EPILOGUE: ‘Erdhaus’ (Earth House) Is Complete

December 25, 2010

In May 2009 the Falls Church Times wrote about the “Erdhaus” under construction on Grove Avenue, built from dirt bricks manufactured on site. The house is finished now, and while our staff enjoy their holiday we are reprinting an informative article by Wendy Koch, the USA Today writer who recently finished building her own “green” house on North Virginia Avenue.

By WENDY KOCH
USA Today

In Washington, D.C. suburbs, most new houses qualify as McMansions, but not the “Erdhaus” — a small, super tight, Dwell-like home built of compressed earth bricks.

Its German name, meaning “earth house,” speaks to its unusual exterior building material. All 5,600 of its bricks were made from the dirt on the home’s narrow sliver of a lot in Falls Church, Virginia.

As regular Green House readers know, I’m also building an energy-efficient home in the same town, less than a mile away, so I’ve visited Erdhaus a few times. Its owners, German-born Andreas Bentz and Mike Nichols, both very well versed in green building, have been quite helpful in my own journey.

Why compressed earth? “I like the solidity of bricks. Mike liked the energy conservation aspect. It turned out to have both” says Bentz, an airline pilot who grew up in southwestern Bavaria and earned a PhD in economics in England.

The result is an organic, minimalist yet striking gem of 1,460 square feet (not counting a full basement) that I’ve picked as “This Week’s Green House.” It uses rainwater collected in three large cisterns (a total of 4,200 gallons) to irrigate the landscaping and flush the toilets.

(Click here to read the complete article)

WATCH NIGHT 2010, Free New Year’s Eve Party in the City

By BARB CRAM
Special to the Falls Church Times

December 24, 2010

The theme of Watch Night 2010, the City’s New Year’s Eve Celebration, is  “Falls Church?  Got Talent !”

Many of the performers live or work in the City.  The Main Stage Master of Ceremonies is Andre Jackson, whose band SUDDEN M PAC will be playing their Motown sounds. Andre has worked with many of the youth here in the City through the Department of Recreation and Parks. When asked, “who would be the best MC for Watch Night ?” Howard Herman, soon to be retired Director of Community Services, said “Andre”.

Andre has been touring with Glenn Leonard’s “Temptations” in Louisiana, Missisippi, Alabama and Florida.  If you clap loud enough Andre has promised to sing.

Famed local band, JUDO CHOP, playing energetic ’80s rock between 9 PM and 11 PM will be featured along with some of the best talent from George Mason High School.

From 7 PM to 9 PM two rock bands THE SUPPLIERS and RAND’S BAND along with one jazz band GUAVA will also be on the Main Stage.

The Main Stage is  located on West Broad Street before Maple Avenue in front of CVS.   Walk-on performers will also be featured such as crowd favorite Cowboy Hay who plans on playing “the spoons”.  The Main Stage as well as the Grand FunAlley are sponsored by the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce.

Live music will also be at the following venues:

On the 100 block of S. Washington Street, The Historic Falls Church, for which the City of Falls Church was named, will be open at 7 PM for guided tours until 8 PM.  From 8 PM to 10 PM ANDREW ACOSTA and his NEW OLD TIME STRING BAND will feature famous fiddler Speedy Tolliver and guitarist John Kapakaris in the beautifully decorated Historic Church.  This program is being offered through the generosity of The Falls Church Anglican Church.

Before going to the Main Stage, JUDO CHOP ACOUSTIC will be playing from 7 PM to 9 PM outside, on the balcony of Family Medicine and Falls Church Foot and Ankle. The entry is behind 104 East Broad Street.  Inside the offices of Drs. Theisz and Cannon, is the popular SCAVENGER HUNT with free refreshments and restrooms available.

