Gerald Connolly

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. I thank my good friend. Mr. Speaker, we just heard a reference to YouCut and that this was one of the most popular cuts suggested by people on this Republican blog. Well, Mr. Speaker, 10 million Americans want to participate in public financing of Presidential campaigns. And I would dare say that dwarfs anything we've heard from YouCut. So if we're going to get in the business of what the American people want and how they've expressed themselves, 10 million voices are in threat of being silenced today by this rule and the underlying legislation. The idea that we're going to save money and solve the deficit by eliminating public financing in presidential campaigns is fallacious. But I will give the other side credit: It is intellectually honest. When you have a Supreme Court ruling like Citizens United that fosters anonymous financing of campaigns, no wonder you want to delete public financing of campaigns.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise as a member of the Budget Committee to oppose this deficit-busting repeal, and I want to speak today on behalf of Suzanne from Vienna, Virginia. Suzanne's daughter suffers from a debilitating neurological disease. Before health care reform, Suzanne and her husband could not get health insurance for their daughter because, through no fault of her own, she, like 129 million other Americans, had a preexisting condition. While many of those Americans wait to see if their insurance company will deny them, Suzanne, unfortunately, already knew. She was willing to pay for health insurance to protect her daughter; the insurance companies said no and wouldn't insure her daughter at any price. Suzanne had no option until we created high-risk insurance pools under health care reform. Suzanne's words to me after health insurance reform passed were, Now at least we have hope for the future. Voting for this repeal will take away that hope, throwing Suzanne's daughter off of insurance. I urge my colleagues to remember Suzanne's daughter and the other 129 million Americans like her and vote against this repeal. Do not take away their hope.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise to join my colleagues and the rest of the Congressional community in extending my prayers and support to the victims of the horrible shooting this past Saturday in Tucson, Arizona, and to their families and friends. Our friend and colleague, Gabrielle Giffords, continues to fight for her life. She and 13 others were wounded in this unspeakable tragedy, in which six people were killed, including three retirees, a nine-year old child, a federal judge and a member of Representative Gifford's staff. During the past two years it has been my pleasure to serve with Gabby Giffords on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. She is an intelligent and dedicated public servant. During my term in this body, I benefited from watching and working with Gabby. I know that the House of Representatives, and indeed, the entire country have benefited from her work and that this chamber will feel her absence until she fully recovers and is able to return to the House floor. This past Saturday was yet another tragic reminder of the prevalence of violence in our society. Our primary concern at this moment must be with the victims and their families and friends. We must help them work through their grief. We must help the injured through their recovery process. There is no silver lining when six people are murdered. However, if we do not learn from this tragedy, then we will be doomed to repeat it. Mr. Speaker, I would submit that our political rhetoric has become grossly overheated, and it's time for all of us to take a step back and reflect on the effects of the vitriol. The philosopher, Voltaire, once wrote, ``I detest what you write, but I would give my life to make it possible for you to continue to write.'' He was articulating a crucial component--perhaps THE crucial component--on which our nation was founded: That no matter how much I may disagree with your opinion, it is essential that you have the right to express it. But too often, lately, it seems that we cannot merely disagree with one another's opinions or policies. Instead disagreements become personal. Verbal attacks devolve into harsh questions about motives and character. Debates about policies or proposals sink to fear-mongering and rhetorical claims that the fate of our Republic lies in the balance. Those of us in this chamber, and others in elected office, understand the rhetorical nature of such comments, but can we be absolutely certain that such verbal attacks are not being misconstrued in a culture of increasing anger and a greater acceptance of confrontation? Absolutely, we must preserve each person's fundamental First Amendment rights, but can we not agree that we ought to disagree in a more agreeable fashion? As elected Representatives, our words certainly do have consequences for the policies and actions we are trying to shape, but it extends well beyond these four walls . . . to the thousands of people who provide us with staff support here in the Capitol and in our home districts . . . for the men and women who are the face of our government, performing essential federal work every day in communities across our nation and especially for the public, which has placed its trust in us. There are sure to be multiple legislative proposals in response to this week's tragedy, but perhaps the best response is more simple and more personal. Speaker Boehner said an attack on one of us is an attack on all of us, and it will take a collective response from all of us to temper our rhetoric and return to a level of discourse that honors the victims of this week's senseless tragedy.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. ``He shall have power, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, to make treaties, provided two-thirds of the Senators present concur, and he shall nominate, and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, shall appoint ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls, judges of the Supreme Court, and all other officers of the United States, whose appointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and which shall be established by law.''

