Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the 2019 Northern Virginia District PTA Annual Award recipients. Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs) and Parent Teacher Student Associations (PTSAs) in Northern Virginia serve a critical role in helping to provide the best possible educational environment for our students.

The Northern Virginia District PTA represents a region with 225 schools representing over 50,000 members. Maintaining a healthy and strong organization is an important part of allowing these groups to have the greatest possible impact on the students they serve. To encourage such strength, it is important to note the individual PTAs that excel in this mission, as well as the individual Volunteers of the Year.

I am pleased to congratulate the following PTAs and individuals on being recognized by the Northern Virginia District PTA for their immeasurable contributions to the education of our children:

NOVA District PTA Elementary School Volunteer of Year Finalists: Lisa Farkas, Belvedere ES PTA; Iris Rossiter, Fairview ES PTA; Saundra Honeysett, Little Run ES PTA; Kathy Hughes, Little Run ES PTA; Meera Pillai, Olde Creek ES PTA

NOVA District PTA Secondary School Volunteer of the Year Finalists: Carrie Holmes, Lake Braddock SS PTSA; Jennifer Downs, Lake Braddock SS PTSA; Kris Whitridge, Mt. Vernon HS PTSA; Sherry Nachnani, Mt. Vernon HS PTSA; Hamid Munir, Mt. Vernon HS PTSA

NOVA District PTA Outstanding Local Units of the Year: Union Mills ES PTA; Laurel Ridge ES PTA; Lake Braddock SS PTSA

NOVA District Outstanding PTA STEAM: Centreville ES PTA

Military Family Engagement: Hayfield SS PTSA

NOVA District Outstanding Educator of the Year: Margaret Summers, Belvedere ES PTA

NOVA District Outstanding Staff Members of the Year: Rosa Landeros, Mt. Vernon Community School PTA; Aida Joranko, Little Run ES PTA

NOVA District PTA Power Partner Principal Finalists: Dr. Diane Leipzig, Canterbury Woods ES PTA; Principal Monica Mohr, Little Run ES PTA; Principal Penny Gros, Lake Braddock SS PTSA; Dr. Anthony Terrell, Mount Vernon HS PTSA

NOVA District PTA Power Partner Superintendent: Dr. Scott Brabrand, Fairfax County Council PTA

Male Engagement of the Year Finalists: Lake Braddock SS PTSA; Union Mills ES PTA

Diversity & Inclusion of the Year Finalists: Buzz Aldrin ES PTA; Hollin Meadows ES PTA

Family Engagement of the Year Finalists: Canterbury Woods ES PTA; Cherry Run ES PTA; Churchill Road ES PTA; Cunningham Park ES PTA; Hollin Meadows ES PTA; Lake Braddock SS PTSA; Laurel Ridge ES PTA; Little Run ES PTA; Mount Vernon Community Schools PTA; Mount Vernon HS PTSA; Olde Creek ES PTA; South Lakes HS PTSA; White Oaks ES PTA

A special note of appreciation is extended to Debbie Kilpatrick, NOVA District Director, Tony Shivers, District Assistant Director, Denise Bolton, District Secretary/Treasurer, along with honored speakers Jim Accomando, National PTA President and Donna Colombo, Virginia PTA President.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join with me in recognizing the outstanding achievements of the individuals, PTAs and PTSAs that are being honored tonight. Dedicated involvement from so many parents reflects a strong commitment to public education and community service that students in our schools are fortunate to experience. I offer my strong support for these organizations and their dedicated members and volunteers.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize a dedicated group of men and women in Northern Virginia. Every year, each member of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors selects two people from his or her district who have demonstrated outstanding volunteer service, heroism, or other exceptional commitments and contributions to our community. Since the program's inception in 1984, approximately 600 individuals have earned the honor of being named a Lord or Lady Fairfax by his or her representative on the Board of Supervisors

This year, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors will recognize those individuals who have made tremendous impacts through their support of our public schools, parks, youth sports leagues, arts community, public safety, and human service programs. It is nearly impossible to fully describe the diversity of accomplishments of the honorees. Their efforts contribute greatly to the quality of life for the residents of Fairfax County and are worthy of our praise and sincere appreciation.

