F.C. Bulletin: Nov. 12, 2026

1) F.C. City School Board Approves Collective Bargaining Agreement for Non-Certified Employees; Joins National Legal Effort to Hold Social Media Companies Accountable for Student Harms

2) Addressing Resident Concerns, F.C. City Adopts New Rules for E-Bikes and E-Motos

3) City Announces Re-Opening of Cavalier Trail Park Playground; Ribbon-cutting, Nov. 21

4) StarKist and Roc Solid Foundation Bring Power of Play to Falls Church 4-Year-Old Battling Cancer

5) Virginia Dream FC: 2026 ~ Year of Achievements

6) Notices & Announcements

F.C. City School Board Approves Collective Bargaining Agreement for Non-Certified Employees 

The Following two articles are drawn from a Nov. 10 FCCPS press release:

FALLS CHURCH, VA - The Falls Church City School Board has approved a collective bargaining agreement for non-certified employees of Falls Church City Public Schools (FCCPS), completing the second cycle of collective bargaining agreements for the school division. The approval follows the Board’s adoption of a collective bargaining agreement for certified employees in June. 

The agreements reflect the School Board’s commitment to valuing its employees and ensuring they have the resources, support, and working conditions necessary to perform their jobs with excellence. By investing in the people who serve students every day, FCCPS recognizes that supporting its employees is essential to the success of the entire school division and the broader community. 

“Completing this second cycle of collective bargaining agreements is a testament to the value we place on our employees and the important work they do for our students and community,” said Falls Church City School Board Chair Kathleen Tysse. “We believe that when employees are supported, respected, and equipped with the resources they need, our entire school division benefits. These agreements reflect a shared commitment to excellence and to the people who make that excellence possible.” 

"FCCEA is pleased to ratify these collective bargaining agreements,” said Pam Mahony, President of the Falls Church City Education Association. “They reflect over a year of member engagement and months of spirited negotiations for improved wages, benefits, and working conditions for staff in FCCPS. Working together with the School Board and the Superintendent's team, we are creating a more sustainable future for Falls Church students and staff." 

The School Board looks forward to maintaining a continuous, cordial, and collaborative relationship with all FCCPS staff. As the division moves forward, it remains committed to fostering a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to contribute to the success of every student. 

FCCPS Joins National Legal Effort to Hold Social Media Companies Accountable for Harm to Students 

FALLS CHURCH, VA - The Falls Church City Public Schools (FCCPS) School Board has approved a resolution authorizing the retention of legal counsel to join litigation against certain social media companies over the significant harm their products have caused to students’ mental health and well-being. 

Through this action, FCCPS joins a growing number of school divisions across the country seeking to hold social media companies accountable for the consequences of products designed to encourage compulsive and excessive use among school-aged children. The litigation seeks monetary damages to help schools address the substantial costs, disruptions, and demands on resources associated with the effects of social media on students and the educational environment. 

“Our responsibility is to ensure that every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in a safe and supportive environment. When products are designed to encourage excessive use and that use contributes to challenges with student mental health, behavior, and learning, the consequences are felt throughout our schools,” said Kathleen Tysse, Falls Church City School Board Chair. “This action reflects our commitment to protecting our students and supporting the educators and staff who work every day to meet their needs. We believe the companies responsible for these products must be held accountable for the impact their practices have on our children and our schools.” 

The resolution authorizes legal counsel to join litigation against several social media companies, including Meta, the owner of Facebook and Instagram; ByteDance, the owner of TikTok; Snap, the owner of Snapchat; and Google, the owner of YouTube. 

The School Board’s action underscores FCCPS’s commitment to advocating for students and families and to ensuring that the educational environment remains focused on student success. 

Addressing Resident Concerns, F.C. City Adopts New Rules for E-Bikes and E-Motos

Have you heard griping about e-bikes and e-motos around the City of Falls Church? So has the mayor and the City Council.

On Nov. 9, the City Council adopted new rules to align local bicycle and moped codes with Virginia law and to authorize the seizure, destruction, or sale of illegal off-road motorcycles and electric dirt bikes ("e-motos") operated unlawfully on City streets or sidewalks.

In her Oct. 24 constituent newsletter, Falls Church City Mayor Letty Hardi described the City Council's efforts to "clean up code for bike usage" around the Little City and address "concerns we've heard about 'e-motos.' The Council:

"....previewed two police-related ordinances to clean up code for bike usage and taking advantage of state code to allow us to deal with a concern we’ve heard about “e-motos” – not to be confused with e-bikes. The first would align our bicycle and e-bike code with state law and changes on the W&OD. That includes updating definitions to distinguish among different classes of e-bikes (prohibiting Class 3 e-bikes on sidewalks and shared use paths) and removing provisions that duplicate or conflict with state law. The second ordinance, under a 2024 change in state law, allows us to seize off-road motorcycles operated unlawfully on highways, sidewalks, or paths. This is an important distinction from simply issuing a citation: it would give police another enforcement tool when the legal requirements are met."