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Prince William County, Virginia on being named one of the nation's ``100 Best Communities for Young People'' by America's Promise Alliance and ING. The annual ``100 Best Communities for Young People'' competition began in 2005 and was established to honor communities that work to improve young people's chances of earning a high school diploma, finding employment in a competitive 21st century workforce, and contributing to a robust American economy. America's Promise Alliance advocates for providing youth with the resources they require to graduate from high school prepared for college, work and life. The global financial institution, ING, sponsors the awards. This is the first year the ``100 Best'' list includes Prince William County. The county received the distinction for its efforts to offer students leadership opportunities and reach out to at-risk youth. Students in Prince William County who participate in the student committee, Learning Essential Assets of Development (LEAD), organize service projects to gain experience in practical planning, communication and decision-making. The county also partnered with private businesses to fund the construction and staffing of a community center and daycare facility in an at-risk neighborhood. Prince William County boasts an on time graduation rate of 88 percent, almost 20 percent higher than the national average. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Prince William County on being recognized as one of the nation's ``100 Best Communities for Young People.'' This is a well-deserved recognition for a county dedicated to providing a high quality of life for its residents and a world class education for its children.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Dat Quang Le of Springfield, Virginia as a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). Administered by the National Science Foundation in coordination with the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, the PAEMST program recognizes outstanding teachers for their commitment to the teaching and learning of mathematics and science. Dr. Le, along with only 102 other mathematics and science teachers throughout the nation will receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation. Dr. Le has been a teacher for 15 years, the last 13 years of which he spent teaching science at H.B. Woodlawn Secondary School in Arlington, Virginia. Recently, Dr. Le moved within the Arlington Public School system. He now works as a science specialist, helping develop the county's science curriculum and providing general support for teachers throughout the county. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Dat Quang Le as a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching for his dedication to the students of the Arlington Public School system and to the teaching and learning of mathematics and science.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, TJHSST, on the occasion of its 25th Anniversary. Established in 1985, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology is the result of collaboration among the local and State leaders, Fairfax County Public Schools and the business community to improve education in science, mathematics, and technology. Located in the heart of the 11th Congressional District of Virginia, TJHSST is the premier high school in the United States, and its success continues to make Fairfax County one of the most sought out communities in which to live and do business. It is one of 18 Governor's Schools in the Commonwealth of Virginia and is a founding member of the National Consortium of Specialized Secondary Schools of Mathematics, Science, and Technology. In 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2010, TJHSST was ranked the best public school in the Nation by U.S. News & World Report and has fielded more National Merit Semifinalists than any other high school for most the 1990s and 2000s. Between 2000 and 2005, more TJHSST students qualified for the United States of America Mathematical Olympiad than from any other high school and the school has a distinguished history of U.S. Physics Olympiad Team participation and medal winners. In 2007, 2009, and 2010, TJHSST held the record for the highest number of Intel Science Talent Search Semifinalists. Seven Rhodes Scholars have graduated from TJHSST, more than the number of Rhodes Scholars at most colleges in the entire country. Each year, more than 25 percent of the graduating class accepts admission to the University of Virginia. Other prominent colleges popular among the graduates include the College of William and Mary, Duke University, and Princeton University. A number of graduates also have accepted appointments to West Point or the U.S. Naval Academy, becoming officers in our Armed Forces. The incredible success of TJHSST would not be possible without the commitment of an exceptional educational staff, the dedication of parents and families, and the determination and drive of the students. All work together to support the efforts of every student and help ensure that each will succeed in college and during their professional lives. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology on its 25th Anniversary and in commending the community and the school for providing the very best education possible for our next great generation.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Giving Circle of Heritage Hunt in Gainesville, Virginia. The Giving Circle was established by members of the Heritage Hunt community to assist local non-profit organizations with financial donations. Members of the Giving Circle save one dollar each day for this effort. At the end of the year, the organization's membership considers applications from non-profits and votes on the recipients of the annual donations. It is my honor to enter into the Congressional Record the recipients of the Giving Circle's 2010 donations: BEACON for Adult Literacy provides tutoring to adults in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), the GED or high school equivalency test, and basic reading, writing, and math skills. BEACON also provides life-skills workshops on topics such as health and safety, nutrition, financial literacy, parenting skills and community resources. Brethren Housing Corporation is in its 22nd year of providing sustainable, permanent affordable housing and transitional housing to low- and middle-income families in the Greater Manassas and Prince William County area. Court Appointed Special Advocates of Greater Prince William County trains volunteers to protect abandoned, abused or neglected children. The Advocates help the children receive the assistance they need to overcome their trauma and find a permanent home. The organization currently serves 400 children with the help of more than 100 volunteers. The Prince William Area Free Clinic is a public-private partnership between Prince William and Sentara Potomac Hospital, the Prince William Medical Society, and the Prince William Health Department. It is staffed by volunteer professionals and support staff to help meet the needs of the low-income and uninsured population. Project Mend-a-House uses the skills of volunteer carpenters, plumbers, electricians, painters, gardeners, and others, matching them with people in need of minor home repairs and safety modifications. Transitional Housing Barn provides housing, supportive services, life management skills and financial education for homeless women and their dependent children. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the Giving Circle of Heritage Hunt for helping these worthy organizations further their missions to assist our less fortunate neighbors. I extend my personal appreciation to the Giving Circle for promoting the spirit of charity and generosity in our community.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Kimberly Morrow Leong of Gainesville, Virginia as a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). Administered by the National Science Foundation in coordination with the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, the PAEMST program recognizes outstanding teachers for their commitment to the teaching and learning of mathematics and science. Ms. Leong, along with only 102 other mathematics and science teachers throughout the nation will receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation. Ms. Leong joined the Loudoun County Public School system in 2009 as a mathematics facilitator. Prior to that, Ms. Leong taught at Marsteller Middle School in Prince William County and All-Saints Catholic School. As a mathematics facilitator, Ms. Leong works with 70 teachers on a daily basis while also supporting approximately 250 teachers from 10 different middle schools who serve 9,800 students throughout the county. Ms. Leong has helped Loudoun County teachers meet the Virginia Standards of Learning objectives by introducing new tools and resources to improve students' mathematic and critical thinking skills. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Kimberly Morrow Leong as a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching for her dedication to the students of the Loudoun County Public School system and to the teaching and learning of mathematics and science.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Sikh Foundation of Virginia's 2010 Annual Cultural Program. The Sikh Foundation of Virginia (SFV) was established in 1987 to serve the religious and spiritual needs of the Northern Virginia Sikh community. The SFV promotes religious, educational, social and cultural aspects of Sikhism and collaborates with other religious organizations to host inter-faith events. The SFV is a welcome participant in an ethnically diverse Northern Virginia community. The Annual Cultural Program brings the vibrant heritage of Sikhism and the Indian state of Punjab to Sikh American youth in Northern Virginia through songs, dances, poems, and literature readings. The event encourages Sikh Americans, especially children, teens and young adults, to preserve the culture and traditions of their Sikh ancestors as they grow to be contributing members of American society. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating the Sikh Foundation of Virginia's 2010 Annual Cultural Program. I would like to extend my personal appreciation to the SFV for its unique contribution to the ethnic fabric of the Northern Virginia community.