Gerald Connolly

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Asian-American Chamber of Commerce and the recipients of the 2015 Asian-American Chamber 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. The 11th District of Virginia is blessed by its diversity. About 1 in 4 residents are foreign born and approximately 40% are minorities. Half of our foreign-born population emigrated from Asia, and more than 80,000 of our neighbors speak an Asian language at home. 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 economic strength and stability; Asian-American businesses generate more than 52% of total revenues generated by all minority owned businesses in this region. In Fairfax County alone, more than 19,000 businesses are Asian- owned. These businesses generate approximately $5 billion in revenue and create more than 30,000 jobs. Each year, the AACC recognizes businesses and non-profits in the Asian-American community for their outstanding contributions to the Metropolitan Washington community and economy. I congratulate the following honorees: Small Business Award: The Tu's Group Champions of Diversity: Morgan Stanley Asian Business Excellence Award: Zantech IT Services, Inc. Non-Profit of the Year: Asian-American LEAD Corporate Partner of the year: Capital Bank Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the honorees of the 2015 Asian-American Chamber of Commerce Awards and in commending the Chamber for its work to support Asian and Pacific Islander owned businesses throughout our region.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the recipients of the 2014 Reston Association Service Awards. The Reston Association (RA) is the largest homeowners' association in Virginia and one of the largest in the country with more than 21,000 homes under its jurisdiction. Among other roles, RA serves as the steward of Reston's architectural aesthetics, recreational amenities, and environmental resources. RA relies on hundreds of volunteers and dedicated staff who serve on boards, committees, and projects to carry out its mission to keep Reston a model community where all can ``Live, Work, Play, and Get Involved.'' I am pleased to submit the names of the outstanding 2014 honorees. 2014 Reston Association Volunteer of the Year--Mark Elder Mark Elder has volunteered his time as a tennis instructor for the last two years. He fills the gaps and works interchangeably with RA staff instructors. Mark gives his time willingly, energetically and consistently to the youth tennis community to ensure programs like this and many others are successful. 2014 Reston Association Volunteer Group of the Year--Senior Movie Day Volunteers (Laura & John Cole, Pat Coshland, Michelina Johnson, Kurt McJilton, Otto & Rosemarie Tubito) This dynamic group of volunteers is the backbone of Senior Movie Day in Reston Town Center, which benefits up to 400 seniors each month. The group has been volunteering since 2007 and contributes 150 hours annually, thereby reducing staff time needed to put on this great community event for the seniors in our community. 2014 Reston Association Community Partner of the Year--Clarke For three consecutive years, Clarke has selected Reston for the Annual Clarke Day of Caring. Clarke employees monitor for mosquito larvae in Reston's restored streams and help educate RA's watershed staff on mosquito collection and identification. More than a dozen Clarke employees spend a full day removing invasive plants and removing trash from streams and other natural areas. This commitment to Reston and corporate volunteerism makes Clarke a standout partner. 2014 Employee of the Year--Rob Tucker For 15 years Reston community members have been fortunate to see the smiling face of Rob Tucker on RA tennis courts. His passion for tennis is equal to his commitment to the community and the RA staff. He provides top-notch customer service, personalized instruction, and overall cheerleading for the RA tennis programs. RA and the entire community couldn't find a better advocate for the tennis and recreation programs available to Reston members. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the recipients of the 2014 Reston Association Service Awards and in thanking them for dedicating their time, energy, and resources to the improvement of the quality of life and health of the Reston community.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 40th Anniversary of the Lorton Community Action Center and join the Center in honoring this year's Founder's Award recipient, Molly Lynch. Since 1975, Lorton Community Action Center (LCAC) has served the residents of Fort Belvoir, Lorton, Newington, and other portions of southeast Fairfax County by providing access to basic needs and the opportunity to empower themselves through self-sufficiency programs. LCAC began as an all-volunteer organization, working out of a local school and a church basement. The organization was founded in response to the needs of low-income families in southeast Fairfax, which was an under-served area. For LCAC's first 15 years, the agency served as a resource for information and collected and distributed food for individuals and families. Today, LCAC has a professional staff of five full-time and five part-time employees, who serve a diverse population of ages and ethnic backgrounds. LCAC aims to break the cycle of poverty and prevent homelessness through a variety of services and programs. LCAC's food program distributes between eight and ten tons of food every month. Clients who need clothing can shop at Lorton's Attic, LCAC's thrift store. Small grants assist families with utilities, rent, mortgage, medical services, and other essential needs. When LCAC cannot help directly, it works closely with other agencies and organizations in our area that may be able to provide assistance. Perhaps most important, LCAC helps people achieve self-sufficiency through case management, ESL classes, nutrition classes, pro bono legal services, and tutoring. All this would not have been possible without the dedication of time, talent, and resources by the thousands of community volunteers and supporters. Molly Lynch served on LCAC's Board from 1981-82 and again from 1991- 2003. Mrs. Lynch was a part of the all-volunteer organization that operated out of a small building on Gunston Elementary School property in her early board service, providing a variety of much needed services to families in the Lorton community. When Molly rejoined the board in 1991 she helped LCAC pursue new funding opportunities through participation in the Combined Federal Campaign, United Way giving, and Fairfax County Community Funding Pool grants. In 2011, a generous gift from Molly and her husband, Bill, allowed LCAC to open a 2,000 square- foot pantry that doubled LCAC's space and consolidated food operations from five locations to one. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending the staff, volunteers, supporters, and partners of LCAC for 40 years of assistance to the Lorton community's most vulnerable residents and in thanking Molly Lynch for her dedication to helping our neighbors in need.