Barbara Comstock

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and congratulate the sixth grade students of Blue Ridge Middle School located in Loudoun County, Virginia and the adults who worked with them, in creating an extraordinarily successful One to the World Project, recently. Through the Loudoun County Public Schools' One to the World Project, students have an opportunity to work on a challenging societal problem using critical thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity to make a difference in addressing or alleviating the problem. Students and faculty at Blue Ridge Middle School, as well as the staff at Mobile Hope of Loudoun and their Executive Director, Donna Fortier, devoted countless hours to this project and truly went above and beyond what could have been expected and I am proud of their collective efforts and generosity. The students decided to address the problem of homelessness and made arrangements to partner with Mobile Hope of Loudoun to deliver items of support to them. As soon as the partnership arrangement was made, the sixth graders of Blue Ridge Middle School enthusiastically began to work on a variety of videos, posters, brochures, and presentations in order to raise awareness for their project and to solicit donations. Impressively, the students received over 1,400 donations, ranging from clothing to household cleaning products, and diapers to canned foods. The project concluded with a visit and speech from Donna Fortier, whose direction and leadership truly guided the students. Not only were they able to see firsthand how local organizations like Mobile Hope of Loudoun can help those in need, but they also learned the value of being charitable. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Blue Ridge Middle School's sixth graders, the school's faculty, and Ms. Fortier for their extraordinary work on this project. Dedicating their time and efforts to helping those less fortunate attests to their unselfish character and determination to better their community.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 60th anniversary of the desegregation of the Purcellville Library and to express gratitude for all those people of good will who helped bring about the change. On April 9, 1957, the Purcellville Public Library opened its doors to African-American patrons, and on April 8, 2017, the community of Purcellville celebrated this important historical milestone with a series of informational programs and exhibits describing the Civil Rights heritage of western Loudoun. It is clear that we all owe a great debt of gratitude for the courage and tenacity of two residents of Purcellville, Samuel Cardoza Murray and his wife, Josie Cook Murray, who had a very successful upholstery business in the town. Around Christmas, 1956, the Murrays went to the Purcellville Library to do some research on ornate Austrian shades for a window in a customer's home and were shocked when they were denied the opportunity to take out books that they needed. That incident began a several month struggle by the Murrays to challenge the library's segregation policy. The Murrays' struggle included being rebuffed by several attorneys, and experiencing various other forms of personal harassment. Although the financial well-being of the library played a role, a positive side of the controversy was the sentiment of the residents of Loudoun revealed in a petition and counter-petition that were collected; Those petitioning to keep the library segregated got 44 signatures and those willing to integrate the library had 366 signatures, which was eight times the number of the pro-segregation group. The integration of Purcellville Library has great historical significance as one of the first victories in the civil rights movement in Loudoun County. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in thanking Samuel Cardoza Murray and Josie Cook Murray for their commitment to make sure that all young minds will be nurtured in our libraries, in our schools, and in our homes.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize my constituent, Krissy Green, for her devotion to United States military service members both here and abroad. Ms. Green, along with her mother, Suni Chabrow, founded the Douglas J. Green Memorial Foundation in honor of her brother, Specialist Douglas J. Green, who was killed in the line of duty in 2011. The Douglas J. Green Memorial Foundation is an all- volunteer, non-profit organization that has been dedicated to providing comfort and support for military service members through the shipment of care packages since 2011 and planning memorable experiences for service members to look forward to once they return from deployments. Specialist Douglas J. Green enlisted in the United States Army in 2007 shortly after graduating from Potomac Falls High School in Virginia's Tenth District and served two tours of duty in support of both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. It was in his second tour in Afghanistan that Specialist Green made the ultimate sacrifice for his country. Specialist Green was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star with a Combat V, a Purple Heart, an Army Commendation Medal, and the Combat Infantryman Badge for his distinguished and honorable service. He is remembered not only for his bravery, but also for his generosity and smile. While on deployment, Specialist Green's family fondly recalled his appreciation of receiving care packages from his family and friends. He always enjoyed sharing care packages with his fellow service men and women, and, with this in mind, his mother and sister started the Douglas J. Green Memorial Foundation. As the Director of Activities for the Greater Virginia/District of Columbia region, Krissy Green maintains her brother's legacy by sending care packages to troops, many of whom were friends of her brother. Ms. Green has established partnerships with local businesses and organizations in Virginia's Tenth District, such as Soldier Fit in Sterling, Virginia, to host events to put together, care packages. Her efforts have allowed for her brother to be remembered and celebrated, and these efforts have bettered the lives of hundreds of troops overseas. Since 2011, the Douglas J. Green Memorial Foundation has continuously helped service men and women around the world, and I am grateful the organization holds many of its events in my district. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding Krissy Green and the Douglas J. Green Memorial Foundation for its dedication to serving our nation and honoring the life of Specialist Douglas J. Green. I wish Krissy Green, Suni Chabrow, and the entire organization the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a boys' basketball team from Loudoun Valley High School, in our Tenth Congressional District, who recently won the 4A State Championship. Their dedication, hard work, and perseverance, along with guidance and direction of head coach, Chad Dawson and assistant head coach, Josh Mallory, helped earn their school's boys' basketball program its first state championship title. The Loudoun Valley Vikings opened the state tournament with an impressive 83-61 win over the 2016 state champions, the Monacan Chiefs of Chesterfield, in the quarterfinals. The Vikings then prevailed over the George Washington Eagles of Danville in the semifinals. The game was initially close as the Vikings were only leading by eight points at the end of the first half, but they persevered as their endurance led the Vikings to yet another victory. In the state championship game, the Vikings faced the Eagles of Jamestown City County who entered the game with a remarkable 27-3 record for the season. While the Eagles were a formidable opponent and should be applauded for their effort, the Vikings handily won the game as the skills that their coaches instilled in them shined from start to finish. The Viking's championship victory marked the conclusion of an impressive 30-1 team record for the season. We are all proud of these young men and their coaches. Loudoun Valley High School's basketball team, their coaching and athletic training staff as well as School Athletic Director, Kris Kelican, have made Loudoun County and Virginia's Tenth Congressional District proud. Winning a state championship is an extraordinary achievement and it attests to the team's noteworthy athletic talent, laudable work ethic, commitment to teamwork, tireless dedication, and determination to succeed. I also want to commend the Vikings' excellent coaching staff, as without their mentorship this would not have been possible. The Loudoun Valley basketball program has certainly earned this distinct honor, and the leadership that sports instill and the sportsmanship these young men have acquired in their athletic student careers will valuably serve them in their future academic endeavors and dedication to athletics. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the Loudoun Valley Vikings on winning the 4A State Championship and representing Virginia's Tenth Congressional District with such distinction. I am proud to represent these students and wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Police Chief Kevin Sanzenbacher of the City of Winchester which is located in the 10th Congressional District of Virginia, and, as he nears retirement, ask that our colleagues join me in thanking him for his extraordinary service to the Winchester community and to our nation. After spending most of his career in various public safety positions in Maryland, Kevin Sanzenbacher became the Chief of Police of the City of Winchester in November of 2008, and in eight remarkable years, he has led the department to a new level of public service and professionalism. As a strong advocate of community policing, Chief Sanzenbacher set the example for his officers by constantly being a part of the community, extending himself beyond what would be expected of a police chief by taking on responsible roles in charitable organizations such as the United Way and participating in community meetings to learn from average citizens how they and the police could work together to make their neighborhoods more safe. As a proactive leader, Chief Sanzenbacher also implemented a Teen Night at the Youth Development Center and a Teen Citizen's Academy to develop a closer bond between law enforcement and young people and give them a good place to spend some time each week. He also responded to society's challenge of dealing with the mentally ill, by assigning officers to the City's award-winning Community Response Team that has developed personal relationships of trust with the mentally ill citizens of the city. In response to the devastating impact of the heroin epidemic, Chief Sanzenbacher organized a variety of informational meetings about the epidemic, including one that I requested, and played a leading role in establishing the Northern Shenandoah Valley Substance Abuse Coalition and the Drug Court that has followed. He also took action to establish a partnership with the local chapter of the NAACP to deal with a police incident that divided the community and to develop greater long-term harmony among various racial groups. As a champion of greater professionalism for his officers, Chief Sanzenbacher led the effort to attain accreditation by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice in 2009 and to be reaccredited in 2013; he took the lead in forming the first Winchester Police Department Honor Guard in 2014; he implemented a standardized fitness testing program for all sworn officers through which all were declared ``fit for duty''; he managed to obtain a grant for the purchase of body-worn cameras and he created defensive tactics training and fitness rooms for the employees of the Department. In 2009, Chief Sanzenbacher, Jim Wilkins, Jr. and other community leaders started the Winchester/ Frederick County Law Enforcement Foundation in order to provide funding for National Night Out, Kids and Cops Camp, law enforcement training and scholarships for worthy students. Chief Sanzenbacher is the first to acknowledge that his many accomplishments were the result of efforts of his entire team of capable, energetic professionals, yet, despite his self-effacing humility, there is no doubt that it took his special quality of leadership to accomplish these things. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and our colleagues to join me in honoring and thanking Police Chief Kevin Sanzenbacher for his extraordinary contributions to the City of Winchester and to our nation, and in wishing him and his wife, Estelle, great success and happiness in the next chapter of their lives.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the 75th anniversary of the Middletown Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company, Inc. in Frederick County, Virginia. Established in April of 1942, the Company formed in response to a devastating fire that nearly destroyed an entire block in Middletown, including the land where the Fire Station stands today. The original membership of the Company of a mere twenty-two has nearly tripled over the past 75 years. I would like to personally commend the courageous men and women who so selflessly volunteer their time and put themselves in danger on behalf of their neighbors, friends, and strangers, without asking for anything in return. Through both exemplary leadership and community support, the Middletown Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company has grown exponentially since its inception in 1942. Under the longtime leadership of Fire Chief Emeritus Henry Shiley, who only recently retired after 53 years of service, the Company transformed into a full-service emergency relief unit, and I have great confidence that the Company will continue to prosper under Chief Mark Dalton. Additionally, one support organization that has contributed to the growth of the Company immensely is the Lady Auxiliary, which formed in 1943 with the intention of providing both financial and moral support to the Company. Over the years, they have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars through community events and fundraisers, and their service to the Company is invaluable. Today the Middletown Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company, which in 1942 only had one firetruck, is now a full service Company that protects the lives and properties of individuals from fires, accidents, illnesses and other emergencies in the Town of Middletown, Frederick County, and the surrounding vicinity. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding the Middletown Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company, Inc. for their years of selfless service and heroism and to again congratulate them on this tremendous milestone. I wish them all the best in all of their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to share with you and our colleagues, the establishment of a long-term relationship between a stellar national company, the American Woodmark Corporation, and Frederick County, which surrounds the City of Winchester, in the Northern Shenandoah Valley. The American Woodmark Corporation, a leading manufacturer of quality kitchen and bath cabinets with over 5,000 employees nationwide, has decided to invest $30 million to build a new national corporate headquarters in Frederick County, in the 10th Congressional District of Virginia. The project will bring its corporate employees together from four leased sites in the Winchester area to a central corporate office, strengthening interpersonal connections and driving greater efficiency in the company's day-to-day operations. The consolidation will mean that all 377 positions will be retained and that 55 new positions will eventually be created. There was strong competition for American Woodmark's investment, and I want to acknowledge the hard work of Frederick County officials Patrick Barker of the Frederick County Economic Development Authority and his staff, as well as Chairman Chuck DeHaven and members of the Board of Supervisors, in working with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership to secure a $550,000 grant from the Commonwealth's Opportunity Fund and for providing a $350,000 economic development grant from Frederick County. In addition to the financial incentives and a very hospitable business environment, the extraordinary quality of life in the Northern Shenandoah Valley clearly played a role in American Woodmark's decision. Emanating from its agrarian roots, the Valley's friendly, caring culture causes charitable organizations to thrive and those less fortunate to be well cared for. The Valley's quality of life is further enhanced by great schools and libraries, a first rate regional health care system, and cultural variety that includes civil war battlefields, national parks and museums, as well as a university conservatory that is welcoming to the community. In fact, Forbes has ranked the Northern Shenandoah Valley in its top 20 ``Best Small Places for Business and Careers'' in the nation. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and our colleagues to join me in congratulating and thanking Cary Dunston, president and CEO of American Woodmark, and its Board of Directors, on choosing to establish its central corporate office in Frederick County and in wishing the corporation great success in all of its future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the John Champe High School Wind Ensemble on participating in the 2017 Music for All National Festival. Their dedication, hard work, and perseverance, along with the guidance and direction of their esteemed band director, Jonathan Phillips, helped earn John Champe High School its first appearance in the Music for All National Festival. The Music for All is one of the nation's largest and most influential organizations, and only a mere 59 high school and middle school concert band and percussion ensembles from across the nation were selected to perform at the 2017 festival. Despite the fact that the John Champe High School Wind Ensemble is still in its nascent, as John Champe High School only opened in Aldie, Virginia, in 2012, they have the honor and unique distinction of being the first ensemble from Loudoun County to be invited to perform at this festival. Furthermore, in five years, the band program at John Champe has blossomed from 26 students who were in the inaugural marching band in 2012 to 230 students today. The John Champe Knights have also earned the distinction of Virginia Honor Band three times and 19 students successfully auditioned into the All- District Band this year. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the John Champe High School Wind Ensemble on participating in the 2017 Music for All National Festival. I am proud to represent these students and wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend my constituent, Reginald ``Reggie'' Simms, on his exhibit in the Purcellville Art Council's Black History Month Celebration, located at the historic Purcellville Train Station. Mr. Simms, now retired, dedicated his career to the arts, while also maintaining a deep love for African American history, and is deserving of this unique recognition. As a child and teenager, Mr. Simms attended Carver Elementary School in Arlington, Virginia and Douglas High School in Leesburg, Virginia, both historic African American schools in Northern Virginia. During his youth, segregation prevented him from using public libraries and local resources, but he was able to obtain copies of National Geographic magazines. These magazines created a new lens through which Mr. Simms understood and viewed the world around him and also sparked his interest in art--specifically photo realism. After attending the National Art School in Washington, D.C., he entered the Air Force at the age of 21 where he was stationed in Korea. After his time in the Air Force, Mr. Simms moved to New York where he took classes at Newark Fine Industrial Arts and also worked for a slew of graphic design and silkscreen companies. Finally, it was a position in the graphics department of the Washington Metro that brought Mr. Simms and his wife, Marion, back to Loudoun County, and he has lived at his home in Purcellville, Virginia ever since. It is important to note that throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Simms never lost sight of his love for art or appreciation for history. At his home, his finished basement, which doubles as his studio, is filled with water color paintings, oil paintings, sculptures, refurbished toys, and more, which he has painted, sculpted, and collected for years. Last month's exhibit was a compilation of his artistic works, books, and memorabilia which he and his brother, Larry, have obtained over the years. To this day, Mr. Simms enjoys painting his favorite National Geographic covers. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding Reginald Simms for his impressive career, dedication to the African American community, and his most recent exhibit in Purcellville, Virginia. I wish him, his wife, Marion, and their family the best in all of their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate and commend my constituents, Andrew and Maryann Fialdini, and their winery, the Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards, on receiving the Governor's Cup in the 2017 Governor's Cup Wine Competition. This win not only speaks to the hard work, entrepreneurship and expertise of Andrew and Maryann, but also the growing and transforming Loudoun County wine industry. Since opening 8 years ago, their hard work has certainly come to fruition. Andrew, Maryann, and the vineyard's Wine Maker, Michael Shaps, have worked diligently to produce local, yet authentic-tasting, French-style wines on their eleven acre vineyard located in Hamilton, Virginia. And this year, two of their wines, the 2014 Meritage and 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, were named gold medalists in the Governor's Cup Wine Competition. The judges of this year's competition reviewed 494 bottles from 102 different wineries, and only 23 bottles were named gold medalists. Impressively of those 23 bottles, Andrew and Maryann's 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon was named the best wine and awarded the Governor's Cup--a recognition that a Loudoun winery has never before received in the 37 years of this stringent and prestigious competition. Risk-taking small businesses have always been the life blood of the Loudoun County economy and our national economy and entrepreneurial families like the Fialdini's have been leaders in fostering strong, local economies that will continue to thrive and grow for years to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding Andrew and Maryann Fialdini and Michael Shaps for their successful small business and their special awards at the 2017 Governor's Cup Wine Competition. I also wish them and their family the best in all of their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the Langley School's very own, Chris Stewart, on winning the school-wide National Geographic Bee for the third consecutive year and for advancing to the statewide competition. Chris, an eighth grader attending the Langley School in Mclean, advanced to the school-wide Bee sponsored by the National Geographic Society after scoring the highest in a preliminary qualifying test earlier this year. His impressive achievement is not only a testament to his hard work and dedication, but also the exemplary teachers and faculty at the Langley School who helped cultivate Chris's intellectual intrigue. At the beginning of every school year, the National Geographic Bee begins at the local level, then advances to the state and eventually national levels through a series of oral and written geography exams with questions ranging from the locations of mountain ranges and rivers to the names of cities and countries. Chris not only displayed his impressive knowledge of world geography, but also showed great confidence and poise, as he and his peers competed on stage in front of the entire school. As Langley School's winner, Chris will move on to compete at the state level, with a chance to eventually compete for a college scholarship at the national competition in May. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Chris Stewart for winning the Langley School's Geographic Bee for the third consecutive year. This achievement shows his dedication to his education and studies, and he is fully deserving of this recognition. It is a privilege to represent him, and I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize my constituent, Ellen Grunewald, who will be departing from her role in Loudoun County after nearly thirty years of dedicated service to our community and to congratulate her on receiving a Resolution of Appreciation from the County Administrator, Tim Hemstreet. As the Director of Family Services, Ms. Grunewald oversaw a plethora of the county's programs, and her work ethic and exemplary demeanor will certainly be missed. Ms. Grunewald began her career of service to Loudoun County as an Assistant Director of Social Services in 1989. Throughout the course of her entire career with the county office, she watched Loudoun County flourish and transform into one of the most affluent and prosperous counties in America. She held a variety of positions and had many responsibilities, including serving as the Coordinator of the Young Parents Network and as a Supervisor of the Emergency and Supportive Services Unit. Her ability to wear many hats and serve in various capacities positioned her well to eventually become the Director of Family Services in 2010. As the Director of Family Services, Ms. Grunewald oversaw programs that provided assistance with food, housing, finance, and other needs to those living in poverty. This type of casework can be difficult and often very disheartening, but over the past 6 years she kept a strong, positive attitude and was able to help hundreds of families in Loudoun County. She also started new initiatives, such as the Family Engagement Process, in which she was able to help divert 62 children from placement in foster care. Ms. Grunewald went above and beyond in her role, and she will certainly be missed. On behalf of the entire Tenth District, I thank Ms. Grunewald for her dedicated career of service to Loudoun County. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a truly commendable public servant. I wish her and her family all of the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge my friend and colleague Tom Alexander for his nearly 40 years of dedicated service to our country and the constituents of Virginia's 10th Congressional District. After decades of exemplary service, Tom has decided to enter into a well-deserved retirement. Fresh out of college, Tom had a desire to serve the United States and enlisted in the Marine Corps. Following his honorable discharge in 1979, Tom worked on President Reagan's White House staff where he received a White House Service Commendation from President Reagan on January 25, 1984. After leaving the White House, Tom graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law and became an Assistant City Attorney for Kansas City, Missouri in 1987. In 1992, Tom decided to return to the federal government and began down a path which led him from the Department of Labor, to the Legislative and Executive Branches of government, and even served in the U.S. Embassies in Ukraine and Malawi. In 2014, Tom joined the office of my predecessor and mentor, Congressman Frank Wolf. His outstanding work made it clear that he would be an excellent member of my staff, and I am grateful that he agreed to join my office. His work with my constituents, particularly on immigration issues, has helped countless residents in Virginia's 10th Congressional District. I regularly hear from constituents about the lengths to which Tom went to help them and solve their problems, whatever they may be. Tom is someone who keeps a smile on his face throughout the day and inspires us all with his constant positive attitude. Virginia's 10th District has benefited greatly from Tom's tireless work ethic, something that I hear often as I travel throughout our communities and meet with constituents. While I am sad to see Tom go, I am grateful for his service to our country and proud to call him a friend. Mr. Speaker, I would ask that my colleagues rise and join me in thanking Tom Alexander for his service. I wish him, his wife Patricia, and his children Shane, Aidan, and Shannon all the happiness in the world, and the best of luck in the years to come.