Barbara Comstock

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my resolution, H.J. Res. 92, which lends congressional approval to an amendment made to the WMATA interstate compact. As was mentioned, the last iteration of the highway bill, the FAST Act, contained a provision that directed Virginia, Maryland, and D.C. to amend the compact to change appointment authority for the Federal directors on the WMATA board from the administrator of the GSA to the more appropriate Secretary of Transportation. This was a very commonsense change that was made in light of recent incidents and accidents and the real need to have a top priority for safety. The Secretary of Transportation, I believe, is in a much better position to appoint directors to the Metro board than the administrator of the GSA. The States of Virginia and Maryland as well as D.C. complied with this directive and amended the compact, and we are all in agreement here. The previous Secretary of Transportation last year appointed two very well-qualified candidates to serve as the Federal directors on the WMATA board. The final legal step that we are taking today here in this equation is for Congress to lend its approval to the change, and that is what this resolution does. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend, Chairman Goodlatte, for his work on this matter and for yielding the time. I appreciate his leadership in bringing this forward. I rise in support, Mr. Speaker, of this resolution, HJ. Res. 76, offered by the gentleman from Maryland, the minority whip, Mr. Hoyer. We have very much a regional partnership that is essential for Metro, and this resolution today reflects that. It lends congressional approval to the new interstate compact between Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia to establish an independent State safety oversight program, in this case known as the Metro Safety Commission. The previous iteration of the Metro safety oversight body was known as the Tri-State Oversight Commission, and in response to various accidents, inadequacies, and outright failures, the previous Secretary of Transportation, Anthony Foxx, used the authority that we in Congress, together, working with our regional delegation together, gave him to temporarily take over the safety oversight role of Metro through the Federal Transit Administration. But it was only meant to be temporary control. We still need a permanent body to provide this invaluable safety oversight for WMATA, and the passage of this legislation in the House today brings us one important step closer to that goal. I also would like to mention that, because we had not done this in the timeframe initially allowed, the FTA did give notice to the Metro Safety Commission it had to be in place on or before February 9, and when it wasn't, they suspended some of our Federal funds. Now, with this today, we hope this initial withholding, which equated to $8.9 million and is expected could total $15 million, that now that can move forward. I have a letter that I include in the Record, which is signed by our regional delegation in support of now releasing those funds Washington, DC, June 30, 2017. Hon. Elaine Chao, Secretary, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, DC. Dear Secretary Chao, As representatives of public transit customers in the Commonwealth of Virginia, we write to express our concerns regarding the Federal Transit Administration's (FTA) February 10, 2017 decision to withhold federal transit grant money in response to incomplete efforts to establish a new State Safety Oversight Program (SSOP) for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). On February 8, 2016, the FTA gave notice that the Metropolitan Safety Commission (MSC), a new SSOP to succeed WMATA's Tri-State Oversight Commission, must be in place and certified by the FTA on or before February 9, 2017. On February 10, 2017, with no new SSOP certified, the FTA announced it would exercise its authority to withhold five percent of federal funds authorized in fiscal year 2017 under the Urbanized Area Apportionments Program (49 U.S.C. 5307). The initial withholding equated to $8.9 million, and is expected to total $15 million if he withholding continues to the end of the current fiscal year. This withholding will not just impact funding for WMATA, but for broader infrastructure maintenance throughout Virginia, Maryland, and Washington,

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, we in the region have worked together on these issues and, with this congressional approval and with the help of my colleague, Chairman Goodlatte, took this to the Judiciary Committee, who will now be able to begin the process of improving Metro in connection with our State and regional partners.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to commemorate the life of my constituent Mr. Joseph ``Joey'' Noufal from Leesburg, Virginia, who passed away on May 31, 2017, at the age of 48. Throughout his life, Mr. Noufal was an esteemed entrepreneur in our community and a devoted husband, father, and friend. Revered for his sincerity and beloved for his contagious smile, generosity, and compassion, Mr. Noufal embodied an innovative and zealous character. His legacy endures and he will always be remembered and missed by many. Originally from Beirut, Lebanon, Mr. Noufal immigrated to Northern Virginia during his childhood. From a young age, he developed the essential entrepreneurial qualities of reliability, creativity, and determination by working in his family's salon. Later on, he earned his Associate's Degree in Graphic Design. As an award-winning hair stylist, he successfully ran Noufal Hair Color Studio for more than a quarter- century. Throughout his career, Mr. Noufal garnered numerous international certifications and made house calls to royal families and foreign dignitaries. Additionally, Mr. Noufal operated various business ventures involving franchising, coffee distribution, and corporate cleaning. Recently, Mr. Noufal and his wife, Vicky, celebrated their 23rd wedding anniversary. Together, they have three sons, Alexander, Brandon, and Mason. Mr. Noufal often remarked that his greatest accomplishment in life was being father to his sons and a partner to his wife. He is also survived by his mother, six brothers, and two sisters. Mr. Noufal leaves behind a remarkable legacy and an extensive entrepreneurial career to the Commonwealth. His unyielding strength and devotion to his work and clients attested to his selfless character and genial demeanor. He will be greatly missed by the countless lives he has touched. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating the life of, and bidding farewell to, Joey Noufal. May he rest in peace, and his family be comforted.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Colonel Steven J. Owens on his retirement from the United States Army after 30 years of service to our country. An esteemed and respected member of the Army Medical Service Corps, Colonel Owens most recently served as the Deputy Director for Reserve Affairs at the Office of the Surgeon General. In this capacity, he was instrumental in driving policy to improve the capability of the Army to recruit and retain high quality providers to care for our Nations Daughters and Sons. He also played an integral role in strengthening the relationship between Army National Guard and the Army Reserve medical communities. Colonel Owens distinguished career began with the Virginia Army National Guard in 1987, and included time at Ft. Belvoir, VA; Camp Robinson, VA; Ft. Pickett, VA; Ft. A.P. Hill, VA; Joint Force Headquarters, VA; the National Guard Bureau; Fort Sam Houston, TX; and the Office of the Surgeon General. During this time, he deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. During his time in Iraq, he served as the I Corps MNCI and USFI liaison to the Iraqi Army Surgeon. In that role, he performed the medical portion of counterinsurgency training for hundreds of America's service members and advised the Iraqi Army Surgeon on methods to increase capabilities to provide care to the Iraqi Soldiers, and to improve recruitment and retention of providers in the Iraqi Army. As Colonel Owens embarks on a new chapter in life, it is my hope that he may recall, with a deep sense of pride and accomplishment, the outstanding contributions he has made to the Office of the Surgeon General, the Virginia Army National Guard and to the United States Army. I would like to send him my best wishes for continued success in his future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my bill, H.R. 1397, which would authorize this Federal land exchange between the National Park Service and the Federal Highway Administration. As has been discussed, at issue is the jurisdiction of an access road adjacent to the Claude Moore Colonial Farm, a privately funded living history museum which is part of the National Park Service and in my district in McLean, Virginia. Claude Moore Farm is a wonderful way to experience what life was like on a small family farm for the average family in the late 1700s, not the plantations that we often see preserved, but a very small, average family farm. Claude Moore Farm is tucked in right next to the CIA, as has been mentioned, and the jurisdiction of this particular access road off of George Washington Memorial Parkway has not been clear and has resulted in confusion and unnecessary security concerns. Over the years, general use of this access road has set off security alarms at Langley. And this confusion has not only been difficult for security personnel; it has also cost taxpayer resources. On September 11, 2002, the National Park Service and the Federal Highway Administration entered into an agreement under which the transfer of administrative jurisdiction, management, and maintenance of the lands in question were agreed upon. Since then, the two parties have been abiding by these rules. What this agreement does now is make this permanent in a legislative fix. It is a commonsense, bipartisan bill. We worked on this with Senator Warner also. Last year he was able to get it attached to the energy package, but that did not pass, so we now need this to move forward. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this straightforward, noncontroversial bill. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Illinois for yielding.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to welcome President Moon Jae-in of the Republic of Korea upon his first visit to the United States. Rooted in rich history, the United States and the Republic of Korea share a special relationship based on robust bonds of collaboration and camaraderie. The most illustrative manifestations of American and Korean partnership have been the economic and security alliances formed since the early 1950s. Together, we have worked to thwart the spread of territorial and international threats while also engaging in mutually beneficial trade and investment. In the 21st century, our special relationship will only expand as we face new challenges to regional and global security and promote free and fair trade. Our nations must forge ahead to put an end to North Korea's nuclear program. Failure on this front would compromise global peace and state sovereignty. And, ultimately, we must continue to seek an end to the conflict between the North and the South--which has destroyed lives and entire families--by reunifying the Korean Peninsula. As our nations encounter a critical moment in history--a moment simultaneously fraught with peril yet abound with opportunity--this visit provides an opportunity to enhance our established commitment to security and the advancement of strategic interests. Mr. Speaker, I welcome President Moon and look forward to our continuous and prosperous partnership with the Republic of Korea.