Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 100th anniversary of Stafford High School in Stafford County, Virginia, and to honor a century of academic excellence, school spirit, and unwavering commitment to educating generations of young Virginians.

Since opening its doors in 1926, Stafford High School has been more than an institution of learning. It has been a cornerstone of the Stafford community, where lifelong friendships are forged, dreams take shape, and young people discover their potential. Through its commitment to education, leadership, and service, the school has helped prepare generations of students to pursue their ambitions and make meaningful contributions to their communities.

From its classrooms to athletic fields, and its performing arts programs and extracurricular activities, Stafford High School has cultivated a proud tradition of achievement and opportunity. Its success reflects the dedication of countless educators, administrators, staff, and families who have invested their time, talents, and hearts into the success of every student.

In recognition of this anniversary, Stafford High School teachers, with generous support from the Stafford Education Foundation, created a commemorative mural celebrating the school's centennial. This lasting tribute beautifully reflects the pride, dedication, and community spirit that have defined Stafford High School for generations.

As we celebrate this extraordinary achievement, we must also look toward the future. As leaders, our responsibility is to ensure that every student who walks through Stafford High School's doors has the opportunity, resources, and encouragement to pursue their dreams and build a brighter future.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Stafford High School on its centennial anniversary and extending our heartfelt appreciation to the educators, administrators, families, and alumni who have sustained its remarkable legacy. May the next 100 years bring continued excellence, opportunity, and enduring Tribe pride.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate T. Clay Wood Elementary School principal Andrew Buchheit for his recognition as Virginia's 2026 National Distinguished Principal.

This award recognizes principals who excel in instruction, student achievement, character development, and the creation of positive learning environments.

Principal Buchheit has 25 years of experience as a principal, including 15 of those years leading T. Clay Wood.

Under his leadership, T. Clay Wood was recognized as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education, one of only eight schools in Virginia to earn that distinction that year.

Principal Buchheit's unwavering commitment to students and ability to build an inclusive school culture has made a difference in the lives of many.

I thank Principal Buchheit for all that he has done, and I congratulate him on this honor.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Mount Olive Baptist Church of Culpeper, Virginia, as it celebrates 155 years of faithful service, steadfast leadership, and unwavering commitment to the people of Culpeper and the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Since its founding in 1871, Mount Olive Baptist Church has served as a cornerstone of faith, hope, and compassion for generations of families. For more than a century and a half, this church has demonstrated that ministry extends far beyond its sanctuary walls through a deep and enduring commitment to serving its community. From feeding the hungry, and clothing those in need, to supporting local shelter services, and organizations assisting survivors of domestic and sexual violence, Mount Olive has consistently answered the call to care for its neighbors with grace and generosity.

The church's annual Fitness Witness 5K has become a meaningful tradition, raising support each year for nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving the lives of Culpeper's most vulnerable residents. Through this effort and countless other acts of service, Mount Olive continues to strengthen the community while inspiring others to serve.

In 2023, the congregation marked a historic milestone with the installation of its first female pastor, Reverend Dr. Tracey Dawkins Holley. Under her visionary leadership, Mount Olive Baptist Church has continued to grow in ministry, deepen its community partnerships, and build upon its remarkable legacy of service and spiritual leadership.

This year, Mount Olive Baptist Church was recognized as the ``Most Respected House of Worship'' in the Culpeper Times Best of the Best 2026 awards--a well-deserved honor that reflects the congregation's enduring impact, trusted leadership, and unwavering dedication to serving others.

On behalf of Virginia's Seventh Congressional District, I extend my sincere congratulations to Reverend Dr. Tracey Dawkins Holley, the church leadership, and every member of the Mount Olive Baptist Church family on this remarkable 155-year milestone. May this anniversary serve as both a celebration of an extraordinary, enduring legacy, and an inspiration for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mount Olive Baptist Church for its enduring faith, exceptional service, and profound contributions to the Culpeper community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Amy Reardon on her selection as the 2027 Region 3 Teacher of the Year.

This prestigious award honors teachers who represent the very best in education across the Commonwealth of Virginia and recognizes the extraordinary impact they have on their students, schools, and communities.

An English language teacher at Chancellor Elementary School in Spotsylvania County, Amy has dedicated two decades to serving students in Spotsylvania schools. This includes 13 years as a first-grade teacher at Battlefield Elementary School.

Throughout her career, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to academic excellence, fostering inclusive classrooms where every student is encouraged to succeed.