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Chair, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``Nay'' on rollcall No. 153.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize my constituent, Muslim Lakhani, for his contributions to Virginia's 10th District and the nation. Mr. Lakhani, a Pakistani immigrant and entrepreneur, has long championed efforts to promote tolerance among different faiths, to partake in charitable projects, and to conduct strong, forward-thinking business practices. Mr. Lakhani grew up in Karachi, Pakistan and later became an entrepreneur. His many business ventures allowed him to travel to countless countries throughout the Middle East and Europe. However, it was the lessons he learned as a young child that have truly shaped his humanitarian and caring mindset that he maintains today. Growing up in Pakistan, he and his family always place a very strong focus on helping those less fortunate. After moving to the United States in 2006, Mr. Lakhani was regularly reminded of his family's values as he watched organizations like the Salvation Army help the homeless in Washington, D.C. Since 2008, Mr. Lakhani has been a strong supporter, contributor, and advocate for the Grate Patrol Homeless Outreach Program, which provides professional guidance to homeless people and also feeds 200 people daily in the nation's capital. Additionally, Mr. Lakhani studied both Christian and Muslim texts in grade school, which is where he garnered an interest in diverse beliefs and religious tolerance. Social Vision, the self-funded philanthropic arm of his company, ML Resources LLC., focuses on establishing stronger interfaith relationships, and additionally Mr. Lakhani strongly advocates for defeating terrorism. Mr. Lakhani's childhood lessons coupled with his work ethic and strong business practices have allowed him to make a great impact on today's society. He has had the opportunity to speak in Rabat, Morocco at the Forum for the Future meeting on behalf of the Arab Business Council, and has received impressive awards, such as the InterFaith Bridge Builders Award at last year's InterFaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing Mr. Lakhani. It is a privilege to represent him and I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to support H.R. 1174, the Fairness for Breastfeeding Mothers Act. I thank my colleague for introducing it. It was unanimously supported--thank you, Mr. Chairman--in committee and in full committee. As expected, it is going through because people understand this is a commonsense bill, so I am happy to support this once again. I know you were discussing H.R. 375 earlier. I did want to return to the bill to designate the Federal building and courthouse in Nashville, Tennessee, to my good friend, Fred D. Thompson. That building will now be named after him appropriately. Fred Thompson was a larger-than-life character, a true patriot, and a great wit who believed in and lived the American Dream in starring roles on stage, screen, and national politics. He served as a Senator for 8 years, and then later he ran for President. Originally he was here in Congress serving as a counsel where, of course, we had that famous line: ``What did the President know, and when did he know it?'' That was a line that he was well known for. What he was also often not given credit for was what a profoundly good lawyer he was. He had come to the attention of people in Tennessee by Lamar Alexander when Howard Baker came and asked now-Senator Lamar Alexander to take a role in the Watergate hearings, he said: No; you want to have Fred Thompson there. He asked his friend Fred Thompson to come and serve in that role. Fred then became an actor because when they went to write a movie about a woman who had been dealing with corruption in Tennessee politics, and Fred had been her lawyer, they couldn't find someone to play Fred, and they came and asked him: Could you play yourself? He said: Well, I guess I could. That is how he became a character actor and a larger-than-life character there. Some of his famous lines there: ``Stack `em, pack `em, and rack `em.'' In ``Die Hard'' I believe that one was. In movies, he starred with Paul Newman, Tom Cruise, Clint Eastwood, Gene Hackman, Robert Duvall, Bruce Willis, Sissy Spacek, and so many others. After he came here to the Senate, he humorously said: ``I often long for the realism and sincerity of Hollywood.'' So this is somebody who took his job very seriously but never took himself seriously and continued to have that great wit. My husband and I were very privileged to know him and learn from him and spend many a good day and delightful time and evening with him and his wife, Jeri, his family, his children, and his many friends and admirers. We are so grateful for and appreciate his celebrated service and justly celebrated service to our country. This building will be a great memorial in a State that still very much reveres him. I was privileged to be able to attend his service where hundreds and hundreds of people from Tennessee came to honor him, from country singers to people who stood by the side of the road as we drove to his funeral service, saluting him and thanking him for his service. This is somebody who in today's politics is sorely missed by all of us, and certainly most by his many friends, his family, and his scores of fans. God bless the Honorable Fred Thompson. I thank you, Mr. Chairman, for this opportunity to be able to have this building now be a legacy to his great service and being a great attorney and lawyer for this country.