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Leesburg Virginia's longest serving Police Chief, James Martin Kidwell, who passed away on June 19, 2017, at the age of seventy-seven. A lifelong resident of Leesburg, Chief Kidwell was renowned for his public service and longstanding community involvement, as he dedicated his career to protecting the people of his hometown. Throughout his life, he was a revered leader in the Leesburg community who brought honor and integrity to his profession and will be remembered as one of the town's finest and most devoted policemen. Chief Kidwell was born and reared in Leesburg and graduated from Loudoun County High School. After graduation, Chief Kidwell initially intended to follow in the footsteps of his uncle and work as a plumber. However, only after a few days in this occupation, when he came across a nest of snakes, Chief Kidwell realized that he wanted to pursue a different line of work. Then in 1961, at the age of twenty, he became a police officer in Leesburg, marking the commencement of his thirty-four year career with Leesburg's Police Department. In 1972, he assumed the position of Chief of the Leesburg Police Department and held that post until his retirement in 1995. Mr. Kidwell's remarkable career spanned multiple decades, and as Chief, he oversaw Leesburg's Police Department during a period of unprecedented development in the town. As the town expanded and confronted new complex challenges, Chief Kidwell ensured that the police department was equipped to handle the city's massive population surge and transformed the department from a meager force of only four police officers, one patrol car, and no radio system into a modem police department. During his tenure, the department burgeoned into a thirty-five person force that was able to effectively combat the increasingly serious crimes stemming from Leesburg's rapid growth. But despite the town's enlargement, Chief Kidwell always remained engaged with Leesburg's residents and maintained a small-town approach to law enforcement. After retirement, Chief Kidwell spent much of his time playing golf, watching sports, especially his beloved Washington Redskins, and caring for his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Knox Kidwell, his daughters, Kelly Bradley, Kerri Spinks, and Kristi Kidwell, his sisters Catherine Howard and Page Kidwell, his brother Bradley Kidwell, seven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me and countless others as we recognize the innumerable contributions of Chief Kidwell. Chief Kidwell's steadfast commitment and selfless dedication to keeping the residents of Leesburg safe will be greatly missed, and the services he provided to the Town of Leesburg and Virginia's Tenth Congressional District will never be forgotten. He was an exemplary officer and the true embodiment of a public servant, and today we honor him for his legacy of a lifetime of service.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize a local business in Virginia's 10th Congressional District that will be significantly expanding its already extensive operations. On June 27, 2017, Unanet, a preeminent and innovative organization in the software industry, will open a new headquarters in Loudoun County, in the heart of my district. Unanet plans to make significant financial investment in this new operation as part of their expansion, which will result in a larger facility and will enable the organization to create new local jobs in the next few years. Founded in 1998, by the present Chief Executive Officer, Fran Craig, Unanet has continued to prosper since its inception, as the organization has increased its revenue by about 20 percent per year over the past decade. Today, Unanet is one of our region's premier software companies and a leading provider of Cloud and On-Premise software for project-based organizations. Unanet currently serves over 1,000 organizations nationwide, including many government contractors located in the Washington D.C. metropolitan region. While Unanet has been an economic catalyst for the Washington D.C. area as a whole, the organization, headquartered in Loudoun since 2003, has deep roots in Loudoun County and has played an integral role in the development and success of the county's nascent technology industry. In addition to their plethora of economic contributions, the organization has also done extensive philanthropic work in our community and been firmly committed to supporting local charities, including Loudoun Hunger Relief, Loudoun Education Foundation, Loudoun Laurels Foundation, and Loudoun Cares. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding Unanet for their entrepreneurial achievements and for their numerous contributions to our local economy. I wish Unanet all the best as they celebrate this major expansion. I look forward to seeing their continued success and am thankful for the plethora of occupations and other opportunities they will provide my constituents.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Polaris for hosting the Freedom Happens Now 5K on Saturday June 24, 2017. This important event accentuate the plight of the voiceless victims of human trafficking in an effort to both raise awareness on their behalf and eventually eliminate this modern day slavery. Polaris was founded in 2002 by two seniors at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, Derek Ellerman and Katherine Chon, who were inspired to take action after learning about the horrifying account of six Korean women who were coerced into working at a brothel just a few blocks away from Brown University. This enlightened Ellerman and Chon as to how Ubiquitous human trafficking really is and compelled them to take immediate action. They established Polaris, whose name derives from the North Star, which guided slaves toward freedom along the Underground Railroad. Since its inception, Polaris has remained firmly devoted to ending all forms of human trafficking and has always put an emphasis on directly supporting trafficking victims. Polaris has helped numerous victims escape from exploitation and worked to prevent more people from becoming ensnared by human trafficking. Over the past decade, Polaris has expanded their operations and today has evolved into one of the most preeminent global leaders in the fight against human trafficking. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Polaris for their vigorous dedication and unwavering commitment to bring awareness to the suffering and horrors that confront the countless victims of human trafficking. I truly appreciate all their work and thank them for promoting awareness about this important issue through hosting numerous events, including Saturday's 5K, which not only united our community, but helped us all gain a greater understanding of the realities of human trafficking. I also want to express my sincere gratitude to all those who participated in Saturday's 5K in a collaborative and laudable effort to combat the scourge of human trafficking and provide assistance to its all too often unnoticed victims. I wish Polaris all the best as they continue their valiant crusade to eradicate human trafficking in the United States and worldwide.