the 2017 army ball: u.s. army’s 242nd birthday · 2017-08-28 · page 2 fao aing news ag 2017...

The bugle called us to our tables; the fife and drum of the Old Guard sounded as the 3rd Infantry Regiment color guard entered the Ballroom and, accompanied by vocalist Staff Sgt. Benjamin Pattison of the U.S. Army Band and Chorus, we sang the National Anthem. Our Army Ball was under way. The theme for the evening was the U.S. Army in Europe, its mission and family. US Army Europe (USAREUR) had its foundations in Great Britain before D-Day. Elements remained in Europe after World War II; by 1966 we were in the Cold War.

We had been through the Berlin Blockade in 1948 and the Berlin

Airlift, which was headquartered at Wiesbaden Army Airfield. The Seventh Army was reactivated at Stuttgart; the V and VII Corps headquarters were organized, and four divisions were alerted to move back to Europe. On Aug. 12, 1961, the Soviets closed the border crossing points and began to construct the Berlin Wall. In the 1960s and early 1970s, the Vietnam War reduced USAREUR’s assigned strength, but we showed we could reinforce Europe! In January 1969, During REFORGER I – Return of Forces To Germany – more than 12,000 soldiers returned to Germany for a major exercise.

Then came the dramatic events of the late 1980s – the destruction of the Berlin Wall, German reunification, and the collapse of the Soviet Union – which changed USAREUR again, as units began to depart the European continent while others were inactivated. At the time there were more than 200,000 soldiers and families in Europe. In 1992, 70,000 soldiers redeployed, along with 90,000 family members.

AUGUST 2017

The 2017 Army Ball: U.S. Army’s 242nd Birthday~ by Jim Mullen

Hank Bodson, Don Hughes, Jerry Schumacher

Old Guard Fife and Drum

F A L C O N S L A N D I N G N EW SPAGE 2 AUGUST 2017

Europe went from 858 installations to 415 in 1993; more closings and troop reductions followed.

During the period, Europe was an accompanied tour. That was and still is the world familiar to many of us, with family a key part of life: Family housing, commissary shopping, maneuvers, Fasching, travel and sightseeing across Europe, Lili Marlene, alerts in the night, dependent schools, Scouting and Gummi Bears. Reforger! Mission and family together. That was life from the 50s to the 80s, an enriching experience for soldier and family.

As the Army Ball progressed, we enjoyed a fine dinner prepared by the Falcons Landing dining staff, with French cuisine for main courses, German dessert and Italian wine. This was followed by the presentation of the 242nd birthday cake cut with the saber of Howard Schue by Hank Bodson, Don Hughes and Jerry Schumacher representing World War II, Korea and Vietnam. We finished the evening dancing to the music of the Dale Jarrett trio.

Accompanying photos are courtesy of John and Ginny Kinniburgh and Kirsten Holman.

The 2017 Army Ball: U.S. Army’s 242nd Birthday (CONTINUED)

Howard and Barbara Schue with woodcarving by Howard

Jean and Bill Hilsman

Bob Manning on drums

L-R: Bill and Jean Hilsman, Jackie Mullen, Hazel Plummer, Amy Manning,

Barbara Schumacher, Lyle Bowman, Cynthia Howes, Jim Mullen (Chairman) Not shown: Bob Manning, Howard and Barbara Schue

F A L C O N S L A N D I N G N EW S PAGE 3AUGUST 2017

Barb and Stan Brannon

Stan King and Fran Rowan

Dining Staff

The Cake

Bill and Suzette Timme


The Falcons Landing Players have done it again! On a recent June evening, our talented actors brought Agatha Christie back to the Ballroom theater in a production of “Verdict,” a gripping tale of love and murder far different from the “who done it” stories she wrote so well and often. We know who did it — we watch as murder is committed in Act I. The question of the remainder is whether the police focus on the real killer. They do not, and will the jury convict the innocent woman on trial? — they do not, fortunately. It is intrigue, action, a study of motives from start to finish. At the conclusion, the full house audience that stayed up late showered long and vigorous applause on actors, stagehands, crew and especially on co-directors Bob and Suellen Lansell.

The characters: A professor who sees no evil lives with his invalid failing wife in a book-strewn flat near London, along with her cousin who takes care of the flat and the wife. Adding a love interest, the cousin and the professor have for years lived with a deeply felt but unacted-upon mutual love. His good friend, a doctor, sees to the wife’s care. A young, somewhat bumbling student is on the scene, as is a housekeeper ever on the lookout for the loose cigarette or tea, and any “carrying-ons” by her employer. Then there is another student, or would-be student, who is infatuated with the professor; her rich father is willing to trade medical assistance for the wife if the professor will give private lessons to his daughter. Completing the cast are the investigating

Agatha Christie Returns~ by Dave Hopkins

Bill McGuth, Rosanne Flynn Jackie Mullen, Joy Arant, Mick Trainor, Bill McGuth, Norma Lasher

Jackie Mullen, Joy Arant

Mick Trainor, Stan King


police, the detective inspector and his assisting sergeant.

Bill McGuth played the professor, truly in love with his irritable and irritating wife, Joy Arant. While this love is true, the professor also admits to a long-repressed love for her cousin, Lisa, played by Jackie Mullen, who lives with them and who also harbors a mutual, unexpressed ardor. The doctor, providing medical assistance to the wife and brotherly advice to the professor, was a bearded Mick Trainor. That filching housekeeper was Rosanne Flynn. The first student, who loses books and eats sandwiches, was Stan King. That rich and beautiful other student, the “I’ll get what I want even if I have to kill for it” girl (and she does) was Norma Lasher. Her father, not lacking in money but devoid of morals, was Jack Scharfen. And our policemen, not exactly bumbling but on the wrong track, were Arnold Braswell and Dave Hopkins.

As the final act draws to a close, Lisa (the cousin) has been acquitted of the murder of the professor’s

wife, and we expect the non-lovers to come together at last. Not so. She tells him she is leaving, that she cannot put up with his air-headed idealism, arguably the cause of two deaths and almost a third, her own. But Lisa leaves only briefly and soon returns to his arms, answering his question “Why?” with “Because I’m a fool!” Considering the professor’s dubious relationship with reality, this reviewer is inclined to agree with her.

I hope the show appears on Channel 1970 quickly. It deserves a look if you missed it, and a second look if you were there. Then you can tell me — would you have come back to this professor? Not me.

Arnold Braswell, Mick Trainor, Dave Hopkins, Bill McGuth, Jackie Mullen

Jackie Mullen, Bill McGuth

Producers (center couple, back row) Bob & Suellen Lansell, Cast, and Stage Crew (front row, L-R) Andrew Milwee, Harry

Furney, Christine Cralle, Pat Richards, S.C. Whitehouse


Joanne Sullivan, manager of The Store, retired with a bang! In June, as manager, Joanne accepted the Falcons Landing Grand Patron Award given to The Store for the $500,000 it has contributed to Falcons Landing through the years. That’s half a million dollars generated by the many nickels, dimes, quarters and dollar bills paid by The Store’s customers!

After volunteering at The Store for 15 years, eight of those years as manager, Joanne decided it was time to step down. Her partner, in life as well as The Store, John Sullivan, treasurer, decided to join her in retirement. John has capably handled The Store finances for 10 years.

Under the leadership of Joanne and John, The Store has grown and prospered. Before moving to Falcons Landing, Joanne had been assistant coordinator at the Arlington Hospital gift shop and put her marketing skill to use here at The Store. When she became manager, there was a thrift store vibe; price information was written on tape and stuck to items. She quickly got some pricing guns and put them to good use.

From the original two rooms, The Store has grown to five rooms in addition to a workroom. There is even a dressing room — as Joanne says, “Eat your heart out, Nordstrom’s!” According to Joanne and John, the original two belowground rooms were very cold in the winter and very hot in the summer. When Joanne asked for heating and air conditioning, Peter Plante gladly obliged.