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of my constituent and friend, the Honorable Michele McQuigg, who passed away on February 15, 2017 at the age of 69. Throughout her life, Ms. McQuigg was a respected leader in the community and served as a dedicated public servant for over thirty years. She was not just a great representative for the Commonwealth but also a genuine person who brought honor and integrity to everything she did. Her deep passion for service to Prince William County and Manassas along with her exemplary demeanor and attitude will certainly be missed. Ms. McQuigg began her career in Virginia politics in 1983 when she ran for Prince William Clerk of the Circuit Court. In 1992 she was elected as the Occoquan District Representative on the Prince William County Board of Supervisors, where she served until 1998. During those years, she garnered an even greater interest in serving Prince William, and she decided to run for the Virginia House of Delegates in the 51st District. After her successful election, she went on to serve in Virginia state house for 9 years where she worked tirelessly to strengthen small businesses, enhance community life, and increase public safety. From 2008 until her recent passing, Ms. McQuigg served as the Prince William County Clerk of the Court. Among her more impressive actions taken in this role was a project that focused on making court documents and case pleadings available online, for which she scanned 1.3 million pages of legal proceedings. Through a paid subscription service lawyers can now access a vast number of documents online, saving them both time and money. It is projects like this that truly distinguish Ms. McQuigg from other public servants and portray how dedicated, intelligent, and forward-thinking she was. In addition to her illustrious career as a public servant, Ms. McQuigg worked with various groups and organizations in different capacities, including the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) Operations Board, Lake Ridge-Occoquan-Coles Civic Association, Prince William Republican Committee, Board of Visitors for George Mason University, Occoquan Landing Community Association Board of Directors, READ Community Literacy Council (Co-Founder), and the Prince William Association of REALTORs. Ms. McQuigg was someone who we all aspire to exemplify. She will be remembered for her truly kind heart, her dedication to our great Commonwealth, and for her friendship to many. She is survived by her husband Clancy McQuigg; her sister Suzanne Berge; her daughters Heather Lukes and Katie Schneider; and her five grandchildren Robert Schneider, Colleen Schneider, Emily Schneider, Shelby Lukes and Luke Schneider. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me and countless others as we recognize the many contributions of the Honorable Michele McQuigg. The impact she has had on the Commonwealth of Virginia and to our country will never be forgotten, and I wish her family the best.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and thank an extraordinary leader, Karen Russell, for the incredible impact she has had on individuals, families and communities in the 10th Congressional District of Virginia. Every Citizen Has Opportunities, Inc., or ECHO, for short, is dedicated to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve their optimal level of personal, social and economic success. ECHO accomplishes this by providing comprehensive vocational assessments, supported employment, extended employment services, medically fragile day support and training in work skills and socialization. In 1975, ECHO opened its doors offering services to 8 adults and 41 years later, the non-profit's accomplishments are extraordinary. It has served more than 550 individuals and currently has contractual arrangements with 14 business partners at 17 worksites. ECHO also has 30 community partners and 15 community volunteers. One person whose extraordinary leadership was essential to ECHO's success was Marketing Manager, Karen Russell, who retired on December 1st, 2016, after nearly 40 years in that critically important role. A native of Lovettsville, in Loudoun County, Karen started as ECHO's Secretary, Bookkeeper and Transportation Manager in 1977. Karen Russell's marketing success has been derived from her belief in the dignity and worth of every individual and her passionate appeal to prospective employers, on behalf of ECHO participants. Karen has taken great pride in the accomplishments of this skilled and reliable workforce of 140 persons with disabilities, as they fulfill their responsibilities to commercial and government customers every day. Her tireless efforts advocating for ECHO participants has resulted in a profound change in public perceptions. Society has come to realize that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are actively contributing members of the community who, when they are given a chance to work, have a profound impact on the effectiveness and morale of individual businesses and government agencies. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in recognizing and thanking Karen Russell, the Marketing Manager at ECHO, for her tireless and passionate advocacy on behalf of those with disabilities and her exemplary leadership of an organization that has been highly successful in empowering them to overcome barriers to employment and in achieving their optimal levels of personal, social and economic success.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I, along with my colleague Representative Robert Wittman, rise today to honor the life of Virginia State Senator Charles J. Colgan, who passed away on January 3, 2017 at the age of 90. As the longest serving member of the Virginia Senate, he was well known for his bipartisan approach to serving Virginians and his constituents. His exemplary demeanor and attitude will be missed, and it was an honor to have known him. He is a sterling example of what it means to be an effective legislator who has earned the full respect of those whom he represents. He was not just a great representative for the Commonwealth, but he was also a genuine person who brought honor and integrity to everything he did. Senator Colgan accomplished much in his career, and he will be remembered not just for his legislative achievements, but also for the manner in which he treated those around him, with respect and decency. Senator Colgan adopted a service oriented mindset long before his time in the Virginia State House. After serving in the Army Air Forces during World War II, he started Colgan Air--a regional commuter airline based in Manassas, Virginia. Not only did this commuter airway provide a valuable service to Americans and Virginians, but it also helped create jobs and economic opportunity in Prince William County. After many successful years at Colgan Air, Senator Colgan was elected to the Virginia Senate in 1975 to represent several fast-growing areas of Virginia including Manassas, Manassas Park and parts of Prince William County. During his time in the Senate, he co-chaired the Senate Finance Committee, taking a particular interest in the economic and educational development of Prince William County and the surrounding area. He was