Parson Praised as He Leaves F.C. Council

Completing a four-year term as a member of the Falls Church City Council Monday, Council member Ron Parson received kudos from his colleagues and from one of the City's revered civic activists, Lou Olom.

Parson singled out the influence of Olom on his decision to run for the Council and to push a "town square" for the City. Olom, for his part, made his first appearance at a City Council meeting in over six months, showing up in his fashionable seersucker suit to praise Parson.

Other Council members praised Parson for "refocusing the City's economic development efforts" toward a town square, a "walkable city" and the benefits of a theatre district. He was described as "diligent," "one of the hardest working," and one who "always asked appropriate questions."

He was also praised for his courage wearing kilts when he walked with other Council members during the annual Memorial Day parade.

Parson thanked the patience of his wife, Susan, and daughters Christina and Rebecca for putting up with his long hours dedicated to Council work. He said he has been "humbled by the excellence of the City staff," and reiterated his themes of making Falls Church a "great place" with walkways and a town center.

Parson announced his decision not to seek re-election to the Council in February.