Her passion for supporting multilingual learners has helped countless students build confidence, develop their skills, and reach their full potential.

I congratulate Amy Reardon on this well-deserved recognition and thank her for the lasting difference she continues to make in the lives of Virginia students.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Ms. Beverly Wharton, my Constituent of the Week, for her more than 43 years of service as a registered nurse at the UVA Health Culpeper Medical Center.

Beverly Wharton is a critical care nurse, and she has been doing that job since 1992. She has served on the front lines caring for patients and families during their most vulnerable moments. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she demonstrated extraordinary courage and compassion and helped save countless lives.

Her commitment to excellence, her steady leadership, and her compassion for others have made a lasting impact on her colleagues, patients, and the entire Culpeper community.

Beverly embodies the very best of the nursing profession. I thank her for her remarkable service and congratulate her on this milestone.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of Zella Brown and to recognize her extraordinary contribution to civil rights and public education in Prince William County, Virginia.

In 1964, Mrs. Brown was one of the ``Courageous Four,'' four Black educators who were sent with no warning and no public announcement to teach in schools that had previously been reserved for White students. Mrs. Brown was assigned to Loch Lomond Elementary School, where she carried the hopes of an entire community into unfamiliar rooms and unfamiliar faces, fully aware that her presence alone was an act of courage in a community still adjusting to change.

For decades afterward, her sacrifice went largely unrecognized outside the community she served. Mrs. Brown never sought credit or celebration for what she had done, remaining humble and quietly declining public honors, including the opportunity to have a school named after her. She chose instead to be what one admirer who knew her well called, ``a leader from behind.'' It was only years later that Prince William County created an Unsung Hero Award in her honor: a lasting tribute to a woman whose quiet impact had shaped the county for generations.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life and legacy of Zella Brown, a devoted educator, a civil rights pioneer, and a true American hero, and in extending our deepest condolences to her family, friends. and the entire Prince William County community.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate Culpeper County Public Schools division superintendent Dr. Tony Brads. He has been recognized as Superintendent of the Year for the Northern Virginia Region of the Commonwealth.

This honor reflects Dr. Brad's outstanding accomplishments, as well as the respect he has earned throughout Culpeper County and Virginia's education community.

As he marks 21 years as a division superintendent, Dr. Brads is known as a voice of reason and a tenacious advocate for students, educators, and public schools.

Under his leadership, the Culpeper Technical Education Center opened in 2021. This center has expanded opportunity and prepared students with the skills they need to succeed in today's workforce.

Dr. Brads represents the very best of public education leadership. I thank him for his commitment to improving the lives and futures of our students. I am honored to recognize him as my Constituent of the Week.

Congratulating Tim Healey

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate my Constituent of the Week, Tim Healey, on his retirement as principal of Charles J. Colgan Senior High School in Prince William County, the first and only principal since Charles J. Colgan Senior High School opened in 2016.

Principal Healey is ending a remarkable 37-year career with Prince William County Public Schools. Throughout his career in education, Principal Healey has fostered an environment where his unwavering belief in his students empowers them to prepare for their next chapter and inspires them to reach their fullest potential.

His leadership has shaped not only a school but a community grounded in excellence and opportunity.

On behalf of the entire Prince William community and as the dad of a student at Colgan High School, go Sharks.

I thank Principal Healey for his decades of dedicated service and his lasting impact on generations of students, families, and educators.

I wish him all the best in a well-deserved retirement.

Congratulating Anita Crossfield

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my Constituent of the Week, Anita Crossfield, on being named a recipient of the 2026 President's Award for Woman of the Year.

This award recognizes individuals whose leadership and service have enhanced and preserved the quality of life in Fredericksburg.

A native of Albania, Anita and her daughter fled wartime in 2004. Her story is similar to my own. Our families came to this greatest country in the world to pursue the American Dream.

Since then, she has earned a degree from Germanna Community College and established a successful business on Caroline Street. Anita's Cafe and Dessert Bar has become a welcoming hub in the community.

In addition to her business, Anita serves on the city's Economic Development Authority and sits on the board of the Fredericksburg Area Museum.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Anita for all she has done to strengthen Fredericksburg. Our community is grateful for all of her contributions.

Congratulating Kristi Rice

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Kristi Rice, my

Constituent of the Week, on her appointment as head coach of the U.S. Women's Cyber Team.

