Gerald Connolly

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the honorees of the 2012 Vienna Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce (VTRCC) Business and Service Awards. Each year, the VTRCC recognizes companies, nonprofits, and individuals in the Vienna-Tysons area who demonstrate exceptional commitment to business and the community. Since the 1940's, the VTRCC has provided a strategic link between local businesses and the region through participation in community activities, networking opportunities, marketing, support and education. This region has witnessed extraordinary growth, and the VTRCC has been a consistent, guiding voice for business. Fairfax County is considered by many to be one of the best communities in the country in which to live, work and raise a family. A significant factor in that distinction is the thriving partnership between the public and private sectors. Corporations, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions work hand-in-hand with their counterparts in local, State and Federal government agencies. A thriving business community is essential to maintaining a high quality of life for all residents, just as ensuring strong community institutions and educational opportunities are available for all residents is essential to fostering continued economic growth. I join the Vienna-Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce in congratulating the following recipients of the 2012 Business and Service Awards: Business of the Year (Large Company): Transurban. Business of the Year (Small Company): Washington Landscapes. Business Executive of the Year (Large Company): Kevin Reynolds-- Cardinal Bank. Business Executive of the Year (Small Company): Diana Carlin--Damon Galleries, Ltd. Entrepreneur of the Year: Mark Rogoff--Title One Settlement Group, LLC. Citizen of the Year: Delegate Mark Keam. Nonprofit of the Year: Shepherd's Center of Oakton-Vienna. Educator of the Year: David Reynolds--Vienna Elementary School. Lifetime Service Award: Richard Irons--First Citizens Bank. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the recipients of the 2012 Vienna-Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce Business and Service Awards and in thanking them for their many contributions not only to our businesses but also our community.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mr. Jim Hinkle and to congratulate him as he completes his tenure as the President of the Mantua Citizens' Association, MCA. Like other home owners associations, the MCA responds to the needs of its residents, circulates local news, and coordinates volunteer services and community projects. As a former president of the MCA myself, I know firsthand the time and effort Mr. Hinkle has devoted to helping improve our community and maintain its rich quality of life. During his tenure, Mr. Hinkle has tackled local environmental, safety, and road maintenance challenges. The nearby fuel tanker farm continues to be a perennial concern, particularly given recent spills and accidents. Mr. Hinkle has demonstrated effective leadership, collaborating with local, state and federal authorities, including the Environmental Protection Agency and my office. Thanks to our coordinated efforts, improved safety measures are being implemented. Whether it's projects large or small, Mr. Hinkle has demonstrated a passion for community service. After the severe winter storms of 2010, he proposed a community service project for a local Boy Scout troop. The Scouts identified deficiencies in the neighborhood roads and made a presentation to the Virginia Department of Transportation, VDOT, which organized the necessary repairs. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Mr. Hinkle for his tremendous service to the Mantua community. Though his tenure as president has come to a close, I am confident we will continue to benefit from his contributions.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 2012 Hidden Pond Envirothon Team and congratulate them on achieving Second Place in the Virginia State Envirothon Competition. The Envirothon Competition promotes problem-solving among high school students in the areas of forestry, wildlife, soils, aquatics, and other current environmental issues. What is most unique about the competition is the opportunity to work in the field with access to actual natural resource professionals. The competition aims to foster stewardship, improve management concepts and communication skills, and promote critical thinking, decision making, and team building. This year's members of the Hidden Pond Envirothon Team are Liam Berigan (Robinson HS), Matt Baker (W. T. Woodson HS), Murjan Hammad (home-schooled), Owan Mulvey-McFerron (W. T. Woodson HS), and Peter MacDonald (West Springfield HS), with Coach Neal MacDonald. The team won first place in the local Fairfax County Envirothon Competition as well as at the Area II Regional Competition. This allowed the team to move on to competition at the state level at James Madison University in Harrisonburg. While competing against the top 15 teams from across Virginia, the Hidden Pond Envirothon Team placed second for the second year in a row. This year's oral presentation focus was titled ``Low Impact Development and Nonpoint Source Pollution,'' for which the team placed first. Hidden Pond also placed first in the wildlife category, second place in the aquatics category, and third place in the forestry category. I would like to offer special thanks to Mike McCaffrey and Jim Pomeroy. Mr. McCaffrey has coordinated the Envirothon Program at the Hidden Pond Nature Center for many years. His efforts have enabled the team to compete at the state level as Hidden Pond is typically the only team not sponsored by a high school. Mr. Pomeroy has served as Hidden Pond's Site Manager, supporting the Envirothon Team with great enthusiasm. Through their commitment and encouragement to this program, many of the students have gone on to become local volunteers or work in careers focused on protecting the environment. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues join me in congratulating the 2012 Hidden Pond Envirothon Team for their performance in the Virginia State Envirothon Competition.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, this Congress' failure to extend renewable energy tax credits is already costing my home State, the Commonwealth of Virginia, jobs. As CBS News reported last month, Virginia is losing a wind turbine development to Spain because the United States doesn't have the right policies and tax incentives in place for renewable energy development. A spokesperson for the wind energy company Gamesa said that the uncertainty over the future of those tax credits for wind energy and the lack of Federal energy policy caused the company to invest in Spain instead of Virginia. The jobs to construct and maintain that turbine will be Spanish, not American. The so-called Strategic Energy Production Act, coming to the House floor this week, actually perpetuates the problem by doubling down on oil and gas to the detriment of developing new and renewable energy sources in America. Even the Republican Governor of Virginia said that the lack of a national energy policy was one of the reasons we aren't moving forward with this project in America. President Obama has called on Congress to pass a ``clean energy standard'' that would guarantee a market for wind, solar, and other clean domestic energy sources. That legislation has not received