According to Mayor Hardi, the Proposed Ordinance, TO-26-21, "updates the City of Falls Church Code (Chapter 26) to formally regulate electric power-assisted bicycles (e-bikes) and other micro-mobility devices alongside traditional bicycles, while aligning local ordinances with the Code of Virginia."

Here's an AI-assisted summary of the code changes to which Mayor Hardi refers:

1. Definitions and Scope (Secs. 26-105 & 26-160)

• State Law Alignment: Replaces outdated local definitions with those established in the Code of Virginia (§ 46.2-100) by reference, ensuring automatic consistency with future state updates.
• Expanded Device Coverage: Explicitly incorporates "electric power-assisted bicycles," motorized skateboards/scooters, non-motorized scooters, electric personal assistive mobility devices, and toy vehicles into the City's existing bicycle regulations. (It also updates the definition of "moped" in Sec. 26-160 to match state law.)
• Removal of Outdated Restrictions: Eliminates an obsolete local definition that previously restricted pedal-assist bicycles with helper motors to riders aged 16 and older and banned them entirely from public sidewalks and bike trails.

2. Where E-Bikes Can Be Operated (Secs. 26-108 & 26-110)

• Shared-Use Paths and Sidewalks: Renames "bikeways" to "shared-use paths" and explicitly permits Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes (alongside standard bicycles, scooters, and assistive devices) to operate on off-street shared-use paths and sidewalks. By omission from the permitted list, Class 3 e-bikes remain prohibited on these off-street paths and sidewalks.
• Local Restrictions: Consolidates and expands the City Manager’s authority (upon the request of an adjacent property owner and with proper signage) to prohibit or restrict e-bikes and other mobility devices on specific sidewalks, crosswalks, and shared-use paths. It also removes an unauthorized local exception that previously exempted children under 13 from such restrictions.

3. Equipment and Safety Requirements (Secs. 26-106, 26-107 & 26-109)

• Brakes and Lighting: Extends mandatory equipment rules to e-bikes, requiring working coaster brakes or handbrakes at all times, as well as a front white light (visible from 500 feet) and an approved rear red reflector (or rear red light) during darkness or low visibility.
• Helmet Mandate: Requires any operator or passenger aged 14 or younger on an e-bike (or standard bicycle/assistive device) to wear a CPSC-approved protective helmet on any highway, sidewalk, or shared-use path.
• Anti-Tampering: Prohibits defacing or removing serial numbers from e-bikes, or buying/selling an e-bike with a removed serial number without first registering it.

4. Riding Rules and Repealed Provisions (Sec. 26-109)

• General Operational Rules: Subjects e-bike riders to the same rights and duties as motor vehicle drivers, while retaining specific local rules regarding reasonable speed, stopping at stop signs, prohibiting passengers on handlebars, respecting exclusive bike lanes, and parking without obstructing pedestrian traffic.
• Repeal of Redundant or Conflicting Rules: Repeals eight subsections of Sec. 26-109 that either duplicated existing Virginia state laws (such as yielding to pedestrians on sidewalks, riding with traffic flow, observing traffic signals, and prohibiting hitching rides) or conflicted with state code (such as an outdated single-file requirement that contradicted state law allowing cyclists to ride two abreast, and a mandate forcing riders off roadways onto adjacent paths).

5. Enforcement and Timeline

• Fiscal Impact: Negligible, as violations of state traffic provisions are already enforceable and recoverable by City officers under existing code (Sec. 26-2).
• Schedule: Scheduled for First Reading on October 26, 2026, and Public Hearing/Second Reading on November 9, 2026, taking effect immediately upon adoption.

And here's a helpful article addressing differences between e-bikes and e-motos:

The E-Bike Problem is an E-Moto Problem

By People For Bikes Staff,

Electric bicycles are under increasing scrutiny, often for the wrong reasons.... PeopleForBikes separates fact from fiction to protect the future of electric bicycles in America, clarify what qualifies as a legal electric bicycle, and call out bad actors mislabeling high-powered motor vehicles as “e-bikes."

Part 1: Understanding the Problem Behind the Headlines

Electric bicycle incidents may not involve e-bikes at all.

Headlines about crashes, bans, and reckless riding are becoming more common. But here’s the problem: most of the “e-bikes” making the news aren’t electric bicycles at all.