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Battlefield High School Bobcats from Gainesville, Virginia for winning the 2010 Virginia AAA Division 6 State Championship in football. The Battlefield High School team completed the regular season with a record of 8 wins and 2 losses. To capture the title, Battlefield won four straight playoff games and defeated a team from Hermitage High School in Richmond, Virginia that had only lost once in their previous 47 games. Battlefield also won their second straight Northwest Region Championship this season. This is Battlefield High School's first State Championship in a team sport. The team is one of only 50 high school football teams out of more than 16,000 nationwide to be honored by the MaxPreps Football Tour of Champions with the National Guard National Ranking Trophy. In recognition of his outstanding leadership, the Washington Post named Head Coach Mark Cox the 2010 All-Met Coach of the Year. It is my honor to enter into the Congressional Record the staff, coaches and players who helped Battlefield High School win the 2010 Virginia AAA Division 6 State Championship. Principal: Amy Ethridge-Conti. Athletic Director: Ben Stutler. Head Coach: Mark Cox. Assistance Coaches: Mark Johnson, Rob Mello, Vic Ceglie, Paul Labazzetta, Jaime Labazzetta, Bobby Coleman, Greg Williams, Kevin Kerns, Sam Newman, Don Fair, John White, Tim Coughlin. Players: Terrell Tapscott, Andrew Smith, Bobby Curry, Brian Curry, Sidney Henry, Isiah Wright, Michael Jorgenson, Nathan McGahan, Ishmail Gazawi, Caleb Pinilis, JT Brosnahan, Devon Greene, Ryan Swingle, Devonne Haydon, Jeff Beathard, Cedric Agyeman, Quantray Wilkerson, Nagee Jackson, Anthony Lopez, Jason Hoepker, Jay Onwuka, Lucas Klugh, Chris Wendle, Jake Conway, Grayson Matthews, River Piercy, Eric Michael, Drew Elias, Austin Thibodeaux, Joe Walker, D'Anthonie Delgado, Darius Johnson, Nick Newman, Ryan Newton, Mike Osei, Zavier Stringfellow, Dane Howard, Eddie Cunha, Freddie Potter, Harrison Hyre, Zac Everett, Blaine Varley, David Risoldi, Eric Loehle, Jack Taylor, John Agnos, Ronald Ausberry, Brandon Whaley, Garrett Fox, CJ Incrominias, Brandon Dukeman, Larry Fields, Darion Duncan, William Soloman, Robert Garland, Turner Meeks, Brian Wilson, Jon Hyre, Jacob Payne. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the Battlefield High School Bobcats for winning the 2010 Virginia AAA Division 6 State Championship. This is a well-deserved title that could not have been won without an extraordinary team effort.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Geraldine and Alan Graham on the 10th anniversary of operations of the Morrow-Stevens Foundation, a non-profit organization they created to provide college scholarships to needy students. Recognizing the importance of education, and the significant challenge that financial hardships often pose to otherwise dedicated students, Geraldine and Alan incorporated the Foundation in 1999 and began awarding scholarships the following year. The Foundation's scholarships are all-encompassing, providing full tuition, room and board, and book stipends for four years of post-secondary education. Long-time residents of Virginia, Geraldine and Alan set up the Morrow-Stevens Foundation Scholarship to be available to deserving students in two of the lowest-income counties in the Commonwealth. To date, the Foundation has awarded eight scholarships and has had five graduates. Its ongoing operation will continue to enable additional deserving, but underprivileged students the opportunity for education and a greater ability to shape their futures. Madam Speaker, ensuring a quality education for our children is one of our most important responsibilities, and I urge my colleagues to commend Geraldine and Alan Graham and the Morrow-Stevens Foundation for their selfless work in furtherance of that goal and wish them continued success in their noble efforts.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. I thank the gentlelady from New York. I am in a lonely place today. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the tax cut compromise. Although our economy is in recovery, it remains fragile. If we don't pass an extension of the tax cuts now, every American will see smaller paychecks and higher taxes in January. This compromise provides needed assistance to every American: an extension of the unemployment insurance that the CBO says will add 600,000 jobs; an extension of Earned Income Tax Credits and Child Tax Credits for lower income families; an AMT patch for middle income families; a 2 percent cut in the payroll tax that provides up to $2,000 in tax relief for workers; a 2-year extension of the income tax rates for all Americans; and business tax cuts that will spur up to $50 billion in private sector investment in the economy, which is desperately needed. According to economist Mark Zandi, this compromise will add a full percentage point to the gross domestic product next year. Although we are in recovery, it is not a robust recovery. We need all of the stimulus we can get. This isn't a perfect bill, but I support the bipartisan compromise.