Joanne said that The Store was started 20 years ago

by Lou Bishop, who “started a thrift shop wherever she went.” For many years, Marie Anderson was manager, and when her health was failing she asked John Sullivan for help doing the finances. When Marie could no longer work, Joanne became manager. Long-time residents Lois Guzik and Emily McGuire were two of the original Store volunteers.

The Store has now become a very popular place to volunteer. Current manager, Marina Hambric, has no problem finding eager volunteers to act as cashiers and baggers. Harry Hurst was persuaded to take over as treasurer. There is a corps

group of volunteers who work behind the scenes on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. This small group of seven volunteers take in the donations, organize, price, and arrange them. They are also the ones who decide where the proceeds should go.

So how does it all work? It is strictly an in-house operation, not open to outsiders. Only residents and staff members can shop at The Store. It is certainly one of the fringe benefits of working at Falcons Landing. The furniture sales, in particular, are eagerly anticipated. As one employee said, “I have gotten things I could never have afforded otherwise.” It is a not-for-profit entity. It is open on Monday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon for donations and Friday morning from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for sales.

The Store benefits everyone — those who donate get a tax write-off and those who buy get bargains. Whatever The Store does not sell is donated to Goodwill — and that serves as Outreach for Falcons Landing.

The Store Donates $500,000 to Falcons Landing~ by Frances Rowan


At Falcons landing, we are fortunate to have so many choices, dining areas and food options that it took almost three years for me to discover the delights of “food in boxes!” Thinking “outside-the-box,” with food choices from “Grab and Go” (Compass Club), “To Go” (call-in) and boxes for leftovers from the Main Dining Room, has brought additional variety to my at-home meals. Remember when we were kids and our parents admonished “Don’t play with your food!” and later, as parents, we repeated those words to our own children? Instead of “playing” with my food, I prefer to think of it as “outside-the-box” creativity and easy meals at home.

The “Grab and Go” options and the availability of the delicious muesli bread and daily soup-by-the-quart are wonderful choices for a busy day, as well as when I have guests. I especially like the chicken salad box with fruit. Adding half of a diced tart apple, slivered almonds, more celery plus curry powder is one variation; the other favorite is dried cranberries, blue cheese and walnuts. To a potato-base soup, I often add diced ham or smoked sausage, broccoli, diced carrots or corn, in combination or alone. The availability of fresh fruit in serving sizes is most helpful, so I don’t worry about melons or boxes of berries going bad in the dark recesses of my fridge. When the fruit isn’t eaten quickly, it goes into the freezer for smoothies!

The “To Go” meals are so easy to order and pick up. Often a complete meal becomes 2½ meals. Soup and salad become a lunch when I have plans for an evening meal with friends. The entrée can

become a light dinner at home. Ordering a baked potato often becomes an “overstuffed potato” for a lunch, with additions of blue or cheddar cheese, broccoli, green onions, diced ham or crisp bacon. A dessert (love the chocolate cake) becomes a hidden treasure in my fridge for my sweet fix over a couple of days. The house salad and Caesar salad become entrée salads with a single addition or combinations of shrimp, chicken, tuna, ham, hard-cooked eggs, marinated artichoke hearts and any veggies you enjoy.

Finally, boxes for leftovers is a no brainer. Just choose from what hasn’t been consumed, transfer the food into a box and you’re ready to go home and get it into the fridge — then, occasionally, I forget about the box and toss it out a week or two later.

I am sure you have created your own outside-the-box variations with our plentiful options. When I explain our dining choices to acquaintances who are thinking about — or already in — retirement communities, they marvel at the options and quality of dining experiences available to us within our 30 meals each month. And now the billing is simplified and equitable. I appreciate the new system!

Please remember that the Culinary Committee meets monthly; we want to have your written and verbal comments, whether positive, negative or concerns. Members of this year’s committee are Tom Flynn, Ed Ladd, Fran Rowan, Ron Trossbach and Marly Wilson. Bob Besserer, Chef Jeff Potter, Wilfredo Ochoado and Cynthia Proctor are a strong team, and they want to hear from us.

COUNCIL CORNER~ by Margaret Quayle, Residents’ Council Liaison to the Culinary Committee


When new resident Charlotte Chang came to America at the age of 10, she could not speak a word of English, but she quickly learned. Her father, a Chinese diplomat, was stationed at the Washington Embassy, so they lived in D.C., where she attended local schools, graduating from Roosevelt High School, followed by four years at George Washington University and a degree in business administration. Her husband, Ming E. Chang, was 14 when he arrived. His father served on a U.S. Navy ship as steward to Fleet Admiral Ernest J. King. Once he arrived in the U.S., Ming’s father, who now worked for Secretary of Defense James Forrestal, sent for Ming and his mother. Ming attended Fairfax High School and then the College of William and Mary, graduating in 1955 with a bachelor’s degree in physics. Ming was attending William and Mary when the two met. According to Charlotte, their Chinese heritage required obedience to one unassailable commandment: MARRY CHINESE! So when Ming’s parents were told there was an upstanding Chinese family with five pretty daughters in the area, Ming made his formal appearance on their doorstep. Charlotte was daughter number two. She says Ming picked her because the other sisters were all either too young or too old. Not true. Obviously it was Cupid – who is definitely not Chinese – with his bow and arrows who finalized the courtship. Charlotte’s youngest sister was only five years old when all this was taking place. We know her today as Connie Chung: journalist, anchor and reporter for U.S. television news, who also, by the way, blew the lid off the “Marry Chinese” rule by wedding talk-

show host Maury Povich!Upon graduation, Ming attended OCS, receiving his commission as an ensign in the U.S. Navy, after which he and Charlotte married and set out together on what would be a fascinating, challenging and much-traveled life. Ming would serve in the Navy for 34 years, and was the first naturalized U.S. citizen to command a destroyer, as well as the first

naturalized Asian American naval officer to reach flag rank in the United States military. They would be stationed in Coronado and Monterey, Norfolk and Charleston, Alameda, Long Beach and Hawaii, with Ming holding cruiser and destroyer commands. He would also have a 12-month tour of duty ashore in Vietnam in 1970 with the Naval Advisory Group. Ming retired in 1990 as the Department of the Navy Inspector General, after which he became vice president and corporate director for the Pacific region at Raytheon International, and then president of MEC International, LLC. They retired for the second time in Vienna. As time went by, they began to look around at retirement communities and discovered Falcons Landing. Unfortunately, however, Ming’s health went downward, precluding him from residence here. He is now in a nursing home in McLean. Charlotte moved here to be near both him and her daughter, Donalda, who lives in Leesburg. The Changs also have a son, Daniel, who retired in Virginia Beach. “Looking back,” Charlotte says, “I realize Ming and I have lived the American dream. We moved to this country and were blessed with the opportunity to achieve a full, wonderful life.” Well said, Charlotte. Welcome to Falcon’s Landing and to the beginning of another full, wonderful life.

New Resident Charlotte Chang - Apt. 2303 ~ by Bebe Rice


Frances Omori has been retired for only a month, and she’s ready to go to work again. So if anyone knows of a job available in the conflict analysis and resolution field, or war gaming, get in touch with her! One catch — she’s through with commuting to D.C. When she moved here two months ago she was commuting to D.C., getting up at 4 a.m. and returning home at 8 p.m.

According to Frances, her move here was more difficult than others she has made. During her active career as a commander in the Navy, she lived in apartments or townhouses, so when she moved to Falcons Landing, she wanted her own cottage and is now settled at 46976 Eaker Street.

Born in Hawaii, she decided she wanted to learn how to ski, so she moved to Colorado after graduating from high school. She received her bachelor’s degree in education and business and a master’s in communication from the University of Northern Colorado. She also received a doctorate from George Mason University, School of Conflict Analysis and Resolution, specializing in international conflict and organizational culture.

During her career, she was a U.S./Soviet negotiator in Geneva, Switzerland, during the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty implementation. After the fall of the Soviet Union, she specialized in the Asia-Pacific region. She was assigned as an operations research analyst at the National Defense University, Institute for National Strategic Studies, War Gaming and Simulation Center where she led political-military war games and tabletop exercises for Department of Defense and Department of State policymakers.