....PeopleForBikes, the trade association representing the U.S. bicycle industry, sets the record straight on what is and isn’t an electric bicycle, how safety concerns are being misdirected, and what regulators, consumers, and communities can do to protect the future of electric bicycle riding for recreation and mobility.

There are growing concerns in many communities across America about the safety of “e-bikes.” These concerns are often centered around young people, who are increasingly turning to e-mobility devices for transportation well before they become licensed drivers. Lack of familiarity with the rules of the road, along with youthful enthusiasm, has sometimes led to unsafe behavior like speeding, riding on sidewalks, ignoring stop signs and traffic lights and even stunt riding on public roads and highways. Unruly behavior leads to social media posts, complaints to local officials, media reports and calls for more regulation of “e-bikes” or even outright bans. At its worst, unsafe behavior causes crashes, serious injuries, and even deaths of young riders.   

....PeopleForBikes’ primary focuses is on safety: product safety, safe places to ride, and safety education for cyclists and e-cyclists. We have advocated for sensible regulation of electric bicycles for over a decade and created the Three Class Model Law to define what is, and is not, an electric bicycle. We support modernization and adoption of electric bicycle safety standards, including battery testing and certification requirements. We see the growing safety issues on our streets and are responding on behalf of our member companies to help craft solutions to reverse these trends. Here’s what we have learned in trying to define, understand and address what is being called the “e-bike problem.”

Just What Is An “E-Bike?” Well, it’s definitely not a legally defined vehicle type. “E-bike” is a generic term that lumps together everything with two wheels and an electric motor and can include a variety of devices including electric bicycles, electric mopeds, scooters, electric dirt bikes and electric motorcycles. These are all different vehicle types and their differences need to be taken into account when developing appropriate laws and regulations to govern their safe use on public roads and trails. Let’s dig into electric bicycles and “e-motos” to understand how they are currently regulated and where the issues are actually arising.

Low-speed electric bicycles are a clearly defined vehicle type under both federal and most state laws: they must have operable pedals, an electric motor of 750 watts or less, and a maximum speed when powered solely by the motor of 20 miles per hour. A vehicle that does not meet all three requirements in that definition is not an electric bicycle. Electric bicycles are not motor vehicles. They are consumer products and their use on public roads and trails is generally regulated the same as bicycles. Almost every state already fully defines what an electric bicycle is, and how and where it may be operated.

What Is An E-Moto? E-motos are electric mopeds, electric motorcycles and electric dirt bikes that are much more powerful and faster than any electric bicycle. E-motos may have motors with thousands of watts of power that far exceed the 750 watts allowed for a legal electric bicycle. They are equipped with throttles and typically can go in excess of 30 miles per hour, faster than any electric bicycle is capable of traveling. Some E-motos can achieve highway speeds of 65 miles per hour.

Unlike low-speed electric bicycles, E-motos intended for use on public streets are considered “motor-driven cycles” (a type of motor vehicle) and are subject to federal motor vehicle safety standards. In terms of use, in most states E-motos must also be registered and insured to be used on public roads, and either a driver’s license or motorcycle operator license is required. E-motos intended for off-road use (electric dirt bikes) may be subject to state off-road vehicle registration requirements, such as those recently passed by the California legislature. While some state laws do not specifically mention electric motor power, the legal status of e-motos as motor vehicles has been settled for many years.

Isn’t Anything With Pedals An Electric Bicycle? No. E-motos are often equipped with pedals from the manufacturer or have pedals added by consumers in an attempt to disguise the e-moto as an electric bicycle and “fly under the radar.” While operable pedals are required for a vehicle to be an electric bicycle, the mere presence of pedals on an overpowered or excessively fast e-moto does not make it a “legal” electric bicycle. Any vehicle with an electric motor in excess of 750 watts or that can travel over 20 miles per hour when powered only by the motor is not an electric bicycle, even if it has pedals and the manufacturer claims it is “street legal.”

What If The E-Moto Claims To Be Legal Because It Has A Class 2 Or 3 Mode? Despite claims by some sellers, it is legally impossible for a vehicle to be both an electric bicycle and an e-moto. A vehicle with motor power over 750 watts or that can exceed 20 miles per hour by use of a throttle is a motor-driven cycle (moped, motorcycle, electric dirt bike), not an electric bicycle. That is true even if the e-moto’s controller has one or more “modes” that can selectively limit or delimit its capabilities to those of an electric bicycle. Based on the legal definitions of an electric bicycle and a motor-driven cycle, if it’s too fast or too powerful in any mode, then it’s not an electric bicycle, period.