It is my honor to include in the Record the names of the 2019 Lords and Ladies Fairfax:

At-Large: Lady Pam Michell and Lord Randy Sales

Braddock District: Lady Jeanne Kadet and Lord Mike Perel

Dranesville District: Lady C. Melissa Jonas and Lord Wayne Winston Sharp, PhD

Hunter Mill District: Lady Janet Bradshaw and Lord Francis Steinbauer

Lee District: Lady Phyllis Walker Ford and Lord Joe Blackwell

Mason District: Lady Elizabeth ``Libby'' Novak and Lord Victor Nguyen

Mount Vernon District: Lady Jan Vaughan and Lord William ``Bill'' Vaughan

Providence District: Lady Janet Kerr-Tenner, PhD and Lord Charlie Hall

Springfield District: Lady Jenee Lindner and Lord Jim Kirkpatrick

Sully District: Lady Audrey Farrar Morton and Lord Brian Aiello

In addition, a number of other awards are being given to individuals for their service to the community and to the Celebrate Fairfax! Festival, including four members of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors who are retiring at the end of this year. I am pleased to include in the Record the names of the following individuals:

James M. Scott Community Spirit Award: Cathy Chianese and Lynn Strobel

Celebrate Fairfax Volunteer of the Year: Faiyaz Faruque

Celebrate Fairfax Ambassador Award: Chairman Sharon Bulova, Supervisor John Cook, Supervisor Cathy Hudgins, and Supervisor Linda Smyth

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending and expressing our gratitude to these men and women who volunteer their time and energy on behalf of our community. Their efforts, which are deserving of our highest praise, provide immeasurable benefits to their fellow residents and serve as a reminder of why Fairfax County remains such a great place to live, work, and raise a family.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7327 in Springfield, Virginia and the winners of its 2019 Americanism Awards.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) traces its beginnings to 1899 when veterans of the Spanish American War established local organizations to bring awareness to their service

and to advocate for veterans retirement benefits and improved medical care. Annually, the nearly 2 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliaries contribute more than 8.6 million hours of volunteerism in the community, including participation in Make A Difference Day and National Volunteer Week.

With approximately 600 Comrades and 150 Ladies Auxiliary members, the Springfield VFW Post 7327 stands out for the depth of its commitment to our community. Often called ``The Friendliest VFW Post in Virginia,'' Post 7327 has one of the most aggressive ADOPT-A UNIT programs in the entire VFW organization to support our service members stationed overseas. VFW Post 7327 visits the VA hospital at least quarterly, bringing along goodie bags for our Wounded Warriors. Each Thanksgiving and Christmas, VFW Post 7327 adopts military families in need through the USO and provides them with meal baskets for each holiday, gifts for children, commissary cards for the parents, and a Christmas party where the children can meet Santa and receive a gift-filled stocking. The Ladies Auxiliary members collect, sort, and distribute more than 2,000 pieces of clothing each month to various charitable organizations.

VFW Post 7327 is a strong supporter of local youth organizations including the Boys Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Little League Baseball that contribute greatly to the education and well-being of our children.

Each year, VFW Post 7327 bestows awards to local students who have submitted outstanding essays on a specific theme and to local teachers and public safety officers in recognition of their extraordinary actions and dedication to the community.

I am honored to include in the Record the names of this year's award recipients:

Patriot's Pen: 1st Place--Madeline Elizabeth Chambers, 2nd Place-- Miriya Gyalokay, 3rd Place--Tyra C. Lovell.

Voice of Democracy: 1st Place--Austin Houck, 2nd Place--Dorian M. Dore.

Teacher of the Year: Mrs. Carrie Messina, Poe Middle School, Ms. Heather Sable, Bush Hill Elementary School.

Firefighter Award: Firefighter/EMT Michael See.

EMT Award: EMT Anna Morgan.

Law Enforcement Award: PFC Scott Reever.

National EMT Award: EMT Tory Albertson.

