Breaking News: July 8, 2025 – Washington DC’s Grand Parade, Metro Closures, and Free Mental Health Services
Washington DC’s Independence Day Parade Celebrates 249 Years of American Freedom
Washington DC held a grand Independence Day parade on July 4, 2025, marking the 249th anniversary of the United States. Tens of thousands of tourists gathered to witness the largest Independence Day celebration in the country. The Falun Dafa group, invited for the 18th consecutive year, became a highlight of the event with their Heavenly Kingdom Orchestra and vibrant floats.
The parade, which started at the intersection of Constitution Avenue and 7th Street, featured hundreds of groups passing by landmarks like the National Archives and the Washington Monument. Tourists from around the world, including Arizona’s Katy, the Richards from Maryland, Romanian tourist Daniel, and Chicago’s Chad, praised the Falun Dafa group’s performance and the beauty of the orchestra.
Ms. Mi, the conductor of the Heavenly Kingdom Orchestra, noted that the group performed eight original songs, including “Falun Dafa is Good,” to convey the beauty of cultivation. The event was broadcast live by multiple TV stations, drawing the attention of viewers nationwide.
Blue Line Metro Construction Causes Temporary Closure of Two Virginia Stations
Starting Saturday, sections of the Blue Line Metro will be suspended from operation until July 26 due to construction. The Franconia-Springfield and Van Dorn Street stations will be closed for three weeks, making Reagan National Airport Station the terminus of the Blue Line.
Passengers needing to travel from these stations to operational ones can take free buses to Eisenhower Avenue Station or King Street-Old Town Station on the Yellow Line. Free buses will run every 8-10 minutes, ensuring continued connectivity for commuters.
The subway company announced that the construction involves multiple parts and aims to provide a smoother and safer ride experience. Additionally, the lighting system along the Blue Line will be upgraded during this period.
Fairfax Schools Offer Free Mental Health Consultations This Summer
Virginia’s largest school district is providing free mental health counseling this summer for parents and students. Starting August 1, parents and junior and senior high school students in Fairfax County can schedule a 45-minute online consultation with school social workers and psychologists.
Amber Ong, director of psychologists at Fairfax County, reported that the project has been running for nearly 20 years and has assisted an average of 350 to 400 students and parents in four weeks. The reservation time is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In the first week starting June 23, the district completed 60 consultations. Ong noted that about 80% of those who signed up for consultations were parents, highlighting the importance of mental health support for families.
Support Voice of Hope for More Impactful Reporting
Voice of Hope needs your donation and support to continue delivering impactful news. Please consider donating at this link or by calling 888-851-2128. Your contribution will help us do more good shows and get federal tax credits. Visit www.donatecarsoh.org for more information.
