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2013 SESSION

13105038D
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 880
Offered February 12, 2013
Commending Green Valley Pharmacy.
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Patrons-- Lopez, Brink, Hope and Krupicka; Senators: Ebbin, Favola and Howell
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WHEREAS, Green Valley Pharmacy, a historic, African American owned pharmacy in Arlington County, celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2012; and

WHEREAS, in the early 1950s, with segregation still in place, Leonard Muse, M.D., and his business partner, Waverly Jones, recognized the need for a pharmacy that would serve African American residents in the area; and

WHEREAS, originally a grocery store, the one-story building in the Nauck neighborhood of Arlington officially became Green Valley Pharmacy in 1952; it provided an essential service to African Americans in the area and helped pave the way for other similar businesses; and

WHEREAS, in 1955 Dr. Muse became the sole proprietor of the Green Valley Pharmacy, known in the community as “Doc’s,” and he is still the owner today, operating the pharmacy with help from volunteers; and

WHEREAS, displaying exceptional generosity and care for his fellow residents, Dr. Muse allowed customers to buy items from the Green Valley Pharmacy on store credit during hard times; and

WHEREAS, over the years, the Green Valley Pharmacy was known as a “beacon of light” in the community; the building’s simple architecture belies a rich heritage as a symbol of unity, hope, and compassion; and

WHEREAS, today, Green Valley Pharmacy still offers a variety of products, prescription delivery, and meals at the dine-in food counter; it thrives as one of the largest stores in the Nauck neighborhood and a social landmark, attracting customers and community members each day; and

WHEREAS, in 2013 the Arlington County Board unanimously designated Green Valley Pharmacy as the 33rd Arlington Historic District, making it the first local African American owned business to be named as a Historic District; and

WHEREAS, the designation is a testament to the long and storied history of Green Valley Pharmacy, the second-oldest continually operating business in the neighborhood, and Dr. Muse’s contributions as a positive influence in the community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Green Valley Pharmacy on the occasion of its 60th anniversary; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Green Valley Pharmacy as an expression of the General Assembly’s respect for its unique place in the rich history of Arlington County.