Prior to retiring from the Navy, Frances served in the intelligence community. She also served as an associate professor at the National Intelligence University and adjunct professor for National Security and Intelligence at the Department of State Foreign Service Institute.

One of her proudest accomplishments has been the publication of her book, Quiet

Heroes: Navy Nurses of the Korean War 1950-1953, Far East Command in 2000. She donated a copy to the FL Library. The stories she tells of the nurses, the corpsmen, and the Marines are riveting. The idea for the book came when she attended a luau at a firehouse in Lorton, VA. There she met a woman who had been a Navy nurse during the Korean War. The stories told by the nurse inspired Frances to write the book. One story she was involved in was that of a Marine who was searching for the Navy nurse who saved his leg from being amputated. He did not know her name but remembered that everyone called her “Bing.” After Frances did some research, she found that the last name of one of the nurses on the hospital ship the Marine had been on was Crosby and figured that she might be the nurse he was seeking. She was! Finally he was able to express his gratitude to the nurse in person.

After taking a course in mystery writing at Georgetown University, Frances is eager to try her hand at writing a mystery novel. Perhaps Falcons Landing will be the place where she publishes her next book. I, for one, will look forward to reading it!

New Resident Frances Omori - 46976 Eaker St. ~ by Frances Rowan


Although Joyce and Ed Post both grew up as Army Brats, it was highly unlikely that they would ever meet and marry. For one thing, their families were always on the move, being stationed here, there and everywhere, both in this country and abroad. Joyce was born in Roanoke, VA. Ed was born at West Point. Joyce attended three different high schools. Ed went to five. However, Sir Isaac Newton had a lot to say about objects in motion, and somewhere he must have laid out a scientific explanation for how Joyce, a high school junior, managed to meet Ed, a West Point junior, at a formal military ball at Ft. Benning, GA, and eventually wind up marrying him in Ft. Lewis, WA, when she was attending the University of Puget Sound. However, when they returned from their honeymoon, Ed was immediately deployed to Germany because of the unrest created by the Berlin Wall, so they were in motion again. Ed had the best possible introduction to the Army. His earliest years were spent at West Point, where his father (Class of ‘23) was a tactical officer and instructor. After that, his father’s career included duty at posts and stations throughout Europe, Asia and the United States, so Ed saw a great deal of the Army and the world prior to his attendance and graduation from West Point, class of 1960. Joyce had an equally peripatetic childhood. Her family also moved and traveled extensively throughout her father’s Army career, and she has many memories of those times. Their tour in Austria immediately following World War II, for example, is one she says she will never forget. As a married couple, and then as a family with a son

and a daughter in tow, Ed and Joyce continued to move and travel. And to enjoy it. Over his 26 years of active duty, Ed served in Infantry, Airborne, Rangers and Special Forces units both here and overseas, including two tours in Vietnam. Along the way, he also earned his MBA from the University of Rochester, and later was noted as a

distinguished graduate at the Naval War College. He retired as a colonel in 1986 in the Washington area, having had two tours of duty at the Pentagon. On the distaff side throughout these years, Joyce finished her college degree, doing her junior year at the University of Maryland on Okinawa, Japan, and receiving her diploma from UMD when Ed was on his second assignment in Vietnam. She subsequently studied for and attained a graduate degree in history from George Mason University and taught for 28 years, first in a community college in Colorado and then at Fairfax High School. After retiring from the military, Ed worked for 12 years as a Senior Executive for Ross Perot at Electronic Data System (EDS), and then for Northrop Grumman, where his first project was to develop and expand the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). He retired permanently in 2001. The Posts came to us from Fairfax Station where they have owned a home for many years. Their two children, Jean and Bob, live nearby, as well as the many friends they have made over the years. They love travel, tennis, golf, reading and the theater, so are looking forward to enjoying the good life here at Falcons Landing. Welcome Joyce and Ed!

New Residents Ed and Joyce Post - Apt. 5205 ~ by Bebe Rice


George McManus was born in St. Louis, MO, into an Army family. This might explain what he did the day after graduating from Curtis High School on Staten Island — he enlisted in the Army.

During his basic training at Fort Dix, he passed the test that qualified him for the Army Prep School at Stewart AFB. Along with other Army and Air Force enlistees, he studied for the West Point entrance examination. He was admitted in 1955, later to graduate, be commissioned and assigned to the Corps of Engineers.

George’s overseas assignments included France, Bolivia, Vietnam and New Zealand. Bolivia? His American Embassy duties were to oversee various construction projects. New Zealand? Reporting into the New Zealand Staff College, George met several “mates” at the officers club. He was introduced to a Fijian who asked him his BOQ number. Another

in the group cautioned, “Be careful! One generation ago Fijians were eating people like you.” He particularly enjoyed his time in France, where he visited battlefields; George described in interesting detail the superior architecture, artistry, sculpture and construction of American World War I monuments.

Since his retirement in 1979, he has had an impressive career with Exxon and Hess. He is currently a partner in a trucking company. George had been married and has two adult children. He moved to Falcons Landing from Jacksonville, FL, and brought his golf clubs along with his interests in charity work, travel, languages, skiing and opera — he attended over 100 performances while in New York City!

Welcome to Falcons Landing, George McManus!

New Resident George McManus - Apt. 46885 Grissom ~ by Russ Ray

Joyce Leal of IT is our President’s Achievement Award winner for May 2017! Joyce was nominated by a resident who appreciated her commitment to excellence. Here is an excerpt from the nomination: “Joyce is adept at explaining and assisting those who are uncertain users. She has patience and the ability to describe her actions showing us what actions to take to receive the results we want. We have come to rely on her. Joyce is a bright and cheerful person and perseveres until the task is completed and the resident is prepared to work alone. She responds quickly to phone requests and sets up appointments, arrives on

time and is always a joy to work with. Joyce is unreservedly recommended for the President’s Award of the month.”

Congratulations to Joyce on being our President’s Achievement Award Winner for May 2017!

President’s Achievement Award Winner for May 2017


The June Gathering addressed a remembrance of Vietnam veterans. The originally scheduled speaker from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund was unexpectedly unavailable, but that did not stop the evening. Years ago Gathering chairman Bill Hilsman was involved in creating a Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Philadelphia. He had the set of materials for a future Gathering, and with Andrew Milwee’s help, Bill was able to gather his materials and tell the story that same night.

In the late 1980s, veterans in Philadelphia were commenting on the lack of recognition of Vietnam vets. After discussions in 1984, they visited the D.C. Vietnam Memorial Wall, traced the names of 648 Philadelphia area veterans who lost their lives or were missing in action in Vietnam, and returned with the names to Philadelphia — and they actually walked back from Washington to Philadelphia. Ten people participated in the walk, including Bill. The march was approximately 150 miles over six days, and it was well publicized by a local TV station. As a result, the walkers were enthusiastically met by family and friends as they arrived home. Then the group raised a million dollars for a permanent memorial in Philadelphia, modeled after the D.C. Vietnam Wall. Four veterans were selected as directors of the campaign, and on July 10,1984, Mayor W. Wilson Goode signed Philadelphia City Council’s City Ordinance Bill 202 authorizing the establishment of the Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund.

The Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial was dedicated in 1987, and it included all the names of the Philadelphians brought back during the march. Each soldier’s name is etched in granite on the memorial’s south wall. There are also ten panels depicting war scenes, from the beginning to the final rescue of Vietnamese refugees in 1975. At the end of the presentation, several residents who were Vietnam veterans added information from their own experiences. Thanks to all participants and especially to Bill Hilsman for his patriotic support of veterans’ causes in Philadelphia and for his presentation to the Gathering.

Remembering Vietnam Veterans~ by Jim Mullen

L-R, Bill Hilsman, Peter Scott, Jim Mullen, James Hesson, Jean Hilsman

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Brain Workout ~ by Norma Lasher

Clue: U = RCLUE: VACATION

Answer on page 21


Since this is summer, this month will focus on state fairs.