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 2965: The Don't Ask Don't Tell Repeal Act of 2010. The House of Representatives voted on May 28, 2010 to repeal this policy. I was proud to vote for the repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell. Our nation's military leaders and many, if not a majority, of our servicemembers support repealing DADT. Both Secretary Gates and Admiral Mullen--Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff--have testified in support of repeal as ``the right thing to do.'' Our servicemembers already serve side by side with our allies--many of whom allow openly gay and lesbian members. A servicemember is just that--a servicemember. To distinguish heterosexual from homosexual is unnecessary. The United States needs all the dedicated servicemembers it can get, and one's sexuality does not determine one's effectiveness as a soldier. Don't Ask Don't Tell hurts military readiness and national security. Nearly 800 specialists with vital skills--Arabic linguists, for example--have been fired from the U.S. military under DADT. Since implementation of Don't Ask, Don't Tell in 1993, the military has discharged more than 13,000 servicemembers whose only ``fault'' was their sexual orientation. It is estimated that American taxpayers have paid between $250 million and $1.2 billion to investigate, eliminate, and replace qualified, patriotic servicemembers who want to serve their country but can't because expressing their sexual orientation violates DADT. Mr. Speaker, the time to repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell has long passed. I urge my colleagues to vote yes.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Serena Suthers for receiving the runner-up award in the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine's (PCRM) Golden Carrot Awards celebrating innovation in school foodservice. PCRM established The Golden Carrot Awards in 2004 to recognize exceptional efforts to improve the nutritional value of school lunches. It identifies school programs that have encouraged students to eat fresh fruits and vegetables, while also offering students plenty of healthful options. Ms. Suthers serves as the Director of School Food and Nutrition Services for the Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS). As part of an initiative to make healthy eating habits and nutrition education fun and engaging for students, PWCS offers various events and programs to promote a healthy diet. The school system offers daily vegetarian and vegan meal options and other healthy choices such as whole grains, soymilk, brown rice, and granola bars. It also hosts tasting parties featuring a fruit or vegetable of the month and has developed a partnership with a local vendor to provide lettuce for PWCS' salads. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing Serena Suthers for receiving the PCRM's Golden Carrot runner-up prize for her dedication to child nutrition and innovation in school foodservice. I would like to congratulate her for her achievement in creating a more healthy community for the students of Prince William County Public Schools.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Adele Lichtenberger, of Springfield, Va., for receiving the American Meteorological Society and NASA Earth Science Graduate Fellowship. This fellowship program is designed to encourage careers in environmental science--specifically atmospheric, oceanic and hydrological fields--for the bright young scientists. It selects promising students in their first year of graduate study who are interested in a variety of concentrations including meteorology, physics, mathematics, hydrology, oceanography, marine science, computer science and engineering. Ms. Lichtenberger received one of only thirteen fellowships from the American Meteorological Society. Ms. Lichtenberger recently received her bachelor's degree in meteorology and physics from North Carolina State University, where she was recognized as the Outstanding Senior in Meteorology in May 2010. She has also earned the American Meteorological Society's Richard and Helen Hagemeyer Scholarship for the 2009 school year as well as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship for the 2008 and 2009 school years. Ms. Lichtenberger's studies were focused on cloud and aerosol physics, and she will continue this focus in her graduate studies at Colorado State University. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Adele Lichtenberger as the recipient of the AMS/NASA Earth Science Graduate Fellowship and for her commitment to her study of meteorological science.