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the recipients of the 24th Annual Best of Reston Awards for Community Service. These awards are the result of collaboration between Cornerstones (formerly Reston Interfaith) 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 am pleased to submit the names of the following recipients of the 2015 Best of Reston Awards: Civic/Community Organization: His Hidden Treasures (Troy and Lois Hughes)--Working in partnership with organizations dedicated to ending homelessness, His Hidden Treasures transforms transitional rental housing into homes for families, personalized with lovingly restored furniture, donated store floor samples and new housewares. Small Business Leader: Maid Bright (Maria Fedick, Yusuf and Zeynep Mehmetoglu)--Maid Bright has made a difference by providing free house cleaning services to women with cancer, catering dinners for the hypothermia shelter, performing cleaning for Cornerstones' transitional housing units, offering discounts to seniors, veterans, firefighters, and teachers, and donating funds to help the homeless and Syrian refugees. Corporate Business Leader: Leidos (Mike Coogan, Director, Corporate Responsibility)--Since establishing its headquarters in Reston two years ago, Leidos--a worldwide leader in science and technology-- immediately made broad and deep connections in the community. Leidos employees have provided more than 32,000 volunteer hours benefitting a wide range of organizations. The company also has contributed significant financial support to the community. Leidos has lent its support to meeting basic human needs, and supports training, education, and employment opportunities for returning veterans. Corporate Business Leader: MAXIMUS (Susan Boren, Mark Andrekovich, Tom Romeo)--MAXIMUS provides health and human service programs to a diverse array of communities. MAXIMUS and its employees have supported a wide range of organizations that work locally to strengthen the safety net for homeless and at-risk families, or those with special needs. Individual Community Leader: Francis C. Steinbauer--A true Reston Pioneer, Fran Steinbauer has been an integral part of the community's history and success for five decades. In 1964, Mr. Steinbauer became the Design Engineer responsible for the creation and government approval of plans for Reston's buildings and infrastructure, and he remained professionally involved in the development of Reston until the 1980s. As a volunteer to this day, he has played a vital role in making sure Reston's economy, community, and inclusive culture were as well developed as its physical environment. At Cornerstones, he is revered as the architect of its successful affordable housing program, and he continues to work for the ideal that anyone can live in our community. Vade Bolton-Ann Rodriguez Legacy Award: Casey Veatch--A dedicated volunteer for many different organizations, Casey leads by example and inspires others to follow suit. He has generously supported and cultivated leadership through his work with Leadership Fairfax, Reston Bible Church, Northern Virginia Family Service, the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, and numerous children's sports teams. Individual Community Leader: Larry Butler--The Reston Association's Senior Director of Parks, Recreation, and Community Resources, Larry's lifelong passion for the outdoors and physically active lifestyle has inspired his tireless volunteer work. In more than 30 years with Reston Association, Larry has been instrumental in the success of Reston's many outdoors and athletics activities. These events help create environmental awareness, build community spirit, promote healthy lifestyles, and raise funds for a wide variety of causes. 2015 Robert E. Simon Community Service Award: Lynn Lillienthal--A Restonian for more than forty years, Ms. Lillienthal was named a Best of Reston recipient in 1998, and has certainly not rested on that accolade. She has served on the board of directors of virtually every major nonprofit institution in Reston, including Reston Interfaith, the Embry Rucker Community Shelter Citizens Support Committee, Greater Reston Arts Center, and the Reston Historic Trust, just to name a few. Her decades of service have touched thousands of lives in the community. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the 2015 Best of Reston honorees for their tremendous contributions to our community. I express my sincere gratitude to these individuals, businesses, and organizations for lending their time and energy to the betterment of our community.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize this year's recipient of Leadership Fairfax's Katherine K. Hanley Public Service Award. This year's award goes to Dean Klein, a 1997 graduate of Leadership Fairfax. Leadership Fairfax is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to finding, training, and growing leaders in Northern Virginia. Leadership Fairfax seeks to build leaders who raise the tide not only in their organization or local community but also across the whole Northern Virginia region. Graduates from its programs become part of and stay connected to a fast growing number of civic leaders. I've always said, ``When you walk into a room, it's easy to spot the Leadership Fairfax graduates--they just stand out!'' Northern Virginia is blessed with many leaders who have given their time and service to make a difference in our community. To recognize these outstanding leaders among us, Leadership Fairfax instituted the Katherine K. Hanley Public Service Award. This annual award, now in its 12th year, honors an individual for his or her outstanding accomplishments in the areas of public service employment or service on a public board, authority, or commission and for lasting contributions to the quality of life in the community. Dean Klein has stood out in our community for many years. He currently serves as Director of the Office to Prevent and End Homelessness in Fairfax County since being appointed by the Board of Supervisors in March 2009. I was pleased to help establish that office under the 10-year Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness, an initiative the County launched when I served as Chairman of the Board. Under Mr. Klein's leadership, Fairfax has partnered with the neighboring City of Falls Church so that these jurisdictions can take a regional approach to the problem of homelessness. One of his many successes has been to increase the number of individuals moving out of emergency shelters to permanent housing. He grew this number from 243 in 2010 to 926 individuals in 2014. As a result of that and other efforts, Fairfax has actually reduced the number of people experiencing homelessness by more than one-third, becoming a standout model for success for those communities still struggling to break the cycle of homelessness. For his accomplishments Mr. Klein was recognized in 2014 with Fairfax County's highest employee honor, the A. Heath Onthank Award. Prior to working in his current position he served as the Senior Community Relations Manager at the Freddie Mac Foundation, the metropolitan area's largest corporate philanthropic funder. He oversaw the Foundation's support for housing programs throughout the United States and oversaw the Foundation's investments in the Gulf Coast area after Hurricane Katrina. Mr. Klein came to the Foundation from Doorways for Women and Families in Arlington, where he was executive director and oversaw all operations for the organization including a Safehouse for Domestic Violence, Emergency Shelter for homeless families, a Thrift Store, and transitional housing for families. Mr. Klein also served for six years as executive director of Shelter House, overseeing this organization and serving homeless families in our community. He earned a Master of Social Work degree from Howard University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Advertising from Ohio State University. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Dean Klein for receiving the Katherine K. Hanley Public Service Award and in thanking Leadership Fairfax for continuing to develop such talented and passionate leaders for Northern Virginia.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to join the Burke Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department, which is hosting its 67th Annual Installation of Officers Banquet, and in thanking its volunteers for filling an essential role in keeping the community safe. The Burke Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department was founded in January 1948, and for more than 6 decades it has provided lifesaving fire suppression/prevention and emergency medical/rescue services to the residents of Burke, Fairfax County, and the surrounding communities. It also provides, houses, and maintains firefighting and emergency medical equipment; provides opportunities for professional growth and development for the membership; and maintains and fosters a strong viable organization. I am honored to recognize several of the dedicated men and women of the Burke Volunteer Fire Department who have volunteered for extra duty as officers or as members of the board of directors or who are receiving awards for their superlative service to the department and the community. It gives me great pleasure to submit the names of these individuals: Board of Directors: President Rich Guarrasi, Vice President John Powers, Treasurer Patrick Owens, Secretary Greg Fedor, Board Members-at-Large Larry Barnett, Larry Bocknek, and Alisha Sunde Line Officers: Chief Thomas Warnock, Deputy Chief John Hudak, Deputy Chief Tina Godfrey, Administrative Member Manager Catherine Owens, Captain II Melissa Ashby, Captain II Larry Bockneck, Captain II Keith O'Connor, Lieutenant Kevin Grottle, Sergeant Jennifer Babic, Sergeant Emily Fincher, Team Leader Peter Hamilton, Team Leader James Reyes, Team Leader Paul Stracke, Team Leader Harry Chelpon, Staffing Coordinator Shaun Kurry, Chaplain Harry Chelpon Length of Service Awards: 5 Years: Richard Guarrasi 10 Years: Harry Chelpon, Ed Gilhooly 15 Years: Tina Godfrey Life Member: Harry Chelpon Department Awards: Founders Award: John Hudak Rookies of the Year: Caitlin Curran, Megan Bush, Barry Brown Firefighter of the Year: Peter Hamilton EMS Provider of the Year: James Reyes Officer of the Year: Tina Godfrey Admin. Member of the Year: Becky Dobbs Career Members of the Year: Tim Barb, David ``Happy'' Gilmore Team Award: BVFRD Train Team: Melissa Ashby, Kevin Grottle, Shaun Kurry Chief's Award: Shaun Kerry President's Awards: Nancy Stone, Charlene Murphy Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the department for 67 years of service and in thanking all of the brave volunteers who do not hesitate to drop everything when the community calls in need of help. To all of these men and women who put themselves in harm's way to protect our residents I say: ``Stay safe''.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I strongly oppose the Republican Majority's unilateral, and rather extraordinary, effort to undermine democracy in the District of Columbia. A majority that claims to oppose big government and fancies itself as the champion of State and local rights; astonishingly finds itself on the precipice of wielding the Federal Government's power to overturn the decision of a local government solely because it can. Not because it should; but because it can. Never mind that the Reproductive Health Non-Discrimination Amendment Act was appropriately considered, passed, and enacted by the duly elected representatives of the District of Columbia. The majority has decided that democratic principles take a back seat to pleasing its anti-reproductive rights base. Make no mistake; this disgraceful vote represents a strike against the right to self-governance. It is an affront to D.C. home rule and a regrettable regression by the majority to a previous era, when Republicans of the 1990's abused congressional power to advance intrusive, anti-democratic legislation that meddled in the District's local affairs. Indeed, this resolution is emblematic of efforts by certain segments of the conservative movement that intended or not, would actually have the effect of enshrining bigotry into our laws in the name of fighting it. Let us have no illusions about what the majority seeks to do this evening. In making a mockery of the D.C. Home Rule Act, the majority is seeking to repeal a local government statute that prohibits discrimination on the basis of reproductive health decisions and protects its citizens against prejudice in the workplace. This law has absolutely nothing to do with health insurance coverage. As the Chairman of the D.C. Council stated in a letter to Congress, ``The purpose and intent of this bill is to prevent an employer, through our Human Rights Act, from firing an employee for that employee's personal decision regarding his or her reproductive health.'' In closing, it is true that the United States Constitution grants the Congress exclusive jurisdiction over the affairs of the District of Columbia. Yet, just because we can does not mean we should. I implore my colleagues on the other side of the aisle, who loudly proclaim to be the part of limited government, to recognize that Congress should always strive to treat the District of Columbia like any other State, and respect the rights of all Americans to exercise democratic self-governance. I urge all my colleagues to strongly oppose this anti-democratic resolution.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Dave McConnell, WTOP's Capitol Hill correspondent who is celebrating his 50th year of reporting for the Washington all-news radio station. ``A True Journalism Icon'' was how the Merrell College of Journalism at the University of Maryland described Dave in a recent tribute. Members of Congress and media colleagues have heaped deserving praise on Dave in recognition of his 50-year milestone. Most recently, Dave was the recipient of the first ever Career Achievement Award from the Radio and Television Correspondents Association, and he has won other honors including the Society of Professional Journalists Hall of Fame Award. Dave has a voice that was made for radio. He has a delivery that is authoritative and commanding but at the same time reassuring and resonant. His voice is readily recognizable by several generations of radio listeners in the Washington region. He has earned the respect of listeners and news sources because of his encyclopedic knowledge of Congress, his thorough and objective reporting on the complex issues that come before this body, and his professional manner and demeanor. While many reporters have moved from station to station and city to city as they moved up the media ladder, Dave began his career in his hometown and has reported in Washington throughout his career, most of it from his third floor perch in the Capitol that he refers to as the ``booth.'' As WTOP Senior News Director Mike McMearty joked in a recent tribute to Dave, ``It's part