1. Where would you go to eat spaghetti and meatballs on a stick?2. Which state fair features the Octodog?3. Where could you eat, rather than drink, Pepsi?

A new tradition was born for Falcons Landing residents: Afternoon Tea. This first outing was on a trial basis, and it took our residents to the charming Henley Park Hotel in downtown D.C. The grandeur and timeless elegance of this 100-year-old historic boutique hotel is located in a beautifully restored Tudor-style building on Massachusetts Avenue Northwest.

A total of 17 of us were treated to “Royal Tea” with a refreshing Kir Royal as the starter followed by seasonal fruit, finger sandwiches, scones with clotted Devonshire cream and petit fours, tartlets and truffles to top off a wonderful afternoon. Of course, one must never forget the mandatory choice of an assortment of Harney & Sons Teas.

Whilst the custom of drinking tea dates back to the third millennium B.C. in China, it was introduced in England by the Portuguese Infanta Catherine de Braganza in the 1660s, wife to King Charles II; however, it was not until the mid-19th century that the concept of afternoon tea first appeared. In 1840, Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, introduced it at the English Court. The Duchess would become hungry around 4 o’clock in the afternoon. The

evening meal in her household was served fashionably late, after 8 or 9 o’clock; thus, the Duchess asked that a tray of tea, bread and butter and cake be brought to her room during the late afternoon. This became a habit of hers and she began inviting friends to join her.

This pause for tea became a fashionable social event. During the 1880s, upper-class and society women would change into long gowns, gloves and hats for their afternoon tea that was usually served in the drawing room between 3 and 5 o’clock. Queen Victoria herself was very fond of this tradition and observed the ritual daily.

Our 17 residents decided that this ritual could easily become a Falcons Landing quarterly event, taking us to the various different venues that observe this great tradition. However, Falconites awarded the Henley Park Afternoon Tea offering less than a perfect score. Improper table linens and not providing individual teapots for each table were the reasons.

All eagerly await the next outing, so please look for a Mail Room posting and join the Falcons Landing Tea Club.

A Falcons Landing First: British Afternoon Tea~ by Marly Wilson

Geography Quiz ~ by Andy Lunt

“There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as Afternoon Tea.” Henry James

Answers on page 18


The April 27 meeting of the Gathering featured Cynthia Watson, Ph.D., Professor of Strategy at the National War College, in a presentation concerning China and its overseas foci. We were reminded how much the perspective of any country is influenced by its geography and history. That is certainly true for China with its long history as the “Middle Kingdom,” its orientation on the Pacific as well as its land borders with Russia, India and Southeast Asia.

The term “Middle Kingdom,” with a history of over 5000 years, helps us to understand a nation with a view implying significance in the world. Yet China suffered what it terms a “Century of Humiliation” from about 1842 until the success of the Communist Party in wresting control from the Nationalists after World War II. That period included foreign domination, first by Britain and then by the Japanese during the Second World War. It was only after the Communist control that China was able to assert “We are no longer on our knees.” Looking at the economic power of China today and its immense population of over 1.2 billion people, it is hard for us to understand this perspective and sense of history.

Then, too, the development since 1949 was not always smooth. China experienced the leadership first of Mao Tse Tung (Great Leap Forward) and later Deng Xioping (The Four Modernizations) up to the latest Communist Party leaders (One Belt, One World). So, through a series of five-year plans, China grew from a rural peasant-centered world to an economic powerhouse, but all the while very conscious to maintain balance and control over their vast population.

Part of the understanding of the China Foci stems from the events of the transition that started in 1949 with the escape of the Nationalists to Taiwan and the establishment of their independent government. China has always considered Taiwan very much a part of itself, so much so that policy of any other country concerning Taiwan in any detail is very much of a global interest to China. Then there is the

Dalai Lama and Tibet, very much a concern about any formal recognition to the Dalai Lama and any suspicion that Tibet is not an integral part of China. On to Korea and the relationship with China: North Korea is a Communist country and a maverick. Yet China does not want to see a major change that might allow the two Koreas to unite. And finally to the South China Sea, where the interests of the Southeast Asian countries intersect and lead to disagreement over land rights, fishing rights, etc.

History also brings us back to the time of the Silk Road and the long overland and sea trade routes between China and Europe. Today President Xi Jinping is launching the concept of a second trade route of “One Belt, One World” to extend trade from China to Europe and Africa. Much of the construction is being underwritten by China, with labor and construction from China aimed at creating increased opportunities for global trade.

Dr. Watson ended her discussion with a series of policy options that face us today:

• Do we surrender to China’s desires to dominate in the world?

• How do we balance China’s marked increase in defense expenditures with its comparable increase in global economic prowess?

• How do we increase bilateral U.S security ties in the area while China holds the geographic keys?

• Can we undermine China’s economic growth?

China’s Overseas Foci Today ~ by Jim Mullen


Residents welcomed Professor Peter Mandaville back to Falcons Landing at the May 25 Gathering. This time the professor’s topic was Trump Policy in the Middle East. It was clear from the moment that Professor Mandaville joined several residents at dinner before the meeting that he was as pleased at the opportunity to engage with us as much as we were pleased to welcome him. Professor Mandaville, scholar and political advisor, has a deep background in the Middle East where he was born and raised. Over the past half decade he has been significantly involved in U.S. diplomacy and policy planning, where his work focused on ISIS, countering extremism and sectarian conflict. His presentation spanned the last decade, with a focus first on key historical events and on the U.S general policy in the region under the past several administrations. From there he added identification of current regional challenges, the focus early in the current administration and the challenges ahead. The professor identified U.S. key interests during this period:• Counterterrorism• Counterproliferation (Iran nuclear developments)• Energy• Israel and Middle East Peace Program• Democracy and Human Rights (which he noted

was perhaps an afterthought, with security and stability in the region as of foremost importance)

During this time, the Arab Spring was a significant marker. This was the period sparked by an uprising in Tunisia where basic citizens and particularly the young sought a change with focus on economic opportunity, justice and a fight against corruption. It was the start of a period of turbulence that led to a number of civil wars (Libya, Yemen, Syria) and the major incident of the U.S. invasion of Iraq, in part as a result of the 9/11 attack on the U.S. The toppling of the Hussein regime in Iraq led to the end of a centuries-long domination of Sunni tribes over the Shia majority in Iraq, a political reversal

that in the end led to the rise of ISIS in 2014. During that period the U.S. and its allies had a number of short-term successes including the overthrow of Hussein, the disruption of Al Qaeda and the Iran nuclear deal. Yet, as Professor Mandaville pointed out, none of the successes addressed the underlying problems that were identified with the Arab Spring. The desire for improved life, for justice and for an end to corrupt governments remains. The civil war rages in Syria; Turkey has issues with sectarianism and with its Kurdish minority. ISIS may fall, but the driving forces that caused ISIS to rise still remain. With that in mind, as the professor turned to address the recent visit of President Trump to the Middle East, it would appear that the visit addressed the short-term interests of the fight against ISIS, of maintaining a firmness with Iran plus continuing support to Saudi Arabia. The activities identified in the presidential visit addressed the near term but did not really address a strategy or policy that would provide guidance to a mid- or long-term and certainly not the 25-year horizon postulated by Professor Mandaville. He suggested that what we were seeing from the administration was a “return to the world in the Middle East as it was eight years ago,” but that will not suffice. Perhaps we should give Professor Peter Mandaville a standing invitation to return every six months. We are going to need it.

The Gathering: U.S. Middle East Policy Under Trump ~ by Jim Mullen

L to R, Jim Mullen, Howard Schue, Bill Hilsman, Professor Mandaville, Howard Wilson, Don McCarthy


Martin Van Buren, 8th President of the United States ~ by Dave Hopkins

Martin Van Buren served as president from 1837 to 1841. He was born, lived and was buried in Old Kinderhook, NY. The name of the town led to his nickname, often shortened to O.K., which survives today with the same meaning his supporters intended back in 1836 — everything is in pretty good shape. Okay?