Who Is Responsible For The E-Moto Problem? The E-moto problem is caused by E-moto manufacturers and sellers. The companies that make, import and sell e-motos are attempting to skirt legal and safety requirements for motor vehicles in order to sell their products. Their intention is to deceive the public into believing their e-moto is an electric bicycle or “e-bike” that does not require a driver's license to operate and may even be appropriate for children. These manufacturers put pedals on an electric moped, or simply include a mode or setting that limits the top speed to 20 miles per hour and claim it’s a Class 2 electric bicycle. This same device can be easily “unlocked” to go faster than 20 miles per hour and may have a faster unlimited “off-road” mode built into the controller. E-motos are motor vehicles.

Unfortunately, e-motos are also very popular and are being purchased by parents for their kids.  E-moto companies relentlessly market their products to teens and pre-teens on social media as “lifestyle” products. Young people riding e-motos recklessly through their communities has led to calls for more regulation of “e-bikes” when electric bicycles are not the primary issue. And this scenario can have tragic results: a teenager riding an unregistered and illegal e-moto loses control, is in a crash with a motor vehicle or hits a pedestrian or cyclist. These crashes have occurred in California, Massachusetts, Oregon, Virginia, Florida, and elsewhere.

Bringing it full circle, the reckless use of e-motos by young people and others in their communities is prompting calls for stricter regulation. Consumers also are largely unaware of the safety, financial and legal risks they undertake when they buy or use an e-moto on public streets....

City Announces Re-Opening of Cavalier Trail Park Playground

Nature-inspired play space to host a community ribbon-cutting celebration on Saturday, Nov. 21

Wednesday, November 10, 2026 – The City of Falls Church is thrilled to announce the reopening of the Cavalier Trail Park Playground.

The Recreation and Parks Department, in collaboration with the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board, welcomes our community to celebrate the brand-new, nature-inspired place space, with a grand re-opening on Saturday, Nov. 21, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The family-friendly celebration will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, face painting, and open playground fun for all residents.  

About the Project 

Designed with active and imaginative play in mind, the newly constructed playground offers diverse opportunities for local children to climb, balance, slide, swing, and engage in imaginative outdoor play.  

The achievement is the result of extensive community collaboration: 

• October 2025: Initial public input meetings and community-wide online feedback launched. 
• March 2026: The final design was officially selected by the community during the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board meeting.  
• Spring 2026: City Council authorized the project. 
• November 2026: Construction reached completion, welcoming families back to the park.  

Event & Parking Details 

• When: Saturday, Nov. 21, , from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.  
• Where: Cavalier Trail Park, 600 S. Maple Ave., has some available parking. To access the playground which is located on the north West Westmoreland side of the park, pass the tennis courts and travel over the pedestrian bridge.  
• Parking Notice: Attendees are encouraged to walk and bike, if possible, as parking is limited along West Westmoreland. Additional parking is available at the South Maple entrance to the park.  

The City of Falls Church extends its gratitude to local families and neighbors for their patience and active participation throughout the design and construction process.

StarKist and Roc Solid Foundation Bring Power of Play to Falls Church 4-Year-Old Battling Cancer

More Than 10 StarKist Volunteers Build a Custom Backyard Playset for a 4-Year-Old, Creating a Special Place for Play, Joy, and Family Memories

Following is drawn from a Nov. 11 PRNewswire press release:

RESTON, Va., Nov. 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ – StarKist joined forces with Roc Solid Foundation to bring joy and hope to a 4-year-old child undergoing cancer treatment in Falls Church, Va.

As part of the company's longstanding commitment to giving back, more than 10 StarKist employees volunteered to build a custom backyard playset, creating a special place where the child can play, explore and make lasting memories with family.

"As a company proud to call Northern Virginia home, we believe in showing up for the communities where our employees live and work," said Michael Merritt Jr., Vice President, Head of Marketing and Innovation at StarKist. "Every child deserves the opportunity to play, laugh and simply enjoy being a kid. Our StarKist team was honored to roll up their sleeves and help create a special place where this child and his family can make lasting memories. We're proud to partner with Roc Solid Foundation to bring a little joy and hope to families facing extraordinary challenges."

The volunteer build brought together StarKist employees and Roc Solid Foundation volunteers for a meaningful day of giving back. From assembling the playset to preparing for the special reveal, volunteers worked side by side to create a space where the child could simply enjoy being a kid. StarKist's beloved mascot, Charlie the Tuna, also joined the celebration, helping surprise the child and family with their new backyard playset.

For more than 15 years, Roc Solid Foundation has supported children and families facing pediatric cancer through its mission to build hope through the power of play. Its Play It Forward program provides custom backyard playsets for children undergoing cancer treatment, giving them a safe and accessible space to enjoy childhood moments at home. The organization also distributes Ready Bags to families following a cancer diagnosis, providing essential items, comfort and support during an especially difficult time.

