Gerald Connolly

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I have listened with great, rapt attention this afternoon to my friends, Mr. Chaffetz and Mr. Meadows, who have gone on eloquently about protecting the Constitution of the United States at, of course, the collateral expense of the people of the District of Columbia. They cite the Constitution as if the Constitution and the Founders who wrote it were fully cognizant of the evolution that was going to take place in the District of Columbia when we know, as a historical fact, the Constitution was actually written before there was a District of Columbia, let alone almost 700,000 American citizens still denied voting representation in this body today. In fact, that very Constitution my friends cite protected slavery, decided that certain people of color were only worth three-fifths of the normal mortal, but allowed the South to count them for the purposes of representation in this body. The same Constitution. We changed it. We took cognizance of changes in reality. The fact that you exercise your will over an entire city just because you can does not make it right or noble. In fact, if we follow the logic of my friends on the other side of the aisle, why not just take over the day-to-day mechanics of running the government of the city? So let's do rezoning. Let's do emergency preparedness. Let's run the police department. Let's run the EMT and the fire department. Let's take over mental health facilities and human services. Why go only halfway? Why go only halfway? I am curious. What is it about the budget that is so sacred? All the rest you are going to let go. This final amendment, Mr. Speaker, will preserve a small modicum of the District's control over local taxpayer dollars to prevent and treat the emerging threat of Zika. If adopted, we can move to immediate final passage of the bill. Although we may disagree--and do--on the underlying purpose of the bill, surely we can agree on the seriousness of the Zika threat. There have already been 4 reported cases of travel-associated Zika here in the District, 15 in the Commonwealth of Virginia, my home State, and 17 in Maryland. It may seem foreign to some of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle, but in the National Capital Region, the two States, D.C., and the region's local governments actually have a rich tradition of working together, including in public health. Working through the Council of Governments, which I used to chair, our local and State partners regularly come together. The District of Columbia needs to be a full partner in those regional efforts so that it cannot be placed in a position of having to come to Congress to actually ask for permission before spending its own local dollars on Zika prevention and education. I might add, it is not just the people of the District of Columbia who will be at risk if we are not addressing Zika in an efficacious way; it is the 12 million constituents, the people my friend from North Carolina (Mr. Meadows) represents and that I represent who come to this city every year to visit the Nation's Capital. Will we protect them? Or will we dither here in Congress? There is irony in that, isn't there? Because we can't get our own budget together. We can't pass our own appropriations bills, but we are going to second-guess the local government here in the District of Columbia because somehow we do it better? I don't think there is a neutral observer who would conclude that. But we are going to do it cloaked in the respectability of a constitutional argument that is, I believe, false and antiquated--not because the Constitution is antiquated, but because what was known in the late 18th century at the time of the writing of the Constitution is different today. Are we going to return to the plantation mentality Congress used to have with respect to the District of Columbia? Or are we actually going to act on principle here, not ideology? We are not going to fire up our base or the right-wing radio talk show hosts. We are actually going to do the right thing--the right thing for 700,000 fellow citizens--and let them have an ounce of decency with respect to their own self- determination. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CONNOLLY. I am in its current form.

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I have a motion to recommit at the desk.

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend my constituent, Mr. Kirk Yeager, on his commitment to government service and his nomination as a finalist for the 2016 Samuel J. Heyman Service to American Medal. Service to America Medals, or Sammies as they've become known, are presented annually by the nonprofit, nonpartisan Partnership for Public Service to honor outstanding federal employees who have made significant contributions to our nation. In recognizing their achievements, we not only pay tribute to our dedicated federal workforce, but also promote a culture of innovation and achievement in our government. When there is a terrorist bombing or a new type of explosive poses a threat to the U.S., the FBI primarily turns to one man: Kirk Yeager. Kirk is the FBI's resident bomb expert; anything that deals with explosives that comes to the FBI, goes to Kirk. Yeager doesn't just respond to crises. In his daily work, he oversees the bureau's research focused on getting a better understanding of the explosives terrorists use. He also developed the FBI's advanced training material on terrorist explosives. As a chemist and an engineer, as well as one of the FBI's five senior laboratory scientists, Kirk has been studying bomb-making for more than 20 years. His goal is to understand what ingredients are used, how bombs are made, and how they can be detected. He seeks to use this knowledge to trace devices to specific terrorist organizations or known bomb-makers around the world. As part of his work, he helped start a training program and developed information for bomb technicians across the country, including those employed by private companies. In one instance, the training materials helped a shipping company successfully stop a ``lone wolf'' plot, according to Kirk. He says his biggest challenge is trying to keep up with the evolving nature of the terrorist threat. He will continue to ``reproduce everything that the bad guys do,'' he said, so he can save lives and ``make a difference and contribute to the broader community.'' I would like to personally thank Kirk Yeager for his service to our country and for his tireless work to protect the people of the United States. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me once more in recognizing the tremendous contributions of Mr. Kirk Yeager. He is but one of many dedicated federal employees performing extraordinary work through the federal government in communities across America each and every day.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and remember an extraordinary advocate for workers of all kinds, Mr. Terence J. O'Sullivan. Terence dedicated his life to advocating on behalf of workers and, more important, negotiating collective bargaining agreements that helped workers earn pay to support their families, good benefits, and the opportunity for advancement and better lives. He was the General Secretary-Treasurer of the Laborers International Union of North America (LIUNA), one of the most diverse and effective unions representing public service employees. Terence dedicated his life to fighting for workers' rights and for social and economic justice. He chose this path because of the strong working tradition that grew out of his Irish heritage and a dedication to assisting those in need, which he found as a man of deep faith. Following in his stead, his son Terry continues as the General President of LIUNA, continuing his father's strong leadership tradition and example for the American labor movement. Terence was a positive force in the lives of thousands, if not millions, of workers across the nation through his advocacy and the positive changes he supported. Terence recently passed away in the 11th District of Virginia in what would have been his 86th year. Although he will be greatly missed, his legacy will endure through those he touched, those he helped, and the societal changes he championed.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the bipartisan amendment I have co-written with my colleague, Judge Ted Poe of Texas. The amendment, which is part of the en bloc amendments, endorses an ongoing effort at the Defense Security Cooperation Agency to develop a comprehensive framework for the assessment, monitoring, and evaluation of security cooperation activities of the Department of Defense. It follows a related monitoring evaluation amendment Judge Poe and I offered to the NDAA for FY 2016 and the committee retained, gratefully, in the 2017 bill. Security cooperation with foreign security forces builds valuable international partnerships and enhances the ability of our partners to carry out joint military operations and enhances American security while it is at it. However, few requirements are placed on these programs to measure the impact of funding provided to our foreign security partners. Looking at efficacy, does it work? Judge Poe and I have led the effort to apply assessment, monitoring, and evaluation leading principles to U.S. foreign assistance administered by the State Department, USAID, and other Federal agencies. Last year, the House of Representatives passed our bill, the Foreign Aid Transparency and Accountability, H.R. 3766. We should have a similar expectation of accountability for our security cooperation programs as well. I welcome the committee's bipartisan efforts to begin to reform, consolidate, and modify the more than 120 security cooperation authorities Congress has provided DOD over the years. Notably, the underlying bill strengthens country-by-country reporting requirements for security cooperation and begins to reorganize security cooperation authorities into one coherent separate section of title X of the U.S. Code. Furthermore, the Senate is advancing an NDAA bill that requires DOD to produce an annual budget justification for security cooperation funding. There is obviously significant demand, Mr. Chairman, for more transparency and accountability in terms of U.S. security cooperation. Our amendment is consistent with that demand, and it builds on the great work done by the committee in this area to define clear objectives and metrics for security cooperation. I want to thank the chairman, the ranking member, and both committee staffs, minority and majority, for their excellent work and for their bipartisan approach to this and so many other issues in the bill.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Chair, H.L. Mencken once said that for every human problem there is a solution that is simple, neat, and wrong. I have a lot of sympathy for Mr. Thornberry's amendment and for what is behind it. He talks about micromanagement. Micromanagement goes back to the very founding of the National Security Council. You think that Richard Nixon's Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense didn't think Henry Kissinger micromanaged when he was the National Security Adviser? He surreptitiously altered the U.S. policy to China, on his own, with his staff at NSC. There is a long tradition of micromanagement and interference, and I have no doubt that Mr. Thornberry is right. Every Secretary of Defense and every Secretary of State would have a similar complaint. Of course they would, and they might be right. To elevate this job over 100 people, to Senate confirmation, actually aggravates the problem. Now you are going to codify the micromanagement. You are actually going to make this a policymaking apparatus, in direct competition with the very department you are trying to help, the Department of Defense and the Department of State. It is the wrong answer to the growing size of an NSC. I don't remember Republican complaints about the growth of the NSC under the previous administration, and maybe we can work together in the future to try to make sure that we have a more manageable size. I applaud, certainly, the fact that the current NSC administrator has reduced the NSC by 12 percent. I know we can do better. But I don't think this amendment is the way to do it, respectfully.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 88, reaffirming the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances as the cornerstone of U.S.