Eugene Vindman

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate my Constituent of the Week, Chief Rebecca Davis Nelson, on her appointment as chief of police for the town of Orange. Prior to her promotion, Chief Davis Nelson was the longest serving officer in the department, a testament to her deep commitment and steady leadership. With more than two decades of law enforcement experience, she now makes history as the first woman to lead the agency, an achievement that reflects both her dedication and the trust she has earned within the department and the community. Since 2002, Chief Davis Nelson has devoted her career to serving and protecting her community, building a reputation for professionalism, integrity, and strong leadership. I am confident she will continue to guide the department with distinction in her new role. I congratulate Chief Davis Nelson on this well-deserved honor, and I thank her for her continued service.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr, Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Thomas Tutwiler, a profound music educator with over 30 years of serving students. Mr. Tutwiler built a remarkable career rooted in dedication, excellence, and deep passion for music education. He earned a master's degree in Choral Conducting from the University of Cincinnati College- Conservatory of Music and a bacheIor's degree in music education and psychology from James Madison University, an academic foundation that prepared him to inspire generations of students. Over the course of over 30 years, Mr. Tutwiler served at several schools and is now completing his 23rd and final year as Choral Director at C.D. Hylton High School. Throughout his journey, he has made a huge impact on students, parents, teachers, and the broader community, shaping the lives of countless young people through music, mentorship, and leadership. His career includes a huge list of accomplishments. For more than 25 years, he performed with the Men/Girls/Boys Choirs of the Washington National Cathedral, an elite and highly competitive honor requiring exceptional sight-reading ability, vocal proficiency, and musicianship. In addition, he has served as a guest conductor on the regional, district, and county level honor choirs. In 2015, Mr. Tutwiler was also named High School Teacher of the Year by Dale City in Prince William County, Virginia, and was recognized by James Madison University as Alumni Music Educator of the Year. I want to personally thank Mr. Tutwiler for the outstanding impact he has had on students, parents, colleagues, and the many generations he has guided throughout his career. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Thomas Tutwiler for his outstanding service and the tremendous difference he has made in our communities. I wish him all the best in his well earned retirement.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 208th anniversary of the Mount Olive Baptist Church in Stafford County, Virginia. Mount Olive Baptist Church has a rich history that is marked by resilience and courage. On May 16, 1818, five Black landowners gathered near Roseville in Western Stafford County, Virginia to found the church. Their first service was held beneath a simple slab-wood shelter, where a congregation began to take shape under conditions that required far more than faith alone. In 1818 Virginia, it was illegal for Black people to assemble without a white person present. As a result, Reverend Crutcher, a white minister, was required to attend as a legal requirement. Yet it was the five Black landowners who made the true foundation possible, men who owned the land, chose to worship together, and accepted the risks of gathering in an unjust system. Although they were denied formal recognition, they were the driving force behind the church's formation and worked tirelessly to ensure its growth. Over the years, Mount Olive Baptist Church has grown and flourished, expanding its ministries and outreach to serve a growing congregation. Today, it offers Sunday school programs, men's and women's fellowship ministries, youth and adult choirs, and a wide range of services that serve the broader Stafford community. The congregation's unwavering commitment to faith laid the foundation for the community that still thrives today. For 208 years, Mount Olive Baptist Church has stood as a sanctuary for worship and spiritual nourishment. As we celebrate this milestone, let us honor the legacy of those five individuals who contributed to the church's mission over the years. Their dedication has helped build a thriving community that will continue to flourish for generations to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and celebrating Mount Olive Baptist Church on its 208th anniversary. I am honored to represent the families and individuals who make up this caring and loving community, and I look forward to celebrating their continued success for years to come.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Ms. Sheyna Burt, an accomplished attorney, President of Youth Orchestras of Prince William, dedicated violinist, and most notably a community leader. It is my privilege to recognize her on the occasion of An Evening Above the Clouds, a celebration marking 16 years of uplifting our community through the Hylton Performing Arts Center. More than 25 years ago, Ms. Burt began her musical journey as a student in the Prince William County Public Schools' strings program. What began as a childhood hobby grew into a lifelong passion and purpose. Today as President of the Youth Orchestras of Prince William and the Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra, she remains committed to sharing the arts and ensuring that generations to come have access to those same opportunities as she did. Through her leadership both on stage and in public forums, she has helped shape a more inclusive and vibrant cultural landscape, expanded access to music education, and advocated for the importance of the arts. Her work extends well beyond performance. Through her legal expertise, Ms. Burt has supported nonprofit organizations in advancing their missions. Through her leadership with the Hylton Performing Arts Center as a board member, board chair, and now immediate past chair--she has helped to facilitate an environment where artists and audiences can connect, thrive, and be inspired. For more than 25 years, Ms. Burt has made a lasting impact on our community through her vision, her advocacy, and her unwavering dedication to others. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Ms. Burt, a true champion of the arts and a leader who will impact generations to come.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and thank my Deputy District Director, Marc Rabourdin for his service to the people of Virginia's Seventh Congressional District with distinction for more than four years. Before joining my office Marc began his service to the Seventh Congressional District working for my dear friend and predecessor. former Congresswoman and now Governor Abigail Spanberger. Bringing a wealth of knowledge, professionalism, and care, he has continued to deliver results for Central and Northern Virginia. From the very first day in January 2025, his dedication has made a real difference in the lives of the people we serve. Marc cultivated strong partnerships across the Seventh district. Always calm, steady, we referred to as the ``Mayor'' given his talent for meeting people where they were and nurturing positive relationships with leaders and stakeholders of all backgrounds. Most notably, Marc was instrumental in my office's Community Project Funding initiatives for Fiscal Year 2026 as he helped to secure thousands of dollars for improving water treatment processes in the rural counties of Greene and Orange and brought millions of dollars for supporting law enforcement including Stafford County Sheriff, Town of Culpeper Police Department, Caroline County Sheriff's office, and Madison Sheriff's Office. Marc is moving on to an exciting new role, now serving as the Director of Local Government Engagement in the Office of Governor Spanberger. While it is bittersweet to see him depart, I know that he will continue to do great work serving communities all across the Commonwealth. I want to personally thank Marc for hitting the ground running and for setting a stellar example for the rest of my district team. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending Marc Rabourdin for his immeasurable service to the Commonwealth and Virginia's Seventh congressional district.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Carol Kitman, a stalwart supporter, a trusted friend, and a maternal figure whose presence has been a constant in my childhood, my life, and my family. I first met Mrs. Kitman in 1980, on the streets of Brighton Beach in Brooklyn, the year my family immigrated to New York from Ukraine in search of a better life. She saw my brother Alexander and me playing and asked our grandmother if she could take a photo--a small moment that marked the beginning of a lifelong connection. In that moment, Mrs. Kitman did more than take a photograph. She took the time to speak with us, to listen, and to understand our story. Carol was deeply touched by our Jewish family's journey to the United States and chose to remain a part of our lives. Over the years, she became someone I looked up to, admired and deeply trusted. My brother and I went to her house for trick-or-treating, get- aways to the suburbs, and began to understand what the American dream could be for us. We forged a life-long bond with her and her husband, Mr. Marvin Kitman, an American television critic, humorist, and award- winning author. The Kitmans were present for so many of our milestones, including our weddings, graduations, holidays, and family celebrations, always capturing those moments through Mrs. Kitman's lens. They attended my Pentagon ceremony, where I was honored with a promotion to rank of lieutenant colonel in the United States Army. Through her kindness, dedication, and generosity of spirit, Mrs. Kitman made a lasting impact on my life. She was far more than a photographer known for documenting the lives of my brother and me. From our very first meeting, she became a vital part of my life. Throughout her 96 years, she touched many lives across New York and New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me honoring and remembering Mrs. Carol Kitman and her husband Marvin, who played such meaningful role in my life. I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Kitmans' children and their entire family. I am honored to have known them.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Vince Smithers on his 40 years of federal service. Throughout his career, including at the Office of Personnel Management within the Healthcare and Insurance arena--Mr. Smithers has exemplified professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to those around him. As a federal warrant holder, he carried out his responsibilities with the highest ethical standards, playing a critical role in supporting the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, one of the largest employer sponsored health programs in the Nation. Though he is known for his quiet demeanor, Mr. Smithers' presence has a way of uplifting every room he enters, his colleagues describe him as a true team player--thoughtful, kind, and dedicated to fostering a healthy work-life balance within the workplace. I want to personally thank Mr. Smithers for the outstanding impact he has had on his colleagues, his workplace, and the many individuals he has served over the past four decades. His leadership and expertise reflect the very best of public service. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Vince Smithers, honoring his service and the difference he has made in our communities. I wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement and in the years ahead.