"When these kids play, dream and let their imaginations roam wild, cancer can fade into the background for them and their families," said Eric Newman, founder and CEO of Roc Solid Foundation. "That's exactly why Roc Solid is dedicated to the power of play, and it's the unwavering support and kindness from partners like StarKist that gives us the ability to bring joy and positivity to families' backyards."

Headquartered in Reston, Va., StarKist has a longstanding commitment to supporting the NoVA community through charitable partnerships and hands-on employee volunteerism. The Falls Church playset build reflects that commitment and the company's belief in making a meaningful difference beyond the workplace. Through partnerships with organizations like Roc Solid Foundation, StarKist continues to create opportunities for employees to give back while bringing comfort, joy, and hope to local families facing extraordinary challenges.

Giving Back Through StarKist Cares

StarKist Cares reflects the company's ongoing commitment to giving back through charitable initiatives that combat hunger, strengthen communities, and support individuals and families in need.

For more than 15 years, StarKist has worked to address food insecurity, donating millions of tuna and chicken products to communities across the country. The company also collaborates with Feed the Children to provide food and essential resources to families facing hunger and support disaster and emergency relief efforts.

Locally, StarKist partners with Cornerstones to support families in need throughout Northern Virginia. The company also proudly recognizes the service and sacrifice of Korean War veterans through its longstanding support of The Chosin Few.

Through its partnership with Roc Solid Foundation, StarKist is further extending its community impact by helping children facing pediatric cancer experience the power of play while offering employees meaningful opportunities to make a difference.

Together, these initiatives reflect StarKist's commitment to making a positive impact in the communities where its employees live and work.

StarKist Co. is a socially responsible company that empowers people to live a healthy lifestyle by providing convenient nutritious proteins. An industry innovator, StarKist was the first brand to introduce convenient single-serve pouch products, which include StarKist Tuna Creations, Salmon Creations, and Chicken Creations in over 40 varieties. As America's favorite tuna, StarKist represents a tradition of quality, consumer trust, and a commitment to sustainability. StarKist's charismatic brand icon, Charlie the Tuna, swam into the hearts of tuna fans in 1961 and is still a fan favorite today. StarKist Co. is a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Dongwon Industries Co., Ltd.

Roc Solid Foundation builds hope for kids fighting cancer nationwide through the power of play. The organization distributes hospital Ready Bags to families just after they hear the devastating news that their child has cancer and then provides backyard playsets, so kids have a safe place to play during treatment. Roc Solid currently partners with over 180 children's hospitals to distribute Ready Bags, and playsets have been provided to thousands of kids fighting cancer in almost every state across the U.S. For more information, visit rocsolidfoundation.org.

Virginia Dream FC: 2026 ~ Year of Achievements

Following is drawn from a Nov. 9 Virginia Dream FC press release:

Virginia Dream FC's 2026 list of successes is impressive.

• Fall UPSL Regular Season Champions;
• Fall UPSL Postseason Tournament Finalists;
• NPSL Finalists;
• Spring UPSL Regular Season Champions;
• Spring UPSL Postseason semifinalist;
• Reached 3rd round of Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Qualifying;
• NPSL Mid-Atlantic Conference Most Valuable Player.

Nevertheless, the Dream were disappointed in how their year ended. “Our guys gave it their all this match,” said team owner Lucas Mendes speaking of the Dream's playoff loss to the UPSL's DC Hyper FC, “but we just could not get the ball in the back of the net.... Despite all the great victories we've had this year we are all disappointed in how it ended. We have very high expectations for our team and we fell a little short this year, but we plan on being even better in 2027.” 

DC Hyper FC, the team that eliminated The Dream from the US Open Cup Qualifying this year, got the best of the home team in the UPSL Postseason Tournament Final at Meridian H.S. on Sunday, Nov. 8 as well.

An early goal in the 4th minute gave the visitors the lead and kept it through halftime. Virginia Dream came out strong in the second half and dominated possession and scoring opportunities but the squad could not score. In the 71st, DC Hyper added another goal which forced The Dream to push forward and left open spaces in the back line. Hyper took advantage of the gap and added two more goals to make the final score 4-0.

“We want to thank all the fans who came out and supported us throughout the season. It means a lot to the players. We have tried really hard to make Falls Church City known around the country and world as a soccer powerhouse and we will continue to do so. The soccer world definitely knows where “The Little City” is now! We will do better in 2027,” exclaimed Mendes.

For updates and more information, visit: https://virginiadreamfc.com/.