of WTOP lore that Dave McConnell, while other kids were skipping school to go catch a baseball game and see the Senators, he was sneaking into the Capitol to hear the actual senators debate.'' There are few reporters in Washington who can boast they have covered 12 presidential elections, five inaugurations, and many other milestones spanning a half-century of the nation's history. Dave McConnell is one of them, although he would never boast about it; it's not his style. He is all business and all about the news. At a time when men of Dave's age are spending their Golden Years doting over their grandchildren (and Dave has seven), WTOP's Capitol Hill correspondent continues to use his vast institutional knowledge to give perspective on a daily basis to the comings and goings of Congress. Dave McConnell's colleagues say Dave has no intention of retiring any time soon and that is good news for many Washington-area residents who have grown accustomed to getting their news about Congress over the radio from ``a true journalism icon.'' I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Dave on this wonderful milestone and in wishing him continued success.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. We also need to strengthen our Nation's cyber workforce, devise effective data breach notification policies, and bring about a wholesale cultural revolution so that society fully understands the critical importance of good cyber hygiene. The bottom line is that our vulnerability in cyberspace demands that we take decisive action and take it now, but much like the tactics used in effective cybersecurity, we must recognize that enhancing our cyber defenses is an iterative process that requires continuous effort. I congratulate the staffs and the leadership of the committee.

Mr. CONNOLLY. I thank my dear friend from Mississippi (Mr. Thompson), and I commend him and the distinguished chairman of the committee, Mr. McCaul, for their wonderful work on this bill. Mr. Chairman, we cannot wait. America cannot wait for a cyber Pearl Harbor. This issue--cybersecurity--may be the most complex and difficult challenge we confront long term as a nation. In the wired 21st century, the line between our physical world and cyberspace continues to blur with every aspect of our lives, from social interaction to commerce. Yet the remarkable gains that have accompanied an increasingly digital and connected society also have opened up new, unprecedented vulnerabilities that threaten to undermine this progress and cause great harm to our country's national security, critical infrastructure, and economy. It is long overdue for Congress to modernize our cyber laws to address those vulnerabilities present in both public and private networks. The bills before us this week are a step in the right direction, and I am glad to support them, but they are a first step. Information sharing alone does not inoculate or even defend us from cyber attacks. Indeed, in the critical three P's of enhancing cybersecurity--people, policies, and practices--the measures before us make improvements primarily to policy. I commend the two committees for working in a bipartisan fashion to improve privacy and transparency protections. More is still needed to safeguard the civil liberties of our constituents. Further, I hope that the broad liability protections provided by these bills will, in fact, be narrowed upon further consultation with the Senate. Cybersecurity must be a shared public-private responsibility, and that includes the expectation and requirement that our partners will, in fact, take reasonable actions. Moving forward, I hope Congress will build on this effort to address the security of critical infrastructure, the vast majority of which, as has been already pointed out, is owned and operated by the private sector.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize March 5, 2015, as the First Annual National Industrial Design Day. I also want to congratulate the Industrial Designers Society of America on the occasion of its 50th anniversary. This day is being used to recognize those in the profession of industrial design, which has enhanced people's lives, not only in the 11th District of Virginia, but also across the United States and the world. The term ``industrial design'' was first recognized by the U.S. Patent Office in 1913, but the importance of this field was not fully recognized at that time. Originally comprised primarily of architects, package designers, and stage designers, the field expanded to include many diverse professionals including those in manufacturing, furniture design, graphic design, and automobile design, among others. The focus evolved to using design as a tool to make products more efficient, more cost effective, and more relevant. Today, the contributions of industrial designers include advanced technology such as GPS, digital interfaces, environmental graphics, communication systems, surgical equipment, MP3 players, and countless others. The economic impact of this industry helps fuel our national economy. In the United States, product design and related services generate billions in sales and the number of U.S. awarded design patents has reached an all-time high. Promotion of innovation and creativity has created a growing interest in industrial design. What was first hailed as a ``modern movement'' at the 1927 Exposition of Art in Trade in New York City is now taught at universities around the world. The Industrial Designers Society of America, headquartered in Herndon, Virginia in the 11th Congressional District, which I am pleased to represent, should be commended for being an instrumental force in the growth and expansion of this profession. Its membership now includes thousands of industrial designers in 29 countries. In addition, it has hosted education symposiums and conferences to ensure the continued growth of this field. I ask my colleagues to join me in proclaiming March 5 as National Industrial Design Day and in expressing our appreciation for the innovation and creativity of its members. Their designs and creations improve our lives in every way and are worthy of our recognition.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise to inform my colleagues of the passing of Deputy U.S. Fire Administrator Glenn Gaines, a consummate fire professional and friend whose legacy can be seen today in firehouses across our nation. I first came to know Glenn Gaines during his tenure as fire chief in Fairfax County, Va., where I served on the local Board of Supervisors. He was a strong leader, who led with character and a gentle touch. He instilled a sense of pride and camaraderie in his firefighters and paramedics that reflected his own love and admiration for the fire service and those who bravely answer the call day in and day out. Chief Gaines began his illustrious career as a volunteer firefighter with the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department. His passion for the fire service was evident in his work, and he quickly rose through the ranks of leadership, serving as Fire Marshal, Chief Training Officer, and Chief of Operations. He played a key role in the formation of Fairfax County's elite Urban Search and Rescue Team, which, in partnership with FEMA and USAID's Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance, has provided lifesaving support to communities here at home