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize an extraordinary leader of women, Lucy Diggs Stowe, who has recently been honored by the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., an international sorority that she helped establish at Howard University in 1908. The ceremony took place in Berryville, the place of her birth, located in the 10th Congressional District of Virginia. In the early part of the 20th Century, Lucy Diggs Slowe was an inspirational advocate for greater opportunity for African-American women, whose resourcefulness and resilience is reflective of the dynamic Josephine Street community where she spent her early childhood. The difficult loss of both of her parents in her youth and the obstacle of a segregated education in Virginia and Maryland did not stop Lucy Slowe from blossoming as a student and achieving greatness as an educator. Graduating second in her class from Baltimore Colored School in 1904, she was admitted to Howard University in Washington, D.C. and after graduating from Howard as class valedictorian in 1908, Lucy Diggs Slowe embarked on a stellar career as an educator, overcoming obstacles and breaking down barriers as she went. In chronological order, she taught high school English in Baltimore, studied at Columbia University during the summers and obtained a master's degree in 1915, was invited to create and lead the first junior high school for African-American students in the District of Columbia, was selected by Howard University as its first Dean of Women in 1922, and served in administrative positions at Howard for the next 15 years. To ensure a prominent role for African-American women at traditionally black colleges, Lucy Diggs Slowe helped organize and served as the first president of the National Association of College Women, an organization dedicated to raising the standards in colleges for African-American women, developing women faculty, and securing scholarships. Slowe's passion for excellence extended beyond education to the sport of tennis, as well. In 1917, she became the first African- American woman to win a national title in any sport, when she claimed the first women's title at the American Tennis Association's national tournament in Baltimore. While an undergraduate student at Howard, Lucy Diggs Slowe was one of nine founders of Alpha Kappa Alpha, the nation's first Greek-letter organization for African-American women and served as its first president. More than a century later, the international sorority has grown to more than 290,000 members in 997 chapters in 42 states, the District of Columbia and several U.S. territories and foreign countries. With the purpose of raising the status of African-Americans, particularly girls and women, the sorority's corps of volunteers has championed life-long learning and instituted social action initiatives and social service programs that have transformed communities for the better. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in honoring the extraordinary life and contributions of Lucy Diggs Slowe, a favorite daughter of Berryville, Virginia and recognizing and thanking Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., for 109 years, of proudly and successfully working to raise the status of African-American girls and women

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to commemorate the life of Mr. Dennis Patrick ``Pat'' Mullins, who passed away on May 28, 2017, at the age of 79. Throughout his life, Mr. Mullins was an esteemed leader in our community and a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Revered for his ability to bring people together and beloved for his vibrant personality, charm, and great sense of humor, Mr. Mullins embodied the essence of a true conservative and a Virginia gentleman. Under his extraordinary leadership, the Republican Party of Virginia experienced a period of expansion and tremendous success, unparalleled in recent years. His legacy endures and he will always be remembered and missed by many. Originally from St. Albans, West Virginia, Mr. Mullins earned his bachelor's degree from Columbia University in 1959, where he served as sports editor of the college daily newspaper, the Spectator. Later, he earned his law degree from George Washington University. In 1963, Mr. Mullins married his wife, Jackie, with whom he raised four children. Mr. Mullins's illustrious political career spanned multiple decades and commenced with his role as the Fairfax County Republican Committee Chairman from 1990 to 1996. After moving to Central Virginia, he served as the Chairman of Louisa County Republican Committee from 2008 to 2009. Subsequently, he was elected as Chairman of the Republican Party of Virginia in 2009 and served until his retirement in 2015. In addition to his political activism, Mr. Mullins was known for his fervent passion for therapeutic horseback riding and his dedication to our community and his family. He served as a member of the American Paint Horse Foundation's Board of Directors and served as a Rotary District Governor. Mr. Mullins also always cherished his family and in his later years often regaled his grandchildren with vivacious stories. Mr. Mullins leaves behind a remarkable legacy and an extensive career of service to our Commonwealth. He will be greatly missed by the countless lives he has touched. He is survived by his four children, six grandchildren, and brother. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating the life of, and bidding farewell to, Pat Mullins. May he rest in peace, and his family be comforted.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I was not present today, June 21, for rollcall votes. I was attending a memorial service in my district. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 311, ``yea'' on rollcall No. 312, ``yea'' on rollcall No. 313, ``nay'' on rollcall No. 314, and ``yea'' on rollcall No. 315.