National Firefighter Award: Firefighter Samantha Green.

Community Americanism Award: Christopher Reese, Samantha Mulvaney.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in thanking VFW Post 7327 for its continued efforts on behalf of our community and in congratulating the honorees of the 2019 Americanism Awards.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue and its outstanding members who have demonstrated superior dedication to public safety and are the 2019 recipients of the prestigious Prince William Chamber of Commerce Merit Award and Valorous Unit Award for their service. The annual Prince William Chamber of Commerce Valor Awards recognize remarkable heroism and bravery above and beyond the line of duty exemplified by our public safety and law enforcement professionals.

For the past 33 years, the Prince William Chamber of Commerce has paid tribute to our firefighters, police officers, and emergency personnel for their extraordinary service. These brave men and women put their lives at risk on a daily basis to keep our families and neighborhoods safe. For fire and rescue personnel, no two days are alike. Always on the front lines, the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue is comprised of three sections: community safety, operations, and support systems. Dedicated service members of a combination career and volunteer system fight fires, provide emergency medical services, perform rescues, and work in our community to promote fire safety and prevention.

The Department of Fire and Rescue was founded in 1966, when just about 50,000 people lived in Prince William County. Through the years, the Department has had to continuously adapt as the population rapidly expanded to over 430,000 people. Yet, our Fire and Rescue department continues to provide high quality and efficient firefighting and emergency medical services to our community. They provide around the clock services from 22 fire stations in a county spanning 348 square miles.

In recognition of their acts of valor, it is my honor to include in the Record the following names of the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue public safety personnel:

Merit Award for Valor: Technician I Cody Durham, Lieutenant Nick Feliciano, Technician II Chris Gott, Lieutenant Kenneth Zack.

Valorous Unit: Technician II Christopher Clark, Technician II Daniel Jackson, Technician I Kevin Ganssle, Technician I Michael Baker, Captain Brian Ferguson, Technician I Victor Vega, Technician I Aldo Bonilla, Technician I Michael Chergosky.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 2019 Prince William Chamber of Commerce Valor Award recipients of the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue. The selfless acts of heroism by this distinguished group of men and women truly merits our highest praise. I thank each honoree, as well as all Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue public safety professionals for their dedication and commitment to the protection of our communities.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Shepherd's Center of Oakton-Vienna and to thank them for their many contributions to the Northern Virginia community. Organized in 1997, the Shepherd's Center of Oakton-Vienna (SCOV) is a non-profit that provides services to help older adults continue living independently, and it offers programs that supply opportunities for enrichment, learning, and socialization. Services are available free of charge to anyone age 50 or older who resides in the local community.

Last year, 250 volunteers provided 3,000 hours of service to the Northern Virginia community. Volunteer drivers provided more than 900 round-trip rides for medical reasons and other errands. Volunteers also made regular contact with individuals who may have limited interaction and may feel isolated in their homes. ``Handy Helpers'' made minor home repairs to help older adults keep their homes safe and livable. The Health Team provided individual health counseling, referral to community resources, and blood pressure readings. Volunteers also run programs such as Lunch n' Life, Adventures in Learning, trips and outings, special events, and caregivers' support groups. In 2014, SCOV was recognized for these efforts as an Outstanding Volunteer Caregiving Program by the National Volunteer Caregiving Network.

The services and programs offered by this extraordinary organization help to ensure that our seniors stay connected to the community through the promotion of active lifestyles, ongoing social integration, and availability of resources for older residents to use and share their experience, training, and skills. This year, a number of volunteers are receiving awards for their dedicated service to the community through the Shepherd's Center and its programs. It is my honor to include in the Record the names of the following individuals:

Bob Abbott, Jean Bastien, Marsha Komandt, Jerry O'Shaughnessy, Lynn Rafferty, Lynn Rhoads, Burt Sharp, Wanda Snuggs, Kathy Tugenhadt, Pat Wood.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in thanking the many volunteers who generously dedicate their time and efforts to the welfare of our neighbors. The value of their contributions cannot be overstated and are truly deserving of our highest praise.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Asian-American Chamber of Commerce and the recipients of the 2019 Excellence Awards.