His birth in 1782 made Van Buren the first of our presidents to be born in these United States. He was also considered, for better or worse, to be our first professional politician. Elected to the New York Senate at 21, he also served in the U. S. Senate and was elected governor of New York, only to resign early in his term when named Secretary of State by Andrew Jackson in our seventh president’s first term. By this time, Van Buren was called the “Little Magician” for his political know-how, particularly of the spoils system, and is considered along with Jackson to be a founder of the Democratic Party. In Jackson’s second term Van Buren served as vice president, and riding on the broad coattails of “Old Hickory,” he was easily elected to succeed him in 1836.

It was just two months into his term of office that the severe economic depression that became known as the “Panic of 1837” began. It lasted five years — banks closed, unemployment reached record highs, and the Panic forever mars Van Buren’s place in history. During his unsuccessful attempt at reelection he was ridiculed as “Martin Van Ruin.” Certainly it was no action of his that caused the Panic, say historians, but he can be blamed when his attempts failed to get the country out of the depression (did somebody mention Herbert Hoover?). But this was America’s

first economic crisis, and Van Buren had no congressional tools, nor historical precedent, to deal with it. So he is listed near the bottom of the ranking of effective presidents and, like others we have looked at, that ranking was at least partly due to factors beyond his control.

Even beyond the economic issues that

so dominate our consideration of the man, we can say little to give him stature. As a candidate he waffled on the slavery issue to get support from southern states, calling slavery “immoral, but sanctioned by the Constitution.” In office, when asked by Joseph Smith to help Mormons being persecuted in Missouri, he declined to take action. He continued the movement begun by his mentor, Andrew Jackson, of Indians out of the Southeast, now known as the “Trail of Tears.” It was said he was incapable of tough decisions.

One more assault on his reputation, during his doomed 1840 campaign, was made on the floor of Congress by Whig Charles Ogle of Pennsylvania who took three days to deliver what is now known as “The Gold Spoon Oration,” terming Van Buren an effete dandy who lived in the regal splendor of the presidential palace. Exaggerations, of course, but by all accounts very effective. Undeterred by the defeat, our professional politician ran twice more, in 1844 and 1848, on the Free Soil Party ticket, with no success even though then billing himself as an abolitionist. At last, a retreat back to Old Kinderhook where things were, presumably, O.K.


The VGMB: A Unique Organization of Volunteer Professional Musicians

~ by Paul Wieland

Residents are fortunate to be able to attend the Virginia Grand Military Band’s five concerts each season. A ticket can be purchased at the entrance for $15, but season passes are only $50. Also, we enjoy premier reserved seating and free transportation via a Falcons bus.

The VGMB has almost 90 top-level volunteer musicians who receive no remuneration. Virtually all are current or former members of one of the military bands, and several are recognized as the best in the world on their particular instruments. Many support volunteers prepare for the concerts and work as ushers, in ticket and CD sales and in other capacities.

The most widely acclaimed professional, however, is Loras John Schissel, the music director, conductor and founder of the VGMB, recognized in musical circles worldwide as among the preeminent concert bands. As the “heart” of the organization, the “Maestro” makes each concert not only musically enjoyable, but also entertaining and just plain fun! Usually he provides the background and history of each program number, adding humor; just watching him conduct is fascinating.

The May 27 concert provided an example of his humor. Prior to the band’s rendition of the Army Air Corps march celebrating the 75th anniversary of what is now the U.S. Air Force band, the Maestro announced that the audience would participate when signaled; he then demonstrated how we were to loudly shout “CLEAR! CLEAR! CONTACT! CONTACT!” and follow with rising guttural, growling noises, going “RRRROAR” to imitate the starting sounds of an old aircraft engine! He repeated the instructions, the band played and we in the audience did “our thing” — but he abruptly stopped the music and chided us for lacking gusto! Then the Maestro began the march again. This time, the audience response was ebulliently enthusiastic! Twice he gave the appropriate signal, and twice everyone screamed and shouted the words and

imitations, and it was all punctuated by laughter!

This ploy was not the first time Maestro Schissel had drawn the audience into the performance, and it won’t be the last. A VGMB concert means that one not only enjoys live music played by superb musicians led by a world-class conductor, it is also entertainment highlighted with light-hearted humor.

Music-lovers are encouraged to join the many Falconite “regulars” who almost never miss a VGMB concert. Go to the band’s website at http://www.vgmb.com for details about the 2017-2018 Season, or contact Glenn Carus, our POC. As noted, season passes are $50. You can even make a tax-free donation, as 10 Falconites do every year; their names are published in the program distributed before each concert. Performances are held on Saturday evenings from autumn until the Memorial Day weekend at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall of NOVA’s Alexandria campus. Come join us!

Loras John Schissel


Angela Walton, who for many years has faithfully served Falcons Landing in delivering our U.S. Postal Service mail, was honored during an appreciation ceremony in Founders Hall on June 8 by a standing-room-only crowd of grateful residents. CEO Barbara Brannon read a citation citing Angela’s dedication, friendliness and excellence that was inscribed on a wall plaque presented to Angela; she responded with a brief message of thanks. The festivities continued, with residents expressing their personal gratitude as everyone enjoyed fruit punch and refreshments.

Born in Baltimore, MD, Angela now resides in Woodbridge, VA. She has served our country for 24 years with the United States Army. Following her retirement, she was employed as a supervisor with the Navy Federal Credit Union while earning a degree in nutrition. After changing jobs and pausing her education, Angela joined the Postal Service and has remained there for the past 21 years.

She has two children: a son who has a degree in computer science, and a daughter who is a mechanical

engineering sophomore at Virginia Commonwealth University. When not at work, Angela enjoys Sunday dinners and barbeques with her family; her love is cooking and baking foods of all cultures for her family and friends. She has a rare talent for remembering names and, if tested, she is even able to recite the mail box numbers of our residents. Asked how she acquired this ability, she said, “I come from a very large family. My mother is one of 13 and my father is one of 17. With all the aunts, uncles and cousins, name recognition comes naturally.”

Angela’s former customers along the postal route bordering

Lowes Island Boulevard protested when she left to serve us here

at Falcons Landing. The outcry resulted because she had gained the popularity there that she has since earned here during the last three years.

The residents and staff of Falcons Landing are delighted to recognize Angela Walton for her dedication, service and personality.

In Recognition of Angela Walton ~ by Russ Ray

L-R, Cynthia Howes, Angela Walton, Russ Ray

1. Spaghetti and meatballs is just one of more than 80 items served on a stick at the Minnesota State Fair.

2. This octopus-shaped hot dog served on a bed of macaroni and cheese can be found at the Iowa State Fair.

3. Fried Pepsi, dough balls filled with Pepsi syrup and topped with powdered sugar and more syrup, are served on a stick at the South Carolina State Fair.

Geography Quiz ~ Answers to Geography Quiz on page 13


Annual Scholarship Awards Dinner ~ by Kirsten Holman

The Annual Falcons Landing Scholarship Awards Dinner, held in the Ballroom on June 12, recognized 15 promising young students among 130 applicants, awarding each $5,000 in scholarships. “Every year Falcons Landing is proud to award a college scholarship to one student from each of Loudoun’s high schools,” said president and CEO Barbara Brannon. “This is actually my favorite event of the year at Falcons Landing, and I enjoy interacting with all of the students and their parents; it’s just such a happy, joyous time.”

AFROC created this program in 2009 to support higher education and benefit outstanding high school seniors. When initiated, the scholarship was $1,000, but thanks to the generosity of The Store and our residents, the amount has increased over the years. The award-winning students were selected by a scholarship committee. To be eligible, each student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better, attend a Loudoun County high school and must plan to enroll in a two-to-four-year college after graduating. The selected students have impressive amounts of volunteer hours, are actively involved in the community and have received high honors for their academic achievements.