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize my constituent, Corporal Rick Costello, who will be departing from his role with the Purcellville Police Department after over 15 years of service to our community. Corporal Costello's commitment to serving others did not start until 1999 when he began volunteering with the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office. In fact, he served with the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War before starting his career for a building supply company, where he worked for over thirty years. As a volunteer with the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office, Corporal Costello served as a member of the community advisory committee, assisting police officers in Loudoun County, but soon afterwards, the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office offered him a position on the force. Despite his age difference with the majority of the other trainees, Corporal Costello passed the six-month, rigorous training and served for three years with the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office and twelve more years with the Purcellville Police Department. As an officer, Corporal Costello became well known for his information technology skills, helping advance the Purcellville Police Department's communications systems and managing the department's accreditation process. In fact just last month, The Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission unanimously voted to award the Purcellville Police Department with its second re- accreditation certificate, largely due to the framework that Corporal Costello has set up over the years. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the entire 10th District, I thank Corporal Rick Costello for his dedicated career of service to Loudoun County, and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a truly commendable public servant. I wish him and his family all of the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the award-winning Mason and Partners (MAP) health care clinic and to congratulate George Mason University School of Nursing and its partners on the establishment of a permanent MAP Clinic in Manassas Park, Virginia. The clinic provides residents of medically underserved areas with a variety of health care services, including physicals, screenings, health care counseling, and acute primary care treatment while, at the same time, offering George Mason University nursing students and those in related studies the invaluable practical experience of treating and counseling patients who utilize the clinic. George Mason launched its first MAP clinic in 2013, originally offering its services at the Manassas Park Community Center. Since then, the operation has expanded to three Northern Virginia sites while also broadening the services they provide. The clinic strives to serve as a bridge for patients with no access to healthcare until they are able to arrange for more formal healthcare coverage for themselves. The MAP clinic program has also greatly benefitted our students at George Mason University. By offering an active learning lab, nursing and health and human services students are able to receive real-life experience working on interprofessional teams, a learning opportunity that is not available to many students across the nation. These clinical opportunities have been so well-received that the federal government's Health Resources Service Administration (HRSA) has awarded the school $2 million to support the education of Mason School of Nursing students. Mr. Speaker, I take great pride in celebrating with you and our colleagues the establishment of the first permanent structure of the MAP clinic in Manassas Park, Virginia. In addition, I ask that you join me in congratulating the George Mason University School of Nursing and its partners, Dr. Allison Ansher of the Prince William Health District, the Parks and Recreation and Education Departments of the City of Manassas Park, the city's Community Development Office and interim director Calvin O'Dell, the Potomac Health Foundation, and the students and faculty of George Mason's College of Health and Human Services, for the extraordinary success of this visionary, nurse-led program. I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a group of students from Freedom High School, who recently won the Odyssey of the Mind World Championship on May 27, 2017. Leading up to this global competition in Michigan, the Freedom High School team won a Virginia Regional competition as well as the Virginia state championship, and these extraordinary achievements show how far dedication, hard work, and commitment to teamwork can take a group as they competed with some of the best student teams across the world. The Odyssey of the Mind World Championship is a STEM-based scholastic competition in which students devise innovative solutions to challenges, such as assembling vehicles and integrating them into timed skits. These problems and programs allow students to convert their ideas and knowledge into tangible results in a stimulating and competitive atmosphere. During the world championship, each team participated in three competitions, including a spontaneous problem solving challenge, a style competition, and finally a long term problem, which the team has worked on for 6 to 7 months. Under the leadership of Coaches Bill and Judy Munley, Freedom High School's championship winning team consisted of seniors Michael Munley, Aditi Shukla, Manisha Kusuma, Apekchha Pradhan and juniors Virginia Campbell, Zander Rodriguez, and Sarana Adhikari. While the team has qualified for 5 world competitions in the past 10 years, this is the only Loudoun County team to ever win the championship at the global level. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Freedom High School's Odyssey of the Mind team for winning the Odyssey of the Mind World Championship and representing Virginia's 10th Congressional District with such distinction. I wish Bill, Judy, and the entire team the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Michael A. Smith, an outstanding member of a special family in the Shenandoah Valley, whose generosity of time, energy, and money has made a significant difference in the lives of my Shenandoah Valley constituents. Mr. Smith recently received the President's Award of Shepherd University, in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, for his extraordinary service and contributions to that university. With the passing of their father, Gerald F. Smith, in 2003, Michael and his brother, Gerald Smith, Jr. have led the family owned business, Valley Proteins, Inc., through a period of remarkable growth. Established in 1949 by their grandfather, Clyde A. Smith, as a one- truck service for recycling waste meat byproducts and spent cooking oils, Valley Proteins is now one of the largest independent rendering companies in North America, operating 12 plants in seven states. Although the Smith family enterprise has consumed most of the brothers' time, they have both given back to the community in significant ways. Michael has served as the President of the Winchester Youth Development Center, which provides recreational and enrichment opportunities for the youth of Winchester, the Vice President of the Virginia Community College Foundation, which raises funds to provide access to post-secondary education to all Virginians, the Treasurer and Annual Giving Chairman for Powhatan School, and the President of the Board of Directors of the Upperville Colt and Horse Show. Since graduating from Shepherd University with a business degree in 1989, Michael Smith has also generously given of his time and money to his alma mater. Today, he is president of the Shepherd University Foundation, which receives and administers private gifts for student scholarships, academic and program support, faculty excellence awards and other university initiatives. In addition to starting two endowed funds in the name of his grandfather and father, Smith assisted with the university's efforts to create a school of business, by issuing a generous challenge grant which resulted in the raising of more than $650,000 for the school. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in honoring Michael Smith, Vice President of Valley Proteins, Inc., for his special recognition from Shepherd University and his extraordinary contributions to the residents of the northern Shenandoah Valley and the people of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize my constituents, Roya and Chris Giordano, and Team Mathias, an extraordinary non-profit organization located in Loudoun County, Virginia, for their work to increase awareness about pediatric cancer and also to support families whose loved ones are struggling with the disease. Team Mathias is named after Mathias Giordano, whose determination to make a difference in the lives of other pediatric cancer patients resulted in the establishment of the organization, even as he struggled with bone cancer himself. Thirteen year old Mathias Giordano was a radiant light in this world whose optimism and valor gave assurance to young patients and their families that they are not alone in fighting the tragic disease of pediatric cancer that yearly afflicts over 10,000 children and remains the leading cause of death from disease among children in our nation. Team Mathias, led by Roya and Chris Giordano and in collaboration with enthusiastic and diligent volunteers, annually hosts the Team Mathias Golf Tournament, and the Annual Team Mathias 5k Trail and Family Run that is taking place this year at the Evergreen Sportsplex in Leesburg. The proceeds from these events are used to increase awareness of all childhood cancers, raise funds for research, and make a donation to Special Love, a local non-profit that provides cancer families a community of support, made up of patients and families. In fulfillment of his own wishes, Team Mathias sends wonderful care packages to pediatric patients and their siblings, just as Mathias had specified. Since my time in the Virginia General Assembly, advocating for those with pediatric cancer and working to find cures have been priorities of mine, and I take great pride in the number of family and community based organizations in Virginia's 10th District, like Team Mathias, that go above and beyond to spread awareness for those suffering from these illnesses. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing and thanking Roya and Chris Giordano and their team of volunteers, for the incredibly compassionate work of supporting families with loved ones who are fighting pediatric cancer. I also ask my colleagues that we remember Mathias, who faced his battle with cancer with fearless courage, grace, and dignity.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and congratulate Mr. Jonathan Allen, who was recently drafted in the first round of the 2017 National Football League draft by his hometown team, the Washington Redskins. Mr. Allen is from Leesburg, Virginia and played football at Stone Bridge High School in Ashburn, Virginia. Under the leadership of his coach and mentor, Mickey Thompson, the team finished with winning seasons each year he was there, and after graduating in 2013, Mr. Allen attended the University of Alabama as a five-star recruit, where he was named to the first team All-Southeastern Conference during his sophomore, junior, and senior years. Additionally in 2016, as a junior, he was instrumental in Alabama's National Championship, in which they defeated the Clemson Tigers. Mr. Allen has also won a number of individual accolades, including being named the Washington Post All-Met Player twice in high school, being selected as the 2012 Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year, and lastly being recognized as a 2013 U.S. Army All-American. At the University of Alabama Mr. Allen's football career blossomed. He was named the 2016 SEC Defensive Player of the Year and was also the recipient of the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and the Chuck Bednarik Award, which are given to the best defensive player in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). With Mr. Allen signing a four year contract with the Redskins, he is truly returning home. The team's practice facility is located in Ashburn, Virginia, and Mr. Allen is especially ready to give back to his community through the local mentorship of Coach Thompson's Bulldogs at Stone Bridge High School. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Mr. Jonathan Allen on becoming a Washington Redskins player. I commend him for his impressive accomplishments, and I am proud to represent him and wish him all the best in his NFL career.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Julia Whitla Clinger, who passed away on November 22, 2016, at the age of 85. Judy, as she was known to her friends, was the wife of William F. Clinger, a distinguished former member of this body whom I was privileged to work for during his tenure as the Chairman of the Government Reform and Oversight Committee in the mid-1990s. Judy was born on February 3, 1931, in Sharon, Pennsylvania. Her early life was marked by tragedy--her father, a prominent lawyer in Sharon, died of pneumonia when she was just two years old. Judy graduated from Connecticut College with highest honors, Phi Beta Kappa, with a degree in English. In 1951, she married Bill, and spent the better part of the next 25 years in Warren, Pennsylvania, where they raised their four children and were active members of the community. After Bill's election to Congress in 1978, Judy moved with him to Washington. Here, she was involved in a number of charitable and civic organizations, including the International Club of Washington and the Congressional Wives Task Force, where she served as Treasurer. Bill would be the first to tell you that Judy was his greatest political asset, actively participating in his nine successful congressional campaigns and playing an important behind-the-scenes role as he rose through the ranks on Capitol Hill to become a committee chairman. Judy will be remembered by those who knew her for what one described as her ``feisty elegance''--a combination of social grace and high- spiritedness that made it a pleasure to spend time with her. Judy's life will be celebrated over the upcoming Fourth of July holiday at a memorial service in the lakeside community of Chautauqua in upstate New York, where she and Bill first met and where they returned every summer. Judy is survived by Bill, whom I had an opportunity to visit with recently, her children (Eleanore, Will, Jim, and Julia), and by seven grandchildren, to whom she was devoted. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating the life of Judy Clinger, and extending our sincerest condolences to our former colleague, Bill Clinger, on the loss of his wife of 65 years.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and congratulate Mr. Stuart Vogt of Vienna, Virginia. Born in 1920, Mr. Vogt lived through some of the most uncertain times in American history during which he not only endured, but flourished. And throughout his illustrious career he has always put his country and community first. Mr. Vogt graduated from Lehigh University in 1942 with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering. With the war effort furiously ramping up, there was a demand for young, aspiring engineers. He was recruited by Westinghouse in Lima, Ohio, near Army Air Force headquarters at Wright- Patterson AFB, to join Westinghouse's brand new Aviation Engineering Department. While there he designed dynamos and generators for World War II P40 fighters and B17 & B24 bombers. After the war, Mr. Vogt moved to Virginia to work with Naval Air Systems Command on aircraft electric motors. However, after only a few years there he was given a unique opportunity to work on NASA's Launch Operations' Saturn rockets. During his time at NASA, he worked in conjunction with Werner Von Braun and other scientists in Huntsville and Cape Canaveral. Before retiring thirty years ago, Mr. Vogt returned to Naval Air Systems Command where he installed aircraft carrier computer upgrades to accommodate new carrier-based F14 Tomcat fighters, S-3 Viking submarine trackers and E- 2C Hawkeye early warning radar aircraft. In retirement Mr. Vogt shifted from serving his country to serving his community. He was the Chairman of his local chapter of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees, and today he remains a very active member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Vienna. Mr. Vogt has a selfless desire to serve and to give back to his community, and this attitude inspires the same in all who meet him. He is a leader and I know he passes on the same selfless qualities to all he meets. Beyond his duties within his community and long career in the defense and aerospace industries, Mr. Vogt was a loving husband to his wife Marie who passed away 14 years ago and is a loving father to son Stuart Vogt and grandfather to Lynne and Andy. At this moment, Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in extending our sincerest thanks to Mr. Vogt for all the work he has done in his community and for our country.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I would like to acknowledge one of my constituents from Chantilly, Virginia, Young Marine Master Gunnery Sergeant, Lauren Loria, for her exemplary service to our community and our armed forces. This past weekend, Young Marine Loria had the unique opportunity to dedicate a bench at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park to Medal of Honor Recipient Colonel Wesley Fox. Lauren Loria joined the Young Marines in 2009; the day she turned 8 years old. During her time as a Young Marine, she has consistently met her goals and objectives. She has documented 1,284 volunteer community service hours, participating in programs such as Homes for the Troops, Young Eagles Rally, Honor Flight Color Guards, STEM functions, Wreaths Across America, and Sobriety Checkpoints with MADD. She has also received 259 hours of Drug Demand Reduction/Prevention instruction, which includes peer education training and counseling, and she has attended all three Leadership Schools offered by the Young Marines, including the National Leadership Academy. Lastly, she has received seven Gold Lamp awards, an annual academic achievement for obtaining a 3.5 GPA or higher. Now 16 years old, Young Marine Loria will be moving on to Freedom High School to complete her high school education, and I wish her the best of luck in all of her future endeavors. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in extending our sincerest recognition and gratitude to Young Marine Loria for all she has done for our community and our nation.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a local flute studio and flute choir in my district, Flutonic Harmonics, for their hard work, dedication to the arts, and immense achievements for which they have attained national recognition over the past year. Local choirs and organizations, like Flutonic Harmonics, are vital to engaging our youth and expanding their educational experience beyond the classroom. Flutonic Harmonics is led by my constituent, Michelle Rubis, of Purcellville, Virginia, and under her leadership they have experienced tremendous success. Last year, the flute choir performed before the entire Purcellville Town Council and subsequently at the Universal STARS Performance Program. This annual event takes place at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, and gives some of the nation's most prestigious marching bands, concert bands, dance teams, choirs, or other performing groups the opportunity to showcase their talents on a national stage in front of thousands of Universal Studios visitors. Additionally, this program allows for these young musicians to interact with other talented artists around the country. This coming June, Flutonic Harmonics will be recording their recital and sending it to several famous venues in New York, Boston, and even Italy for consideration. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Flutonic Harmonics and Michelle Rubis for their participation in Universal STARS Performance Program and for their exemplary dedication, impressive talent, and noteworthy accomplishments. I wish them all the best in their future endeavors and look forward to seeing all they will accomplish in the years to come.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to use this time to recognize the 2nd Annual Barn Blast, a local fundraising event in Leesburg, Virginia, for the INMED Family & Youth Opportunity Center. The INMED Opportunity Center is a program aimed to liberate children from the irreparable damages of hunger, abuse, and insecurity. They strive to equip struggling children with the skills and vision they need to build a future filled with opportunity and hope, and I am grateful for their service to our youth, the next generation of leaders. INMED Opportunity Center, located in Sterling, Virginia, is a part of a program of INMED Partnerships for Children, an international humanitarian organization, established in 1986. The INMED Partnerships for Children was founded with the goal of tackling the pressing needs of children in the developed and developing world. The Opportunity Center serves as a crucial part of this larger organization as it offers a plethora of programs to support families in need in Loudoun County. Some examples include after-school academic and enrichment programs, summer camps, family education and support, career skills training, homelessness support, and mentoring. This second annual fundraiser is an event that has garnered a great deal of popularity and community involvement. Located at the Murray Hill Estate in Leesburg, the event features live music, barbecue, dancing, and live and silent auctions. It is entertaining, community events, like the 2nd Annual Barn Blast event, that have helped this organization thrive and build its essential presence in our community. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me in recognizing the 3rd Annual Barn Blast and the INMED Family & Youth Opportunity Center and in thanking them for their commitment and service to our community. The efforts and contributions from the staff, volunteers, corporate sponsors, and our community are truly exemplary, and I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mrs. COMSTOCK

Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize my constituent, Corliss Udoema, who is a successful entrepreneur and holds the unique distinction of being selected as the 2017 Virginia Small Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Corliss began her career in the federal government, where she worked with the U.S. Marine Corps, Department of the Navy, and the Department of the Army. Then after a successful 32-year career with the federal government, Corliss started Contract Solutions, Inc. (CSI) in 2006. CSI is a small business whose mission is to assist federal, state and local governments, private for-profit and non-profit clients, by offering professional staffing and management support services. Since its inception, CSI has thrived, as it has evolved from a one-person company to a multi-million-dollar business. CSI has proven to be a model for other businesses to emulate, which is why in 2013 it was chosen to participate in the U.S. Small Business Administration's esteemed Mentor-Protege Program, designed to enable successful companies to develop strong protege firms by providing newer firms still in their nascent with various forms of business development assistance. I am impressed by Corliss's dedication and how in just a mere decade she has transformed CSI from a small startup business into a tremendous success and engine of economic growth. Starting and operating any small business, let alone one as successful as CSI, is an incredibly arduous process, as small business owners face many challenges and obstacles. The success of CSI is a testimony to Corliss's hard work, commitment, and innovative ideas. In addition to her extensive and distinguished career in the federal government and private sector, Corliss has always found time to serve her community. She is the founder and president of Agape Love in Action, a nonprofit organization which provides support for those in need, and serves as a minister at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Centreville, Virginia. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Corliss Udoema for her extraordinary achievement. I look forward to her ongoing contributions to Prince William County's diverse and innovative small business community and I wish her the best in her future endeavors.