In his first formal appearance in the City of Falls Church since taking office in the U.S. Congress earlier this year, U.S. Rep. Donald S. Beyer Jr. hailed the electoral activism of the Little City in an address to the annual Jefferson-Jackson Potluck Dinner at the Community Center Sunday night. In a statement published in the event’s program, Beyer said, “One of my favorite parts of my new job is that I represent the people of Falls Church, which is in so many ways the hometown of the Beyers. It is the original site of our business, and is home to my dad and half of my siblings. I have so many wonderful memories of this little city, including my own campaign events here last year.”

In remarks, he called for “health care for all, and grace, mercy, forgiveness, integrity and community.” Wanda Howard was honored as the recipient of the local Democratic committee’s annual Marian Driver Award. She’s been the treasurer of the local Democratic committee for the last 18 years. Tom and Edie Smolinsky were also honored for their volunteer service. Democratic candidates on the Falls Church ballot this November all spoke briefly, including Sen. Dick Saslaw, Del. Marcus Simon, Commonwealth Attorney Theo Stamos and Clerk of the Circuit Court Paul Ferguson.