For the Big Band sound and Swing Dancing proceed to 225 E. Broad Street, The Falls Church Presbyterian Church to listen and dance to the NORTHERN LIGHTS ORCHESTRA, where this 20-piece band will be in the spacious Fellowship Hall.  COWBOY HAY, a perennial favorite, will be playing his antique and “household” instruments here beginning at 7 PM.  The NORTHERN LIGHTS ORCHESTRA will be playing from 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM. These experienced and very accomplished musicians “make time disappear”.   Dressed in their tuxedos seated behind their bandstands, they evoke another era of Big Bands and dance music.

The Victorian Photo Studio, is where members of the sponsoring organization, The Victorian Society at Falls Church, will offer all types and sizes of Victorian clothing from 7 to 10:30 PM. Guests dress up for a special photograph in the Victorian Parlor,  just inside the door at the N. Fairfax entrance to the Falls Church Presbyterian Church (which is also the handicapped entrance). There will be additional entertainment by COWBOY HAY after 8 PM (when he is not on the Main Stage).

Free popcorn and refreshments with special table set-ups and canopies will be erected in the Fellowship Hall to add to the festive atmosphere and will provide Children and Family Amusements including very talented caricaturist Marie Cheek. A very popular Jake aka “Broccoli The Magic Clown” balloon artist and performer with be working his magic from

7 PM – 9 PM as will the professional Face Painting Specialist.   Come early to have your caricature done, face painted, and watch the wonderfully entertaining balloon artist.   This venue is sponsored by The Village Preservation and Improvement Society.

There is plenty of parking at 225 E. Broad street, The Falls Church Presbyterian Church parking lot just north of E. Broad Street and also at the N. Fairfax Street entrance.  The Free Venue Shuttle Bus which will pick up at all venues, as well as the EFC Metro Station.  The free shuttle bus will operate from 7 PM to 1 AM.  Additional parking will also be available at The Falls Church Anglican parking areas at the East Broad Street entrance and on E. Fairfax.  For a complete list of parking areas please visit the website listed at the end of this article.

Weather permitting, there are amusements and attractions at the Grand FunAlley beginning with  the enormous 66 foot long Dragon in the middle of the 100 block of Broad Street.  The very popular Velcro Wall, Karaoke,Tiger Moon Bounce, and the Castle Slide Combo, are right next to the free popcorn at the refreshment stand (behind the Municipal Park between 116 and 126 West Broad).

The Unity Club, 116B West Broad Street, will be hosting a  DJ DANCE beginning at 10 pm.

Across the street there is free soup and hot chocolate offered outside by Ireland’s Four Provinces Restaurant (105 W. Broad St.) for as long as it lasts.  This year The Welcome to Watch Night Tent will be in front of George Mason Square at the SW corner of Broad and Washington Streets.  Come here for directions, questions, programs, maps, shuttle information, etc. The Welcome to Watch Night and the Main Stage and Grand FunAlley and free popcorn are sponsored by businesses who are members of the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce (see Sponsor poster for details).

Of course, there are our 10 restaurants in the Watch Night area, many who offer Walking Watch Night Menus and are open late on New Year’s Eve. On-site snacks such as sodas, bottled water, hot drinks and snacks are for sale at Karl’s Kafe’ next to the free popcorn. Thanks to the members of The Unity Club who volunteer to set-up and staff this venue and other Watch Night Activities.

Just around the corner at 101 N. Maple, Clay Café Studios will be having a creative party of its own with refreshments and a fun evening to remember and something to remember it by.  The Studio will be open from 6 PM to 11:30 PM with door prizes throughout the evening, pay for supplies but no studio fee on Watch Night!

The not-to-be-missed Countdown Festivities at the Main Stage climax the evening with the lowering of The Historic Star.  “The Star” was the City of Falls Church’s first holiday decoration (made at City business, Dixie Sheet Metal) and was first placed on the top of the Water Tower in 1948.  That tower used to be just behind the old Women’s Club Building, which is now the Center for Spiritual Enlightenment.  This 12′ diameter Star was uncovered by Robert Goff, Operations Division Director, Environmental Services. The Star was refurbished for the 2007 Watch Night Celebration.   The Star has been lowered each year since; with firework fountains sparkling beneath.  It  creates a great backdrop for that special New Year’s kiss picture and photos with friends and family.  Bring your camera and have your photo taken!

