By KJ MUSHUNG
WOODBRIDGE, Va. — He wasn’t sure the e-mail was real. Without warning, Will Whalen, a local Little League coach, was being asked to gather a team of players and appear at a rally with the president of the United States. He doesn’t get e-mails like that every day. Whalen didn’t know if it was legitimate or not, so he called the number and spoke with Jamie Lockhart, deputy political director with the Virginia campaign for President Barack Obama.
As it turns out, Whalen had coached the son of Jill Borak, an Obama For America volunteer and one of the rally’s more enthusiastic speakers. Borak had suggested the league’s appearance to event organizers.
The event was political in nature and would involve the children missing a day of school.
“I sent out an e-mail to the team families to see how much interest there was in participating. I was surprised at the level of response,” stated Whalen.
When all was said and done, nine Little League baseball players, ages 8 through 11 and dressed in uniforms, sang “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” at Obama’s campaign rally at the G. Richard Pfitzner Stadium in Woodbridge on Friday, Sept. 21.
They were all from the Orioles team of Coles Fall Ball Little League.
Nathan McHale, Luke Whalen, Jared Link, Nick Olson, Drew Early, Greyson Garnes, Joel Clark, Bjorn Enge and Evan Bernbaum didn’t just get a moment in the spotlight on stage before the president spoke. They also got to meet him. Obama shook the players’ hands, signed a baseball for each one and posed for a photo.
“I should say that [Lockhart] and her colleagues — all the staffers and security folks — were really professional and went above and beyond for the kids to make sure they had a chance to experience something unique,” remarked Whalen. “The entire event came together in a way that was so impressive and they took the time to make sure the kids felt a part of it all.”
Nine-year-old Luke Whalen, the coach’s son, said, “It was great.” He also said Obama was very nice and added that the president gave him a high-five. Luke said the best part about the whole experience was sitting on the stage. He’s planning on happily telling everybody at school about it. After all, how many 9-year-olds get to high-five the leader of the free world?
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However, the decision has raised questions about a potential conflict of interest involving Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger. Multiple sources have indicated that Davis-Younger is in a relationship with Delbert Parks, Vice President and Site Director at Micron’s Manassas facility.
Parks is named in an official letter from the mayor, dated the same day as the vote, outlining the incentives offered to Micron. During the meeting, Vice Mayor Mark Wolfe alluded to the relationship, stating that “some of the comments floating around online are BS,” referring to speculation that the mayor’s ties to Parks influenced the tax break discussions.
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has approved a 24-acre rezoning for a new data center development along Wellington Road, despite opposition from Supervisor Bob Weir and concerns about its proximity to Unity Reed High School.
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Fredericksburg is taking another step forward to become a more walkable community with the recent start of construction off LaFayette Boulevard, which is part of the city’s Twin Lake Drive and Kensington Pedestrian Connector project.
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The process Fredericksburg City Council is following to fill the vacant Ward 3 seat could conflict with state code—especially with a provision added last year that states that governing bodies must publicly announce the names of those being considered to fill a vacant seat at least seven days before the appointment is made.
? A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras! ?
?? Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