Erin Rayner, director of community outreach for Congresswoman Barbara Comstock, attended the awards dinner along with Loudoun County Supervisor Suzanne Volpe, AFROC representative Ed Rodriguez, Resident’s Council president HT Johnson and members of the scholarship committee. Mr. Rodriguez’s remarks emphasized not only the importance of success in the professional world,

but also success as an active volunteer in the community. “Think about what you want to do in this third sphere,” said Rodriguez. “You have family, you have friends, and you have profession. What do you want to do in your volunteer life?”

Many of the selected students already have a reputation for volunteering and exhibit great potential for the future. Barbara Brannon added, “The awards dinner always gives us excitement for the future because we know you all are going to be leaders one day, and very good ones indeed.”

We extend our heartiest congratulations to the award recipients and wish them continued success in all their endeavors.

Seated from left: Erin Rayner, Suzanne Volpe, Barbara Brannon, Edward Rodriguez. High School Award

Winners: First Row: Azza Mohamed, Heritage; An Vinh Cao, Rock Ridge; Amani Jewel Rascoe, Briar

Wood; Anna Deutsch, Broad Run; Chloe Celeste Scheyder, Freedom; Reagan Harrison, Riverside; Leslie

Telleria, Loudoun County. Second Row: Christian Tessman, Potomac Falls; Rebka Ephrem, Dominion;

Kush Patel, Tuscarora; Erin Stitt, Woodgrove; Sandra Flores, Loudoun Valley. Not pictured: Ali Malik,

John Champe; Vy Thuy Tran, Park View; Christian Nhu Huynh, Stone Bridge.


It is summer, the Library is quiet and residents are looking for good beach reads. You’ll find some of the latest recommendations on the display shelves for your perusal. The mix is eclectic and many times not something we would have thought about.

It is such a pleasure to recommend an interesting book written by our new resident, Frances Omori — and what an introduction it is! Her book, Quiet Heroes, ties together specific recollections of the people who experienced them; they contribute sincerity and authenticity. It makes you wonder how the doctors, nurses and corpsmen made it all possible, with so few to care for so many. You won’t believe the ratios of nurses to patients. So read on, gentle people.

Book Review of Quiet Heroes: Navy Nurses of the Korean War 1950-53Far East Command, by Frances Omori, Commander, U.S. Navy (Retired)

It all begins with the war in Korea that split the country in two, communism in the north and the democracy in the south that experienced the North’s sudden military invasion and war. America responded with military power and sent in troops; then, China sent in its own forces, and it became a very nasty war.

Thus, the need for three hospital ships — the USS Consolation, Repose, and Haven, identified by their huge red crosses — with their operating rooms and

usually no more than 15 or so nurses per ship. The ships took turns being off the coast of Korea, frequently near Inchon harbor or Pusan, and then they went to Yokosuka, Japan, and a naval hospital. The time from battlefield to a ship’s operating room was thirty minutes. The story is full of facts that illuminate the reality of war with the experiences of the

wounded and the lives of the caregivers. Each group of doctors and corpsmen had its own books; apparently the nurses didn’t think they needed a book, as they were “just doing their jobs.”

It is an outstanding, dumfounding account for the uninitiated who weren’t involved or touched by the Korean War, especially during 1950-1953. The sheer misery on the battlefields was horrific, and the U.S. Marines, U.S. Army and United Nations troops of 11 nationalities, plus Korean civilians, were served by this medical corps.

These stories began as an oral history project for Women in Military Service for America. It was a modest beginning as the responses poured in from the services, and it grew to become “Quiet Heroes” about the nurses whom they didn’t know or remember their names. This collation of experiences became an overview of the war referenced in the most natural way by those who were there.

Many thanks, Frances, for your generous donation of your book to the Library.

Library News ~ by Gretchen Greene

NOTE - Solar EclipseNote: On Aug. 21, a total solar eclipse will occur. The moon will pass between earth and the sun, daylight will become twilight, the temperature will drop rapidly and huge flashes of light will surround the moon’s silhouette. The eclipse will first be apparent in Oregon and then move eastward along a 70-mile-wide swath to South Carolina. Northern Virginia will not experience the eclipse, but Tiffany will try to show it in the Ballroom using the NASA internet. Also, Barbara Freedman has posted her copy of SKY AND TELESCOPE magazine in the Library with all the details.


Chris Whipple has written this best seller with a keen eye on the personalities of those he claims to have “the second most powerful job in our government.” The stories appear to be fair and balanced and are products of the author’s intimate interviews with gatekeepers who are still living — men who served as White House chiefs of staff to the eight

presidents immediately preceding Donald Trump.

Unelected and unconfirmed, the chief serves at the whim of the president. There is no legal requirement for the position. If the relationship works, the chief will have singular influence, greater than that of any cabinet secretary, staffer or member of Congress. He is the president’s closest advisor and is counted upon to execute his agenda. He “keeps the gate” by deciding who is admitted to the oval office and who is not. I’ve used the word “he,” as we have yet to see a woman appointed chief of staff. Arguably, however, Rose Woods*, Nancy Reagan, Hillary Clinton and, yes, Dolley Madison were often as influential.

During FDR’s terms, the scope of the federal government’s policies and powers greatly expanded. Roosevelt relied on his “brain trust.” In succeeding years a “point person” assumed various duties with titles that evolved as the years passed, e.g.,

chief aide, appointments secretary, assistant to the president. Although Eisenhower’s preeminent assistant was designated “The White House Chief of Staff,” it wasn’t until the 1970s (Nixon) that the office began to take on the character and responsibilities of today’s office.

Interestingly, Carter wanted to avoid appointing a chief, believing that the “concentration of power” during the Ford administration was unacceptable. It was in his second year of office when he realized that the traffic in and out of the oval office needed supervision.

Several of the residents* of Falcons Landing have had careers that brought them close to White House dynamics. This book will remind them of their experiences while enlightening the rest of us on how much a chief can color the Office of the President and shape public opinion.

In these days of bitter and coarse political disagreement, it was refreshing to read that occasionally there was cooperation by an important “teach you the ropes” incumbent gatekeeper that helped smooth a presidential transition.

*Our neighbor Don Hughes served as military assistant to President Nixon. He and Herb Klein, Nixon’s Director of Communications, strongly agreed that the president’s secretary Rose Woods could have handled the job of chief of staff.

Book Review: The Gatekeepers ~ by Russ Ray

IN JULY, WE VISITED BOSTON AND JOINED AN ORGANIZED GROUP FOR A WALK THROUGH HISTORY CALLED “THE FREEDOM TRAIL.” THERE ARE MORE THAN SIX UNIQUE SITES RELATED TO THE REVOLUTIONARY ERA. OUR FEMALE GUIDE WAS IN THE COSTUME OF A SOLDIER.

Brain Workout ~ Answer to cryptogram on page 12


The Knit Wits: A Fun Group that Concentrates on Outreach ~ by Kirsten Holman

Several knitters sit around the table chatting while their knitting needles gracefully forge yarn into beautiful hats, scarves and blankets. Some are seasoned knitters, and some are beginners — their fingers fumble around those foreign, over-sized toothpicks until suddenly a magical scarf appears.

Expert knitter Barbara Bridenbaugh initiated the knitters; they meet every first and third Wednesday. “I used to make all of my sweaters, my daughter’s sweaters and the grandkids’ sweaters,” Barbara said. “When my daughter got married, I knitted sweaters for all the bridesmaids.” Edith Bowman said she has been knitting ever since she was little. Mel Shall said, “I’m just a beginner here, hoping one day to contribute. Barbara is a good teacher.”

Whether you have made a sweater or aspire to, the club is open to all skill levels. Their knitting is not the only reason they meet. The Knit Wits use their skills to benefit the community. “Our first outreach

project was knitting preemie hats for Loudoun Hospital,” Barbara said. Some of their items are also donated to the hospital. Their latest outreach project was collecting usable clothing from The Store and sending it to the women’s shelter for women who are returning to work. The Knit Wits also work with Sugarland Run Elementary

School and their three-times-a-year “no-sale” yard sale, benefiting the children and their families.