Sponsors who have loyally supported this effort for many years include: The City of Falls Church, The Falls Church Economic Development Authority, The Falls Church Chamber of Commerce, The Village Preservation and Improvement Society, and Atlantic Realty.  We especially thank Founding Sponsor, The Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation for their time, efforts and donations in kind on behalf of Watch Night this year.

Music venue hosts are The Falls Church Anglican, The Falls Church Presbyterian Church, Dr. Theisz of Family Medicine, and  Dr. Cannon of Falls Church Foot and Ankle, and the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce.

For further information on the line-up and maps of venues, parking areas. and restaurant locations as well as the map of venue to venue shuttle bus to the EFC Metro, all of the contributors and supporting organizations and businesses, and the latest developments and more details go to www.fallschurchva.gov/watchnight.

School Board Explains Doubled Parking Fees at Mason

By FALLS CHURCH CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

December 22, 2010

School Board Chairman Joan Wodiska and Board members Kieran Sharpe and Susan Kearney met recently with George Mason High School students regarding the Board’s doubling of student parking fees from $100 to $200 per school year.

Wodiska blamed the fee increase on “a serious budget gap” caused by a decline in state and local property and sales tax, in addition to a court decision requiring the City to return proceeds from the water fund. The situation was worsened by growing student enrollment and the generally poor state of the economy, she said.

Given the unprecedented financial challenges, Wodiska said, the School Board decision was based on the principles of  1) keeping cuts away from the classroom, and 2) being equitable and fair determining who would bear pain.

Wodiska said the current (FY 2011) school budget required making choices and trade-offs. For example, the School Board rejected “draconian cuts” to eliminate full-day kindergarten, art, or music. However, as a result, no school staff received raises, some staff members experienced a reduction in their take home pay or benefits, and positions were eliminated system-wide.

She stated that:

* More than 85 percent of the School Board’s budget goes to pay salaries and benefits for school staff;

* City taxpayers provide $13,357 per student, with total per-student costs $16,858. (Average U.S. expenditure in 2007-2008 was $10,259 compared to $18,000 in Falls Church);

* Falls Church taxpayers will spend more than $200,000 for each student who attends 13 years of school in the City.

In comparing City Schools parking fees with those of surrounding jurisdiction, the School Board found that City fees had not been raised in more than 10 years and that existing George Mason parking fees were below others.

The Board decision to double the fee to $200 a year was unanimous, and was expected to raise an estimated $7,500.

The Board also established a policy that any student qualifying for free or reduced price meals would be eligible for a confidential, free parking fee waiver for childcare or employment reasons.

Mason’s Mike Larcamp Awarded Football Scholarship

By STEVEN VALLEY
Falls Church Times Staff

December 22, 2010

The winner of this year’s Falls Church City Football Association’s Annual $500 Youth Football Scholarship is Mike Larcamp, a varsity player at George Mason High School.

“This is a wonderful new tradition for George Mason football — it really helps to close the loop for our varsity players who participated in youth football and helps to inspire the young ones coming up through the ranks to stay motivated and develop their skills,” stated Tom Horn, head coach of the Mason varsity football team.

This scholarship, awarded to a senior who previously played youth football, is in recognition of his exemplary performance in abiding by the Mustang Football principles of “Pursuing Victory with Honor,” and contributing to the mission of ensuring that the George Mason football program rests on a foundation of strong character.

In keeping with Mustang Football’s proud tradition, the board of the FCCFA and Mike’s coaches felt that he demonstrated exceptional enthusiasm, and a superb sense of individual pride, personal responsibility, tolerance, respect, integrity and discipline. Additionally, Mike’s devotion to Mustang Football will serve as a model for current youth football players who may be aspiring George Mason Mustangs.

By striving to reach these high expectations for a student-athlete in the areas of character and sportsmanship, Mike stood out as an ambassador for, and a model of, the “Six Pillars of Character”: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship.