any consideration in this House. The House Republican leadership won't even bring legislation to the floor to extend critical renewable tax credits for wind and solar energy. Republicans consider it anathema to even suggest that they reconsider special oil and gas company tax breaks in the face of record industry profits. Yet while the extension of renewable energy tax credits would encourage the development of an innovative industry that would support America's energy independence, they allow it to wither. In fact, House Republicans actually attacked the renewable energy sector through a number of different amendments to the Energy and Water appropriations bill earlier this month. As part of the Recovery Act, Congress and the President extended production and investment tax credits for the production of wind and solar energy. As a result of those investments, wind energy electricity generation has grown by 40,000 megawatts in the last 2 years. Between 2007 and 2010, wind energy represented 35 percent of all new electricity generation in America. Solar energy production in America more than doubled in that time period. Approximately 173,000 Americans work now in the wind and solar industries, with 70 percent growth in the number of wind energy jobs since 2007. What other industry can we point to that has seen that kind of significant job growth? In fact, the growth in renewable energy jobs has helped offset job losses in the coal industry, which has been declining for many years. As the Nation continues to recover, and as monthly job growth moderates, it is essential to support innovative American industries, such as wind and solar, with extensive growth potential. Wind and solar electricity generation creates American jobs throughout the supply chain. For example, Micron is a semiconductor manufacturer in my district whose components are used in solar installations. The value of solar installations completed in 2011 was $8.4 billion. Thanks to Buy American provisions and other domestic manufacturing programs in the Recovery Act, we're increasing the share of wind energy components manufactured in America. Over 470 factories in the United States now build components for wind turbines. But as tax incentives expire, where will that future growth go? In the global hunt for scarce resources, the renewable energy industry will not just be a job creator, though it will create jobs. It will also help support national security. If America is not at the forefront of this burgeoning field, then we will be left behind as global competitors seize that initiative. Unfortunately, all of this economic growth is at risk as the Republican House leadership ignores renewable energy tax credit extensions. Failure to extend the production and investment tax credits for renewable energy will mean losing projects across the country. As our loss of a wind facility in Virginia demonstrates, Mr. Speaker, the failure to extend these tax credits in a timely manner already is hurting what would otherwise continue to be a growth industry.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the recipients of the 2012 Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Corporate Citizenship Awards. For more than 85 years, the Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce has provided a strategic link between local businesses and the region through participation in community activities, networking opportunities, marketing, support and education. Fairfax County has witnessed extraordinary growth, and the Chamber of Commerce has been a consistent, guiding voice for business. Fairfax County is considered by many to be one of the best communities in the country in which to live, work and raise a family. A significant factor in that distinction is the thriving partnership between the public and private sectors. Corporations, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions work hand-in-hand with their counterparts in local, state and federal government agencies. A thriving business community is essential to maintaining a high quality of life for all residents, just as ensuring strong community institutions and educational opportunities for all residents are essential to fostering continued economic growth. The Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce annually recognizes individuals and businesses that have demonstrated exceptional leadership and have excelled in their efforts to better our community through social responsibility. More than 65 nominees were considered for the 2012 awards, and each is deserving of recognition and appreciation. It is my honor to enter into the Congressional Record the names of the following recipients of the 2012 Fairfax Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Corporate Citizenship Awards: Emerging Influential of the Year: Amanda Andere, Executive Director, FACETS. Non-Profit of the Year: Good Shepherd Housing and Family Service. Executive of the Year: Michael Cardaci, CEO, Global Network Services, Inc. Woman Owned Business of the Year: Halfaker and Associates LLC. Outstanding Corporate Citizen of the Year--Large Business: Deloitte LLP. Outstanding Corporate Citizen of the Year--Mid Size Company: Apple Federal Credit Union. Outstanding Corporate Citizen of the Year--Small Company: Karin's Florist. In addition to the Corporate Citizenship Awards, the Fairfax Chamber of Commerce also bestows awards in three unique categories; the Chairman's Awards which recognize extraordinary leadership by companies and individuals within the Fairfax Chamber, the James M. Rees Awards which recognize lifelong leadership and service to the Northern Virginia business community, and the NOVAForward Award which is presented to an individual for extraordinary efforts to move Virginia forward. This year's honorees are: Chairman's Awards: Julie Simmons, Human Capital Strategic Consulting, Jorge Scientific Corporation, and Northrup Grumman. James M. Rees Award: Sidney O. Dewberry, Chairman Emeritus, Dewberry, and John Toups, Former CEO, PRC. NOVAForward Award: Terrence D. Jones, President and CEO, Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the recipients of the 2012 Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Corporate Citizenship Awards and in thanking them for their many contributions that have supported not only our high quality of life but also the robust business community we have in Fairfax County.