-Taiwan relations. As a co-Chair of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, I want to thank my colleague and founding co-Chair of the Taiwan Caucus, Steve Chabot, for introducing this measure. When discussing the origins, stakeholders, and impact of the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA), it is important to note the significant role Congress played in amending the draft legislation the Executive Branch proposed for the maintenance of unofficial relations with Taiwan. I want to thank the Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee for working with me on an amendment to H. Con. Res. 88 that credits Congress with significantly strengthening the TRA and the codified U.S. commitment to Taiwan. The draft legislative text proposed by the Executive Branch published in the March 1979 Department of State Bulletin included three simple titles to provide the legal authority for the maintenance of commercial, cultural, and other relations with Taiwan. However, the Taiwan Relations Act enacted into law bears little resemblance to the text published in the March 1979 Bulletin. Through the legislative process in both the House of Representatives and Senate, Congress left its mark on our enduring commitment to Taiwan in several ways, most notably by adding the security commitments made in Section 2(b)(5) and Section 3 of the TRA. The U.S. and Taiwan have since developed a dynamic relationship based on our shared values, deep economic ties, security relationship, and a history of bilateral collaboration. It is in the tradition of Congressional stewardship of the U.S.- Taiwan relationship that I urge my colleagues to support H. Con. Res. 88.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Northern Virginia Football Hall of Fame (NVFHOF) and to congratulate the 2016 inductees and scholarship award recipients. Participation in organized sports instills many values that will serve our youth well throughout life, including sportsmanship, teamwork, honesty, and the work ethic developed by striving for success and working to achieve a common goal. For 26 years, the NVFHOF has recognized the efforts of players, coaches, officials, and cheerleaders from local youth and scholastic football programs and inducts a few exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to the game. In addition, the NVHOF presents several student-athletes with scholarships to help defray the cost of college. I commend the NVFHOF and congratulate the following students, coaches and community leaders who are being recognized during the 26th Annual NVFHOF Awards Banquet: $1,500 Scholarship Award Recipients: Madeleine Maria Morgan, Riley Newell, Michael Vaughn, and Kullen Kritsky Fairfax County Football Hall of Fame 2016 Inductees: Eugene Y. Chung, Robert Meadows, and Brian Newell Football Officials of the Year: Brian Pelleteir, Dave McKee, Darelle Crandall Karl Davey Community Achievement Award: Michael Godwin Tom Davis Meritorious Service Award: Bill Curran Gene Nelson Commissioner of the Year Award: Brian Edwards High School Coaches of the Year: Kyle Simmons, Jason Dawson High School Players of the Year: Tyler Scanlon, Ceneca Espinoza, Jr., Kevin Allen, Zac Kerxton, Josh Hurlburt, Zach Burdick Youth Coaches of the Year: Brian Conway, Rex Petrey, Phil Anderson, and Randy McCargo Youth Sports Players of the Year: Max Garrison Gomez, Christopher Allen, Jalen Thomas Walker, Chet Kane Collins, Charlie O'Connor, Will Allen, Luke Fernandez, Clayton Rosenberger, Tyga Golden, Henry Hogan, Brodie Carroll, Michael Honesty, Mason Miles, Dayton Lipscomb, Scott Woods II, Nate Williams, Matthew Flenniken, Darius Brown, Clayton Sheffield, Nick Anderson, Dominick Keator, and Andrew Margiotta Youth Cheerleaders of the Year: Ariana Lewis, Naterria Tillery, Aislinn Emery, Jessica Daly, and Janelle Lenore Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the Northern Virginia Hall of Fame as well as those students, coaches and community leaders who are being honored at the 2016 Football Hall of Fame celebration.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative (NOVEC), which was recognized during the 6th Annual Hylton Center for Performing Arts Awards Gala for its commitment to supporting communities in Northern Virginia. Founded on January 1, 1983, the not-for-profit distribution cooperative provides electrical services to more than 160,000 homes and businesses located in Clarke, Fairfax, Fauquier, Loudoun, Stafford, and Prince William counties, the cities of Manassas and Manassas Park, and the Town of Clifton. As one of the largest electric cooperatives of its kind in the United States, NOVEC's service territory spans 651 square miles. Over the past 33 years, NOVEC has achieved and maintained excellence in the areas of safety, customer satisfaction, and technology management, showcasing an extensive record of efficiency and productivity. Their service is consistently ranked the best in the region, averaging a 99.99 percent average system reliability over the past 5 years. As a cooperative, NOVEC's customers have an ownership interest, and therefore, share in any profits generated by the company. These profits are allocated annually to improve the health and well- being of customer-owners and community residents. NOVEC is invested in the community with emphasis placed in the areas of corporate sponsorship, community volunteerism, and customer outreach. Displaying its commitment to active community engagement, NOVEC reaches beyond the power lines and invests in the community. Customers and members of the general public are invited to take advantage of the services and resources offered by NOVEC, including financial scholarships, legislative tours to expose youth to the federal and state legislative processes, and hands-on engagement through volunteerism. NOVEC works to inspire and empower the people it serves to take an active role in their community. A time-tested initiative is Operation Round-Up. Program participants voluntarily have their bill rounded up to the next dollar to assist local families who have fallen on hard times to pay for their winter heating bills through donations to heating-assistance programs at six local social service agencies. Since the establishment of Operation Round-Up in 1997, the program has generated close to $750,000 in heating assistance. Another initiative unique to NOVEC is its relationship with the Hylton Performing Arts Center. NOVEC continues to serve as an instrumental partner through its constant support of the Hylton Center's artists and initiatives. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing NOVEC as the 6th Annual Hylton Performing Arts Awards Gala honoree for its involvement and investment in the residents of Northern Virginia.