Virginia Dream FC is a Falls Church-based semi-professional soccer club founded in 2022 with a mission to remove financial barriers by covering all player costs. Competing at a high level across national leagues, the club blends elite competition with community impact, creativity, and culture. Virginia Dream FC has gained national recognition through its U.S. Open Cup performances and growing digital audience.

Notices & Announcements

Holiday Gift and Craft Show, Saturday, Dec. 5

Deck the halls during the holiday season with special gifts from the annual Holiday Gift and Craft Show at the Falls Church Community Center (223 Little Falls St.).

Over 40 crafters and holiday vendors showcase handmade items, baked goods, and unique holiday gifts during this two day craft show during the first weekend in December. 

Free raffles go on both days! Winners will choose from a variety of gifts donated by the Gift and Craft Show vendors. Live holiday music from FCCPS local musicians and performers also add holiday cheer. 

Children's Holiday Shoppe

With the help of volunteers, kids can pick out gifts ($6 or less) for their friends and family on Saturday, Dec. 5, only! Volunteers can also wrap the gifts for free! Shopping is cash only at the Children's Holiday Shoppe and hosted by the Friends of Cherry Hill Farmhouse. 

Date/Time: Dec. 5, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Location: Falls Church Community Center, 223 Little Falls St.

Contact: Event Contact

Cost: Free

Admission Link: fallschurchva.gov/CraftShow

ADA Compliant: Yes

Latest from the F.C. Econ. Devel. Office: Mark Your Calendars!

Cherry Hill Farmhouse: November Brings Fall Festivities, Holiday Gatherings

This November, visit the Cherry Hill Farmhouse — it’ll be bustling with events, from fall festivities to holiday gatherings.

The farmhouse is a cherished historic landmark in the heart of the City of Falls Church, offering a warm, welcoming glimpse into 19th‑century life. Whether you’re joining a seasonal workshop, touring the beautifully preserved rooms, or attending a community celebration, Cherry Hill Farmhouse is the perfect place to connect with local history and enjoy the spirit of the season.

To register for the following programs, go to cherryhillfallschurch.org/Register. 

Moravian Stars Workshop: Sunday, Nov. 22, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

A Very Victorian Christmas: Saturday, Nov. 28, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Cork Wreath Workshop: Sunday, Nov. 29, 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Pledge to Support Local Businesses in November; Small Business Saturday is Nov. 21

Following is drawn from the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce newsletter:

November is Live Local Month and we kicked it off at City Council last Monday. The Chamber encourages residents to take the pledge to patronize local businesses by keeping 20 percent or more of their spending in the Little City.

Supporting Falls Church businesses contributes to a stronger, more vibrant community and economy. One new chamber member, Erica Wiles of Miru Acupuncture, announced discounts when you show a receipt for a local purchase. You can too. And remember to give a shout out to our businesses on LiveLocalFC! No sales, just shout outs for exceptional service, products, and experiences.

Saturday, Nov. 21 is Small Business Saturday. What are your plans? Let's get the word out!

Welcoming Falls Church Community Thanksgiving Dinner

Stylish Patine Hosting Holiday Makers and Vintage Market, Nov. 14

Following is drawn from owner Kelly Millspaugh Thompson from the Falls Church Parents' List-serve:

We are hosting a Holiday Makers + Vintage market at Stylish Patina this SATURDAY! Bring an unwrapped gift for Northern Virginia Family services and get a quick professional photo! Shop Local and Small Biz! Sign up for your photo HERE we only have a few seats left.  

Meridian High School Production of Jesus Christ Superstar

The community is invited to see the Meridian High School production of Jesus Christ Superstar Nov. 19-21 at 7:30 p.m. Featuring music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, the show promises an electrifying night of rock-opera storytelling performed by talented student actors, singers and musicians. Tickets are $20 for general admission and $5 for students, and families, friends and neighbors are encouraged to come out and support the cast and crew.

Don’t miss the show! Buy Your Tickets Today!

Free Place for Moms Groups to Gather

Following is drawn from the Falls Church Parents' List-serve:

CommuniKids Falls Church would love to welcome local moms groups for a free get-together! Connect with other parents while your little ones enjoy songs, stories, and playful activities in our welcoming school space.

If your group is looking for a place to meet, we’d be happy to coordinate a date and activities suited to your children’s ages.

Interested? Reply to this post to learn more and arrange a visit!

CommuniKids Falls Church ~ Saturday Language Class Registration Is Open!

Looking for a fun way for your child to learn Spanish, French, or Mandarin? Registration is open for CommuniKids’ winter Saturday language classes in Falls Church, beginning January 9!

Through songs, games, stories, and hands-on activities, children build language skills while having fun. Beginners are welcome! 