and across the globe following natural disasters. He capped his 35- years in Fairfax by serving seven years as Fire Chief, mentoring a generation of Fairfax firefighters and paramedics, who helped mold the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department into one of the best in the nation. He went on to work for FEMA, where he helped initiate the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program for the Department of Homeland Security. He was instrumental in the creation of the Agency's primary firefighter grant programs, particularly the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (or SAFER) Grant Program, which is utilized by career and volunteer fire departments across the country to increase staffing to meet community needs. It was more than a commitment to the job for Chief Gaines. He was committed to the people who served alongside him and those that would follow in their footsteps. He held a degree in Fire Administration and authored a fire service text book and contributed to several other publications that are still considered mandatory reading for recruits. He was an educator who shared his knowledge and expertise widely. He served on the faculty of the National Fire Academy and oversaw training programs at the National Emergency Training Center. As one publication put it, he was a firefighter's firefighter. Whether it was in Fairfax or on the national stage, Chief Gaines garnered respect and promoted positive change. He was recognized by his peers with the International Association of Fire Chiefs Metropolitan Fire Chiefs President's Award of Distinction, and he later was honored with the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Lifetime Achievement Award. He also received the International Association of Fire Chiefs President's Award for Meritorious Service to the Fire Service. His colleagues will also recall his outgoing, gregarious nature, particularly his competitive streak when it came to participating in the World Police and Fire Games. He was a gold medal winner in the games, competing in power lifting, running, and other sports. In fact, he was actively preparing to be the Sports Coordinator for Softball at this summer's Games, which will be held in Fairfax County. Chief Gaines was not the retiring type, and, at the age of 72, his commitment to the fire service community was unparalleled. He died unexpectedly at his home in Leesburg, Va., last Sunday, April 12. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Linda, their daughter Christy Stuart, her husband, Sean, and their twin children, Heather and Evan. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in expressing our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Chief Gaines. His life's work will always be remembered in his native Fairfax and across the nation's fire service, and his legacy of character and service will endure through the generations of firefighters he helped prepare to answer the call.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. 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 Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce. This is the 37th Annual Valor Awards sponsored by the Fairfax County 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 recognize 93 individuals in a variety of categories including: the Lifesaving Certificate, the Certificate of Valor, and the Bronze, Silver, or Gold Medal of Valor. Four members of the Town of Herndon Police Department are being honored this year for their exceptional service. It is with great pride that I submit the names of the following Valor Award recipients: Bronze Medal of Valor Recipients: Police Officer Eliezer Calo Special Police Officer Warrie Proffitt Certificate of Valor Recipients: Special Police Officer Mark Butler Corporal Steven Brown Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the 2015 Valor Award Recipients, and thank each of the men and women who serve in the Town of Herndon Police 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.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. 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 Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce. This is the 37th Annual Valor Awards sponsored by the Fairfax County 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 recognize 93 individuals in a variety of categories including: the Lifesaving Certificate, the Certificate of Valor, and the Bronze, Silver, or Gold Medal of Valor. Forty-eight members of the Fairfax County Police Department are being honored this year for their exceptional service. It is with great pride that I submit the names of the following Valor Award Recipients: Silver Medal of Valor Recipients: Police Officer First Class Roberto Asencios; Police Officer First Class Kevin Gemmell; Police Officer First Class Ryan Quarto; Police Officer First Class Thomas Thompson; Police Officer First Class Nathan Van Husen; Sergeant Michael Gubesch; Police Officer First Class Kenyatta Momon; Police Officer First Class Tyler Timberlake Bronze Medal of Valor Recipients: Police Officer First Class Gershon Ramirez; Sergeant Lieutenant Richard Buisch; Police Officer First Class Robert Marshall; Police Officer First Class Eric Runkles; Police Officer First Class Shannon Sams; Police Officer First Class Larry St. Clair; Second Lieutenant Jane Burns; Police Officer First Class Shawn Carroll; Police Officer Harrison Gamble; Police Officer First Class Edward George; Police Officer Anthony Capizzi; Police Officer First Class Sarah Hansen; Captain Graham McGowan; Master Police Officer Steven Carroll; Master Police Officer Jey Phillips; Second Lieutenant Jeffrey Reiff Certificate of Valor Recipients: Police Officer Brian Geschke; Detective Brett Choyce; Detective Richard Early, Detective Stephen Sulzinski; Detective Brian Takagi; Police Officer First Class Richard Cash; Police Officer First Class Paul Stracke; Police Officer First Class Dustin Tewilliager; Lieutenant Jason Allegra Lifesaving Certificate Recipients: Police Officer Michael Crutchman; Police Officer Jesse Katzman; Police Officer Tyler Spencer; Police Officer First Class Scott Abram; Police Officer First Class Daniel Bond; Police Officer First Class David Faulk; Police Officer First Class Sarah Hansen; Police Officer First Class Craig Quattrin; Police Officer First Class Gershon Ramirez; Police Officer First Class Leslie Schmitt; Police Officer First Class Timothy Schultz; Master Police Officer Mary Hulse; Master Police Officer Scott MacCaskill; Master Police Officer Howard Mergler; Master Police Officer Chris Musser; Master Police Officer Robert Urps; Second Lieutenant Dana Robinson Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the 2015 Valor Award Recipients, and thank each of the men and women who serve in the Fairfax County Police 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.