Mike’s previous McLean Youth Football experience, his personal initiative, dedication and loyalty to George Mason High School, Mustang Football, his teammates and coaches reflects great credit upon him and is in keeping with the highest traditions of George Mason Football.

“By being the first George Mason player to receive this scholarship, Mike has set a very high standard for all those youth players who will definitely follow and we’re very happy to award it to him” said Brian Sulc, the FCCFA’s President. The FCCFA was created with the goals of promoting participation in youth football to the City of Falls Church and developing a community connection with George Mason High School Football.

We all wish Mike nothing but good luck in his future academic studies and on the field if he plans to continue his football career at the college of his choice.

Crime Report for December 14 – 20

By FALLS CHURCH POLICE DEPARTMENT

December 22, 2010

Vandalism to Vehicle, 100 blk Chanel Terrace, Dec 15, sometime overnight, unknown suspect(s) slashed the left front tire and right rear tire of a vehicle.

Smoking Prohibited in Restaurant, 6799 Wilson Blvd (Café Vy), Dec 15, 3:02 PM.  Two employees from Annandale were arrested for permitting smoking in a restaurant. 

Smoking in a Non-Designated Area, 6799 Wilson Blvd (Café Vy), Dec 15, 3:09 PM.  A 46 year old McLean man was arrested for Smoking in a Non-Designated Area (restaurant).

Motor Vehicle Theft, 6700 blk Wilson Blvd (Eden Center), Dec 16, 9:55 PM, unknown suspect(s) took a vehicle which was left unattended with the door open and the engine running.  Vehicle recovered on Dec 17 at 2:30 AM in Arlington.

Smoking in a Non-Designated Area, 6757 Wilson Blvd, #6 (Quan Em Café), Dec 18, 11:13 PM.  A 44 year old Falls Church man was arrested for Smoking in a Non-Designated Area (restaurant).

Smoking in a Non-Designated Area, 6757 Wilson Blvd, #9 (Nang Chieu Restaurant), Dec 18, 11:14 PM.  A 40 year old Alexandria man was arrested for Smoking in a Non-Designated Area (restaurant).

Larceny – Theft From Building, 134 W Broad St (CVS), Dec 19, 9:24 PM, unknown suspect entered business and stole four bottles of Tide detergent.  Suspect described as Asian or Hispanic male, approximately 5`8″, of medium build, wearing a dark colored hat with white writing on the front, a brown jacket, light colored pants and dark colored shoes.  He left the area driving a red Audi or Hyundai without any license plates.

THURSDAY 12/23: State Theater’s 14th Annual Santa Jam Brings Holiday Cheer and Aid to Those in Need

On December 23rd, The State Theatre will host the 14th Annual Santa Jam. Proceeds of the benefit concert, toy drive and raffle will go towards Northern Virginia’s Doorways Women and Families Shelter, as well as Music to Give, a non-profit that brings live music to hospitalized children.

The creation of Principato bassist John Perry, Santa Jam’s mission is to raise awareness and donations for Northern Virginia’s most deserving families. In addition, it serves to bring friends and families together for a night of holiday spirit, dancing and listening to some of the area’s finest bands. Performers include local talent Tommy Lepson, Soul Gravity, Linwood Taylor and more.

Admission is a minimum donation of $10. An unwrapped child’s Christmas gift is also suggested. Please visit www.thestatetheatre.com to purchase tickets and for more information about Santa Jam.

MONDAY-THURSDAY 12/27-30: Children’s Winter Camps at Community Center

City of Falls Church Recreation and Park’s Department children’s winter camps still have availability. They are open to both City of Falls Church residents and non-City residents. We take registrations up until the first day of camp as long as there is still space. We have our Winter Fun Camp for ages 6-12. This camp runs Monday-Thursday December 27-30, 9am to 3pm. The fee is $115 for City residents and $125 for non-City residents. Extended care is available for an additional fee. We also have a Prospector’s Mystery Sciensational Workshop for 6-11 year olds on Monday and Tuesday, December 27 & 28 from 9am to 4:30pm. The fee is $160 for City residents and $170 for non-City residents. Extended care is also available for this camp for an additional fee. Our last camp is a Tiny Dancers Santa’s Helper camp for 3-5 year olds held Monday-Thursday, December 27-30 from 10am-noon. The fee is $160 for City residents and $170 for non-City residents. There is no extended care for this camp. All camps are held at the Falls Church Community Center, 223 Little Falls Street, Falls Church, VA 22046. Please call Falls Church Recreation and Parks at 703-248-5077 for more information.