A dedicated cybersecurity teacher at Spotsylvania High School, Kristi will guide and mentor cyber experts as they prepare to compete on the global stage.

This July, she will lead her all-female team at the Women's International Cybersecurity Challenge in Ireland.

In addition to this remarkable achievement, Kristi has been named Spotsylvania Teacher of the Year for 2025-2026 and is the recipient of the Presidential Cybersecurity Education Award.

These honors reflect on her exceptional leadership, deep professional expertise, and unwavering commitment to advancing cybersecurity education.

Congratulating Michael Sidebotham

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my Constituent of the Week, Dr. Michael Sidebotham, on being recognized in the inaugural class of the Virginia Department of Education's Principals of Distinction.

This recognition honors outstanding school leaders while supporting their continued professional growth.

A longtime principal of Grafton Village Elementary School, Dr. Sidebotham was named Stafford County's Principal of the Year in 2018.

His dedication to students, staff, and families at Grafton Village has stood out.

Principals like Dr. Sidebotham play a vital role in shaping the next generation and ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.

I thank Dr. Sidebotham for his leadership and his unwavering commitment to education in our community.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Eddie Dean on his induction into the inaugural class of Madison County High School's Athletic Hall of Fame.

Eddie is a legendary football coach who led the Madison County program from 1967 to 2005. His impressive record includes winning three State championships.

Through Eddie's devotion to coaching, he has built a legacy of hard work, but what makes him so deserving of this recognition is not just what he accomplished on the field, but the time he took to better his players off of it. He instilled in them a sense of community, discipline, and integrity.

Eddie's leadership and unwavering commitment to this program are truly deserving of this recognition, and I am honored to name him this week's Constituent of the Week. I congratulate him and thank him for all he does for these young athletes.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Mr. Dayle Ellis for 36 years of Federal Service and his commitment to the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA).

Throughout his career, including as an administrative officer, Mr. Ellis has provided critical guidance to military families, helping them to navigate difficult K-12 education options and determine student eligibility as they transitioned between duty stations around the world. His expertise, professionalism, and compassion have ensured the families and students receive consistent support during some of the most challenging periods of military life.

Mr. Ellis's dedication has supported military retention, helped families navigate education options for their children, and contributed to the success of military communities across different branches. Countless families have benefited not only from the positive outcomes he has helped achieve but also from the care and unwavering commitment he has brought to every interaction. His service demonstrates DoDEA's mission of supporting military-connected students and their families with excellence and integrity.

I want to personally thank Mr. Ellis for the outstanding impact he has had on his colleagues, families, students, and the many individuals he has served over the past 36 years. His leadership and expertise reflect the very best of public service.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Dayle Ellis for his service and the difference he has made in our communities. I wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement and in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate Madison County, Virginia, as our Nation commemorates the 250th anniversary of America's independence.

Madison County sits at the intersection of some of the most historically significant sites of American history critical to the foundation of our country. Chartered in 1972, its story stretches back more than 11,000 years, from the earliest Paleo-Indians to the colonial frontier and the founding of the Republic. Located near our Nation's Capital and the home to several Founding Fathers, Madison County shares a close connection to President James Madison, whose estate, Montpelier, is in neighboring Orange County. The county also witnessed pivotal moments in American history, including Civil War campaigns. In 1775 the Culpeper Minutemen, a well-known Revolutionary War militia of about 250 men organized from a broad district that included Culpeper, Orange, Fauquier, and what is now Madison County, reflecting the region's early role in Virginia's fight for independence.

Today, more than 13,000 people call Madison County home. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, the county is known for its scenic beauty, local businesses, outdoor recreation, and communities that reflect the best of rural Virginia.

Madison County's history continues to be preserved by dedicated local organizations. The Madison County Historical Society operates the historic Kemper Residence and the Mountain Museum in Criglersville, where the Blue Ridge Heritage Project honors families who were forcibly displaced from the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Madison County African American Historical Association preserves and shares the county's Black history through its museum in the former Odd Fellows Lodge Hall, ensuring these important stories are remembered for generations to come.

As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Madison County reminds us that our Nation's history was built by communities across the country and by generations of Americans whose hard work, sacrifice, and courage made our freedoms possible.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Madison County, Virginia, for its remarkable contributions to our Nation's history and in celebrating its role in this milestone anniversary of American independence.