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I join with my colleague, Congressman James Moran (VA 8th), to recognize COL John J. Strycula for his service to our Nation and his extraordinary leadership as Commander, U.S. Army Garrison, Fort Belvoir. On July 7, 2010, COL Strycula assumed command of Fort Belvoir, which is located in the shadow of the Nation's capital and one of the most diverse and complex installations in the United States. In addition to the monumental responsibilities of providing support, services, and a high level quality of life to service members, their families, and related support providers of more than 200,000 people, he was immediately immersed into the most complicated Base Realignment and Closure mission within the Department of Defense. COL Strycula assumed personal stewardship of all aspects of realignment under BRAC 2005. To accomplish the many aspects of this mission, he oversaw the activities of 150 mission partners on more than $4 billion in construction and infrastructure improvement projects needed to accommodate the increase of installation population from 30,000 to 48,000 military and civilian personnel. Belvoir North, Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, the Wounded Warrior Complex, the USO Family Support Center, expansion of housing units including state of the art handicapped-accessible housing, child care centers, roads, bridges, fire stations, office buildings, and parking structures are examples of projects completed under the careful watch of COL Strycula. The ``brick and mortar'' component of BRAC 2005 tells only part of the story; as impressive as these accomplishments are, the manner in which COL Strycula led the men and women under his command and the mission partners demonstrate the depth of his professionalism and commitment. His open and engaging command climate encouraged initiative and innovation. He has been fully involved in addressing and resolving community issues, both in the neighboring community and in the military community. COL Strycula successfully formed consensus among the various stakeholders on contentious issues, and he established strong relationships of mutual respect with elected and executive leaders in the local, State, and Federal Governments. The first and most important priority for COL Strycula consistently has been the care and wellbeing of our soldiers and their families. Through his outstanding leadership, vision, and total dedication to soldiers, families, and civilians, he has profoundly impacted and Unproved the quality of life for all at Fort Belvoir. Serving our country in uniform, at home or in harm's way on foreign soil, is the highest of callings, and it is our sacred obligation to ensure that our military and their families receive the support, protections, respect, and services that they have earned. Prior to his assignment as Commander of Fort Belvoir, he served in numerous capacities including several tours of duty in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. COL Strycula stood up and trained the Army's first Military Intelligence Interrogation Battalion, which he then led in Operation Iraqi Freedom. COL Strycula is a highly decorated officer; his awards include the Bronze Star with two oak leaf clusters, the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, and the Parachutist and Air Assault Badges. Mr. Speaker, we ask our colleagues to join us in commending COL John J. Strycula for his exceptional leadership of Fort Belvoir through the BRAC process, and in thanking him for his years of service to our country. COL Strycula's accomplishments and expertise have contributed immeasurably to our national defense and security, and he has rightfully earned the admiration, respect, and gratitude of all. We also extend our sincere appreciation to COL Strycula's wife, Wendy, and their 5 children for their support and sacrifices, which have enabled COL Strycula to serve with such distinction. COL Strycula will soon be deploying to Afghanistan, and our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family for his safe return home.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and thank Mayor Rob Lederer of the City of Fairfax, Virginia, for his years of service to our community. On June 30th, Mayor Lederer will complete his 5th term as mayor and he will retire from elected office. First elected to the City Council in 1982, Mayor Lederer served three two-year terms and later returned to the Council to serve two more terms starting in 1998. In 2002, he was elected Mayor. During his decades of service to the City, Mayor Lederer has had many notable accomplishments. Forbes Magazine ranked the City of Fairfax as the third best place to live in the U.S. The city achieved a AAA bond rating from the credit rating agencies in recognition of its sound fiscal management, saving taxpayers millions of dollars in financing costs for needed infrastructure improvements. The city received a Gold Medal from the National Recreation and Parks Association, only the fourth time a Virginia locality has won this award since 1965. As a former Member of the Fairfax County, Virginia, Board of Supervisors and as the current Representative for the 11th District of Virginia, which includes the City of Fairfax, I have been pleased to partner with Mayor Lederer in regional matters affecting our shared constituents. Mayor Lederer led the effort to redevelop and renew historic Old Town Fairfax, including the planning, development, construction and opening of the City of Fairfax Regional Library in partnership with Fairfax County. In addition, Mayor Lederer played a lead role in protecting surrounding businesses and homeowners affected by leaks from the gas and oil tank farm at Pickett Road. The tank farm affected residents of both Fairfax County and the City of Fairfax, and the Mayor collaborated with me and other regional leaders to improve safety and accountability. Thanks to those efforts, last year the Commonwealth of Virginia enacted a law to require modern storage and safety procedures at the tank farm. This is a tremendous example of how local leaders like Mayor Lederer are able to work with neighboring jurisdictions and with various levels of government to protect the interests and the safety of their communities. Mayor Lederer is a lifelong resident of the city. In addition to serving the entire city, he found time to serve his neighbors as a board member on the Cobbdale Civic Association. Thanks to his tireless efforts over the years, Mayor Lederer has made a tremendous contribution to the lives of residents of the City of Fairfax now and for future generations. I have no doubt that despite his retirement from elected office he will continue to serve the community for many years to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Mayor Rob Lederer for his service to the residents of the City of Fairfax, thanking him for all that he has done to improve our community, and wishing him and his family well in his retirement from public life.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, if Congress were a musical, then House Republicans would be Little Orphan Annie, singing, ``The sun will surely come out tomorrow,'' because with the urgent challenges facing this Nation, with Americans staring at an impending fiscal cliff and economic calamity, the GOP has simply said, ``Maybe we'll get to it tomorrow.'' Let's revisit the little orphans the GOP has left behind: Needed transportation and jobs bill. The Medicare doc payment fix. The debt ceiling extension. The student loan interest rate hike. The sequester's arbitrary, indiscriminate cuts. The farm bill. Postal reform. The expiration of the Bush tax cuts, the AMT taxes, and the payroll tax cut which would collectively cost families $4,000 more next year. The impact to our economy and these poor little orphans is a staggering $7 trillion. The nonpartisan CBO has said failure to act on these will send America back into a recession. The Republicans need to recognize that every orphan deserves a home and work with us on responsible bipartisan solutions, or it's going to be ``a hard knock life for us.''