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and commend Pauline Hunter of Woodbridge, Virginia, on the occasion of her retirement following 28 years of exemplary federal service. Ms. Hunter served the entirety of her career with the Department of Army as a civilian employee. During her career, Ms. Hunter has served in various positions, including Community Relations Chief, Transition Services Manager, Family Services Coordinator, Exceptional Family Member Program Coordinator, Mental Health Counselor and Education Counselor. In every position, she has excelled and used her expertise and professionalism to further the mission of the Department of Defense and our nation. Assignments as both a military wife and civilian federal employee have taken Ms. Hunter around the world with tours in Heidelberg, Berlin, Fort Drum, Fort Myer, Fort Belvoir, the Pentagon, and most recently, the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, where she has served as Event Manager for the past two years. Ms. Hunter has been a great ally to my office during our frequent visits to Fort Belvoir as well as in providing assistance to my constituents who live or work at the garrison, and I thank her for her responsiveness and service. Ms. Hunter's deep-rooted commitment to the Department of Defense and the assistance provided to service members and their families began in the classroom. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Tuskegee (Institute) University and went on to pursue a Master's of Science in Education from Fort Valley (State College) University. Her passion for improving the lives of others is not restricted to efforts in the workplace. From serving as a volunteer tutor and board member with the Prince William Literacy Program to her devoted membership at First Mount Zion Baptist Church in Dumfries, Virginia, Ms. Hunter's tireless efforts have benefited her community. A native of Greenville, Georgia, she has made Woodbridge her home, and both Prince William County and the 11th District of Virginia have benefited greatly from her many contributions. Although Ms. Hunter has expressed interest in spending more time with her family, I encourage her to remain civically involved in Prince William County as her resolve and dedication are inspirational to all who have had the privilege of knowing her. While her professional successes cannot be denied, the most important roles in Ms. Hunter's life have been as mother to Jennifer Hunter-Marshall and as Army wife of 42 years to Colonel (Retired) Cardell S. Hunter. I thank them for their support and sacrifices that have allowed Ms. Hunter to serve her country and her community. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Ms. Pauline Hunter and in expressing our appreciation for her years of dedication as a federal civil servant and community volunteer. I wish her continued success and a healthy and happy retirement.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Northern Virginia Football Hall of Fame and to congratulate the 2015 inductees and scholarship award recipients. The importance of youth sports cannot be overstated. Participation in organized sports instills in our youth many values that will serve them well throughout life. These values include sportsmanship, teamwork, honesty, a sense of belonging, and, maybe most important, the work ethic developed by striving for success and working to achieve a common goal. I commend the Northern Virginia Football Hall of Fame (NVFHOF) for providing opportunities for our children to succeed and be a part of a team. I also congratulate the following students, coaches and community leaders who are being inducted during the 25th Annual NVFHOF Awards Banquet: $1,500 Scholarship Award Recipients: Ashleigh Holsworth (West Potomac HS), Ryan L. Bursiek (West Springfield HS), and Jonathan R. McVicker (Lake Braddock SS), and Mason Scoville (Westfield HS) Fairfax County Football Hall of Fame 2015 Inductees: Michael Claussin (Springfield Youth Club, West Springfield HS, JMU, Jacksonville Jaguars, Buffalo Bills, and Washington Redskins), Vaughn Lewis (Edison HS Head Coach, Thomas Jefferson HS Head Coach, Stafford HS Asst, Coach), and Jeff Davey (Chantilly YA, Club Commissioner, Youth Football Head Coach) Football Officials of the Year: Andre Jones (Fairfax County FOA), Rick Artigas (Northern Virginia FOA), and Anthony Wallace (D.C. Metropolitan FOA) Karl Davey Community Achievement Award: John Reynolds (FCPS Athletic Training Programs Administrator) Tom Davis Meritorious Service Award: Dan Sutherland (FCPA, Grounds Management Manager) Gene Nelson Commissioner of the Year Award: David Hall (Commissioner, VYI) High School Players of the Year: James Gibson, III (Westfield HS), Tyler West (Langley HS), Gerald Hulett, Jr. (South County HS), Matt Gallagher (Battlefield HS), Will Mejia (Falls Church HS), Nick Mathews (Patriot HS) High School Coaches of the Year: Wayne Hogwood (Wakefield HS), Chris Haddock (Centreville HS) Youth Sports Players of the Year: Malachi Galloway (Alex. Rec.), Aaron Saunders (American Pride YF), Dakwandre Marshall (Annandale Boys & Girls Club), Savion Whiting (Arlington FL), Nathan Smith, (BRYC), Pierre Johnson (CYA), Aidan Doherty (Dulles South YL), Bradley M. Brewington IV (Fairfax Police YL), Benjamin Pavek (Ft. Belvoir Youth Sports), Mike Pidgeon (Ft. Hunt), E. Claybyrne Prescot Sailor (Gainsville-Haymarket), Justin Gibson (Gum Springs), Stephen Schoenefeldt (Herndon Optimist Club), Christina Thompson (James Lee), William Scott Wolfe (Lee-Franconia), Spencer Irons (Manassas YFL), Mathew Moschella (McLean YF), Cameron Savage (RYA), Ethan Davies (SCAA), Matt Hunter (SYA), Ryan Lipton (Springfield Youth Club), and Chandler O'Rourke (VYI) Youth Sports Coaches of the Year: Mike Johnson (VYI), Matt Huling (SYA), Chris Goings (CYA), and Ken Simmons (BRYC) Youth Cheerleaders of the Year: Layla Menard (American Pride Youth Football), Payton Delean (Dulles South Youth League), Daisy Anderson (VYI) and Emma Sahlgren (VYI) Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the Northern Youth Football League as well as those students, coaches and community leaders who are being honored at this 2015 Hall of Fame celebration.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the recipients of the 2015 Dale City Civic Association Community Awards. The Dale City Civic Association was founded in 1967 to promote community initiatives. Today, the organization's purpose is to represent the interests of the residents of Dale City in a manner that benefits the entire community. Members do this through revitalization and beautification projects, land use advocacy, and volunteer responses to community needs. The Association hosts an annual awards banquet to honor individuals and organizations that have shown exceptional devotion to the community and public service. It is my honor to submit the names of the recipients of the 2015 Dale City Civic Association Community Awards: Business of the Year Award: The Dental Spa, Dr. Marvette Thomas Catherine Spellane Citizen of the Year: Angela H. McConnell Dale City Volunteer Fire Department, Cadet of the Year: Austin Prinbanic Dale City Volunteer Fire Department, Emergency Medical Service Provider of the Year: Nikia Griffiths Dale City Volunteer Fire Department, Firefighter of the Year: Christopher Berry Dale City Volunteer Fire Department, Officer of the Year: Lieutenant Christopher Gardner Jr. Dale City Youth Environmental and Conservation Award: Khrissa Chun Ernestine S. Jenkins Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award: Mary Louise Mawn John D. Jenkins Youth Citizen of the Year: John Thomas Fitzgerald Kathleen K. Seefeldt Community Service Award: Clarice J. Torian Kathy Feeney Nurse of the Year: Bridget Rasmussen Trotman Outstanding Youth Mentor and Advocate of Higher Education Award: Miranda ``Randi'' Manderson Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue, Career Emergency Medical Service Provider of the Year: Technician II Robert Seitz Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue, Career Firefighter of the Year: Captain Kim Stewart Prince William County Police Department, Police Officer of the Year: Officer Robert White Jr. Prince William County Public Schools, Elementary School Teacher of the Year: Katie Rivers Prince William County Public Schools, High School Teacher of the Year: Thomas P. Tutwiler Prince William County Public Schools, Middle School Teacher of the Year: Dawn Cajigas Prince William County Sheriff's Office, Deputy Sheriff of the Year: Deputy Sheila B. Johnson Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the winners of the 2015 Dale City Civic Association Community Awards for their dedication to building and maintaining a healthy community. Each recipient has made a tangible imprint on Dale City, and, with these awards, we illustrate that their contributions have not gone unnoticed.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. I thank my friend from Maryland. Mr. Speaker, we have heard some words here on the floor describing this bill as simply actually a bill to protect Federal workers who are in compliance from that small percentage who aren't. We had a hearing today in the Subcommittee on Government Operations of the committee of which Mr. Chaffetz is full committee chair, and I asked the question of the tax advocate of the IRS: How would you characterize 97 percent compliance when the broad public compliance with tax compliance is 83 to 86 percent? So how would you characterize 97 percent? The answer was: Extraordinary. This is a solution in search of a problem, and the protestations to the contrary notwithstanding, this is another way--albeit cloaked in respectability and sanctimony--of whacking Federal employees again. We just heard it: scratch the surface, and suddenly they are all watching pornography; they are all sitting around not doing work; they are all, in fact, not filing taxes, and they ought to be fired--let me go through the list of firing offenses--allowing the impression that this actually characterizes the Federal workforce. My friend, the minority whip, said that if you were a CEO and managed your company this way, you would be fired or your company would go out of business. My friend from Utah took exception to that. But for those who say we ought to run the Federal Government as a private company, what CEO would keep his or her job who froze wages for 3 years; who disparaged his workforce as being overcompensated, unproductive, lazy, too many of them, and we are going to crack down on you; go after their benefits and make sure they are reduced; threaten not to pay your bills while you are at it? What company would stay in business? What CEO would ever get away with that? That is what we are doing here.

Mr. CONNOLLY. We are disparaging the Federal workforce. No matter how you put lipstick on a pig, it is still a pig.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. 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 Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce. This is the 37th Annual Valor Awards sponsored by the Fairfax County 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 recognize 93 individuals in a variety of categories including: the Lifesaving Certificate, the Certificate of Valor, and the Bronze, Silver, or Gold Medal of Valor. Thirty-two members of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department are being honored this year for their exceptional service. It is with great pride that I submit the names of the following Valor Award Recipients: Gold Medal of Valor Recipients: Technician Ryland Chapman, Technician Gregory Wood Silver Medal of Valor Recipient: Master Technician George Moore, Cadet Justin Spears Bronze Medal of Valor Recipients: Technician Davin Bridges; Technician Ian Brill; Technician Mark Deyneka; Technician Michael Eddy; Technician Thomas Feehan; Technician Michael Frames; Technician Timothy Kelly; Technician Michael King; Technician Heather Lefever; Technician Stephanie Leland; Technician Lawrence Mullin; Technician Timothy Pais; Technician Samuel Porter; Technician Robert Ritchie; Technician William Thurston; Master Technician Beverly Studds; Lieutenant Carlos Carrillo; Lieutenant Eric Craven; Lieutenant John McDonell; Lieutenant Michael Miller; Firefighter Jason Branham; Technician Louis Botha; Technician William Kight, Jr.; Master Technician Anthony Doran; Captain I Patrick Sheehan Certificate of Valor Recipients: Technician Adam Armstrong; Firefighter Thomas Johnson Lifesaving Certificate Recipient: Inspector George Martin, Jr. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the 2015 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.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. 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 Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce. This is the 37th Annual Valor Awards sponsored by the Fairfax County 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 recognize 93 individuals in a variety of categories including: the Lifesaving Certificate, the Certificate of Valor, and the Bronze, Silver, or Gold Medal of Valor. Six members of the Fairfax County Office of the Sheriff Office are being honored this year for their exceptional service. It is with great pride that I submit the names of the following Valor Award recipients: Certificate of Valor Recipients: Correctional Health Nurse Joan Dempsey; PFC Sonya Claiborne; PFC Michael Ittner; PFC Teena Putman; 2nd Lieutenant Joseph Evans; 1st Lieutenant Charles Oakley Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the 2015 Valor Award Recipients, and thank each of the men and women who serve in the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office. 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.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 132nd anniversary of Ebenezer Baptist Church. Reverend Lewis Henry Bailey, a freed slave, founded Ebenezer Baptist Church. After being separated from his family in Alexandria, Virginia, Lewis Henry Bailey was sold into slavery and spent all of his youth and early adulthood as a slave in the state of Texas. Upon his return to Alexandria, Virginia, after obtaining his freedom, Lewis Henry Bailey was reunited with his mother, not far from where he was sold into slavery. Bailey found employment with a railroad company and later graduated from Wayland College. In 1882, he was ordained as an itinerant minister at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Alexandria. With aspirations of sharing the Gospel with residents of the Town of Occoquan, Reverend Bailey walked to and from the town to hold religious services for the black members of the community. In appreciation of his tireless efforts, white members of the community provided land for a church and a place for Reverend Bailey to live. The Clerk of the Court for Prince William County approved the deed on March 8, 1883, and Ebenezer Baptist Church celebrates its anniversary on the first Sunday of March in recognition of this momentous occasion. Bailey started the New School in Occoquan, serving as a precursor to the establishment of the New School Baptist Church, which later became Ebenezer Baptist Church. The cornerstone of the church was laid on the first Sunday in May 1883 and the building was dedicated in 1885. Reverend