The Asian-American Chamber of Commerce (AACC) is dedicated to improving economic development opportunities for Asian Pacific American-owned businesses in the Washington, D.C., region. Northern Virginia has a robust international business community and is home to the largest concentration of minority-owned technology firms in the nation.

The AACC and its members contribute greatly to our regional culture as well as to our economic strength and stability. In fact, Asian- American businesses generate more than 52 percent of total revenues generated by all minority owned businesses in this region. In Fairfax County, approximately 25,000 businesses

are Asian-owned and generate approximately $9 billion in annual revenue, creating 54,000 jobs.

Each year, the AACC recognizes individuals, businesses and non-profit organizations that have made extraordinary contributions to the Metropolitan Washington community and economy. I am pleased to include in the Record the names of the 2019 Excellence award recipients:

Member of the Year: Ken Fang, President, Mobomo, LLC.

Business of the Year (50 or fewer employees): Weris, Inc.

Business of the Year (51 or more employees): Lerch, Early & Brewer, Chtd.

New Business of the Year: CFO Restart, LLC.

Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Lydia Zhang.

Chamber Partner of the Year: M&T Bank.

Not-for-Profit of the Year: Korean Community Service Center.

Asian Business Leader: Sanjiv Jain--CEO, eGlobalTech.

International Business of the Year: Akinnovate.

Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr. Gerald Gordon.

Chairman/President Award: Laura Beldin.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the recipients of the 2019 Excellence Awards and in commending the AACC for its work to support to all Asian-American owned businesses throughout our region.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the recipients of the Fairfax Federation of Citizens Associations Citizen of the Year Awards. The Federation is a coalition of civic and homeowners associations who work together to promote and support initiatives that will benefit all. Each year, the Federation honors individuals for their extraordinary contributions to our community. It is my honor to include in the Record the following individuals:

2019 Citizen of the Year: Catherine Ledec: Cathy Ledec has lived a lifetime of volunteerism that began when she was 14. She volunteers with several Fairfax County Park Authority programs and is actively engaged in numerous citizen science activities with both the Fairfax County Park Authority and the National Audubon Society. In January 2019, Cathy was elected as Chair of the Fairfax County Tree Commission. She is also an active leader in her HOA, Pavilions at Huntington Metro Community Association, leading landscaping efforts and converting to all native plants and trees. Cathy also led the re-landscaping of the Mt. Vernon Government Center and led the installation of two native pollinator meadows at Mt. Eagle Park and within her neighborhood. In addition, Cathy led two significant and complex conservation efforts at Huntley Meadows Park, resulting in the protection of rare natural and historic resources for present and future generations to enjoy. Cathy conducts massive public outreach at community events, enthusiastically inspiring others to come experience the natural world here in Fairfax County. She passionately fulfills the purpose of the nature-oriented certifications and designations she has earned, including Certification as a Fairfax Master Naturalist and Audubon-at-Home Program Ambassador.

Citation of Merit: Alberto Figueiredo-Sangiorgio: Alberto Figueiredo-Sangiorgio serves as the executive chef and general manager for Wildflour Caterers. Wildflour operates as a bakery and deli shop, and primarily employs individuals with developmental disabilities. Overseeing the chef-in-training program at Wildflour as well as daily operations, Chef Alberto ensures that these individuals receive valuable training and employment in a positive and accepting environment that allows them to build independence, strengthen their skill sets, and have a strong sense of community in their daily lives. The operations of Wildflour Catering serve as an example for the business community across the region to follow. For over 23 years, Chef Alberto has ensured that individuals with developmental disabilities not only have a place to work, but are provided with skills and opportunities to ensure a better quality of life going forward.