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the honorees of the 2016 Prince William County Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. The Prince William Chamber of Commerce is comprised of a diverse membership, which represents nearly 70,000 employees. Together, they create a sustainable environment where businesses and people thrive by focusing on business growth, economic development, advocacy, education, and community outreach. For the fifth year in a row, the Chamber will recognize excellence in business, innovative practices, and outstanding contributions to the community at the 2016 Prince William Chamber Business Awards. This year, the Chamber adds the Charles J. Colgan Visionary Award and industry-specific awards to ensure varying industry sectors have the chance to stand out. The annual awards ceremony is held to honor local businesses, business leaders, and individuals who promote and advance a vital and healthy business environment through their commitment to strengthening opportunity and prosperity in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan region. It is my honor to submit the 2016 Prince William Chamber of Commerce Business Award recipients: Excellence in Small Business Award: Harry H. Horning Financial Services. Business Excellence Award: Micron Technology, Inc. Emerging Business Award: FreshySites. Innovative Practice/Partnership of the Year Award: Heavy Construction Contractors Association. Community Outreach Award: Bookworm Central. Government Contractor of the Year Award: Zeiders Enterprises, Inc. Outstanding Customer Service Award: Okra's Cajun Creole. Tech Company of the Year Award: Tracen Technologies, Inc. Agnes L. Community Service--Arts and Education Award: Christ Chapel Academy. Agnes L. Community Service--Health and Human Services Award: Habitat for Humanity of Prince William County. Charles J. Colgan Visionary Award: Parr and Associates. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues join me in commending the Prince William Chamber of Commerce and in congratulating the 2016 Chamber Business Awards winners for their outstanding service and achievements. Their efforts, on behalf of a diverse community population, ensure the continued development of Prince William County as one of the premier counties in the United States in which to live, work, and play.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Virginia 11th Congressional District resident, Lewis Ross Brown, IV. At the age of seven, Lewis became the youngest member of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) on record. Affectionately referred to as Lil' Lewis by friends and family, Lewis Ross Brown, IV is a second-grade student at Bel Air Elementary School in Prince William County. His favorite subjects are biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Inspired by his parents, scientists Dr. Lewis Ross Brown, III and Dr. Shamira Brown, Lewis aspires to become an Environmental Toxicologist with the federal government. In his spare time, Lewis enjoys reading books and viewing documentaries about African American and Latin American history to better advocate for racial and social justice. Lewis plans to maintain his perfect school attendance record throughout his public school education. After graduation from high school, he intends to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree at either Hampton University or Norfolk State University in Virginia and major in Environmental Toxicology with a double concentration in Chemistry and Toxicology. Given his recent acceptance into SETAC, Lewis is well on his way to achieving his goals. With more than 6,000 active members, SETAC is one of the oldest global partnership non-profit organizations in the world. The organization provides a forum for scientists, managers, and other professionals to take a multidisciplinary approach to solving environmental problems. For the past 37 years, SETAC has effectively balanced the management and regulation of natural resources, research and development, and environmental education among academics, businesses, and all levels of government. As a recent inductee, Lewis is currently assembling a digital computer project that will depict the aquatic toxicity effects of mercury contamination exposure in freshwater and marsh environments and on aquatic organisms exposed. Lewis hopes to present his project at the National SETAC meeting later this year. Lewis' recent induction into SETAC is nothing short of astonishing. As a student in Prince William County Public Schools system, his achievement highlights the world-class education offered to residents of the 11th Congressional District. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Lewis Ross Brown, IV on his induction as the youngest member of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. I applaud his scientific curiosity and have full confidence in his future success as he continues to shatter barriers in the field of environmental toxicology and chemistry.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 2016 recipients of the Dale City Multicultural Achievement Awards sponsored by Dale City Christian Church. The purpose of the event is two-fold: to highlight the extraordinary work of individuals who are improving the lives of people within the local community and to offer financial assistance to high school seniors pursuing higher education. Since 1984, the Dale City Multicultural Achievement Awards have recognized the accomplishments of African-Americans in the community. Formerly known as the ``Afro Achievement Organization,'' the Dale City Multicultural Achievement Award and Scholarship Organization under the leadership of Bishop Patrick O. Thomas and Rhonda Pittman highlight the achievements of residents. This year's award recipients highlight the achievements of African- Americans under the motto: ``For if a man does not know his history, he cannot know his future.'' It is my honor to submit names of the recipients of the 2016 Dale City Multicultural Achievement Awards: Pastoral Leadership: Pastor Douglas Greene, Sr. Religious Leadership Award: Rev. Marvin Hargrove Educational Leadership Award: Mrs. Sheila Coleman and Ms. Rae Darlington Public Service Award: Del. Michael Futrell Community Service Award: Doves & Eagles of Faith--Mrs. April Barrett and Roses Home Healthcare--Ms. Michelle Wimberly Professional Leadership Award: Mrs. Beverly Johnson and Mr. Kevin Williams Business Achievement Award: Dunkin Donuts--Mr. Jerome Johnson and We Do Weddings, Etc.