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 228.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the Dale City Volunteer Fire & Rescue Valor Award recipients, recognizing the extraordinary bravery and selfless service demonstrated by the department's firefighters, paramedics, and rescue personnel. These awards reflect the courageous actions of the dedicated men and women who put themselves in harm's way to protect and serve the community in its most critical moments.

As we mark the 40th anniversary of the Valor Awards, we are proud to celebrate this tradition that has stood as the highest recognition of courage within the Dale City Volunteer Fire & Rescue. Since inception, these awards have honored generations of first responders who answered the call when it mattered most.

Each recipient exemplifies true valor, facing danger without hesitation, providing life-saving aid, and prioritizing the safety of others in the most challenging emergencies. Their courage and compassion strengthen the bonds within our community, fostering trust, resilience, and a shared sense of security. Today, we honor their collective bravery and commitment to public service.

Whether responding to fires, medical emergencies, or natural disasters, these individuals demonstrate an unyielding commitment to preserving life and property. Their professionalism and readiness in the face of uncertainty set an example for us all and serve as a reminder of the impact that first responders have on the lives of those they protect. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Dale City Volunteer Fire & Rescue team for their remarkable contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the Occoquan Police Department and to recognize one of its distinguished members who has received a Communications Award: Police Officer Alex Budd. While today we recognize Officer Budd, this award reflects the commitment to duty, professionalism, and public safety that defines the entire department.

As we mark the 40th anniversary of the Valor Awards, we are proud to celebrate this tradition that has stood as the highest recognition of courage within the Occoquan Police Department. Since inception, this recognition honors generations of first responders who answered the call when it mattered most.

The impact of such bravery resonates throughout the community. Each courageous act, whether confronting immediate threats, providing aid in moments of crisis, or responding calmly under pressure, demonstrates a profound commitment to the well-being of others. These actions go beyond traditional law enforcement; they embody public service at its highest level.

By recognizing the Occoquan Police Department and Officer Budd today, we not only celebrate their courage, but also the influence that dedicated public service can have on a community. Their heroism strengthens the community, setting a powerful example of what it means to serve with integrity, compassion, and resilience.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Occoquan Police Department for their remarkable contributions to our community. I also want to personally thank Officer Budd for going above and beyond in his service to others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the Prince William County Department of Public Safety Communications Valor Award recipients, recognizing the extraordinary dedication of those who serve as the critical first line in emergency response.

As we mark the 40th anniversary of the Valor Awards, we are proud to celebrate this tradition that has stood as the highest recognition of courage within the Department. Since inception, these awards have honored generations of first responders who answered the call when it mattered most.

Each recipient exemplifies what it means to act with valor, remaining composed under pressure, coordinating life-saving responses in real time, and providing reassurance and guidance to those facing crisis. The department facilitates the flow of information in a seamless and rapid manner, providing aid, comfort, and instructions to the public prior to the arrival of field resources. Their efforts strengthen public trust and ensure that every emergency begins with clarity, care, and swift action--fostering a safer community. Today, we recognize and celebrate their critical role and exceptional commitment to public service, often carried out behind the scenes but never without impact.

We are deeply grateful for their service and proud to honor the Prince William County Department of Public Safety Communications for their unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of our community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Prince William County Department of Public Safety Communications for their remarkable contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the Prince William County Fire & Rescue Department Valor Award recipients, recognizing the extraordinary bravery and selfless service demonstrated by the department's firefighters, paramedics, and rescue personnel. These awards reflect the courageous actions of the dedicated men and women who put themselves in harm's way to protect and serve the community in its most critical moments.

As we mark the 40th anniversary of the Valor Awards, we are proud to celebrate this tradition that has stood as the highest recognition of courage within the Prince William County Fire & Rescue Department. Since inception, these awards have honored generations of first responders who answered the call when it mattered most.

Each recipient exemplifies true valor, facing danger without hesitation, providing life-saving aid, and prioritizing the safety of others in the most challenging emergencies. This commitment to saving lives is further strengthened by the recent launch of the Fire and Rescue System's new Advanced Care Field Operations, a groundbreaking initiative that delivers blood administration directly at the scene of critical trauma emergencies.

Whether responding to fires, medical emergencies, or natural disasters, these individuals demonstrate an unyielding commitment to preserving life and property. Their professionalism and readiness in the face of uncertainty set an example for us all and serve as a reminder of the impact that first responders have on the lives of those they protect. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Prince William County Fire & Rescue team for their remarkable contributions to our community.