Citation of Merit: Tania Hossain: Tania Hossain has worked with various organizations as a volunteer leader for over two decades to enhance the quality of life for all county residents. Tania led the Fairfax County Federation of Citizens' Associations to fulfill her vision to ensure each Magisterial District had their own district council--a platform for the community to engage and act on issues that are important to them. In her role as President, Tania was instrumental in revitalizing not only the Federation's organizational effectiveness but also in promoting the revitalization of the Providence, Mason, Lee, and Springfield District Councils. Tania has served on numerous other boards, commissions, and organizations in leadership roles as well. She served as Chair of the Fairfax Cooperative Extension Leadership Council where she was responsible for advocating and fundraising for programs such as the 4-H Clubs and Master Gardeners. In addition, she served two terms as At-Large Advocacy Chair for the Commonwealth's Cooperative Extension Leadership Council. Tania represented Providence District on the Fairfax County Commission for Women, where she served as Vice-Chair of the Women's Voices Forum that led the first significant survey conducted on issues facing women and girls in Fairfax County. Tania was also the liaison for the Commission to the Commonwealth's Task Force on Human Trafficking. Most recently, Tania has served as President of the Providence District Council. In that role, she established leadership development for future officers to ensure the continuity of the organization. Tania also led extensive membership outreach and increased online visibility to Providence District residents which has led the PDC being one of the most active and engaged District Councils in Fairfax County.

Special Gratitude Award: John F. Ribble III: John F. Ribble III has been a member of the Fairfax County Board of Zoning Appeals since 1982, serving as Vice-Chairman for several years and as Chairman since 2012. John has also been active in Riverside Gardens Civic Association in Alexandria, serving as President four times. He remains active in the Mount Vernon Council of Citizens Associations, currently serving as one of the organization's co-chairs. He has also served in leadership on numerous other groups. He served as Co-Chair of the Mount Vernon Visionary Task Force and as a member of Fairfax County Council of the Arts, now known as ArtsFairfax. He has served in multiple other positions, such as Past President of Belle Haven Country Club and as a volunteer firefighter for Arlington County. In addition to his extensive civic engagement, he is also the President of Old Dominion Title in Alexandria.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking these incredible individuals and in congratulating them on their awards. Civic engagement is the foundation of a healthy community, and Fairfax County residents enjoy an exceptional quality of life due in part to the efforts of these individuals. The contributions and leadership of these honorees have greatly benefitted our community and truly merit our highest praise.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Vienna Arts Society on the occasion of its 50th anniversary. Since 1969, the Vienna Arts Society has worked to cultivate and maintain an interest in the fine arts in the Town of Vienna. The impact that the arts can have on a community and its residents cannot be overstated. As an amateur thespian myself, I can attest to the transformative power the arts can have on an individual's life and I commend the Vienna Arts Society for its work to ensure that this transformative power is found in Vienna. The Vienna Arts Society does this in many different ways, whether it be its annual print making workshop for children, providing illustrations for the Town calendar, creating Christmas decorations for display during the holidays, providing high school scholarships or their work with numerous Scout troops.

This year is also significant because the Vienna Arts Society is hosting the first ever national art competition in the town, through its Treasure of Art reception at the newly renovated Vienna Community Center. I look forward to seeing the contributions of our local residents. A number of those artists are also receiving awards as a result of the excellence of their work. I am pleased to include in the Record the names of the following individuals:

1st Place

Lola Santos, ``Pio'', acrylic & collage

2nd Place

Carolyn Marshall Wright, ``Cherries Jubilee'' acrylic on canvas

3rd Place

Ray Goodrow, ``Rodeo'' watercolor

Honorable Mentions

Karen Hutchison, ``Indigo Blues'' acrylic & mixed medium

Carla Steckley, ``Aspens'' photograph

Susan Scanlon, ``Girl with a Red Bag'' photograph

Helen Power, ``Layers & Levels'' mixed media

Grace Rooney, ``Field of Flowers'' acrylic on yup

Alice Nodine, ``Safezone'' acrylic & ink on paper

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the winners of the Treasure of Art show and in congratulating the Vienna Arts Society on this momentous anniversary. I wish them great success in all their future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, I rise to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vienna-Oakton Chapter 1116 of the National Association of Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE).