Mel said, “The sale lasts two-hours, and all those things are gone in the first hour.” The Knit Wits give away most of their knitted items during these sales, and during the holidays they make pouches for the children from The Store’s fabric scraps and stock each with a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo and a comb; last year they made 28 pouches. Now they are preparing for the fall yard sale. The members of the Knit Wits emphasize friendship and helping people in need. “I feel good knowing I am making something that children can wear or use,” Sandra Motsinger said.

Barbara Bridenbaugh, Patricia Johnson, Mel Shall, Sandra Motsinger, Edith Bowman

Dresden Scott is our President’s Achievement Award winner for June 2017! Dresden has been with Falcons Landing since March 2015. Dresden was nominated by a resident who appreciated her commitment to excellence. Here is an excerpt from the nomination:

“From Dresden’s first day to today, she has displayed a work ethic rarely equaled. She is “The Total Package” with all of the skills you would expect and none of the shortcomings that could arise in someone so driven. This would be admirable in any employee, but is especially noteworthy since Dresden has been without an assistant for six months and is getting the job done with minimal help from the kitchen staff. Her days have become longer but there is no loss of quality in her productivity or decrease in her good humor. Dresden is a good egg.”

Congratulations to Dresden on being our President’s Achievement Award Winner for June 2017

President’s Achievement Award Winner for June 2017


Updates For Loudoun Hunger Relief ~ by Marilyn Harrington

I Remember When ... My Friend the Fly ~ by Jean Floyd

Summer is here, kids and grandkids are out of school for vacation, resident trips abound and Falcons Landing is in bloom! We had our second Loudoun Hunger Relief (LHR) food drive in mid-May and did well. Monies were $2,630, and non-perishables were 128 pounds. Huge thanks to residents who generously contributed!

Because LHR has quite a number of special programs spread around eastern Loudoun County, financials can be spread thin. Therefore, monetary donations provide the greatest flexibility toward purchasing supplies and specific food requirements as well as

transportation and unforeseen additional expenses. Our next food drive is scheduled for August 15, 16 and 17. Tiffany Plante graciously collects the monies donated. A shopping cart will be in the Mail Room for non-perishable donations.

Let’s keep the ball rolling this summer for a grand campaign! The folks at LHR do a stellar job helping our neighbors in need!

One evening last fall after a beautiful sunny day, with living room windows wide open, I noticed a huge black fly gliding around the apartment. Now, I dislike any kind of bug indoors and make quick work of them with my trusty bottle of Windex. I most certainly planned to do the same with this critter. But he was quick! He would take off through the spray, and I’d just end up with spritzes of Windex on my new carpet no matter how silently I sneaked up on him. I got tired of that, so for a while I just ignored him. But over the days, I noticed how sweet he was. If I were sitting in the recliner reading, he would sometimes swoop down and gently land on my toe, remain there briefly, and then take off for another of his joyful explorations around the apartment. Sometimes he would follow me to the kitchen and sit on the floor while I cooked, but he never flew up on the countertops or buzzed around the food.

I found myself becoming fond of him. He was huge and ugly, but I felt we were friends. I didn’t swat or spray at him anymore. But one night I turned! Did I really want to spend the winter with this guy? What if he came into the bedroom while I was sleeping and took a dive down my throat? (I used to be a night

nurse and I know what people look like when they sleep!) The answer was a definite NO! We were in the kitchen. He was on the tile floor. I reached for the Windex and sprayed him for all I was worth. I could feel his outrage and shock. But he knew I was serious. He was a survivor, and that Windex wasn’t about to end it all for him. He took off and I darted into the living room and raised the windows as high as they would go, praying he would escape the same way he came in and that he could fly on to new and glorious adventures. Oh, I hope he did.


On June 21, residents of independent living hosted the residents of West Falls and The Johnson Center residents for a community sing-along in the Ballroom attended by more than 42 would-be vocalists. Our new songbooks, donated by Maury and Christine Cralle, had many patriotic and familiar songs. Most members of the Falcons Landing Chorus also attended.

As master of ceremonies, Maury included a music

theory and music-reading lesson, as the new books contained the melody line in music along with the lyrics for each song — something new to our singers. Jane Moser was at the piano and provided interesting facts prior to each song. Jane Kalisch and Leo Childs assisted with song leadership. Our regular sing-along Chorus songsters were intermixed with attendees to provide assistance and harmony. Resident Services provided refreshments, and many thanks to all the staff who made this event happen.

Special kudos go to Tiffany Plante, Lauren Cratty, Andrew Milwee as well as Jackie Morrison-Toure, Luis Gomez Martinez, Ruben Torres, Anthony Rodriguez-Bonilla, and Kirsten Holman. If you are interested in joining our songsters group, please contact Jane Moser at [email protected] or call 703-802-4850. Our next sing-along will be on September 20 at West Falls; we will meet in the Founder’s Hall Lobby at 3:45 p.m. for the ride to West Falls.

On May 3, 18 former military and civilian nurses attended the Annual Falcons Landing Nurses Luncheon. Ginny Thorson planned the afternoon activity that featured flowers and a delicious menu.

Barbara Goodwin secured a very interesting speaker, Major Amy Svanberg, USAF Nurse Corps,who directs the Medical Group’s program on prevention of infectious diseases at Joint Base Andrews. Her topic was “Infectious Disease Protocol” — how to prevent the transmission of diseases caused by bacterial, viral, and fungal organisms. She also addressed the recent surge in antibiotic resistant bacteria (super bugs). Major Svanberg emphasized the importance of training health care workers in techniques to prevent the transmission of diseases.

We all need to be aware of the prevalence of these super bugs and the need for good old hand washing!

Annual Nurses Luncheon ~ by Lou Fall

June Sing-Along Celebrated Our Country with Patriotic Songs ~ by Bob Moser

L-R Seated: Barbara Brannon, Maj. Amy Svanberg, Lou Fall, Barbara Goodwin, Joan Keenan. Standing: Lois Guzik, Emily Bright, Audrey Ray, Ruth Bezek, Valarie

McCarthy,Mary Burns, Virginia Martin, Jean Floyd


Art News~ by Norma Lasher

Annual Ice Cream Social ~ by Paul Wieland

Falcons Landing residents and staff gathered in the Ballroom on June 14 to enjoy an afternoon heaping bowl of premium ice cream and other sweet stuff during the Annual Ice Cream Social. It seemed that almost everyone who could walk attended — the service line stretched almost back to the entrance.

The affair was a success. Volunteer staff were the servers behind several long tables laden with tasty selections; they dished out scoop after scoop of everything from vanilla to chocolate, with four or five other flavors in between. At the end of the ice cream tables were more selections that included toppings of chocolate and caramel syrup, wet and dry nuts, maraschino cherries, slices of bananas, whipped cream, ice-cold lemonade, hot coffee and just plain ice water. It was fascinating to watch the various combinations, creations and serving sizes as smiling attendees left the service line with their full bowl(s) of goodies — YES, some ice cream-lovers carried away two dishes, and some with guilty grins claimed one was for a friend! A few aficionados were seen retuning to the line for “seconds.”

Large round tables with chairs accommodated the large crowd, and the Ballroom buzzed with laughter and friendly conversations. Thanks go to Tiffany and her helpers; as usual, the popular annual event was even better than last year’s!

Servers from left: Michele Olzawski, Reizsa Santiago, Celine Andres,

Riana Landicho, Donna McKernin

In Building Three Gallery, the display is titled “Summertime.” We had hopes that our artists have been involved in summer activities or at home painting in their air-conditioned studios. It always seems like such a short season before change sneaks in so sneakily with fall colors.

The Nancy and Paul Gesswein Show will grace the Building Two Gallery exhibit for the month of August. We welcome their talent, willingness to help, even in art classes, and we know they are here to keep the art program going.

“Something Personal” will be on the lower level of The Johnson Center. Artists were asked to paint a picture of a treasured item, person or

memory to share with Falcons Landing residents and visitors. You will see all of this when you view the exhibit.

Betty Ann Dargan’s “Forefathers” collection will be in The Johnson Center’s

second Floor Gallery during the month of August. Many famous men had something

to contribute in the history of America and our local area. Our freedoms would not be in place were it not for Thomas Jefferson and John Adams who embodied a set of ideals and principles in the founding documents: The Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution, documents that still guide our country today.