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, it is my great honor to rise today to recognize FACETS, a Northern Virginia non-profit that is a leader in providing dynamic and responsive service to those suffering from poverty and homelessness. Tonight we are here for the ``Taste of Fall'' in support of this organization. Founded in 1988 by Ms. Linda D. Wimpey and three Episcopalian churches, FACETS works to address the needs of those living on the brink of homelessness. To successfully work towards this goal, FACETS has grown its partnerships in the community, drawing in faith organizations, businesses, individuals, and local government. In the past year, nightly meals and Sunday morning breakfasts were served by a core group of 35 faith partners and 1000 volunteers who cooked and delivered more than 42,000 meals to men, women, children who are homeless in Fairfax. With the help of an additional 400 volunteers, FACETS also provides social work services, housing, and supportive programs for individuals and families that are homeless or living in government-subsidized housing sites in Fairfax County. FACETS approach to its quality service is in its guiding values of dignity, commitment, and integrity. The homeless suffer from the stigmas and biases, making it difficult to navigate the challenges they face. Recognizing this shortcoming, FACETS has committed itself to treating clients with dignity and respect. Understanding without judging is important to promoting the self esteem necessary to self improvement. Through a strong commitment to its volunteers, staff, partners, donors and clients, FACETS works to foster an atmosphere of camaraderie and teamwork in achieving their goal of ending homelessness and poverty. The caliber of work FACETS performs is a testament to the people involved in this mission. Integrity of operations and transparency in management is critical to FACETS' ability to maintain high quality services. FACETS holds the communities trust in its stewardship of resources, and its discipline in providing the best quality service possible. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking FACETS for its work to end homelessness and poverty in Fairfax County. It is the collaboration of volunteers, donors, government, and businesses that enable FACETS to carry out its mission. You have the appreciation of the Northern Virginia community, and my personal thanks for your important service.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague from Massachusetts for his leadership, and particularly cite Congressman Sarbanes for his leadership, and my Republican colleague from Virginia, Frank Wolf, who laid out the merits of the case of the Telework Improvements Act. I have spent the last 10 years here in the national capital region encouraging the public sector to follow the lead of the private sector in promoting telework. In my district, for example, AT&T, a private employer, one-third of its workforce teleworks; not because it adds to corporate costs, but because in fact it detracts from corporate costs; not because it takes away efficiency, but in fact it improves productivity. In the national capital region, there is almost no region in the country that lends itself better to telework because of the nature of the white-collar workforce than does this. In the private sector, we are looking at close to 20 percent telework rates, improving productivity, improving retention and recruitment, improving the air quality of this region, and in fact contributing to the bottom line. Unfortunately, in the public sector, we fall behind. We are only at 6 or 7 percent in the Federal workforce, and that is the largest single employer in the national capital region. And we are a nonattainment region in terms of air quality. We can and we must do better. Telework is an important and cost-effective component of efforts to reduce congestion, greenhouse gas pollution, and smog. According to the Telework Exchange, if 20 percent of Americans teleworked, we could eliminate 67 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually, and reduce Persian Gulf oil imports by 40 percent, something many of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle I know are concerned about. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions would lead to a reduction in ground-level ozone in our region, which is critically important to protect the health of our region's seniors and those with respiratory ailments. Today, as I said, 6 to 7 percent of eligible Federal employees telework on a regular basis, even though the largely white collar workforce in our region is so well suited for it. When I was the chairman of Fairfax County, we started an aggressive program to get to 20 percent of our eligible workforce teleworking by 2005. We met the goal, we exceeded the goal, we have sustained that rate ever since. I am here to tell my colleagues that it improved our efficiency, it saved taxpayer money, it improved productivity, and it gave us a tool to recruit and retain the workforce of the future. We must remember that with the baby boom generation ready to retire, 47 percent of the entire Federal workforce will be eligible to retire this decade. We've got to have flexible tools that help us to replace those skilled workers. Telework is a great way that costs us no money that can make a big difference. The Telework Improvements Act is an extraordinarily important piece of legislation because it will help us meet critical policy goals: savings of taxpayer money, improved federal efficiency, reduction of dependence on foreign oil, and improvement in Continuity of Operations Plans. I thank Congressman Sarbanes, Congressman Wolf, Office of Personnel Management Director John Berry, and Subcommittee Chairman Stephen Lynch for their leadership. This legislation will save