The annual New Year’s Eve extravaganza for 6th-8th graders will again be held at the Falls Church Community Center December 31 from 7pm-1am. This celebration features a Boot Camp inflatable obstacle course, gladiator jousting, a moon bounce, DJ, karaoke, lots of food, raffle prizes and of course, the big countdown! This party is supervised and participants are not permitted to leave the building until they are signed out by an adult. Participants are encouraged to pre-register. The fee is $30 for individuals who register on or before December 30. The fee is $35 for day-of registration. The Falls Church Community Center is located at 223 Little Falls Street, Falls Church, VA 22046. Please call Falls Church Recreation and Parks at 703-248-5077 for more information.

Watchdog Finance Group: City Deficit May Violate Law

By GEORGE SOUTHERN
Falls Church Times Staff

December 21, 2010

The fiscal watchdog group appointed by Falls Church City Council has released a scathing memo alleging that the City’s current budget may violate both the Code of Virginia and the City’s own code, if it knowingly was drafted and passed as a deficit budget. State law requires local jurisdictions to assess a tax rate sufficient to meet expenses – in other words, to pass a balanced budget.

The volunteer Long-Range Financial Planning Working Group, which wrote the memo, was established by the City Council in October 2009 to analyze and advise on the City’s budget and financial condition. The chair is Richard Sommerfeld, whose career includes investment banking and advising governments on finance and economic policies.

In a December 10 memo to the City Council, the working group charges that “it does not appear that the City has been in compliance with its own financial policies.”

The crux of the issue is the timing of the City’s two real estate tax billings, due June 5 and December 5 each year. Because the City’s fiscal year ended June 30, tax income received by June 5 was used to balance the budget at the very end of the fiscal year.

But soon after the new fiscal year began, the City came up short. The memo notes that on September 24, only three months into the new fiscal year, the city manager reported a $1.4 million deficit to the City Council.

The memo quotes City Council member Lawrence Webb as stating October 18 that “We were doing a push-off. We told the public that there would be an increase . . . . We didn’t want such a high increase in June, to give folks time to prepare for an additional expense.”

In the absence of any further spending cuts, the City should have increased the real estate tax rate from $1.24 to $1.28 for the billing due December 5, the working group writes.

At a December 16 meeting, chairman Sommerfeld told the working group that “at the time the city manager knows he has a deficit, he must either ask for a tax increase or cut expenses. He said he would wait until June to do that.”

According to Sommerfeld, “the ball is now in Council’s court to correct the deficit. If not corrected, it rolls into [fiscal year] 2012.”

During the meeting, Sommerfeld also reported that the City missed the November 30 deadline for filing a financial statement with Richmond. A required audit was not completed on time.

Sommerfeld also stated that “the City auditor found a $4 million hole in the Schools pension fund,” which “was not accruing sufficient funds” and “appears to be substandard accounting.”

Sommerfeld was particularly critical of City Manager Wyatt Shields for “assuming a 3.3 percent increase in property receipts, while the City assessor was recommending a 3 percent decrease.”

Another serious problem is that only $140,000 is allocated for capital improvements. “We have all this expensive infrastructure and we’re not maintaining it,” Sommerfeld charged.

Additionally, the city manager’s proposals for next year are not sufficient to restore the City’s fund balance to 12 percent of General Fund revenue, as required by City statute, Sommerfeld said, because the proposals “leave out things like catching up on pension funds and paying back the water fund.”

The memo is available here.

Additionally, on December 20, Sommerfeld wrote a related comment in the Falls Church Times which may be read here.

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