NARFE is a national organization that was founded in 1921 to support both active and retired federal employees. It functions as an information resource, keeping its members up-to-date on federal retirement, health care, compensation and other benefits that affect federal employees and retirees. It also advocates on behalf of its members to protect and enhance the benefits they have earned.

With well over 1,000 chapters nationwide, NARFE also serves as a source of community engagement. It unites public servants and provides them with opportunities to do what they do best: serve their community.

Today, I would like to recognize the past and current members and leaders of NARFE Chapter 1116. They have contributed to a thriving civil society in Northern Virginia and are part of the backbone that makes both our community and this country great. I would like to specifically recognize President Kathy Arpa and the other officers and board members for their dedication and efforts on behalf of our current and retired federal employees.

The federal government cannot function effectively and efficiently without the hard work and commitment of our exceptional civil servants. NARFE Chapter 1116 has advocated and supported our public servants for the past 50 years and I am honored to recognize the Chapter on this occasion.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating NARFE Chapter 1116 for 50 years of service to our federal workers and to wish them continued success protecting the rights of current and future federal workers and retirees.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize PRS CrisisLink on its 50th anniversary. This occasion carries great significance for my family and I, as my wife is co-chair of the Congressional Spouses for Suicide Prevention and Education.

PRS CrisisLink is a free 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention program that offers a free and confidential crisis and suicide prevention hotline for Northern Virginia and the Washington, D.C. region.

Under the leadership of Wendy Gradison, PRS CrisisLink continues to evolve into a highly important resource within our community. Based on a 2009 report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, PRS CrisisLink has determined that an estimated 72,000 residents of Northern Virginia have a serious mental illness with the majority of whom not receiving treatment. Given the high numbers of persons with mental illness, PRS seeks ways to serve those in need through a variety of programs.

PRS CrisisLink hotlines are staffed by highly trained volunteers and crisis line workers who provide helpful information about community services, referrals to mental health services and tips on how to help those struggling with mental health issues.

With many community members in Northern Virginia and the Washington, D.C. region still in dire need of mental health services and support, PRS CrisisLink aims to further expand service delivery to reach as many individuals as possible.

Each year, PRS serves more than 1,100 clients. Last year alone the volunteers and staff at CrisisLink responded to 45,000 phone calls. I commend the staff and volunteers for their selfless service to our community. The tools they provide to help individuals with mental illness live with dignity and become fully integrated members of our community.

Madam Speaker, programs like PRS CrisisLink are a testament to good community leadership and further evidence that we live in a community that cares. I commend the staff and volunteers of PRS CrisisLink for the lifesaving work they do every day on behalf of others. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating PRS CrisisLink on its 50th anniversary and in thanking them for their continued service to our community.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Volunteer Fairfax and express my sincere appreciation to recipients of the 27th Annual Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards.

Established more than 40 years ago, Volunteer Fairfax matches the skills and interests of thousands of volunteers with the needs of local non-profit organizations. The success of this model and its impact on delivery of needed services is beyond question; Volunteer Fairfax has been rated as one of the most effective community service organizations in the nation.

Last year alone, over 6,000 individuals contributed more than 328,000 volunteer hours totaling almost $8,000,000. These staggering numbers are a testament to the strong ethos of public service and of volunteerism that exists in Fairfax County and is one of the many reasons why this community is such a wonderful place to live.

Each year, Volunteer Fairfax selects a few exceptional individuals, groups, or organizations to receive special recognition. It is my great pleasure to include in the Record the following names of the 2019 Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards honorees.

Community Champions

Braddock District: Allan Boswell Robertson

Dranesville District: Homer W. Johns

Hunter Mill District: St John Neumann Catholic Church

Lee District: Liz Murphy

Mason District: Binod Gupta

Mount Vernon District: Jonathan Kiell

Providence District: Oakton Women's Club

Springfield District: Jenni Cantwell

Sully District: Carol Robinson

At-Large: John D. Pellegrin

Competitive Award Winners

Adult Volunteer 250 Hours and Over: Julie Hill

Adult Volunteer 250 Hours and Under: Danae Delman

Adult Volunteer Group: OLLI Photo Club

Corporate Volunteer Program: Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry

Fairfax County Government Individual Volunteer: Stephen Richardson

Fairfax County Government Volunteer Program: Fairfax County Public Library Volunteer Program

Family Volunteer: Linda and Stefanie Kline

Lifetime Achievement: Kevin Holland

Rising Star: Stephanie Bridgewater

RSVP: Sheller Brosnan

Senior Volunteer: Alcira Pernot

Volunteer Program: Ecumenical Community Helping Others

Youth Volunteer: Carmela Dangale

Youth Volunteer Group: Stony Brook Jr. Volunteers

In addition, Benchmark Honors will be awarded in four different categories to commend those who have contributed 100, 250, 500, or 1,000 hours of volunteer time to our community.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending Volunteer Fairfax for its decades of outstanding community service. I congratulate the recipients of the 2019 Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards and thank them and the thousands of other local volunteers for their incredible contributions to our community. Their selfless dedication is worthy of our highest praise and is one of the main reasons that our community is often ranked as one of the best places in the country to live, work, and raise a family.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize First Baptist Church of Vienna and my friend, Pastor Vernon C. Walton, on the occasion of his 5th anniversary as pastor. Installed in 2014 after the retirement of the Rev. Dr. Kenny Smith, Pastor Walton has continued the legacy of spiritual wealth left behind by his predecessor. As someone who spent time with Rev. Dr. Smith, I can attest that having to fill his shoes as pastor is an unenviable task. However, Pastor Walton has not only succeeded in this task, but thrived.

As someone who studied for the Catholic priesthood, I can also speak to the unique benefits and challenges of being called to ministry. Being entrusted with the pastoral health of a congregation as large as First Baptist Church of Vienna is a significant undertaking and I commend Pastor Walton for handling it with dedication, devotion and with grace.

Pastor Walton's tenure has also enhanced First Baptist Church of Vienna's civic engagement. I have attended multiple events in the sanctuary designed to boost the civic engagement and awareness of the congregation. Most recently, I attended a community forum on affordable housing put together by the Fairfax chapter of the NAACP. First Baptist had graciously allowed its sanctuary to be used as the staging location for the event and Pastor Walton was a featured speaker. The sight of hundreds of people, many of them congregation members, coming together to educate themselves on one of the most pressing issues facing our community was inspiring. I have no doubt that there will be more events like this under Pastor Walton's leadership.

In times of turmoil and uncertainty, it is critical that members of a community have a unifying force or entity in which they can find strength and reassurance. First Baptist Church of Vienna has provided that spiritual strength for this community for centuries and I am confident that, under the leadership of Pastor

Walton and the efforts of the entire ministry team, staff and congregation, it will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Pastor Vernon C. Walton and the entire congregation of First Baptist Church of Vienna for their continued service to their faith and to the community. I commend them for their efforts and ask my colleagues to join me in wishing them continued success in all their future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize a group of individuals who have selflessly dedicated themselves to the betterment of their community. Each year, the Reston Association recognizes individuals who have gone above and beyond with the Volunteer Reston awards. Reston is well known to be a shining example of civic engagement and this event, held during National Volunteer Week, honors those who have made significant impacts on the lives of others and the community. In Fairfax County, we are blessed with an incredible abundance of generosity of spirit and the individuals who are being honored with these awards are the embodiment of that spirit.

It is my honor to include in the Record the names of 2019 Volunteer Reston award winners:

Volunteer of the Year

Doug Britt

Cindy Metcalf

55+ Volunteer of the Year

Don Coram

Community Partner of the Year

Family PASS/Mary O'Reilly

Group Volunteer Service of the Year

Andrew Sigle

Janet Bradshaw

Gerald Padmore

Darlena Ricks

Carol Anne Bradley

Sandra Deleon

Syazana Durrani

Emily Huaroco

Kathleen Jones

Luis Ortiz Lopez

Maryam Ovissi

Alexandra Rossi

Work Group Volunteer of the Year

Belinda Collins

Pat & Paul Dunham

Dale Erickson

Renette Okiewicz

Judy & Bob Wolf

Marianne Zawitz

Ken Fredgren

Micki Morawitz

Louis Finch

Lyn Jagger

Madam Speaker, civic engagement is at the heart of a healthy community and it is clear from these awardees that Reston remains one of the healthiest communities in Northern Virginia. I congratulate all of the recipients on their awards and thank them for their service to our community. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing them great success in all their future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the recipients of the 28th Annual Best of Reston Awards for Community Service. These awards are the result of collaboration between Cornerstones and the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce and are presented to individuals, organizations, and businesses whose extraordinary efforts make our community a better place.