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. I thank my colleague, Mr. Polis. Mr. Speaker, I rise to urge my colleagues to defeat the previous question. If we defeat the previous question, we will move immediately to consideration of an amendment that will ensure that Members of Congress do not shield themselves from changes in health care benefits that would reduce the level of care for our constituents. In fact, we might even call this the ``what's good for the goose'' amendment. In fact, the simple commonsense amendment would add a new section at the end of the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act to prohibit any proposed repeal of benefits in Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act from taking effect until it has certified that a majority of Members in this body and the Senate are no longer eligible, whether through automatic or voluntary withdrawal, to receive the very same benefits being repealed. My colleagues will recall that during the health care reform debate, we responded to false claims about Members of Congress having gold- plated health care by removing ourselves from the Federal Employees Health Benefits program. Members will soon use their own State-based exchanges to purchase insurance just like any other family in their community. We wanted our constituents to have as much confidence as we do that the exchanges will deliver the care that's promised. In keeping with that spirit, my simple amendment would ensure Members of Congress stand with their residents in living with any changes in benefits we might legislate. Mr. Speaker, we can offer our residents comfort of mind knowing that Members of Congress will share in those same benefits or reduced benefits by adopting this simple commonsense amendment, proving that what is good for the goose is also good for the gander. I urge defeat of the previous question.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. I want to thank the distinguished chairman and the ranking member and my colleague Mr. Grimm from New York for this thoughtful amendment and for accepting it. Fairfax County, which I represent, has one of the outstanding US&R teams in the world. As my colleague from New York indicated, they have served both here in the United States in many, many manmade and natural tragedies, as well as around the world in saving lives. This is a great partnership between local governments and the Federal Government, and it's one that we desperately need to be enhanced. So I very much thank the majority and the minority leaders for accepting this thoughtful amendment. I am proud to join with my colleague, Mr. Grimm, in cosponsoring this amendment as an original cosponsor, and I am delighted it's going to be adopted. I yield back the balance of my time. I am pleased to join my colleague, Congressman Grimm, in sponsoring this amendment to restore funding for our nation's elite Urban Search and Rescue, USAR, Teams. Our simple common sense amendment would restore about half of the reduction proposed by the Committee, matching the level of the Senate markup, and it has the support of the International Association of Fire Fighters and the National Association of Police Organizations. When earthquake survivors are trapped in the rubble of a collapsed building, the window of survivability is measured in hours. Without highly-trained responders, rescue attempts can imperil victims and rescuers alike. Thankfully, we have made strategic investments in specialized USAR teams. These elite firefighters and emergency medical technicians are not just first responders. For people awaiting rescue, they are the last hope. Prior to coming to Congress, I served 14 year on the Fairfax County, Virginia, Board of Supervisors, and for 9 of those years, I shared my office with a fire station. I saw daily the selfless dedication of the men and women who put their lives at risk every day in service to others. Fairfax County is home to one of nation's outstanding USAR teams. In partnership with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Agency for International Development, and the local county government, the Fairfax team serves U.S. interests at home and abroad. It is comprised of highly-skilled career and volunteer fire and rescue personnel, whose daily duties are to serve the Fairfax community by responding to local fire and medical emergencies. When called into service by DHS, the Fairfax team, designated as Virginia Task Force One, is mobilized for quick response to domestic disasters, natural or manmade, with special expertise in collapsed building rescue. Our team was deployed to Oklahoma City in the wake of the 1995 bombing, and it was among the first on the scene at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. It also was dispatched to Mississippi and Louisiana in response to Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The team has answered the call for help in multiple states, including California, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, North Carolina, Texas, Florida, Kansas, Georgia, Massachusetts, New York, and New Jersey. In addition, the Fairfax Team deployed and was on call during the Presidential Inauguration in 2009, the Republican National Convention in Minnesota in 2008, the Democratic National Convention in Massachusetts in 2004, and the Olympic Games in Utah in 2002 and Georgia in 1996. Fairfax and other USAR teams also have answered the call to respond to disasters abroad under the direction of USAID. In the past 2 years alone, the Fairfax Team, designated as USAR Team One, has deployed to offer rescue and recovery assistance following the devastating earthquake in Haiti and Japan. In 1998, the Team deployed to Kenya in response to the bombings at the U.S. embassy. Throughout its more than 20 years of operation, USAR Team One has carried the banner for America's diplomatic efforts in response to disasters in Armenia, the Philippines, Italy, Turkey, Taiwan, Mozambique, the Czech Republic, Iran, Morocco, Pakistan, Bolivia, Peru, Honduras, Burma, China, Panama, and Chile. When disaster strikes--whether natural or manmade, domestically or internationally--Fairfax and the other select USAR teams have rushed to the scene saving countless lives and property. Their heroic efforts have shown this to be a wise investment and one that ought to be maintained. I urge my colleague to support the Grimm-Connolly amendment to ensure that this successful partnership with our local partners and first responders continues, so that when the next alarm is called, we can take comfort in knowing they are on the job.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. I move to strike the last word.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. American innovators contribute to an economy second to none and provide a strategic advantage in national security. But from where will the advancements of tomorrow come? The U.S. ranks 27th in the world in graduates with science and engineering degrees, so the last thing Congress should do is make education less affordable. Yet that's exactly what will happen on June 30 if Congress fails to act. Interest rates on student loans will double, hiking the yearly payments by $1,000 for more than 7 million students in this country. April's Republican ruse of tying student loan interest rates to the evisceration of preventative health care for women and children was an unconscionable partisan ploy. No parent should be forced to choose between his child's health and education. No woman should have to choose between breast cancer screening and a student loan. Lowered interest rates were the result of bipartisan cooperation between a Democratic Congress and a Republican President. We must stop the interest rate hike in a responsible and bipartisan manner, and I urge speedy action.