One of the newer computer scam terms is Internet Clickbait. “Final notices” are sent out to millions every day. They lead you to click on a hyperlink to a certain web page that it would be better to avoid. They use phone calls too. A recent one is “Our records show you have back, neck or knee pains.” Instead of just hanging up, I should have said, “My only problem is picking up the phone whenever it rings.” Have you heard of Hashbusters? They are words or sentences that spammers can use that will sneak through your spam filters. Time is getting obstinate. In the dentist chair when I want it to go fast, it goes slow. When I am having a great time and want it to slow down, it goes too fast. Ray Goelz, recovering from a hip fracture, is learning to use a battery-operated wheel chair. Rumor must have gotten around about him and an electric chair because one resident consoled his “widow” for her loss.

If you see a couple of squirrels running around on greasy paws, it’s because someone greased the pole to his bird feeder to keep the squirrels off. It is really funny watching them leap onto the pole and slide to the ground. Someone asked what the gf stands for after foods on our menus. It’s understandable for some residents

to want to avoid gluten but we had to chuckle when we saw that the watermelon is gluten free. Isn’t it always?We like the new stovetops that are smooth glass all the way across. They are easy to clean with just a swipe of a sponge, but now it takes 16 min. to cook a 3 minute egg. FLITs sees a lot of residents enjoying the new Cyber Cycle in the Fitness Room. HT

and Ann Johnson had it put in so we can chase dragons or race other cyclists. Jim Compton has hit the 100 mile mark! Let’s give him some competition! When we saw that huge poster for the Army Ball, we admired the graphic German castle and wondered about the “shutterstock” printed across the front. They probably let us print them for free as long as they can advertise their shutterstock. We tried to count those 96 or so little flags that were stuck along the sides of the main road to the gate on Flag day. Were they collected by the same staff person the next day? We looked for someone with a stiff back to thank him but didn’t find him.

The little garden plots by the community entrance are full of good stuff. Mary Wilson grew the first ripe tomato. Now they are ripening up almost faster than we can eat them!

Our dining service comes up with some interesting names. That Chocolate Revenge took the cake!

The Falcons Landing Apple Group meets in the Wellness Center Meeting Room at 1 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month. Apple expert Noah Hayes frequently attends and discusses interesting,

useful information about Apple products; he also provides answers to residents’ questions. Other meetings address common problems experienced with Apple devices. Everyone is welcome.

Falcons Landing Interesting Tidbits ~ Edited by Flo GoelzFLITs

APPLE USERS PLEASE PLEASE NOTE


Acupuncture: Virginia Mitchell A.M. - Wednesday, Aug. 2, Aug. 9, Aug. 16, Aug. 23,

Aug. 30

Audiology: Ascent Audiology & Hearing P.M. - Tuesday, Aug. 1, Aug. 15, Aug. 29 *Please call their office at (703)723-9672

to schedule an appointment*

Audiology: Blue Ridge Speech & Hearing P.M. - Wednesday, Aug. 9 Dentistry *MOBILE DENTIST*: Dr. Robert Mantoni A.M./ P.M. - Monday/Thursday, Aug. TBD *Please call their office at (301) 587-7406 to schedule an

appointment* (The Mobile Van will be located outside The Johnson Center)

Dietitian: (Complimentary Consultation): Isabel Maples, MED, RDN

P.M. - Tuesday, Aug. 1

Internal Medicine: Dr. Ann Mecherikunnel Monday/ Wednesday/Friday Morning *Lisa DeGilio, NP – Call Wellness

Center to make an appointment

Massage Therapy: Sabine Hutto By appointment only, phone number is 202-243-9144

Orthopedic Hand Surgeon: Dr. Paul Mecherikunnel A.M. - Every Wednesday Morning

Podiatry: Dr. Gary Gregasavitch P.M. - Friday, Aug. 4, Aug. 11, Aug. 18, Aug. 25

Podiatry: Dr. Joanna Shuman P.M. - Monday, Aug. 21

Psychiatry: Dr. Paluvoi A.M. - Friday, Aug. 9 Psychiatry: Dr. Rosecan A.M. - Monday, Aug. 28

Psychiatry: Dr. Williamson A.M. - Every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon

Urology: Dr. Bilowus A.M. - Wednesday, Sept. TBD

The Falcons Landing News was not published in July.

No groups have been scheduled for the month of August.

GRIEF THERAPY GROUP: A new group will form mid-October 2017 for six sessions. Please contact Michele A. Zimmer-Forster at 703-404-5116 to pre-register.

Undoubtedly you’ve noticed that the Falcons Landing News has a new, modern look – a redesigned nameplate with Falcons Landing’s new logo and motto, each page now has two columns of text for easier reading and, if you also receive the full-color edition via email, a different color scheme. If you don’t receive the color edition each month along with your black and white copy, just leave your name and email address marked “Color Edition” at the front desk. We also appreciate comments about the newly designed newsletter; the Editorial Board welcomes your feedback.

Marjorie Seith June 4Sandra Jones June 6Hal Lehman June 15Jim Miller June 16Marty Padalino July 3Mary Barr July 7

Clinic Schedule Please call the Wellness Center at 703-404-5224 to schedule

appointments, except as noted.

Support Groups ~ by Michele Zimmer-Forster,

LCSW, Resident Counselor

In Remembrance

EDITOR’S NOTE:


20522 Falcons Landing CirclePotomac Falls, VA 20165Telephone: 703-404-5102

Fax: 703-404-5101Paul Wieland, Editor

Email: [email protected]

Published monthly by Falcons Landing, a continuing care retirement community owned and operated by the Air Force Retired Officers Community, Washington, D.C.

Distributed to the residents of Falcons Landing. Archival copies are available in the Falcons Landing Library. Contains

articles and information of interest to Falcons Landing residents and chronicles the history of Falcons Landing.

Production by Allegra Printing

The Mission of the Air Force Retired Officers Community is extraordinary living to enhance health, happiness

of those who have served.

EDITORIAL BOARD

OTHERS CONTRIBUTING TO THIS ISSUE:

Paul Wieland (Chairman and Editor)

Ray Zogran (Chairman Emeritus)

Jack Scharfen (Chairman Emeritus)

Bebe RiceFrances RowanArnold BraswellHoward Schue

(Residents’ Council liaison)

Flo Goelz (Staff Artist)

John Kinniburgh (Staff Photographer)

Geri MadiganMick Trainor

Gretchen GreeneJim HaynesJim Mullen

Dave HopkinsKirsten Holman

Andy LuntBarbara Freedman

Bob MoserJean FloydLou Fall

Margaret Quaile

Marilyn HarringtonMarly Wilson

Michele La PlaceMichele Zimmer-Forster

Norma Lasher

Exit Laughing ~ Compiled by Flo Goelz

If God wanted us to vote, he would have given us candidates. -Jay Leno

The problem with political jokes is they get elected. -Henry Cate, VII

Politicians are the same all over. They promise to build a bridge even where there is no river. -Nikita Khrushchev

When I was a boy I was told that anybody could become President; I’m beginning to believe it. -Clarence Darrow

Why pay money to have your family tree traced; go into politics and your opponents will do it for you. - Author unknown

Politicians are people who, when they see light at the end of the tunnel, go out and buy some more tunnel. -John Quinton

I offer my opponents a bargain: if they will stop telling lies about us, I will stop telling the truth about them. -Adlai Stevenson, campaign speech, 1952~

A politician is a fellow who will lay down your life for his country. -Tex Guinan

I have come to the conclusion that politics is too serious a matter to be left to the politicians. -Charles de Gaulle

Instead of giving a politician the keys to the city, it might be better to change the locks. -Doug Larson

I feel weird about attending my class reunion. There are 40 pounds of me

that never went to that school.

the 2017 army ball: u.s. army’s 242nd birthday · 2017-08-28 · page 2 fao aing news ag 2017...

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