I have been proud to represent this community since my days as Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. The level of civic engagement celebrated by these awards is a testament to the community spirit of Reston. I have often said that civic engagement is a key indicator of a healthy community and tonight's event proves that Reston continues to be one of the healthiest communities in all of Northern Virginia! That is due in no small part to the actions of those honored here this evening and I extend my congratulations to all of tonight's honorees. I also wish to thank John Thomas and Kerrie Wilson of Cornerstones and Charlene Wheeless and Mark Ingrao of the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce for their tireless efforts on behalf of others and in making our community one of the best places in the country in which to live, work and raise a family.

It is my honor to include in the Record the names of the recipients of the 2019 Best of Reston Awards:

Bob Schnapp--Feeding Families--One Green Bag after Another

Mike and Ellen Jennings--Expertise that Makes a Difference--It's Their Thing

Omicron Kappa Kappa Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity/OKK Foundation, Inc.--The Colors of Their Service are Purple and Gold

Maggie Parker--Passion that Leads to Lasting Success

Roz Rakoff--An Essential Community Kindness Connector

Kurt Rose--A Sparkling Gem of Community Spirit

Synergy Design & Construction (Mina and Mark Fies)--Constructing Better Lives by Design

The 2019 Vade Bolton-Ann Rodriguez Legacy Award--Entrusting Our Community's Future Recipient: Touching Heart (Helen and

Taylor Yi)--Generations Inspiring Gifts of Love from Open Hearts

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the 2019 Best of Reston honorees for their tremendous contributions. l thank Cornerstones and the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce for continuing this wonderful tradition, and I express my sincere gratitude to these individuals, businesses, and organizations for lending their time and energy to the betterment of our community.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding group of men and women In Northern Virginia. These individuals have demonstrated superior dedication to public safety and have been awarded the prestigious Valor Award by the Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce.

This is the 41st Annual Valor Awards sponsored by the Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce. This event honors the remarkable heroism and bravery in the line of duty exemplified by our public safety officers. Our public safety and law enforcement personnel put their lives on the line every day to keep our families and neighborhoods safe. This year's ceremony will present 123 awards to recognize extraordinary actions above and beyond the call of duty in a variety of categories including the Lifesaving Certificate, the Certificate of Valor, and the Bronze and Silver Medal of Valor.

Twenty awards will be bestowed upon first responders who serve with the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in recognition of their exceptional service. It is with great pride that I include in the Record the names of the following Valor Award Recipients:

Silver Medal of Valor

Lt. Rudy Iturrino,

Lt. Edward Payne

Lt. Mark Fernandez

Master Technician John Capps

Master Technician Luis Mata

Master Technician Joshua Morrison

Master Technician Robert Pickel

Technician Dominic Runfola

Firefighter Stephen Langone

Firefighter Christopher George

Fire Medic Robert Elam

Bronze Medal of Valor

Lt. William Hyden Jr.

Lt. Angel Medina

Firefighter Christopher Murray

Firefighter Jonathan Shao

Certificate of Valor

Lt. Lawrence Mullin

Technician Jason Dolan

Technician Andrew Reedy

Lifesaving Certificate

Captain II Felicia Barnes

Lt. William Schnaekel

Madam Speaker, I congratulate the 2019 Valor Award Recipients, and thank each of the men and women who serve in the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department. Their efforts, made on behalf of the citizens of our community, are selfless acts of heroism and truly merit our highest praise. I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding this group of remarkable citizens.