taxpayer money, and is PAYGO compliant. My colleagues will recall that the federal government was shut down for a week this winter due to snow. Regardless of whether future federal closures are due to snow, other natural disasters, or a potential terrorist attack, telework is an essential part of our Continuity of Operations Plans that allow the federal government to stay open despite disruptions to our transportation infrastructure. This February, the federal government saved $30 million every day by achieving a 30 percent telework rate during the snow storm. Each additional percentage point of telework achievement would have represented another million dollars saved for taxpayers. Let us not forgo that savings for taxpayers in the future. Telework is an essential part of federal personnel policy because it can help recruit and retain federal employees, maintain continuity of operations in the event of an emergency, and reduce congestion and related air pollution. With 48 percent of the federal workforce eligible for retirement within the next 5 to 10 years, we must provide benefits that attract highly qualified employees. Telework is an important and cost-effective component of efforts to reduce congestion, greenhouse gas pollution, and smog. According to the Telework Exchange, if 20 percent of Americans teleworked, we could eliminate 67 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually and reduce Persian Gulf oil imports by 40 percent. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions would lead to a reduction in ground level ozone in our region, which is critically important to protect the health of our region's seniors and other residents suffering from respiratory ailments or asthma. Today, less than 10 percent of eligible federal employees telework on a regular basis, even though the largely white collar workforce in our region is well suited for telework. By contrast, Fairfax County, the largest suburb of the National Capital Region, has 20 percent of eligible employees teleworking at least 1 day per week, and other jurisdictions from this region are approaching that regional target. The Telework Improvements Act provides a vehicle to increase telework participation by designating a Telework Managing Officer from within current staff for each agency and by integrating Continuity of Operations Planning performance metrics. According to a recently completed survey from the Office of Personnel Management, at least 64 percent of federal employees are eligible to telework, yet most are not allowed to do so by their managers. The Telework Improvements Act will help change management culture to support telework. I urge my colleagues to support the Telework Improvements Act, which will improve the efficiency of the federal government, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, and improve our national security.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the rededication of Vienna Elementary School. Founded in 1872, Vienna Elementary is the oldest continually operational school in Fairfax County. Today, we are celebrating the completion of upgrades that will improve the classroom experience for educators and children in our community. Vienna Elementary School is one of the finest public schools in the country. Its mission is to challenge and support individual excellence by setting high academic standards and empowering students to become successful citizens. As a sign of its success, Virginia Governor Tim Kaine and the State Board of Education awarded Vienna Elementary the Board of Education Excellence Award. The award recognizes a school's ability to successfully meet benchmark standards in academic performance, and it also recognizes progressive improvement over time. Vienna Elementary School is strengthened by its superb staff and also by an engaged and active public. The strong support of parents and area organizations teamed with the dedication of the school educators and administration provides an atmosphere that enables children to have new opportunities and access to robust academic support. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the rededication of Vienna Elementary School. I extend my congratulations and appreciation to the teachers, administrators, staff, parents and community partners who understand that quality education is the key to a bright future for our children.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize St. Ambrose Catholic School for being named by the United States Department of Education as a recipient of a 2010 Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Award. The Blue Ribbon School award honors public and private elementary, middle and high schools that have helped close the achievement gap and whose students attain and maintain high academic goals. The program is part of a larger Department of Education effort to identify and disseminate knowledge about best school leadership and teaching practices. Each year since 1982, the U.S. Department of Education has sought out schools where students attain and maintain high academic goals, including those that beat the odds. This year St. Ambrose is one of only 314 schools nationwide, public and private, to receive this award and is the only school in the 11th Congressional District of Virginia to be so honored this year. Quality education is an important component to our community in Northern Virginia, and it gives me great pride to represent a school as committed and effective at attaining high achievement goals. St. Ambrose is committed to teaching faith and life skills to students from kindergarten through 8th grade. Through rigorous academic programs, robust activities, excellent staff, and a committed community, St. Ambrose exemplifies the strong fabric of our shared community here in Northern Virginia. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing and congratulating Principal Barbara Dalmut, her staff, and the St. Ambrose Catholic school community for their efforts toward earning this prestigious award.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, as a co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Turkey and Turkish Americans, I would like to offer my warmest congratulations to the people of Turkey, as they recently observed the 87th anniversary of the founding of the Turkish Republic on October 29. Under the visionary leadership of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and his successors, Turkey transformed itself into a modern, secular state allied with the democracies of Europe and the Americas. This alliance is enshrined in Turkey's NATO membership, as evidenced in the logistical and reconstruction efforts Turkey has undertaken in Iraq and Afghanistan. In light of changing geopolitical developments, there have been questions about Turkey's commitment to its friends in recent years. While there may be bumps in the road in any friendship, differences that may exist between Turkey and the United States on certain issues are evidence of mature and healthy democracies having differences of opinion. The bilateral relationship is still undergirded by the same long-term goals of peace, security and prosperity. I am confident that the relationship between our two peoples will stand the tests of time, given our shared ideals. Moreover, our ties are cemented by the presence and contributions of over 150,000 Turkish Americans, whose ranks are growing every year. Through diverse fields ranging from music to science--and increasingly through politics-- Turkish Americans contribute to the vibrancy, health, and advancement of our society. We are fortunate to have them as our fellow citizens. In closing, my congratulations again to all Turks everywhere on the commemoration of the 87th Turkish Republic Day.

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia

Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, it is my great honor to recognize the 25th Anniversary of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 227. Founded in 1978, Vietnam Veterans of America, VVA, is the only national veterans organization exclusively dedicated to Vietnam-era veterans and their families. Currently, there are 46 state councils and 630 local chapters with more than 50,000 individual members. VVA's goals are to promote and support issues that are important to Vietnam veterans, to create a new identity for this generation of veterans and to change public perception of Vietnam veterans. One local chapter, VVA Chapter 227, serves the needs of Vietnam veterans who live in Northern Virginia, and I commend them for their dedication and commitment to our veterans. Chapter 227 was founded in 1985 with 15 people meeting at the NCO club at Fort Myer. Since then, the chapter has grown and continues to be an engaged and active asset in the community. Chapter services include providing support to homeless veterans, assisting in maintaining the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC, awarding the Vince Kaspar Prizes for Excellence in the Arts to area high school students, and educating its membership and the public about addressing the needs of veterans. It is an inspiration that so many continue to answer the call to serve after the battle is done; there is no better advocate for veterans in need than those who understand the challenges they face. The founding principal of Vietnam Veterans of America is: ``Never again, will one generation of Veterans abandon another''. But in many cases, Vietnam veterans were abandoned by entire segments of the country. The government often failed to provide necessary services, and, tragically, some of the American public wrongly turned their opposition to the war into disrespect for our brave men and women who served in uniform. Instead of receiving the honor due all American service members, many received scorn. VVA works tirelessly to right these wrongs. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking VVA Chapter 227 and all VVA chapters for their service to their community and our nation. Their service is a living reminder of the sacrifices our service men and women make from generation to generation. I also ask my colleagues to join me in expressing the gratitude and respect of our nation to those Vietnam-era veterans who served so bravely. I pledge that I will continue working to protect and improve the services and benefits so richly deserved by American servicemembers of all generations.