For details and to register, Click Here.

• Caregiver & Me: ages 12–36 months
• Children’s classes: ages 3–4 and 5–8

Free trial classes are available — contact us to learn more!

Planning for summer? Summer camp registration opens January 1! Join us in Falls Church for language immersion, weekly themes, and plenty of outdoor fun for children ages 16 months–6 years.

Visit communikids.com for details and registration.

Mindi Susskind, Director Of Marketing
CommuniKids Preschool and Children's Language Centers

Little City Concerts: Next Up ~ Sound Impact, Nov. 21

Get ready for another evening of incredible music with a meaningful mission behind it!

On Saturday, Nov. 21, 7:30 p.m. at The Falls Church Episcopal, we’ll welcome a string quartet from Sound Impact for our second concert of the season.

These amazing musicians do more than make beautiful music – they’re dedicated to bringing the transformative power of art to young people in our community who need it most. This special concert will support Sound Impact’s Use Your Voice program, which brings musical residences into juvenile detention centers in our area, giving young people opportunities for creative expression, connection, and inspiration through music.

• General Admission: $25

• Students & Youth: Free

Click here for tickets, and keep reading for more information.

Sound Impact’s program will feature the epic 8th String Quartet by Dmitri Shostakovich, alongside new works by Jessie Montgomery, Joel Friedman, Jim Stephenson, and Caroline Shaw, the youngest person to win the Pulitzer Prize. 50% of our ticket sales from this performance will be donated to the Use Your Voice program.

If you missed out on season passes before our first concert back in October, we’ve got you covered: you can still buy a discounted pass to our three remaining concerts for a 15% discount.  

Come enjoy a wonderful evening of live music while supporting a program that makes a real difference. We hope to see you there!

Warmly,
Steve Gorbos
Founder & Board President
Little City Concerts

Annual Fall Fun Festival Welcomes Families Who've Lost a Loved One, During Thanksgiving Week 

A joyful start to the holidays with snacks, video games, moon bounce, face paint, gifts, and prizes!

Free for families who have lost a loved one.

Sunday, Nov. 22, at Oak Street Elementary in Falls Church.

FALLS CHURCH, VA (Nov. 5, 2026) – For families suffering the loss of a loved one, the holidays can feel like the loneliest season of the year. An empty chair at the table. A tradition no one in the family quite knows how to keep amid tragedy.

On the Sunday before Thanksgiving, one local nonprofit opens the season a different way: with holiday snacks and treats, a game truck, face-painting, pet therapy, art therapy, moon bounce, science crafts, sports, massage therapy and reiki for adults, a prize raffle – and a gym full of other families who understand.

Hope for Grieving Families will host its 12th Annual Fall Family Fun Festival on Sunday, Nov. 22, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Oak Street Elementary School, 601 S. Oak Street, Falls Church, Va.

The afternoon is free for any family in the greater Washington, D.C. area that has lost a loved one – Registration is required so organizers can plan for every child.

"We are honored to bring our Annual Fall Family Fun Festival to its 12th year, creating a warm and supportive space for grieving families in the greater Washington DC area," said Tara O'Brien, executive director of Hope for Grieving Families. "We understand how challenging the holiday season can be for families navigating loss, and through this event, we seek to offer moments of joy, connection, and hope."

At the festival, kids can bounce, craft, game and get their faces painted while parents connect over holiday treats. This year's festival features:

An electronic gaming station where older kids and teens can team up and play together — so siblings of every age have something to look forward to· A 5-in-1 moon-bounce· Face painting and holiday crafts· Dog therapy including friendly dogs to meet and cuddle· Art therapy with experienced art instructors that focus on ways to process grief through art· Games, holiday snacks and treats· Free prizes and giveaways throughout the afternoon including restaurant gift cards, “Experience Tickets” like Medieval Times, Imagination Stage, Level 99 and more.

The timing is deliberate. The festival is always held the Sunday before Thanksgiving – the doorstep of a season that can be especially hard for families who are missing someone.

"The real draw is each other,” O'Brien added, “Grieving children often feel like the only kid in class whose family is ‘different.’ At the festival, every kid in the room shares that experience – and nobody has to explain. Our goal is to launch the holidays in a positive light, reminding families they are not alone and that healing is possible together."

What began as a single afternoon in 2014 has since quadrupled in attendance, growing into a year-round community for families across the greater Washington, D.C., area.

Hope for Grieving Families was founded by Becky Wagner, a grieving mom of 3 young children who lost her spouse in 2013 and was not able to find events or programming in the DMV region that kept the family together and provided an outlet for fun and connection.

