best he can.
FALLS CHURCH NEWS-PRESS | FCNP.COM
NLGJA Condemns White House Press Access Ban NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists has condemned the Trump administration’s decision to revoke White House access for journalists from CNN, MS NOW and POLITICO, calling for the immediate restoration of access. The organization said restricting journalists because of coverage disliked by the government conflicts with First Amendment press protections and could interfere with journalists’ ability to question public officials and scrutinize government actions. The statement comes after reporters from the three news organizations were denied access to the White House. President Donald Trump had announced that he was barring the organizations over reporting he characterized as “fake news.” NLGJA also pointed to broader concerns involving arrests, searches and subpoenas involving journalists and news organizations, arguing that such actions could have a chilling effect on the press. “A free and independent press is not a privilege granted by those in power,” the organization said, adding that it stands with the journalists and news organizations affected by the restrictions. NLGJA called on public officials to maintain equal press access and respect the role of independent journalism.
Virginia, States Win Ruling Blocking SNAP Penalties Virginia and a coalition of other states have won a federal court ruling blocking U.S. Department of Agriculture guidance that could have exposed states to financial penalties related to implementation of changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. U.S. District Judge Mustafa T. Kasubhai in Oregon granted summary judgment Sept. 17 to 22 states and the District of Columbia in New York v. Rollins, finding that USDA’s implementation deadline violated federal administrative law. The dispute followed changes to SNAP enacted by Congress in 2025. USDA told states that a 120-day period protecting them from certain implementation errors began when the law was enacted July 4, 2025, even though some federal guidance necessary to implement the changes arrived months later. The court found USDA’s approach failed to give states adequate notice and placed them in an unreasonable position as they attempted to modify their systems and eligibility procedures. Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones praised the ruling, saying protecting access to SNAP was a priority for his office and arguing that Virginians are already struggling with food costs and other household expenses. The ruling also addressed USDA guidance concerning SNAP eligibility for certain lawful permanent residents. The court found that the federal guidance improperly omitted some humanitarian immigrant groups who may remain eligible after obtaining lawful permanent resident status and who may be exempt from the program’s five-year waiting period. Virginia joined the litigation in January as part of the multistate challenge.
SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026 | PAGE 19
of AI and other technology intended to help restaurants analyze costs, purchasing trends and operations. Bates is a former Falls Church News-Press reporter.
GOP Senate Nominee Defends Trump Third-Term Argument Virginia Republican U.S. Senate nominee Bert Mizusawa defended his argument that a president could constitutionally serve more than two terms during an interview Tuesday with CNN’s Jake Tapper. Tapper played audio from a June Republican debate in which Mizusawa said he had forwarded an idea to the White House outlining how President Donald Trump could constitutionally serve a third term. Asked whether he still believed such a route was possible and whether Trump should serve another term, Mizusawa said he did not expect Trump to do so and characterized his earlier remarks as a legal argument. “I don’t think he’s going to serve a third term,” Mizusawa said. When Tapper later said the Constitution limits presidents to two terms, Mizusawa disputed that characterization. “You can serve for more than two terms. You cannot be elected to a third term,” Mizusawa said, citing Gerald Ford, who became president without being elected to the presidency after Richard Nixon resigned. Mizusawa did not explain during the exchange the specific constitutional mechanism he said he had previously forwarded to the White House. The 22nd Amendment states that no person may be elected president more than twice. The 12th Amendment separately provides that a person constitutionally ineligible to serve as president is also ineligible to serve as vice president.
RALLYING THE VOTE — Falls Church residents gather near Broad and Washington streets following a parade from City Hall encouraging residents to vote as early voting begins in Virginia. (Photo: Nancy Adelman)
Darien Bates Joins MarginEdge as Chief Product Officer Arlington-based restaurant technology company MarginEdge has named Darien Bates its new chief product officer. Bates will oversee the company’s product organization and strategy as MarginEdge expands its restaurant management platform and develops new artificial intelligence tools for restaurant operators. He brings more than two decades of experience in technology and data development and nearly a decade working with technology in the restaurant industry. Bates most recently served as chief product officer at restaurant technology company Qu, where he led product strategy for its commerce platform. Bates previously founded Fourtop, a restaurant data and analytics platform later acquired by Qu, and served as chief technology officer at &pizza. At MarginEdge, Bates will oversee development of technology designed to help restaurant operators manage purchasing, inventory, recipes, sales and financial data across their businesses. The company said Bates’ appointment comes as MarginEdge expands its use
EARLY VOTING BEGINS IN FALLS CHURCH — Voters line up at Falls Church City Hall on the first day of early voting in Virginia. (Photo: Nancy Adelman)
PAGE 20 | SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026
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