instrumental in bringing Northern Virginia Community College Campuses to Woodbridge, as well as establishing George Mason University's Manassas location. Senator Colgan truly carried himself as a citizen-politician--a trait which today we aspire to exemplify. Senator Colgan lost his wife of 52 years, the former Agnes Footen, in 2001. He remarried in 2008 and is survived by his wife of eight years, Carmen Alicia Bernal, of Gainesville; as well as eight children from his first marriage, Charles J. Colgan Jr. of Nokesville, Va., Ruth C. Willis of Brewerton, N.Y., Michael J. Colgan and Dot Chaplin, both of Gainesville, Raymond T. Colgan, Mary C. Finnigan and Patrick S. Colgan, all of Manassas, and Timothy C. Colgan of Warrenton, Va.; a brother, Robert Colgan, of Manassas; 24 grandchildren; and 22 great- grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, we ask you to join us and countless others as we recognize the many contributions of Senator Charles Colgan. The services he provided to the Commonwealth of Virginia and to our country will never be forgotten, and we wish his family the best.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the 100th anniversary of the Loudoun County Chapter of the American Red Cross. Established in 1917, this chapter, comprised of staff, local organizations, and volunteers, has worked tirelessly to protect our Loudoun community. The success of the American Red Cross can be largely attributed to its network of local branches and chapters, like that of Loudoun County. For years, these local branches have established strong partnerships and garnered large groups of volunteers that allow for the broader organization to prosper on both a national and international level. According to the chapter's Executive Director, Erwin Stierle, the five fundamental lines of service the American Red Cross aims to provide in Loudoun include disaster services, service to the armed forces, preparedness and safety, blood services, and international services. Additionally from a local community perspective, there are a growing number of Red Cross clubs across Loudoun County's high schools, and they have established several different local initiatives, including the Home Fire Campaign, in which smoke alarms and fire safety preparedness information are installed and provided in homes. Under the leadership of Erwin Stierle and his staff, the local chapter has seen enormous growth in community engagement and a surge in volunteers. To speak to some of the recent work of the Loudoun Chapter, in the past year they collected 2,000 units of blood, which is enough to save 6,000 people, and they trained 2,600 people in life saving skills such as CPR and first aid. Most recently in response to a fire in Ashburn, Virginia in which families lost their apartments, the Loudoun County Chapter of the American Red Cross gave these families gift cards for food and hotels, helped replace their clothes, and more. First responders play a key role in aiding in emergency situations, but it is groups, like the Loudoun County Chapter of the American Red Cross, that follow closely behind the first responders to aid members of the community in times of distress. These recent endeavors are only a small sample of the work the Loudoun Chapter has been able to accomplish over the past 100 years. On behalf of Virginia's 10th District and our great Commonwealth, I thank them for their hard work and dedication to our community, nation, and world. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join in recognizing the 100th anniversary of the Loudoun County Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to use this time to recognize a local foundation in Virginia's 10th District that has been strengthening our community and raising breast cancer awareness since 2004. The IIIB's Foundation, founded, by 14-year breast cancer survivor and proud Leesburg resident, Carolyn Rodenburg, focuses on ensuring that no woman diagnosed with breast cancer feels afraid or alone. In April of 2002, at the age of 42, Ms. Rodenburg was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a double mastectomy. During this difficult time in her life, she recalled feeling very alone and often helpless. However, Ms. Rodenburg found the inner strength and became determined to make a difference when she realized there were others just like her that needed a support system built on trust and understanding. It was a combination of her sudden diagnosis, surgery, and feelings afterwards that sparked her interest in helping like-minded women that were undergoing similar experiences, and she has been making a difference ever since. Thus in 2004, Ms. Rodenburg left behind her long career in the corporate world to dedicate her life to comforting and educating other breast cancer survivors by founding the IIIB's Foundation. IIIB's (pronounced three B's) stands for Bosom Buddy Baskets, which were the original basis on which the foundation came about. The pink Bosom Buddy Baskets are filled with treats, back scratchers, pillows, stuffed animals, and protective post-op gear and are intended for women in post operation recovery following mastectomy surgeries. This gesture helps show other women in recovery that they have a line of support from other survivors. The IIIB's Foundation has grown immensely under Ms. Rodenburg's leadership. Initially, Ms. Rodenburg founded it with the intention of helping friends going through the breast cancer treatment process. Today, the organization has morphed into a well-recognized foundation, hosting several annual fundraisers and events each year. One reoccurring event which has garnered a great deal of popularity is the yearly Pink Tie Charity Ball. It is fun, forward thinking community events, like the Pink Tie Charity Ball, that have helped the organization thrive and grow tremendously over the years into the organization it is today. To date, Ms. Carolyn Rodenburg and the IIIB's Foundation have helped thousands of women and families affected by breast cancer, and I am grateful to have such a prominent and resourceful organization in the 10th District. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding the IIIB's Foundation for its dedication to serving our community for so many years. I wish Ms. Rodenburg and the entire organization the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to use this time to recognize my constituent and friend, the Honorable Jonathan Way for his 9 years of service on the Manassas City Council, both as a Councilman and later as Vice Mayor, and to celebrate his many accomplishments as one of the Commonwealth's most dedicated civil servants. Prior to retiring and moving to Manassas 18 years ago, Vice Mayor Way had a 37-year career for various Exxon international affiliates in the U.S. and overseas and also served 6 years as a U.S. Naval Reserve Officer. He decided to first enter government service in the City of Manassas when he saw an advertisement in the local newspaper for an opening on the Planning Commission. From that point forward, Vice Mayor Way embarked on a journey of dedication to the city. In 2001, he was appointed to the commission, where he served as a member and as Chairman for 2 years until his appointment to the City Council in 2007, a position he held until 2015 when he was unanimously selected, by the Manassas city council members, to serve as Vice Mayor. He, along with Mayor Hal Parrish, have played a vital role in revitalizing downtown Manassas, establishing strong local relationships, and helping build new housing developments in the area. During his tenure on the Manassas City Council, Vice Mayor Way served on various committees, including the Budget and Finance Committee, the Economic/Community Development and Land Use Committee, the Virginia Railway Express and Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Committees, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, and the Virginia Municipal League. Additionally, Vice Mayor Way volunteered with various local groups, including the Rotary Club of Manassas, which he joined in 2001. Here he has served on the Club Service Committee for many years and has previously held the position of Secretary. Impressively, he was chosen as Rotarian of the Year in both 2003 and 2008. Despite having to temporarily resign from the rotary in 2013 due to workload demands of City Council, he happily rejoined last year. Most impressively, throughout the years, Vice Mayor Way kept a near perfect attendance record in attending city council meetings. This is not only a testament to the commitment he has always felt to the council, but also the commitment he felt to the citizens of Manassas. On behalf of the entire 10th District, I thank Vice Mayor Way. It has truly been a privilege to work with him and his colleagues on the Manassas City Council over the years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding Vice Mayor Way for his service to Manassas, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the United States. I wish him, his wife, Shirley, his children, and his grandchildren the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and honor my constituent and Rock Ridge High School's very own, Erin Hughes, for her impressive academic achievements and volunteer work. Over the last 3 years, Erin has volunteered over 100 hours between Rosa Lee Carter Elementary School and Legacy Elementary School through both Educators Rising and the National Honor Society. As a mentor to these young students, she teaches them basic studying skills, helps them prepare for exams, and works with them to strengthen their reading and writing abilities. Recently, Erin received the Virginia State Conference Educators Rising award for Lesson Planning: Delivery of the Arts. This is a true testament to the interest Erin has taken for education at a young age. In addition to this achievement, Erin has been a member of the National Honor Society throughout high school, which requires maintaining a very competitive grade point average. In college, Erin hopes to study elementary education in the hopes of acquiring a teaching job at an elementary school in Loudoun County. Coming from a family of educators, I appreciate the invaluable role that educators play in inspiring our students and communities. The work Erin has done, and continues to do at Rosa Lee Carter Elementary School and Legacy Elementary School, will inspire and shape the lives of countless young men and women for decades to come. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Erin for her achievements and dedication to education. The interest she has taken at a young age is impressive, and I wish her all of the best in her future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize my constituent, Juanita ``Sheba'' Velasco, on receiving the World Experiences Foundation's 2017 Global Citizen Award in Indigenous Diplomacy. Ms. Velasco, originally a weaver from the highlands of Guatemala, maintains a strong passion for Mayan education and promoting indigenous diplomacy. Over the course of her life, Ms. Velasco has worked in several museums, culture centers, schools, and universities around the world sharing her knowledge of the Mayan culture. In fact in 2016, Ms. Velasco was appointed the International Ambassador for peace and tourism by the Guatemalan government. Most recently, Ms. Velasco conducted a goodwill tour in Oklahoma, in which she spoke at universities, schools, and churches in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. Her tour ended with a farewell reception at the University of Central Oklahoma hosted by President Don Betz. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding Ms. Velasco for receiving the Global Citizen Award in Indigenous Diplomacy and for her dedication to Mayan culture. I wish her the best in her future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and honor my constituent of Middletown, Virginia, Volunteer Fire Chief Henry Shiley, who recently retired from the Middletown Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company after 53 years of dedicated service, and also to congratulate him on receiving the status of Fire Chief Emeritus, awarded to retired fire chiefs of extraordinary distinction. Middletown, Virginia, located in the northern Shenandoah Valley, is home to Lord Fairfax Community College and also the site of the Battle of Cedar Creek during the Civil War. However despite the college and strong history, Middletown would not be the close-knit, caring community that it is without the Middletown Volunteer Fire Station and its long-time leader, Chief Shiley. For 53 years, Chief Henry Shiley dedicated his life to his community without any compensation, regularly putting himself and his fellow volunteer first responders at risk as they attempted to aid people-- neighbors and strangers alike--during some of the most desperate moments of their lives. Over the course of his career, Chief Shiley has watched Company 12 progress and grow immensely. What was once a small, volunteer unit has morphed into a group of volunteer professionals that have gone through extensive training, including becoming emergency medical services (EMS) certified. The members of Company 12 are proud of their reputation of excellence and professionalism and attribute it largely to their leader, Chief Shiley. In fact the group unanimously voted to grant Chief Shiley the status of Fife Chief Emeritus--a true testament to his extraordinary knowledge, steady leadership, kindness, and most importantly, sense of humor. On behalf of Virginia's 10th District, I thank Chief Shiley for his half-century of service to Middletown and the Shenandoah Valley. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding Volunteer Fire Chief Henry Shiley for his years of selfless service and heroism and I wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors.