Barbara Comstock

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor the life of Mrs. Darlene E. Weir, of Leesburg, Virginia. On September 7, 2016, Mrs. Weir passed away at home surrounded by her loving husband of 57 years, Charles, and with her children, beloved grandchildren, and her great- granddaughter. Mrs. Weir was born May 4, 1933, in Eugene, Oregon and was the daughter of the late Oscar M. Briggs and Essie Elizabeth Cruzan Briggs. She was known for her love of children and her dedication to teaching primary grade students in Fairfax County public schools for 26 years. Coming from a family of educators, I understand the importance of Americans like Mrs. Weir who help shape the future of our nation. Mrs. Weir made a great impact in her community that will not soon be forgotten. Once Mrs. Weir retired from teaching, she traveled around the globe with her husband visiting all seven continents. Mrs. Weir understood the importance of civic engagement and was active in grassroots politics. Both inside and outside her career, Mrs. Weir worked with conviction to preserve our country for future generations. Mrs. Weir will be sincerely missed by all those who had the pleasure of knowing her both on a personal and a professional level. I know that she has impacted many lives over the years, and we are all grateful for having known her. She is survived by her husband, Charles J. Weir, her four children, daughters, Sue Ellen Jones, and Maureen Kay Wood; her sons, Gregory Allen Weir and Jeffrey Charles Weir; and eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Through them, I'm sure, her values and legacy will be assured. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating the life of Mrs. Darlene E. Weir. May she rest in peace, and her family be comforted.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Robert Butt who passed away at the age of 92 on September 18th, 2016. Robert, a World War II flight engineer and tailgunner on B-24 bombers, chose to devote his life to education after serving his nation. He received his bachelor's degree from Davidson College and his master's in education administration from William & Mary. His first teaching experience came as a high school teacher in Georgia before he moved north to Virginia to continue his career. His time in education culminated with serving 19 years as the superintendent of schools in Loudoun County. Coming from a family of educators, I appreciate the invaluable role that educators play in inspiring our students. Robert's long career in education allowed him to touch countless minds and aid them in pursuing their dreams. Furthermore, because of his success as superintendent, his legacy will continue to have an impact on young men and women in Loudoun County for many years to come. Robert will be sincerely missed by all those who had the pleasure of knowing him both on a personal and a professional level. I know that he has impacted many in his life, and we are all grateful for having known him. He is survived by his wife, Elinor; their daughter, Karen Broaddus, his grandchildren Aaron, Anna, Jessica and Eliza, and his six great-grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating the life of, and bidding farewell to, Robert Butt. May he rest in peace, and his family be comforted.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Honorable Senator Charles ``Chuck'' J. Colgan for turning 90 years old on September 25, 2016. I am honored to celebrate the many accomplishments of one of the Commonwealth's most dedicated civil servants. Senator Colgan is best known for his time in office as the longest serving Senator in the history of the Virginia General Assembly, where he has represented the citizens of Virginia's 29th District since 1975. Senator Colgan is an example to all legislators on how to work tirelessly for the interests of your constituents. Chuck was able to achieve many undertakings over his ten term tenure in the Virginia State Senate, most notably in the areas of transportation and education. Senator Colgan's life and legislative legacy is certainly one to be recognized as it was one full of service to his constituents, commonwealth, and country. His commitment to seeing practical legislation enacted to benefit the Commonwealth of Virginia and its citizens is extremely commendable. Senator Colgan was not afraid to work with both sides of the aisle while in office. This spirit of the political sensibility is without a doubt why he was able to attain such great success in his endeavors. It is also important to distinguish Senator Colgan's efforts as a private citizen through his businesses in the air travel industry. Colgan Airways and Colgan Air provided not only a valuable service to Americans, but were also a source of jobs and economic growth in the communities they were based in. Senator Colgan truly embodies the ideals a citizen-politician should aspire to exemplify. Mr. Speaker, I now ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the Honorable Senator Charles ``Chuck'' J. Colgan for turning 90 years old, and to thank him for the outstanding services he provided to the Commonwealth of Virginia and the United States throughout his long- lasting career. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Gen. Norton A. Schwartz on receiving the William J. Donovan Award from the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) Society. This special honor is one shared with a select group of great men and women who have rendered distinguished service to the United States. Gen. Schwartz has earned this award through his unflagging service to the United States and the United States Air Force. The William J. Donovan Award, administered by the OSS Society, recognizes men and women who have exemplified the distinguishing features which characterized General Donovan's life of service to the United States of America. With this achievement, Gen. Schwartz joins Presidents Eisenhower, Reagan, and George H.W. Bush, Prime Minister Thatcher, Adm. McRaven, and several other great men and women who have done a great service to our nation. Gen. Schwartz's hard work, perseverance, and tireless service to the United States are exemplified in his receipt of this honor. His thirty- nine years with the Air Force, the last four of which as Chief of Staff of the Air Force, were marked by excellence. It is officers like Gen. Schwartz who remind us why we have the greatest military in the world. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to highlight the importance of this award and what it represents for Gen. Schwartz and our nation. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Gen. Schwartz on receiving the William J. Donovan Award. I thank him for his service and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mariela Melero on being selected as a 2016 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals finalist. This honor is one shared with a select group of other federal employees who have achieved excellence in their work to help others. Ms. Melero has earned this recognition through imparting her passion and commitment to improving immigration services for anyone seeking a better life in the United States. By enhancing the experience for those who seek help obtaining legal immigration status, Ms. Melero has simplified a sometimes complicated process. As the daughter of Cuban parents who sought refuge in Puerto Rico, Ms. Melero understands how important it is to give support to those looking for a better life. She has significantly aided those seeking immigration help by developing an online portal and virtual assistant to help provide answers and resources to countless migrants. These cutting edge tools have distinguished Ms. Melero in her work. As a nation of immigrants, it cannot be understated how important it is to help individuals who are seeking avenues to legal immigration the proper advice that they need. Ms. Melero's hard work and perseverance are exemplified in her receipt of this honor. We need to encourage more federal employees, like Ms. Melero, who work hard and dedicate their lives to helping those seeking a better life for their families. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to highlight the importance of this recognition and what it represents for Ms. Melero and our district. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Ms. Melero on being a 2016 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals finalist. I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize David Hindin on being selected as a 2016 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals finalist. This honor is one shared with a select group of other federal employees who have achieved excellence in their work. Mr Hindin has earned this recognition through imparting his passion and commitment to improving regulatory compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. Through using modern technology and practical policies, Mr. Hindin has helped to increase regulatory compliance with EPA regulations, keeping our air and waterways clean. Mr. Hindin recognizes the need not merely for regulation, but also for compliance with existing polices. By holding industries accountable for their actions and improving transparency, Mr. Hindin and his office have encouraged companies to reduce the amount of pollution that they produce. The application of these cutting edge tools and ideas has distinguished Mr. Hindin in his field. Mr. Hindin's hard work, perseverance, and excellence are exemplified in his receipt of this honor. We need to encourage more federal employees like Mr. Hindin who work hard and dedicate their lives to helping the environment. I look forward to Mr. Hindin's continued success and innovation in his work. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to highlight the importance of this recognition and what it represents for Mr. Hindin and our district. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Mr. Hindin on being a 2016 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals finalist. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the tremendous work of some of my constituents at the Loudoun First Responders. The Loudoun First Responders exemplify the very best of the traditions of public service to their community. Their dedication to a high standard of conduct allows them to remain fearless while making a positive impact in the lives of their neighbors. Becoming a First Responder takes unwavering devotion. The Loudoun First Responders answer the calls of their neighbors in need with a limited amount of equipment, all while providing efficient and immediate care to ill and injured patients. These individuals are responsible for the protection and preservation of life, property, and the environment. They constantly adapt to function in uncommon situations in order to keep my constituents safe. Within the Loudoun First Responders, the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office, the Leesburg Police Department, the Middleburg Police Department, the Purcellville Police Department, the Department of Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Management, our healthcare providers, as well as 16 volunteer fire-rescue corporations operating out of 19 stations all work tirelessly to protect our citizens. These individuals' dedication and skills greatly impact the community in which they serve. We readily commend them for their hard work and sacrifice. Mr. Speaker, I now ask that my colleagues join me in thanking the Loudoun First Responders for the outstanding service they have provided, and continue to provide, to our great Commonwealth. I wish them the best as they continue to serve and protect all in Virginia's 10th Congressional District

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge Lovettsville Elementary School on being named one of America's Healthiest Schools. Lovettsville Elementary has shown dedication to getting its students active and promoting a fit and healthy lifestyle. Lovettsville Elementary was awarded a silver medal by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. This honor requires schools to meet stringent guidelines for serving healthier meals, pushing students to become active, offering physical and nutritional education, as well as empowering school leaders to become healthy role models. Students who attend healthy schools perform better academically, and have overall better attendance and attitudes towards school. Each of the students at this Lovettsville Elementary was challenged to live a healthier lifestyle over the course of the school year and the results were remarkable. In addition to the silver medal from the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, Lovettsville Elementary also received an Active Schools National Award from Let's Move. Coming from a family of educators, I understand how important a strong education is to the future of our nation. It is schools like Lovettsville Elementary that will continue to help shape the United States' role in the evolving global economy, while at the same time producing many of our nation's future leaders. Lovettsville Elementary School has clearly shown that it cares about developing our children and has given them the tools to succeed. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Lovettsville Elementary School for this achievement. I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate GAM Graphics and Marketing in Sterling, Virginia who celebrated their 40th anniversary this July. Opened by Charles Grant in 1976, GAM Graphics and Marketing provides quality printing and commercial services to countless citizens throughout our great Commonwealth. GAM was founded in the 1970s with the mission of teaching marketable job skills to students. Originally the printing was done by the students, mainly serving churches and mission groups; however commercial requests started in 1976. Within five years GAM was producing print products ranging from business cards to full-bound books and bulk mailings. GAM is a company run with compassion and a focus on providing excellent quality and service to their clients. In 1985, Nathaniel Grant took the reins at GAM and with his leadership the company continued to grow. Nathaniel and his sister Faith purchased the company from their parents in 1996. Under the guidance of Nathaniel and Faith, GAM modernized and the company continued to grow without any adverse effect on their excellent quality and service. In closing Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in sending our most sincere appreciation to a company that has given so much to their neighbors. The Grant Family and the staff of GAM Graphics and Marketing serve as an example to all. On behalf of Virginia's 10th Congressional District I wish them continued success in the future.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the following coaches, contributors, and athletes for being selected to the Loudoun County High School Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2016. Pat McManus, Alan Smith, Dr. Robert K. Belote, James M. ``Jimmy'' Kidwell, Reginal ``Reggie'' Evans, Susan Moxley, David DiMillio, Kristen DiMillio, Kevin Grigsby, Joanna Penn, Shari Mayr, Derrick Ellison, and Marie Bolton were all named to the LCHS Hall of Fame. These individuals have earned this honor through their passion and commitment to athletics. These outstanding men and women's hard work, perseverance, and athletic excellence are exemplified in their receipt of this honor. Coming from a family of educators, I understand not only how important a strong education is to the future of our country, but also the need for athletic competition to form a well-rounded member of society. We need to encourage more people to imitate these individuals who have worked so hard to accomplishing this incredible goal. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to highlight the importance of this achievement and what it represents for these men and women. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating them on being inducted into the Loudoun County High School Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2016. I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Bluemont Concert Series as it proudly celebrates 40 years of providing high-quality concerts and cultural events in localities throughout northwestern and central Virginia. Originally, the organization received its name from its hometown of Bluemont in Loudoun County, Virginia. Since 1976, Bluemont has presented over 9,300 events fostering a sense of community in the Commonwealth through its presentations of art and culture. This extraordinary concert series has entertained audiences of over three million people including schools, health care facilities, assisted living centers, and nursing homes. This is an important milestone for this wonderful organization. Cultivating a cultural and artistic presence in Virginia's 10th Congressional District is important to the overall health of our community. It is organizations such as the Bluemont Concert Series that allow us to enjoy a broad range of diverse experiences that would be otherwise inaccessible. The mission of Bluemont, providing family- oriented and affordable events, has given residents in Virginia the opportunity to enjoy music, song, poetry, and storytelling. The concert series has presented a wide range of musical genres including bluegrass, Hawaiian swing, folk, jazz, rock and roll, classical flute and Caribbean steel bands; which has helped to strengthen the cultural spirit within our community. Over the years, Bluemont has reached lives, not only through its concert series, but also through its school programs and its Artists- in-Education initiative. Bluemont's Outreach Program offers quality entertainment at no charge to appreciative audiences in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Its outstanding work has earned Bluemont many accolades and awards, including the Distinguished Service Award from the Virginia Alliance for Arts Education. The Bluemont Concert Series has provided a valuable service to community and their families. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the Bluemont Concert Series on 40 years of serving the great Commonwealth of Virginia. I wish Bluemont all the best in its future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of my constituent, Officer Michael ``Mike'' Todd Brunson, a master police officer in the Winchester Police Department. Officer Brunson passed away on September 11th, 2016 at the age of 48. He will be sorely missed by his family, his fellow officers, and his entire community. Mike Brunson was sworn into the Winchester Police Department on February 10, 1995 and was promoted to the position of Master Police Officer in September of 2006. Officer Brunson was a respected and well known member of our community. In addition to protecting his neighbors, Mike helped found his department's community policing unit, and even served as a counselor at the Kids and Cops Camp. Officer Brunson was a member of the SWAT Team, a firearms instructor and field training officer. He also received a Meritorious Action Award and a Valor Award in 2014 for risking his life to enter a burning home in search for a 2 year old boy. Winchester Police Chief Kevin Sanzenbacher in his statement said that Mike ``was a great person, a great father, grandfather, husband, son and friend. He will be truly missed.'' Lt. J. Cornwell of the Frederick County Sheriffs Office had Officer Brunson as his first field training officer and said ``he was a very courteous and nice man who was always willing to pass on information that he had'' and that it was a ``shame to lose him, especially at that young age.'' Officer Mike Brunson is survived by his mother, Carol D. Rockwell, his wife, Kimberly Brunson; his daughter Elizabeth Thurman and her husband Jesse, his daughter Katherine Brunson; a step-daughter, Eve Neal, and step-son, Stephen Neal-Crowe; as well as his two grandchildren Ryleigh Grace and Oliver James Thurman. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating the life of Officer Michael ``Mike'' Todd Brunson. May he rest in peace, and his family be comforted.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the important work done by Ms. Nicole Clark for hosting the 2016 Breast Friends event at Harmony Middle School in Virginia's Tenth Congressional District. Nicole has worked on hosting these events since 2013, when she first started them with her ``breast friend'' Michelle Batt. The success of these events has helped raise awareness and spread knowledge on the subject of breast cancer. Their hard work exemplifies the caring attitude of Loudoun County's residents. The 2016 Breast Friend event will entail discussion with a panel of doctors who are working in fields related to breast cancer, as well as Ms. Clark's own story about her experience with breast cancer. The overall mission of Ms. Clark and the Breast Friends team is to provide support to a community of women suffering from breast cancer. I believe that it is important to continue working to help defeat breast cancer; while also supporting those organizations and programs such as Breast Friends that do so much for those already suffering from this disease. These events serve a vital role in the continued education of our community about diseases such as breast cancer, and in the creation of support networks for those affected by it. It is my hope that this event will endure into the future and continue this legacy of community support and awareness. I thank and commend everyone involved in the 2016 Breast Friends event. Their caring spirit will result in critically important issues being discussed to a greater degree in our society. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join in recognizing Ms. Nicole Clark of Loudoun County for her work as host of the 2016 Breast Friends event in Hamilton, Virginia. Although Michelle Batt will not be in the country for this year's event, she will continue to be an integral part of the important work done by the Breast Friends in our great Commonwealth. I commend both Nicole and Michelle for their continued dedication to supporting those suffering from breast cancer. I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge the 25th anniversary of Loudoun Interfaith Relief, Loudoun County, Virginia's largest food pantry, and their steadfast service to the good citizens of the Loudoun community. I would like to personally commend the volunteers who so selflessly dedicate themselves to providing support to those less fortunate without asking anything in return. These notable citizens truly embody the very best of our nation's values through their service to the community and commitment to the betterment of others' lives. Loudoun Interfaith Relief has increased their service exponentially since it began. In 1991, LIR provided 50,000 pounds of food over 4,800 pantry visits. In 2016, LIR served 11,000 individuals in 73,000 visits with 1.2 million pounds of food. The pantry is now open six days a week and has over 320 volunteers working to provide services to those in need. This growth is a clear testament to the outstanding dedication to service conducted by the staff and volunteers at Loudoun Interfaith Relief. Mr. Speaker, it brings me immense pride to recognize such a fine organization, and I sincerely hope that we all can live up to their tremendous example. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Loudoun Interfaith Relief. I wish them all the best and hope that they continue to be a positive example of service to the community.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker. I would like to honor the 50th anniversary of the Committee for Dulles (CFD). Established in 1966, the CFD has worked tirelessly to help Washington Dulles International Airport and the economic growth of its region. The hard work done by the men and women of the Committee for Dulles has helped to make excellent opportunities available to many of my constituents and ensure the growth of the Washington Dulles International Airport corridor. Home to some of our nation's largest and most successful companies, the CFD has worked tirelessly to secure the necessary infrastructure to maintain these economic staples in place, all while providing a better quality of life for the residents of Dulles. The close collaboration of the constituents of Virginia's 10th Congressional District is crucial to bringing continued prosperity to the region. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join in recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Committee for Dulles and thanking them for the hard work they do to help stimulate economic growth in the entire region. I know the Committee for Dulles will continue to provide excellent opportunities for the area in the future, and I wish them all the best.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize The Friends of the Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run in Fairfax County, Virginia for their support of this educational farm throughout the years. This society has been integral in the continued operations of this park site, which serves as a historical reference to colonial farm life for the citizens of Fairfax County and for visitors from around the country. The Friends of the Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run hosts their annual Oktoberfest fundraising event, which has live entertainment and a myriad of other activities. The Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run has been open for over 40 years, and has been the only privately funded and operated park in the National Park System for the past 35 years. This park site offers many learning experiences for its visitors to be immersed in the authentic methods of colonial agriculture. Agriculture continues to be a vital force in my district as well as the nation as a whole, and I would like to applaud this group's dedication to maintaining an establishment that celebrates our nation's farming heritage. The Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run is a wonderful destination for many students and young people to learn about our country's history and develop a greater appreciation for those men and woman who laid the foundation of the United States of America. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing The Friends of the Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run for their valuable efforts to preserve one of our nation's great parks. I wish them all the best at their upcoming Oktoberfest event and in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor the 5th anniversary of Sprout Therapeutic Riding and Education Center in Aldie, Virginia. The center provides equine assisted activities and therapies for those seeking opportunities for personal growth. With seven horses and a dedicated staff, the center seeks to raise awareness about special needs while providing a dynamic environment for participants to learn and socialize. Their riding lessons focus on gaining riding skills, increasing physical strength, and achieving the rider's desired social, emotional, and life skills. Their work is an inspiration and I am proud to have such a wonderful organization in the Virginia's 10th Congressional District. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join in recognizing the 5th anniversary of Sprout Therapeutic Riding and Education Center and thanking all those who provide comfort and support to our neighbors in need. I know the center will continue to provide excellent opportunities for any who wish to partake. I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor the Commemoration of the 1861 Battle of Dranesville on Saturday, September 24th. The battle marked the first time Union forces defeated the Confederacy in the eastern theatre. On December 20th, 1861, Brigadier General Edward Ord, leading the Union forces, engaged the Confederate army under the command of Brigadier General J.E.B. Stuart at the village of Dranesville, Virginia. The Union force of 5,000 men was attacked by 4.000 Confederate soldiers along the Leesburg Pike. Due to their superior position, Union artillery was able to out-duel their Confederate counterparts while the infantry forces squared off. After two hours of fighting, the Confederate army retreated from the field. The Union victory provided a much needed morale boost during America's most deadly war. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Commemoration of the 1861 Battle of Dranesville. We must always remember and honor those who sacrificed their lives to preserve our nation.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, please allow me to take a moment to congratulate the Home Instead Senior Care in Manassas, Virginia who are celebrating their 10th anniversary this October. Opened by Jack and Jacqueline St. Clair in 2006, Home Instead provides quality care to nearly 600 senior citizens throughout our great Commonwealth. Home Instead caregivers seek to build quality relationships with the clients they serve, giving a personal touch to home care. The company operations are all derived from their mission ``to enhance the lives of again adults and their families''. This mission is evident as their care allows seniors to remain at home with family where they are comfortable and happy. Home Instead Senior Care in Manassas is a company run with compassion and a focus on providing excellent care for their clients. As local residents themselves, Jack and Jacqueline St. Clair pride themselves on providing friendly and responsive service to their neighbors and have dedicated themselves to making their community a better place to live for seniors and their families. In closing Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in sending our most sincere appreciation to a company that has given so much to their neighbors. Jack, Jacqueline, and the staff at Home Instead Senior Care in Manassas serve as an example to all. On behalf of Virginia's 10th Congressional District I wish them continued success in the future.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge the eight Loudoun County students selected by the Claude Moore Charitable Foundation to be a part of the 2016 Future Leaders Program. I would like to personally commemorate Gabby Lewis, Ryan Wells, Maria Fernando Pena, Matthew Eberhart, Oriella Meija, Jasmine Lu, Devin MacGoy, and Madison Ojeda, each of whom has proven to be both outstanding students and remarkable people. They truly embody the very best of this nation's values through their continued hard work and commitment to excellence in education. Loudoun County has continually provided a top notch learning environment with numerous opportunities and programs above and beyond its expectations, which has cultivated many young leaders like the ones I am recognizing today. These future leaders have developed amiable qualities similar to those of our nation's leaders. This recognition is a clear testament to the outstanding works these exemplary individuals exhibit and they are deserving of recognition. Mr. Speaker, it brings me immense pride to recognize such a fine group of students, and I sincerely hope that we all can live up to their remarkable example. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating them and I wish them the best of luck and continued success in their futures.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge the many first responders to the September 11th terrorist attacks of 2001, as well as to recognize that this September will be the 15th anniversary of that national tragedy. That day was a time of intense panic and immense sorrow for all Americans, with many losing friends, family, and loved ones. Yet in spite of all of this, our brave first responders from our police services, our fire fighters, and emergency medical services went above and beyond the call of duty to save the lives of their fellow citizens, so that they could go home to their families and friends. These amazing men and women faced this terror attack with the greatest courage and conviction anyone could exhibit. The valor and fortitude which they showed is beyond expression, with many giving their lives so that their fellow Americans could live. However, many of those who endured and survived are still suffering from the ordeal, with many experiencing PTSD, depression, and physical ailments. These men and women represent the very best of our nation. We should all strive to live up to their extraordinary example. It is important that we do whatever we can for these heroes, and as such I would like to thank the Hylton Performing Arts Center for their event entitled ``Helping First Responders Find Hope, Healing and Resilience'' which will be held in Manassas on September 10th, 2016. Through events like this, caring Americans are helping raise awareness to these unfortunate conditions. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my fellow Members of Congress to join me in honoring some of the bravest of our nation's heroes, and to thank them for all that they did during our country's most desperate hour. May God bless them, and all those whose lives were affected by this day.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor the town of Brambleton, Virginia on its 15th birthday. Established in 2001, Brambleton has grown to become a thriving community in Loudoun County full of wonderful families and extraordinary localities. In the span of 15 years Brambleton has gone from a newly planned community to the home of almost 10,000 people. The community has received multiple awards, including the Loudon County Environmental Preservation Award, and in 2013 was named Community of the Year by the Great American Living Awards. In addition to the six excellent schools which already serve the community, three additional schools will be added by 2020. Its many parks, trails, and pools allow for its residents to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with their friends and family. I am proud to represent such a vibrant community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join in recognizing the 15th birthday of the Brambleton community and thanking the residents who bring it to life. I know the community will continue to provide a wonderful environment for families to call home for many years to come.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Douglass School, of Leesburg, Virginia, on their 75th anniversary. This is an important milestone for this wonderful school in my District. The Douglass School celebrated this anniversary in Loudoun County last month on the 13th of August, and it is my pleasure to briefly highlight the impact this school has had on my constituents. The Douglass School has had a terrific history of success since first opening its doors in 1941. Named after Fredrick Douglass, the famous African-American anti-slavery leader, the Douglass School has stood as a pillar of education for those it serves. Before its founding, African-American families needed a place to educate their children. These parents worked tirelessly to raise the four thousand dollars necessary to purchase the land for building the school. Since the school was desegregated in 1968, it has provided high quality education to students from every race, background, and creed. Equipped with top tier teachers and staff, this school has produced countless student success stories. Coming from a family of educators, I understand how important a strong education is to the future of our nation. It is schools like the Douglass School that will continue to help shape the United States' role in the ever-changing global economy, while also producing many of our nation's future leaders. Over the years, the faculty has shown an impressive dedication not only to its students, but to the Loudoun community as a whole. The success of this school is a tremendous accomplishment that should make past and present faculty proud. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the Douglass School for 75 years of serving children and their families. I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge the Loudoun County Division of Procurement (LCDP) which has received the Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award from the National Procurement Institute. The Loudoun County Division of Procurement has worked tirelessly to achieve this award consecutively for the past 18 years. Loudoun County is one of only nine government agencies in Virginia and one of only 48 counties in the United States and Canada to receive this important award. By skillfully acquiring all goods and services, including professional services and construction for Loudoun County Government operations, the LCDP has continued to exude excellence. This has helped many businesses throughout Loudoun to receive the tools they need to advance and prosper. This accolade exemplifies the great levels of service which the division provides to its citizens. The LCDP has succeeded in its mission to provide resources and strengthen the economic stability of the Loudoun County area and has successfully created an environment which conveys expertise and excellence. I am certain that it has the resources and the backing to continue this trend and live up to its reputation. Mr. Speaker, this is an institution which helps the American people to thrive and to live out their aspirations within Loudoun. It embodies accomplishing the American dream by giving our citizens a chance to let their ideas grow. I would ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Loudoun County Division of Procurement. I wish this institution continued success in the future.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Ms. Kelle Lyn Scott on being selected for a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). This special honor is one shared with a select group of other teachers throughout the United States. Ms. Scott has earned this award through imparting her passion and commitment to learning with all of her students. The PAEMST program, administered by the National Science Foundation (NSF) on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, recognizes teachers who have demonstrated excellence in giving students the tools they need to succeed in becoming the leaders of tomorrow. Because of this achievement, Ms. Scott will receive a signed citation from President Obama, a $10,000 award from NSF, and the opportunity to attend an awards ceremony in Washington D.C. Ms. Scott's hard work, perseverance, and academic excellence are exemplified in her receipt of this honor. Coming from a family of educators, I understand how important a strong education is to the future of our country. We need to encourage more teachers like Ms. Scott who work hard and dedicate their lives to educating our children. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to highlight the importance of this award and what it represents for Ms. Scott and our district. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Ms. Scott on receiving a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.