--Mrs. Cheri Walker Christian Service Award: Mrs. Lousia Cannon and Trustee Donnell Richardson Faithfulness Award: Ms. Annie Brown and Ms. Christine Dunbar Dedication Christian Family Award: Mr. and Mrs. Arthur McCastle & Family Senior Christian Service Award: Miss Kristen Mitchell and Mr. Blake Conquest Junior Christian Service Award: Mr. Aaron Dade and Mr. Cameron Harris 2016 High School Senior Scholarship Recipients: Mr. Blake Conquest, Mr. Tyland Crawford, Mr. James Curtis, Miss La'Ren Davis, Miss Kira Dixon, Miss Kaelyn Larry, Miss Kristen Mitchell, and Miss Seqouyah Portee Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending the 2016 Dale City Multicultural Achievement Awards recipients and in thanking them for their individual efforts to ensure we each maintain a quality life and live a better tomorrow.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend from the District of Columbia for yielding. I rise in opposition to H.R. 4901. Contrary to its title and contrary to what you just heard, this voucher program for schoolchildren in the District of Columbia has neither expanded opportunities nor delivered results for those students and their families. It has actually proven to be an unwise and unwelcome use of tax dollars, which ought to be of great concern to my colleagues on the other side of the aisle. Yet, rather than call for increased scrutiny, they are forcing the House to once again vote on a bill on which this Chamber has already acted. In successive reports on the effectiveness of this program, the Department of Education has determined that students using these vouchers saw no statistically significant improvement in their overall achievement in math or reading--none. In addition, the Department found that both parents and students from schools in need of improvement, the program's intended beneficiaries, reported that their experience with the voucher program did not--not-- improve their level of satisfaction with the education system or the education they were receiving. I also find it extremely cynical that this reauthorization would weaken the very reporting requirements that have shown this program to be ineffective. When you don't like the findings, I guess we suppress them. Further, the Government Accountability Office has cited the program for not having sufficient financial controls and accountability measures, something I thought we favored. For example, the D.C. Children and Youth Investment Trust Corporation, which administers the program, repeatedly failed to comply with statutory financial reporting deadlines, and its ``policies and procedures lack detail in several areas related to school compliance and financial accounting'' to ensure Federal tax dollars are being used in accordance with the law. Mr. Speaker, I also hope the great irony of this legislation is not lost on my colleagues. Those who claim to support the conservative principles of small government would again authorize $60 million in taxpayer subsidies for a program that has failed to meet expectations for both educational achievement and financial stewardship. I guess there are carve-outs for our ideological favorites. Further, self-proclaimed states' rights conservatives are once again willing to impose the will of Congress on a local government--the District of Columbia--and they do it because they can. So much for Big Brother; so much for telling somebody we know best. Finally, I want to remind my friends on the other side of the aisle of the principles they espoused just last year when we worked in bipartisan fashion to pass legislation reforming No Child Left Behind.

Mr. CONNOLLY. In their own explanatory material for the Every Student Succeeds Act, Republicans say the new reforms are intended to restore local control by returning responsibility for accountability and school improvement to State and local leaders. Why doesn't that apply here? Another ideological carve-out, Mr. Speaker. Congress has no business imposing its will on the schools and families of the District of Columbia in this fashion. They are not guinea pigs for our ideological favorites.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize May as the Direct Deposit and Direct Payment via Automated Clearing House (ACH) Month. NACHA--The Electronic Payments Association serves as the trustee of the ACH Network, which is supported by 12,000 financial institutions across the nation. Working together they enable payments such as direct deposit and direct payment via ACH. Annually, the ACH Network transfers 24 billion Direct Deposits and Direct Payments, totaling more than $41 trillion. Direct Deposit is the deposit of funds for payroll, employee expense reimbursement, government benefits, tax and other refunds, annuities and interest payments. Direct Payment transactions can include bill payments, person-to-person payments, business-to-business payments, and online and mobile purchases. Today, more than 80 percent of U.S. workers receive their regular pay using Direct Deposit via ACH, and consumers pay 800 million bills each month with Direct Payment via ACH. Direct Deposit and Direct Payment are an easy, safe, convenient, cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to make and receive payments. Use of Direct Deposit and Direct Payment enable consumers and businesses alike to save costs, save time and protect the environment by eliminating the time, hassle and expense of writing and cashing paper checks and making trips to the bank or credit union. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the month of May as Direct Deposit and Direct Payment via ACH Month, and I urge all members of the community to consider Direct Deposit and Direct Payment as a valuable option to make and receive payments.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Mrs. Sally Lay who was recognized during the 6th Annual Hylton Performing Arts Center Awards Gala for dedicating her career to expanding the reach of the arts in Greater Prince William County. Prior to her retirement in August 2015, Mrs. Lay served as the executive director of the Center for the Arts for 28 years. During her tenure, she spearheaded a five-year campaign to garner the support of the community and the public sector for the restoration of the old Hopkins Candy Factory in the City of Manassas. Her efforts paid off, and since 2002, the Center for the Arts has called the Candy Factory home. Signature programs include The Pied Piper Children's Theatre, Pied Piper Theatre Camps, Rooftop Productions, the Merchant Family Art Gallery, the Summer Sounds Concerts, and extensive arts education classes, many of which are hosted at the Hylton Performing Arts Center today. In the midst of her demanding schedule, Mrs. Lay found time to serve on the board of directors for the Prince William County/Manassas Convention & Visitors Bureau and Leadership Prince William. Today, she remains actively engaged with the Rotary Club of Manassas and serves on the board of directors for the Prince William County Arts Council and Virginians for the Arts. Mrs. Lay's deep roots in the community have served the residents of Greater Prince William County well. Over the course of her career, Mrs. Lay has received well-deserved recognition for her endless contributions, including receiving the Prince William County Arts Council/Prince William Chamber of Commerce Seefeldt Pioneer Award in 2005 and the Woman of the Year for the Greater Prince William Christmas Day Parade in 2011. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending the 6th Annual Hylton Performing Arts Awards Gala honoree, Mrs. Sally Lay, for being a tireless champion of the Arts in Greater Prince William County.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend the Prince William County Police Department for its invaluable participation in the Local Outreach to Suicide Survivors (or LOSS) team. On January 27, 2012, Action in Community Through Service (or ACTS) of Prince William, Inc. signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Prince William County Police Department to collaborate on the creation of a LOSS team. The team is comprised of trained volunteers and staff who are accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the ACTS Helpline. Since entering into the formal agreement with ACTS, members of the Prince William County Police Department have diligently supported this program by immediately contacting the LOSS team upon notification of deaths by suicide to the Criminal Investigations Division--Violent Crimes Bureau. The LOSS team then disseminates information about available community resources and provides ongoing support to people grieving the loss of a friend or loved one to suicide. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States for all ages; homicide ranks 17th. For every suicide, at least, six other lives are impacted. By ensuring survivors receive the support that is desperately needed, the LOSS team in partnership with the Prince William County Police Department helps individuals weather their grief and take steps to rebuilding their lives. Just knowing that they are not alone helps give the surviving families the strength to go on. Without the dedication and leadership of the Prince William County Police Department, the LOSS team would not be able to sustain its successful first response program that continues to positively impact the lives of Prince William County residents each day. It is my honor to submit the following names of current and former Prince William County Police Officers who have assisted and supported the LOSS program: Dan Carton, Brian Cavanaugh, Brian Coady, Darien Cupka, Dan Downey, Mike Fernald, Ben Grantham, Ray Hyatt, Rob Kasper, Joe Medawar, Juan Pena (deceased), Gina Pinedo, Astrid Robinson, Caillen Smith, Mike Sullivan, and Gary Van Dyke. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing these Prince William County police officers for their tireless commitment to our community, the newly bereaved, ACTS, and the Prince William LOSS team.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Vienna Business Association (VBA) and to congratulate the incoming 2016 board members. Vienna is known for its local charm and strong small business community. Money Magazine and CNN have both rated Vienna as one of the best places to live in the United States. The vibrant community spirit exhibited by its residents and local businesses has fostered an exceptional quality of life that is sought out by so many. The Vienna Business Association is the voice of the greater Vienna business community. It promotes business opportunities and development through networking and increased interaction between the commercial and residential communities within the town. Its members help maintain Vienna's small town feel by hosting and supporting many annual community events. The VBA has thrived thanks to the diversity of its members and the leadership of its Board. I am pleased to submit the following names of the incoming 2016 board members: 2016 Chairman of the Board: George Creed. Incoming Board Members: Mary Kay Claus, Kathy Georgen, Jeff Bollettino, Agnes Wasowski, James Cudney, Tracy Murphy, Michael Amouri. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the incoming board members and in commending the Vienna Business Association for their commitment to promoting the business community while encouraging social responsibility. I wish them continued success in all their future endeavors.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War and the United States Vietnam War Commemoration Program hosted by First Mount Zion Baptist Church in Dumfries on Sunday, February 28, 2016. In recognition of more than a decade of combat by land, air, and sea, Congress authorized the Secretary of Defense through the 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, to conduct a program to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War and to honor the more than 3 million service members and their families for their heroic service and sacrifice. Through the facilitation of programs and activities at the local, state, and federal levels of government in partnership with community- based groups and organizations, more than 4,700 Vietnam War commemorative programs involving 9,514 partners have been scheduled throughout the nation. Each commemorative program is designed to meet or exceed the following objectives: To thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War, including personnel who were held as prisoners of war (POW), or listed as missing in action (MIA), for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the United States and to thank and honor the families of these veterans. To highlight the service of the Armed Forces during the Vietnam War and the contributions of federal agencies and governmental and non- govemmental organizations that served with, or in support of, the Armed Forces. To pay tribute to the contributions made on the homefront by the people of the United States during the Vietnam War. To highlight the advances in technology, science, and medicine related to military research conducted during the Vietnam War. To recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by the allies of the United States during the Vietnam War. One of these programs is being hosted by First Mount Zion Baptist Church, located in the 11th District of Virginia. Approximately 130 members of the church left their homes and their loved ones, risking their lives to serve our country during the 13-year span of the Vietnam War. I commend the leadership and the 4,300 current members of First Mount Zion Baptist Church for sponsoring a Vietnam War commemoration program to honor and thank these men and women and their families who sacrificed so much. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War and the United States Commemoration Program at First Mount Zion Baptist Church. Today we reaffirm our commitment to always honor and celebrate the members of our Armed Services, especially those men and women who served with distinction and valiantly defended this nation in that long and arduous war.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Organization of Korean-American Women (OKAW) and congratulate it on the occasion of its 52nd Anniversary. While much has changed here in Northern Virginia over the last 50 years, the mission of the Organization of Korean-American Women has not, and it is more important than ever. The transition to a new country can be daunting as new customs and social mores, a different language, and a reduced network of supportive friends and family present real challenges to anyone moving to a new community. The Organization of Korean-American Women has distinguished itself through its service in helping people adapt to their new home and to fully share in the benefits and opportunities that brought them to the United States. For 15 years, OKAW has been an active supporter of The House of Hope, which provides temporary emergency shelter and support services to women and children who are in immediate danger from domestic violence. No woman should have to live in fear simply because she does not know where to turn for help. The House of Hope provides these women with financial support, shelter, and legal assistance. It also helps them become self-sufficient and full participants in our American society. OKAW would not be able to provide these crucial services without the contributions of individuals, corporations, and foundations, however its most priceless asset is the commitment of its staff and volunteers, who dedicate their time and energy to ensure the well-being of others. I am honored to submit the names of three of these individuals into the Congressional Record: Ms. Mija Perkins, President of the Organization of Korean-American Women. Ms. Perkins has been involved in OKAW for more than 35 years and has led the organization through its growth and expansion of programs and services. Mr. William Won-Kyun Hwang, President of the Washington Chapter of the National Unification Advisory Council (NUAC) for the Republic of Korea. Mr. Hwang is an integral part of the Northern Virginia community and is a long-time supporter of OKAW. Mr. Sam Patton, who has volunteered his time for more than 10 years and assisted in a variety of capacities including serving as webmaster. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the Organization of Korean-American Women on its 52nd anniversary, and in thanking the staff, volunteers, and supporters for their contributions to our community. Their commendable efforts and selfless dedication to improving the lives of others are truly worthy of our highest praise.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 2015 recipients of the Northern Virginia Leadership Awards presented by Leadership Fairfax. Leadership Fairfax is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to finding, training, and growing leaders in Northern Virginia. The mission of Leadership Fairfax is to educate, prepare, inspire, and connect leaders to serve and strengthen our community. Graduates from its programs become part of a fast-growing network of civic leaders. I've always said, ``When you walk into a crowded room, it's easy to spot the graduates of Leadership Fairfax--they just stand out!'' Leadership Fairfax alumni and the general public submitted nominations for the 19th annual Northern Virginia Leadership Award, and a panel of community and business leaders made the final selections. It is my honor to submit the following names of the 2015 Northern Virginia Leadership Awards recipients: The recipient of the 2015 Trustee Leadership Award is Dr. Charles Thomas, Jr. in recognition of his work as Project Leader at LMI. Thanks to Dr. Thomas' leadership, LMI's commitment to community outreach manifests itself in many ways. Some of the programs the company supports include Children's Hospital, the Wounded Warriors Project, the Fallen Heroes Project and Wreaths Across America. The recipient of the 2015 Nonprofit Leadership Award presented to an individual is Ms. Eileen Ellsworth, in recognition of her work with the Community Foundation of Northern Virginia. The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia is a grant-making and endowment-building organization, working with donors across the region. Their research on key issues philanthropic investment inspires the Northern Virginia community to become more engaged in supporting the most pressing issues facing our neighbors in need. The recipient of the 2015 Nonprofit Leadership Award presented to an organization is The Child and Family Network Centers. The Child and Family Network Centers' mission is to provide caring, high-quality, free education and related services to at-risk children and their families in their own neighborhoods in order to prepare them for success in school and life. The recipient of the 2015 Corporate Leadership Award is Helios HR. Helios has provided sustained support to many organizations within the Washington metro area. From winter coat drives, to providing pro bono resume writing and interviewing skills workshops and mentoring members of future generations, Helios is there for the community in innumerable ways. The recipient of the 2015 Educational Leadership Award is Mr. Jesse Kraft, in recognition of his work as Principal of Providence Elementary School. Mr. Kraft began his educational career in 1996 after graduating from the University of Pittsburgh. He is a National Board Certified Teacher, and he earned his Master's degree from George Mason University. In 2010 he was recognized by FCPS with the Nancy F. Sprague Outstanding First Year Principal Award. The recipient of the 2015 Regional Leadership Award is Ms. Leila Gordon, in recognition of her work as Director of the Reston Community Center. Reston Community Center works to bring the community together through enriching leisure time experiences that enhance the value of the community and improve local organizational effectiveness. Mr. Speaker, the contributions of these individuals and organizations are one of the reasons why Fairfax is such a sought after community in which to live and work, and this year's honorees highlight the legacy of Leadership Fairfax in preparing our community's future leaders to address the challenges we face. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating these honorees and thanking them for their service to Northern Virginia.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Angie Carrera on the occasion of her retirement from Fairfax County and to thank her for her service. Although she has been a Fairfax County employee for the last 22 years, her immense contributions to our community go back much further. Ms. Carrera has devoted her career to the promotion and administration of volunteerism. This began in 1975 when she began recruiting volunteers for a nearly- defunct women's center. This led to her becoming the executive director of the Voluntary Action Center, which is now known as Volunteer Fairfax and serves as a clearing house matching volunteers with area non- profits. Following her tenure with Volunteer Fairfax, Ms. Carrera served in a variety of positions and capacities. She became volunteer coordinator for the Fairfax County Juvenile Court where she was responsible for recruiting and supervising programs for court-involved youths. In 1992, Ms. Carrera was asked to launch the Volunteer Interpreter Program to help the Juvenile Court staff better deal with youth and their families who were not proficient in English. This program received two National Association of Counties awards in recognition of its effectiveness and value. In 2002 she became the Language Access Coordinator in the Office of the County Executive and was responsible for policy and procedures on language issues within the county government. Most recently Ms. Carrera has served as both Volunteer Resource Coordinator and a Partnership Developer for the County's Office of Public-Private Partnerships. The Office of Public Private Partnerships (OP\3\) serves as a clearing house and point of contact for public agencies, non-profit organizations, and local businesses. OP\3\ creates and develops meaningful public private partnerships in county priority areas to leverage new resources and address community issues impacting the quality of life in Fairfax County. In addition to serving in these positions, Ms. Carrera has played a role in numerous special projects including elections outreach and the 2015 World Police and Fire Games. Ms. Carrera was recently honored by the Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce as its 2014 Business Citizen of the Year. Mr. Speaker, Angie Carrera's accomplishments and the legacy she leaves behind in her community are worthy of our highest praise. Her selfless dedication has contributed greatly to the public good and the outstanding quality of life for residents of Fairfax County. I commend her for her decades of service and ask my colleagues to join me in wishing her well in retirement.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the honorees of the 2015 Elly Doyle Park Service Awards. These awards, sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Authority Board in cooperation with the Fairfax County Park Foundation Board, recognize individuals and organizations for their extraordinary contributions to our environment and public park system. Fairfax County is regarded as one of the best places in the country in which to live, work, and raise a family, and our nationally- recognized park system has played a key role in that distinction. Our community has a strong commitment to promoting and preserving our environment, including our public parks and outdoor spaces. Each year thousands of volunteers donate their talents and time to protect our natural and cultural resources and enhance public educational and recreational services. The Elly Doyle Service Awards were established in 1988 in honor of former board member Ellamae Doyle's many years of outstanding service. In addition, recipients also have been selected for the Eakin Philanthropy Award, named in honor of the family that donated the first parcels of parkland to the Park Authority more than 50 years ago, the Mayo Stuntz Cultural Stewardship, named in honor of a celebrated local historian and military veteran, the Sally Ormsby Environmental Stewardship Award, named in honor of a local champion of environmental education and protection and a special recognition for Park Authority volunteers, who play an integral role in the agency's success. This year also marks the debut of a new award, the Harold L. Strickland Partnership and Collaboration Award, named for the Sully District representative on the Park Authority Board and recognizing the value of partnership and collaboration in providing state of the art facilities to a varied constituency. I congratulate each of the following recipients of these prestigious awards and proudly submit their names: 2015 Elly Doyle Park Service Award Recipients: Friends of Accotink Creek, Friends of Huntley Meadows Park, Susan Voss. 2015 Outstanding Volunteer Recognition: David Fennel, Ken Kozloff, Pat McCormack, Ivy Sinaiko, John & Aaron Abalos-Green, Betty Holman, Gary Blasser, Janet and Rodney Smith, Jim Cudlip, Kat Dyer, Marian Ewell, Marilyn Connors, Mary Kay Claus, Monty Montgomery, Mila Weiss, Richard Duong, Songui ``Chiraz'' Sanwogou, Vivian Morgan-Mendez, Will MacDonald, Yadi Bermea. Student Honoree: Joshua Buontempo. 2015 Eakin Philanthropy Award: Tom D. Fleury, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Gary F. Smith Memorial Field, Suzan Syron-Singh. 2015 Mayo Stuntz Cultural Stewardship Award: Paula Esley. 2015 Sally Ormsby Environmental Stewardship Award: The Science Education Team at Fairfax County Public Schools. 2015 Harold L. Strickland Partnership and Collaboration Award: Harold L. Strickland, Michael R. Frey.