“I could find a lot of therapeutic and individual support”, said founder Becky Wagner, “but my kids were not ready to talk openly about their grief or go to separate support groups or camps. So I wanted to start something that brought some joy and connection into families' lives during such a difficult time. It is so meaningful to see the growth and connections that have come from it. Some of the early participants are now our biggest volunteers and fundraisers. One of our biggest desires is to make sure more grieving families hear about our event and attend.”

At a Glance

Who: Families with children who have lost a loved one

What: 12th Annual Hope Fall Family Fun Festival for Grieving Families with Children

When: Sunday, Nov. 22, 2026, 2:00–5:00 p.m. (always the Sunday before Thanksgiving)

Where: Oak Street Elementary School, 601 S. Oak St.

Cost: Free

Registration (Required): https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050E4CAFAF2BAAFD0-64780827-12th#/

Hope for Grieving Families, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Arlington, Va., connects families who have lost a loved one for fun and support. Its mission: Connecting Families for Fun and Support.

The organization was founded by Becky Wagner in memory of her husband, C.A.M. Wagner, a husband, father of three, son, brother and friend to many. Diagnosed in 2008 with a rare, aggressive leukemia, C.A.M. fought for five years with the help of Johns Hopkins Hospital, touching countless lives with his unwavering faith along the way. Searching for a way to honor him while helping others facing loss, Becky launched the first Hope Family Fun Day in 2014. It was so meaningful to the families who came that it became an annual tradition.
Since then, festival attendance has quadrupled. In 2019, Hope began offering monthly activities that give children fun, enriching experiences and give parents time with others on the same journey. Recent outings have included Washington Nationals, Wizards, DC United and Washington Spirit games, a family movie outing, mini golf, a painting workshop, a pumpkin festival at Butler's Orchard and a pre-Mother's Day breakfast — many made possible by in-kind support from local businesses.

Hope's work depends on community generosity. Donations can be made online at hopeforgrievingfamilies.org/donate.html, and local businesses can contribute in-kind gifts, services or event experiences.

F.C. City Releases Episode 10 in 'Reflections at 250' Video Series: Lessons from the Civil War

The Civil War tested a nation, divided communities, and transformed everyday life. In Falls Church, situated between the Union and Confederate capitals, people experienced the conflict firsthand as families faced uncertainty, displacement, and difficult choices.

In this episode of the Reflections at 250 docuseries, Lessons from the Civil War explores how people endured a nation at war and what their experiences reveal about resilience, community, and the human cost of conflict — lessons that continue to resonate today.

Carly Harvey Brings History of the Blues to Life at Meridian H.S., Nov. 21

“The Origin of the Blues: The Native American Influence” features an afternoon of music, storytelling and cultural exploration on Saturday, Nov. 21.

Join NBC's The Voice contestant and acclaimed “D.C.'s Queen of the Blues,” artist Carly Harvey for a musical journey highlighting Native American roots of the Blues at a free community event on Saturday, Nov. 21, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Meridian High School in Falls Church.

More than a traditional lecture, this interactive musical experience invites audiences to hear history come alive. “The Origin of the Blues: The Native American Influence” offers a deeper understanding of the diverse cultural influences that helped shape the Blues and continue to influence music and culture today.

Through song and storytelling, Harvey explores the intersections of African American and Indigenous American histories, cultures and musical traditions and their continuing impact. Her presentation highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Indigenous peoples to the development of the Blues alongside its African American foundations.

Drawing on her own Afro-Indigenous heritage and professional experience, Harvey looks at how cultural exchange, shared histories and musical traditions helped shape American music. Her family has ties to the Eastern Band Tsalgi (Cherokee) and Tuscarora peoples, giving her a personal connection to the histories and traditions explored in the program.

The event is hosted by the Social Justice Committee of Falls Church and Vicinity, an initiative of the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation. Register at https://bit.ly/NativeBlues.

Based in Washington, D.C., Harvey is an internationally touring Blues and Jazz artist whose distinctive sound blends Blues, Jazz, Soul and Indigenous American musical traditions. She is the originator of “Native Scat,” an innovative improvisational fusion of traditional jazz scat singing and Native American vocal sounds.

Harvey has earned widespread recognition for her artistry, including multiple Wammie Awards for Best Blues Artist, Best Blues Song and Best Jazz Song. In 2016, Dr. Nick Johnson of WPFW Radio proclaimed her “D.C.'s Queen of the Blues.” She was featured in Big City Blues Magazine in July 2018 as one of the youngest Blues artists to watch.

Most recently, Harvey appeared on Season 28 of NBC's The Voice, earning a place on Team Bublé and introducing her distinctive artistry to a national television audience.

By Christopher Jones