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, at a time when we should be working together to find ways to save taxpayer money and reduce the deficit, this bill proposes to waste millions of dollars on research into an inefficient and highly polluting energy extraction process known as oil shale. For 100 years, oil shale advocates and big energy companies have been selling us the promise of cheap energy through oil shale. Despite those efforts, no company has been able to deliver on that promise. It's time to end the sham and stop wasting taxpayer dollars. That's why this amendment, which I offer with my good friend Congressman Jared Polis of Colorado, would save $25 million and invest it in deficit reduction. Despite what some in the industry might claim, oil shale development won't produce affordable American energy or jobs. Mr. Chairman, just a few weeks ago, Interior Secretary Salazar pointed out that the House majority continues to confuse shale oil with oil shale, two completely different things. While they clearly sound similar, any undergraduate in geology can tell you that, in fact, one is a rock and the other is a liquid. Let me say that again so my colleagues understand. Oil shale, derived from a rock, is not to be confused with shale oil. While shale oil is experiencing a boom in development, oil shale technology simply doesn't exist, a fact recently confirmed by the Congressional Budget Office. The CBO estimated that implementing a commercial leasing program for oil shale on Federal lands under the PIONEERS Act would not generate revenue for at least 10 years. The amendment I'm offering with my friend from Colorado (Mr. Polis) would simply eliminate the research and funding dollars designated in this bill for oil shale production. This is a simple commonsense amendment. Given the current budget constraints we hear so much about, we cannot continue to throw good money after bad for a nonexistent, uneconomic energy source. There is no sense in wasting $25 million in taxpayer dollars on oil shale research and development when there is no commercially viable technology to bake rock and turn it into synthetic oil. In addition to the technological and economic hurdles facing oil shale, oil shale threatens already scarce water supplies in the West. According to the Bureau of Land Management, industrial scale oil shale development could actually require as much as 150 percent of the amount of water Denver metro area consumes every year. That not only would threaten Denver and eastern agriculture in Colorado, but it would also throw a wrench in the delicate multistate agreements that govern the Colorado River and its use, which is already overtaxed. Simply put, every Colorado River State, from Colorado to California, should be concerned by this use of this money and water and support this amendment. Mr. Chairman, we need more affordable American energy. Achieving that goal includes responsible oil and gas exploration, better use of technology to capitalize on all available resources, and greater focus on the cleaner energy future from renewables such as solar and wind. Some might call it an all-of-the-above approach, but all of the above should not include things that science tells us aren't really viable and represent an unwise investment. Mr. Chairman, I urge passage of the Polis-Connolly amendment. I ask for consideration of this issue that we, in fact, save $25 million and put it to deficit reduction. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on the amendment. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. I rise to join my colleagues in support of this amendment to restore funding to the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Energy, known as ARPA-E. In the report language for this bill, the committee's majority correctly notes that projects funded by ARPA-E ``are capable of significantly changing the energy sector to address our critical economic and energy security challenges.'' This Agency is funding research to advance more efficient power transmission, energy storage, transportation fuel alternatives, energy-efficient buildings, and so much more. So it is puzzling that the committee would then recommend reducing the funding for activities that promote American energy and independence by 27 percent compared to the current funding of 43 percent below the President's reasonable request. It is thanks to our strategic investments in R&D that we have captured the full benefit of America's ideas and innovations through partnerships with the higher education community and the private sector. More than half of the Nation's economic growth since World War II can be traced to science-driven technology research and innovation that has stemmed from that partnership. It was central to our ability to capitalize in the space race in the 1960s. Since then, the magnitude of research supported by the Federal Government has actually grown and revolutionized health care, transportation, the digital economy and, yes, energy delivery and efficiency. For example, a Federal energy grant at Georgia Tech evolved into a private company, Suniva, that manufactures solar energy cells that are cost competitive with fossil fuels. In fact, the company technology was named the world's best commercially applied innovation in 2010. So it's unfortunate to see the majority continue a pattern of disinvestment in basic research, which typically yields a 2 1 return on investment. Cuts like this actually wind up costing our country in the long run. The real question is: Who is going to fill that gap if we start to retreat on this historic partnership? The answer: our foreign competitors. It's already happening, Mr. Chairman. More than half of U.S. patents were granted to foreign companies in 2009. China is now the world's leading high-tech exporter, and we rank 27th in the number of graduates with science or engineering degrees. On a related note, I would highlight another issue of which the majority is paying lip service to the need to address the shortage of American scientists and innovators. The report language correctly expresses concern with the long-term science, technology, engineering, and math workforce development pipeline, particularly for underrepresented minority students. Yet the majority then continues to underfund the very programs aimed at supporting strong teachers and scientists to recruit and train the next generation of innovators. Mr. Chairman, we need to invest more, not less, in these Federal research partnerships. I urge my colleagues to restore these vital funds so we can continue to nurture promising industries, provide entrepreneurs with skills and capital and allow American companies to be globally competitive and help American workers get jobs. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, when we look at this economy, we should ask: What would Ronald Reagan do? When he took office in 1981, President Reagan inherited an economy in deep recession. During the past 3 years, we've heard a number of current Republicans laud the accomplishments of Ronald Reagan in spurring economic recovery during that decade. As they often point out, President Reagan cut taxes. Of course, so did President Obama. The Recovery Act, which I proudly supported, cut taxes for 95 percent of all Americans, averaging $400 for individuals and $800 for families. When that tax cut expired--and when Republicans refused to extend it--I was again proud to join President Obama to enact the payroll tax cut, averaging $1,000 per family. But tax cuts alone do not make a robust recovery. The other notable thing Ronald Reagan did was preside over a Nation with a sharp increase in public sector employment from local, State, and Federal levels. Because, while today's Republicans may try to argue otherwise, teaching jobs are jobs; firefighters have real jobs; police jobs are jobs. In fact, three of the last four economic recoveries had one thing in common: public sector employment increased. Two and a half years into the recovery from 2001, total public sector employment was 1 percent higher; 2\1/2\ years into the recovery from the 1980 recession, total public sector employment was 3 percent higher. And 2\1/2\ years into the recovery from the 1980 recession, total public sector employment under Ronald Reagan was almost 3\1/2\ percent higher than it was at the start of the recovery. In contrast, today's recovery from the recent recession has seen total public sector employment decrease by 2.5 percent, largely because the Republicans have gotten their way in trying to shrink the public sector. Real jobs were lost. Had total public sector employment merely held steady over the last 2\1/2\ years, the unemployment rate today would be 7.8 percent, not 8.2. But instead, we've lost 600,000 public sector jobs: teachers, police officers, firefighters, librarians, and other dedicated public servants. If the goal truly were to foster a robust economic recovery, you'd think today's Republicans would be looking at how the Nation worked its way out of previous recessions. But, obviously, that's not the case. Last September, President Obama put forward the American Jobs Act, a proposal to cut taxes on workers and businesses to incentivize hiring and to fund necessary infrastructure improvements. Economists predicted the American Jobs Act would have added up to 1 million new jobs and spurred GDP growth by an extra 1.5 percent. These are proposals that have traditionally earned bipartisan support. For example, one of the single largest infrastructure projects ever was under the creation of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, the interstate highway program. In 1982, while he was still working toward economic recovery, Ronald Reagan proposed a highway and bridge repair program to create jobs in the public sector. But, sadly, Republican opposition has kept the American Jobs Act from even coming to the floor for a vote. Many Republicans decried the use of additional revenue to help offset any increase in national debt. Apparently, they forgot that when faced with rising deficits, Ronald Reagan looked to revenue increases, broadening the tax base, closing loopholes, and raising taxes. Yes, he raised taxes in 1982, 1984, 1985, 1986, and 1987. It's unfortunate that today's Republicans have lost sight of the value of investing in America in a fiscally responsible manner, because the Nation's construction industry has been the hardest hit. America lost more than 2 million construction jobs in the recession that began in 2007. Infrastructure investments don't just create jobs, they also repair dangerous bridges and make our roadways safer. They build needed schools to lessen overcrowding; they renovate hospitals and improve water treatment plants. As part of the Recovery Act, we enacted the Build America Bonds program that leveraged $4 billion in Federal funds to $181 billion in private sector funding, completing more than 2,000 projects in every State in the country. I introduced a bill to extend this successful program because there remain unmet needs in our communities, and there are millions of construction workers awaiting the opportunity to return to work and communities that would benefit from the projects. We haven't even had a hearing on that bill. Mr. Speaker, Dwight Eisenhower did not subscribe to the current Republican mantra that investing in America was something to be shunned. Ronald Reagan did not share the current Republican dictum that serving one's country in public service is somehow a less-than-noble endeavor and the way to prosperity is through devastating cuts to the public sector. Congress must act to ensure long-term fiscal responsibility, but it should not come at the expense of millions of Americans struggling to get back to work. As we contemplate our economic policies, we really should ask: What would Ronald Reagan do?

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the volunteers for the Independence Empowerment Center. Independence Empowerment Center is a community-based advocacy organization operated by and for people with disabilities in the state of Virginia. IEC promotes disability rights, equal access, and full community participation for persons with disabilities. They work with individuals with disabilities to maintain or take back charge of their own lives and make their own choices and decisions in order to be as self-sufficient as possible. Independence Empowerment Center is associated with a national movement of almost 500 Centers for Independent Living. These Centers are advocacy-based organizations governed and operated by persons with disabilities for persons with disabilities. Volunteers for the Independence Empowerment Center perform essential tasks in and outside of the office. They assist the staff on daily functions and projects, as well as well as manage events that the IEC hosts. Additionally, IEC is staffed with volunteers constantly to help with their Annual Americans with Disabilities Act Fair in July. It is my honor to enter into the Congressional Record the names of volunteers for the Independence Empowerment Center: Patricia Johnson Judy Humphrey Don Rhoades Stephanie George Marlene Orf David Beverage Alfredo Foz Joshua Rammelsberg Emilia Prokop China McEachern Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the volunteers at the Independence Empowerment Center for their service and in thanking them for their dedication to our community.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Prince William County Department of Public Works Volunteers. Public Works staff works to ensure that effective, practical, and safe techniques are used in all employment operations. They provide much needed training and support for employees and hold all practices accountable. The staff offers guidance and understanding of how tasks are accomplished, helping employees provide services that are needed in the community. It is my honor to enter into the Congressional Record the names of volunteers for Prince William County Department of Public Works: Stonewall Jackson HS Ecology Club, Jessica Hruska, Rich Smith, Prince William Trails and Streams Coalition, Friends of the Occoquan, Vulcan Materials--Manassas Quarry, Windy Knoll Farm, Eric VanNortwick, Ed Dandar, Adams Family, Aleman Family, Anwar Family, Babar Family, Bassett Family, Broadhurst-Bibbee Family, Butkus Family, Chiodo Family, Couture-Morales Family, Crespo-Galliver Family, Cronin Family, Darcy Family, Dinga Family, Donovan Family, Ehtasham Family, Glass Family, Goodwine Family, Gough Family, Gross Family, Hopkins Family, Huang Family, Hunter Family, Hylton Family, James Family, Jampole Family, Kaps Family, Kay Family, Kristy Family, Kromer Family, Kronthal Family, Kulakowski Family, Makoge Family, McGeehan Family, McKinnon Family, McPike Family, Melusen Family, Menon Family, Mockenhaupt Family, Morris Family, Mory Family, Moser Family, Nielsen Family, Nieves Family, Norman Family, Ogawa Family, Phillippi Family, Protacio Family, Reedy Family, Rodriguez Family, Rosario Family, Saul Family, Seagle Family, Simmons Family, Simons Family, Thompson Family, Thompson Family, Thompson Family, Tilden Family, Verosko Family, Walker Family, Yoon Family. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the Prince William County Department of Public Works Volunteers for their service and in thanking them for their dedication to our community.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the volunteers of The Greater Prince William Medical Reserve Corps. The Greater Prince William Medical Reserve Corps (GPWMRC) is a cadre of volunteer health care professionals and community members trained to respond to emergencies and assist with public health events in Prince William County and the cities of Manassas and Manassas Park. This unit is one of approximately 800 units that are part of the national Medical Reserve Corps program under the direction of the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General and 1 of 31 in the Commonwealth of Virginia. GPWMRC volunteers frequently provide important services at events such as health fairs, vaccination clinics and large public gatherings. Volunteers also spend a lot of their time attending trainings and exercises so that they are prepared to help the community during an emergency. It is my honor to enter into the Congressional Record the names of volunteers for The Greater Prince William Medical Reserve Corps: Vickie Andrews, Evelyn Ansah-Agyei, Heather Baldwin, Valerie Bampoe, Hassan Bangura, Harry Beaver, Charlotte Bediako, Diondra Blyden, Sarah Boughman, Susan Brewer, Josh Brown, Eileen Brown, Pamela Brown, David Bruce, Alisa Bruce, Kathryn Cantoni, Janice Chambers, Gabriella Chimenz, Kathy Cobb, Nancy Collins, Debbie Constable, Judy Corcoran, Sonia Coughlin, Marguerite Crozier, Lisa Cullom, Valerie Cyrus, Theresa Dailey, Estelle Daniels, Tele Dasilveira, Brian Davis, Annette Davis, Molly Davis, Monique Davis, Faduma Deghill, Patricia Demain, Mary Dessimoz, Joseph Dibisceglie, Kalima Drga Abreu, Douglas Dulaney, Blossom Ellicott, Gloria Ephraim, Bernadette Espy, Adrienne Foose, Sandra Francis, Victoria Gammon, Bianca Garcia, Fil Beth Gatmaitan, Miguel Granillo, Masako Griffith, Brenda Grimes, Margaret Hayes, Shenna Hess, Jenny Ho, Joan Howard, Miwa Hwang, Annie Johnson, Kimberly Johnson, Lucinda Jones, Jennifer Jones, Fatmata Kamara, Jane Keady, Katherine Ketchum, Stephanie Keyes, Elizabeth Koren, Hawa Kun, Cecilia Kusi, Janiece Lacy, Grace Langebeck, Blake Leggett, Brunette Lewis, Joyce Lund, Nghi Lu-Tran, Linda Manley, Iris Matos, Jessica Maybar, Kamil McClain, Pamela McGrath, Megan McHugh, Cary McMahon, John Meehan, Judy Merring, Ryan Metz, Heather Miranda, Emerita Mogrovejo, Esther Moniba, Monica Moore, Virginia Morales, Troy Morton, Chrystal Morton, Margaret Nee, Ralph Neeper, Nancy Neeper, Rachel Nissley, Lawrence Ofosuhene, Juanita Oliver, Jose Quinones, Renee Ray, Teresa Rice, Mark Rivera, Melissa Rivera, Donna Robinson, Julie Russell, JoAnn Saenz, Mary Simon, Shekhar Sharma, Anne Shaw, Carrie Slavens, Zondra Smith, Kathleen Smith Peters, Jane Stottlemyer, Kamar Sumrall, Raquel Upshur, Susana Vega, Karen Villar, Valecia Washington, Margaret Watkins, Shalanda Weems, Gail West, Mary Weybright, Collis Williams, Siewadaye Williams, Rhondra Willis, Kathryn Willis, Gladys Wise, Reeza Woode. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the volunteers of The Greater Prince William Medical Reserve Corps for their service and in thanking them for their dedication to our community.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the winners of the 2012 Green Community Awards. Every year the Green Guiding Committee of Prince William County awards people or organizations for their work towards bettering the community and sustaining the environment. Each of this year's winners has tackled an issue in their immediate area that presents a larger environmental problem. The Green Awards are the highest honor given for environmental service in Prince William County, and this year's winners exemplify the qualities and work ethic that are required to keep our community green. I extend my personal congratulations to: Stonewall Jackson High School Ecology Club--for raising awareness about environmental issues, inspiring fellow students to get involved, hosting events for younger students and taking the lead on conservation projects in the field. Prince William Trails and Streams Coalition--for their ongoing efforts, projects and programs to create, restore, clean and preserve trails and access to natural areas for the entire community. Friends of the Occoquan--for their ongoing fall and spring projects to clean up the Occoquan River in Prince William County for the past 13 years. Vulcan Materials--Manassas Quarry--for their corporate practices to conserve resources and reduce waste, plus their efforts to support schools and organization in their efforts to protect the environment. The Taylor Family of Windy Knoll Farm--for their generous offer to allow local conservation groups to host programs and demonstrations on the farm, as well as their use of sound and environmentally wise management practices. Eric VanNortwick--for his ongoing efforts to clean up, maintain and enhance trails along Neabsco Creek in Prince William County. Ed Dandar--for his dedication in coordinating and overseeing logistics for the 26 mile clean up along the Occoquan River. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the winners of the 2012 Green Community Awards and in thanking them for their dedication to our community.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Habitat for Humanity of Prince William County Volunteers. Habitat for Humanity seeks to eliminate poverty housing and to make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action. Habitat invites people from all walks of life and faiths to work together in partnership to build and repair houses with families in need through our Neighborhood Revitalization Initiatives: New Construction, Home Rehabs, Home Repairs and the Habitat Restore. Home repairs consist of A Brush with Kindness, Weatherization, Critical Home Repairs and Critical Home Repairs for Veterans. None of their work is possible without the funding and time that their donors and volunteers give so generously. 490 volunteers donated more than 6,867 hours in 2011 and eleven of those volunteers individually donated more than 100 hours each. It is my honor to enter into the Congressional Record the names of volunteers of Habitat for Humanity of Prince William County: Susan Jacobs, Karen Wilkinson, Rob Major, Chris Daffan, Theresa Accoo, Christine Rowe, Kisha Sogunro-Wilson, Anita Duecaster, Renee Wolfolk, John McBride, Brian Swanson, Marci Swanson, Dob McCubbin, Frank Jacquette, Sandi Stark, Mike Stark, George Braun, Matthew Watkins, Bob Gainer, Al Harris, Lynn Ashe, Razan Azzarkani, Betty Reichert, Lynn Eklund, Kristine Reyes, Justin Marohnic, Darren Fischer, Casey Brewster, Gary Wright, Elizabeth Hayde, Ashley Tyler, Cheryl Novogradac, Joseph Bolos, Scott DeGroat, Kim Morris, Teresa Blacksmith, Jennifer Miller, Rich Feickert, Chris Reilly, Timothy Grembowski, Andi Pollard, Kenneth Morilak, Jeffrey Beathard, Quinton Morris, Kudzaishe Mlambo, Pam Hart, Barbara Atwell, David Wurst, Mayumi Ferrin, Matthew Whalen, Rita Ayanga, Michael Renfro, Nathanael White, Kurt Wall, Shryl Madison, Rodney Owens, Richard Revaz, Denise A. Womack, Phyllis Hall, Polynice Paul, John Grennek, Carmen T. Courchene, Sharon Dangerfield, Isalee Jackson, Cortni Robinson, Lauren Hughes, Christina Frank, Marletha Dyer, Paul Whalen, Dara Dentham, Patrick Stolte, Maikao Yang, James Zhang, Ying Zhang, Connie Moser, Mark Luiggi, Jim Floyd, Al Ferguson. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the volunteers of Habitat for Humanity of Prince William County for their service and in thanking them for their dedication to our community.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Prince William County Historic Preservation Volunteers. The dedicated Historic Preservation Volunteers are an essential part of the Historic Preservation Division. They are part of an endless effort to preserve and enhance the historical and natural resources of Prince William County. They bring these resources alive for citizens with special programs events and daily efforts to maintain and beautify our historic sites. They graciously sacrifice their personal time to volunteer as docents, garden volunteers, education volunteers, research and collection volunteers, restoration volunteers, and special event volunteers. It is my honor to enter into the Congressional Record the names of volunteers following Prince William County Historic Preservation Volunteers: Morgan Breeden, Kay Breeden, Daniel Breeden, John F. Wolfe, Belinda Brummel, Jennifer Andreani, Wren Hubbell, Jill Hubbell, Ed Moore, Susan Moore, Tom Costa, Suzanne Costa, Carolyn Hartman, Comfort Uanserme, Chris McConnell, Bernie McConnell, John Nuzum, Avery A. Born, Rex D. Born, Sue Born, JoAnn Craft, Jim Craft, Wayne Hutzell, Paul Penrod, James D. Owens, Paige Gibbons, Emmanuel Dabney, Christine Jaworski, Lionel Raymond, Curtis Hoagland, Jay Greevy, Jim Pearson, John DePue, James Ivancic, Tom McGinlay, Mike Miller, Jacque Siegel, Kathryn Barrows, Brenda Caricofe, Nerine Clemenzi, Elaine Davis, George Erhart, Becky Hornyak, Kelly Hunsaker, Phyllis Ingram, Bryan Lewis, Belinda Lewis, Jeff Loeffler, Sandy Melson, Janice Overman, John Overman, Jacque Rowberry, Ginny Sanderson-Brown, Rosemary Schatz, Andy Schatz, Linda Walls, Lin Weeks. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the Prince William County Historic Preservation Volunteers for their service and in thanking them for their dedication to our community.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the BEACON for Adult Literacy Program Volunteers. BEACON for Adult Literacy is an award-winning non-profit proudly serving the adult literacy needs of the Northern Virginia community for 20 years. In its first year BEACON served 30 learners; today BEACON serves over 400 adults a year. Over 3,500 low-income non-native Americans have gained English-language literacy skills over the past two decades. It is my honor to enter into the Congressional Record the names of volunteers for BEACON for Adult Literacy Program: Brendan Baldwin, Sally Harrison, Richard Corbett, Carole O' Sullivan, Martisa Brown, Corinne DeGrazia, Sasha Haleblian, Donna McNeally, David Covin, Robert Lynch, Ed Walsh, Brian Bell, Erika Arellano, Gene Strausbaugh, Alex Kersis, Ruth Porter, Henry Hastings, James McPheeters, Star Muir, Ilana Naylor, Erica Seymour, James Gillespie, Skip Brown, James Porter, David House, Joyce Rozier, James Sowers, Suzanne Morgan, Tina Cox, Jane Arseneault, Satya Khadka, James Drummond Jr., Janet Radzimski, Jessica Higham, Jean Gentry, Pat Hodgdon, Jeanne Endrikat, Richard Flaherty, Anne Walsh, Jim Zech, Carmalla Coley, Yolanda Daniels, Joan Appleton Costanza, Venkat Viswanathan, Kelley Studholme, Armena Springs, Nancy Schalk, Lianetta Ruettgers, William McGuire, Liz Alcauska, David McDermott, Bob Schlipp, LTC Peter Stenner, Sue Kang, Vivek Koppikar, Martha Walsh, Jayne Hazen, Melissa MacIntyre, Nancy Nelson, Katherine DeSilva, Patrick McNeally, Caroline Zong, Jeanne Lynch, Rhonda Vanover, Clara Hipp, Robert Brown, Karen Shankles, John Manning, Robert Mechler, Ruth Passarge, Joyce Andrew, Robert Stinson, Jim Hipp, Roberta Knussmann, Justin Terry, Rosanne Schubring, Fabiana Parker, Rosie Jones, Aaron Burdick, Bob Sowers, Ruth Thomas, Doris Thomas, Sheri McGlothlin, Lyn Hildebrandt, Leslie Stagg, Sonya Jacob, Martha Muirhead, Tiffany Laseter, Walter Godlewski, William Cratty, and Sister Theresa Anderson. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the volunteers of the BEACON for Adult Literacy Program and in thanking them for their dedication to our community.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Prince William County Juvenile Detention Center Volunteers. JDC Volunteers ensure the efficiency of Juvenile Detention Center's after-school program. They treat the youth with respect, dignity and worth, becoming role models for youth who wish to change their lives. The volunteers promote healthy social, educational, emotional, and physical development. The JDC Volunteers are truly an integral part of the center, as well as these children's lives. It is my honor to enter into the Congressional Record the names of volunteers for the Prince William County Juvenile Detention Center: Joshua Ahmadi, Jean Andreas, Antonio Ante, Mileydi Ante, Warren Anthony, Alex Arevalo, Jose Argueta, Melis Argueta, Anthonese Barlow, Beverly Barnes, Tina Barnett, Edwardo Barrow, Paul Bauer, Robin Bauer, Matt Behnke, Katherine Best-Brown, Patricia Black, Renee Blakey, Leah Bogden-Collins, Barbara Borthwick, Patrick Bowens, Diana Bowers, Angela Brown, Michael Brown, Renee Brown, Peggy Bruhn, Richard Buckholt, Isabella Buckley, William Burrell, Brigitte Caboteja, Keisha Cameron, Daniel Card, Alfred Cardwell, Christopher Cavaluzzi, Elizabeth Charity, Louis Chevalier, Marcia Clark, Triane Clowers, Erin Collins, Carolyn Craig-Sprow, Elaine Crocker, Vincent Currie, David Danieli, Jacqueline Daugnon, Randy Davenport, Carolyn Demps, Joel Devallon, Arthur Diggs, Paul Dressler, Henry During, Michael Edwards, Christopher Floyd, Ingrid Floyd-Casco, Emilio Fogerty, Barbara Fortenberry, Stephanie Fox, Doug Freeman, Michael French, Lohrland Gandy, Aria Gee, Keith Givens, Patsy Gordon, CeCe Greco, Tabatha Guion, Linda Hammon, Darrell Harris, Ruth Hellwig, Sherri Hines, Ernest Hines II, Rebecca Hixon, Mary Hoffman, Corey Holeman, Gay Howard, Bob James, Vondetta James, Jackie James-Bond, Kimberly Jappell, Breanna Jones, Matthew Jones, Karen King, William Lewis, Dudley Ligon, Vickey Logan, John Louisor, Cora Lynch, Floyd Mangin, Sherman Manley, Leonardo Manning, Bruce Marchal, Ardine Marie, Antonio Mason, David Masters, John McKie, John McMackin, Liz Medina, Robert Melvin, Dan MenMuir, Charles Miller, Jeanne Moore, William Moore, Gregory Morris, Dona Mosley-Williams, Tyler Newton, Dianne Noble, Debbie Page-Maples, Robin Paglianite, Sheila Parocia, Caris Penzien, Christy Phillips, Bernice Piasare, LaTasha Pless, Daniel Ramirez, Paul Ramos, Carlos Recono, Hugo Retana, Rhonda Richardson, Sabeana Roberts, Reina Rodriguez, Suzanne Rucker, Joy Russom, Brandis Sanchez, Cathy Sanders, Charlene Scott, Pastor Angel Serrano, Natasha Severe, Cathy Shaffer, Dennis Smith, Latonya Smith, Odell Smith, Victoria Soberanis, Jeanne Spears, Martin Steinberg, Kevin Stewart, Sherry Stone, Anita Sullivan, Carolyn Taylor, Brenda Todd, Shonietta Travers, Doyoberto Trejo, Aimee Tucker, Ortho Vines, Diane Walden, Andrew Walker, Kenneth Wallace, Patricia Wallace, Amy Ward, Sandra Watjen, Shirley Watson, Delores Weikert, Stephen Weikert, Sandy Weinger, Elizabeth Williams, Stacy Williams, Brianne Wilson, Carol Wilson, Michael Wilson, Robert Wilson, Ericca Wright, Reynold Wright, Laurie Raines, Kelly Jimenez, Tracey Wilkins-Clark, Tricia Wyman. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the Prince William County Juvenile Detention Center Volunteers for their service and in thanking them for their dedication to our community.