Morning Notes

Beyer Aide Fired For China Outreach — “A House Democratic staffer was fired after her outreach to other congressional aides allegedly on behalf of the Chinese embassy was revealed this week, National Review has learned. After an investigation found that the staffer had acted improperly, her boss, Representative Don Beyer, swiftly removed her.” [National Review, Twitter]

Challenger Blasts Beyer — From GOP candidate for Congress Karina Lipsman: “I spent 14 years in the U.S. defense/intel communities, and I can tell you that the reports of China ties in Rep. Beyer’s office are a serious problem. This must be investigated thoroughly by law enforcement and Congress.” [Twitter]

Missing Middle Ideas Discussed — “Several called for architectural reviews that might ‘allay some community concerns.’ Among the criteria could be ‘compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods.’ Because of state laws on lot owners’ rights, the tree canopy is best protected through the coming Forestry and Natural Resources plan, requiring keeping or replanting trees to ‘enhance beauty and a sense of place.’ Most felt no need to cap the number of new housing types that get built, forecasting that the number won’t be inordinate… And there’s wide interest in reining in ‘McMansions.'” [Falls Church News-Press]

Tow Trucks Keep Blocking Hydrant — From Dave Statter: “Listen: The most famous fire hydrant in Arlington County getting some attention today from @ArlingtonVaFD fire marshal.” [Twitter, Twitter]

Fight Prompts Large Response at Mall — “Appears to have been an assault, fight & possible robbery at Pentagon City Metro. Police were also in the mall. At one point @ArlingtonVaPD wanted all available units to respond & some help from @VSPPIO @MetroTransitPD also on scene.” [Twitter. Twitter]

Marymount Gets STEM Grant — “Amidst an ever-increasing need to meet the high-technology needs of today’s American workforce, faculty leaders at Marymount University are launching a new need-based scholarship program that will help students in STEM majors persist in their studies and pursue essential and fulfilling careers… made possible through a National Science Foundation (NSF) S-STEM Track 2 award of $1.46 million.” [Marymount University]

New Outdoor Activities at Two Schools — “On October 28, students and staff at Randolph Elementary school held a ribbon cutting event to celebrate the completion of new educational blacktop art that encourages more physical activity and outdoor play. Regular physical activity is essential to help children build strong muscles and bones, improve fine motor skills, focus better in the classroom, and improve their mental health.” [Press Release]

Nearby: Murder in Bailey’s Xroads — “A man was found shot to death in Fairfax County, Virginia, on Sunday, according to police, and the suspects may have been spotted running from the scene. Officers with the Fairfax County Police Department were called to Skyline Towers just before 3 p.m. in the 5500 block of Seminary Road in the Bailey’s Crossroads area.” [NBC 4]

It’s Halloween — Possible light rain in the evening and overnight. High of 64 and low of 52. Sunrise at 7:36 am and sunset at 6:11 pm. [Weather.gov]