Bailey, who had long been the inspiration and driving force for the establishment of this church, led the congregation from 1885- 1891. The church has endured setbacks and faced community challenges during its 132 year history. After the original church structure burned to the ground in 1923, Ebenezer Baptist Church was rebuilt in 1924 where it remains today in the same historical site. Ebenezer Baptist Church leadership and its members have played key roles in both promoting civic justice and raising awareness throughout Prince William County. The church was instrumental in the integration of the county's public schools in the 1960s. I was honored to include the oral histories of three members of Ebenezer Baptist Church in my recent Northern Virginia Civil Rights Archive project. Throughout its history, Ebenezer Baptist Church has been led by pastors who have served the church and the congregation faithfully. It is my honor to enter into the Congressional Record the names of the governing pastors of Ebenezer Baptist Church since its founding in 1883: Reverend Lewis Henry Bailey, Reverend Wesley Jackson, Reverend J. E. Peterson, Reverend Francis Eager Pree, Reverend Bush, Reverend Roots, Reverend Reuben Hall and Reverend J.E. Morris. Most recently, on June 23, 1990, Reverend Charles A. Lundy was called to the pulpit to lead the church. Under Reverend Lundy's leadership, Ebenezer Baptist Church has flourished. Due to significant membership growth from 120 to over 800 members in recent years, weekly worship at Ebenezer Baptist Church has been relocated to Telegraph Road to accommodate a growing church family. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating the 132nd anniversary of Ebenezer Baptist Church and in thanking the church and congregation for their contributions to our community.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. 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 Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce. This is the 37th Annual Valor Awards sponsored by the Fairfax County 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 recognize 93 individuals in a variety of categories including: the Lifesaving Certificate, the Certificate of Valor, and the Bronze, Silver, or Gold Medal of Valor. Three members of the Town of Vienna Police Department are being honored this year for their exceptional service. It is with great pride that I submit the names of the following Valor Award recipients: Certificate of Valor Recipients: Police Officer John Digan Police Officer Marcos Herrera Master Police Officer Tim Seitz Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the 2015 Valor Award Recipients, and thank each of the men and women who serve in the Town of Vienna Police 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.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Volunteer Fairfax and express my sincere appreciation to recipients of the 23rd 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. In 2013 alone, more than 26,000 individuals volunteered directly through Volunteer Fairfax; an additional 2,700 employees from 12 corporations supported 29 local agencies. More than 1,000 non-profit and charitable organizations were served by Volunteer Fairfax, and the value of volunteer services provided exceeded $1.3 million. Each year from this group of extraordinary ``Doers Who Do,'' Volunteer Fairfax selects a few exceptional individuals, groups, or organizations to be honored. It is my great pleasure to submit the following names of the 2015 Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards honorees: Community Champions: Braddock District: Joanne Elder Dranesville District: Steven Bloom Hunter Mill District: Sahana Arkalgud Lee District: Dixie Wright Mason District: Winnie Lebo Mount Vernon District: Shirley Short Providence District: Ken Quincy Springfield District: Stephen Beck Sully District: Reverend Doctor Eugene Johnson At-Large: Philip Church Adult Volunteer 250 Hours & Over: Michelle Bond Adult Volunteer 250 Hours & Under: Mike Harrison Adult Volunteer Group: Library Friends Groups of Fairfax County Public Library Corporate Volunteer Program: CACI Cares Fairfax County Volunteer: David Kline Fairfax County Volunteer Program: Fairfax County Animal Shelter Family Volunteer: Colonel Edward and Mrs. Kimberly Bellem Lifetime Achievement: Peggy Ferguson Rising Star: Roberta Bucher Senior Volunteer: Lawrence Kelly Volunteer Program: Marketplace Volunteer Program Youth Volunteer: Carolina Sosa Youth Volunteer Group: Boy Scouts of America Troop 55 Integrate Individual: Pedro Velasco de Paz RSVP Northern Virginia: Elizabeth Pokorny 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. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending Volunteer Fairfax for its decades of outstanding community service, as well as in congratulating the 2015 Service Award honorees 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 reason that our community is often ranked as one of the best places in the country to live, work, and raise a family.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Chairman, I honor my friend from Maryland for his extraordinary and outstanding leadership on a very difficult set of complex numbers and policies known as the U.S. budget. Thank you so much for your leadership. Mr. Chairman, this year's Republican budget resolution is incredulously titled ``A Balanced Budget for a Stronger America,'' but by every measure, the draconian cuts proposed in this budget would severely weaken America's innovative advantage and competitiveness. It might as well be called ``Let's Disinvest in America.'' Consider the cuts to basic research, once a bedrock, a Federal priority that spurred new discoveries that are now vital in our daily lives and the economy. R&D is critical for my northern Virginia district, where the technology community is driving innovation. This Republican budget would slash R&D funding by 15 percent, to its lowest level since 2002. That is a retreat from America's role as the global innovation leader and, essentially, cedes the playing field to our international competition. Similarly, the Republican budget would disinvest in our classrooms. To achieve their ruse of balancing the budget over 10 years, Republicans would cut nondefense spending 24 percent below the already reduced sequester levels. For K-12 education, that translates into an $89 billion cut over the next decade and would surely leave every child behind their international peers. It would also put higher education further out of reach for low and middle class families. America did not ascend to its role as the world's leading economy by quashing the potential of future innovators and leaders. Mr. Chairman, our Republican colleagues are, once again, showing they know the cost of everything and the value of very little. I often hear my colleagues lament that we should run government more like a business. Well, if that is the case, perhaps we should start by listening to the business community which is advocating for us to invest more--not less--in R&D, in education, and in infrastructure for the future workforce of America and the building blocks of a competitive economy. These are investments that yield tremendous returns for our families, for our children, for our future; and the Republican budget would eviscerate those pillars of American exceptionalism.