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Avery Wise, a fearless 17-year-old leader from Woodbridge, Virginia, who has already committed his life to serving others. At just 17 years old, EMT Wise volunteers weekly with the Occoquan- Woodbridge-Lorton (OWL) Volunteer Fire Department, where he responds to 911 emergency calls, provides medical assistance to patients, and administers appropriate medical treatments. Last year, his passion for service was put to the test in a profound and life-changing way. While in class learning about air management, EMT Wise was dispatched to an emergency involving a 73-year-old woman who had stopped breathing. Without a doubt, he went into action, performing an intubation procedure and attaching a ventilation device to restore her breathing. After successfully stabilizing the patient, he remained by her side during transport, carefully making sure her chest continued to rise adequately. Thanks to his quick actions and composure under pressure, the patient was released from the hospital in good health. This experience did not deter him, instead it strengthened his commitment to public service and deepened his understanding of what it truly means to serve, no matter how big or small the call could be. EMT Wise's dedication to serving his community doesn't stop when he is off the clock. He has been a member of the Trail Life USA scouting program for over 11 years, serving in multiple leadership roles, including First Officer and High School Chaplain, taking on the responsibility of assisting the Troop Master in troop management and communicating with the Committee Chair to discuss ways to improve the organization. In addition, EMT Wise is an extraordinary varsity basketball player with the Northern Virginia Homeschool Athletic Association. He also earned the Passion for Public Service Scholarship from the National Society of High School Scholars. In want to personally thank EMT Wise for his dedication to serving his community, and I wish him continued success as he works toward becoming a crew leader within his EMT team. Mr. Speaker. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing EMT Wise for his courage.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Mrs. Sallie Chew Baker also known affectionately as ``Dear Mama.'' Born in 1885, Mrs. Baker was a respected businesswoman, educator, and spiritual leader who left a lasting impact throughout the Caroline County Community. Mrs. Baker's legacy continues to live on through the countless lives she touched. Alongside her late husband, Dansberry Abraham Lincoln Baker Sr., she raised six children--Judge, Napoleon, Druscilla, Dansberry Jr., Proft, and Lloyd. However, she didn't just stop there, she opened her home to children across the community, creating a safe, nurturing environment where everyone felt welcomed and cared for. A devoted community leader, Mrs. Baker owned and operated a grocery store that not only provided essential goods but also served as a critical place for families in need to shop. Her kindness and compassion were evident in every part of her work, always putting others before herself. Her commitment to preserving history was equally remarkable. Mrs. Baker played an important role in protecting the historic Guinea one- room schoolhouse, which served Black students from 1918 to 1959. When the community plan to convert the site into a beer garden, she fought tirelessly to preserve its legacy. In a defining moment, she attended an auction at Union Bank & Trust and successfully put in a bid for $575 to reclaim the building--an act that earned her deep respect not just from her immediate community, but those who also doubted her abilities. After securing the property, she transformed the schoolhouse into the Ever-Ready Club, a space to uplift children and ensure they had access to the resources and opportunities needed to succeed. In 1962, Mrs. Baker then donated the land to be used for the new Macedonia Baptist Church in Woodford, Virginia. In recognition of her remarkable gift, she was honored as the church's first ``Mother'' and had the distinction of cutting the ribbon on Easter Sunday, April 14, 1963. More than six decades later, the church continues to serve as a spiritual home for many Virginians. I want to personally honor Mrs. Baker for her contributions and unwavering commitment to the Caroline County community. I also want to thank family, friends, and members of Macedonia Baptist Church for their ongoing service and dedication to strengthening our community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Baker, and her legacy of faith and community leadership.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to recognize Richard E. Toye, Sr., a 98-year-old World War II veteran, for his service to our country. Mr. Toye was drafted in 1944 and stationed in Okinawa as the member of the Quartermaster Corps. After being discharged from Active Duty, he reenlisted and served in the Navy Reserves until 1950. Mr. Toye has been a steady voice for positive change in Spotsylvania County. He volunteered with Big Brothers and Big Sisters, United Way, and the Spotsylvania County Democratic Committee. As a 25-year Army veteran and a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I know the depth of sacrifice that his service to our country demands. That is why this week I am proud to recognize Mr. Toye as a constituent of the week. I thank him for his service to our Nation and for his continued work in our community. I will always work to deliver for veterans like him.

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to congratulate my constituent of the week, Curry Roberts, on his retirement from serving as the president of the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance at the University of Mary Washington. A Fredericksburg-area business leader, Mr. Roberts has dedicated his career to our community. Mr. Roberts has attracted over 6,000 new jobs to the region, laying groundwork for key opportunities for industry to work with local government. In addition to work on the FRA, Mr. Roberts also had a 35-year career in leadership on various nonprofit, public sector, and private-sector jobs. Mr. Roberts has always had the back of our communities, and I am committed to paying this forward in Congress. I congratulate him on his retirement, and I wish him well on his next chapter. Constituent of the Week: Richard E. Toye, Sr.

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I honor my Constituent of the Week, Pranav Vedula, of Stafford County, Virginia, for winning the Seventh Congressional District's App Challenge. The Congressional App Challenge is a nationwide competition that encourages students to explore STEM, coding and computer science by creating original software applications. Pranav, a senior at Colonial Forge High School, did exactly that by developing an innovative app called ReCheck. ReCheck is a productivity app designed to assist individuals experiencing memory loss. It allows people living with dementia to build customized to-do lists that help them maintain independence and confidence in their daily lives. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Pranav for using his skills to bring awareness to this critical issue and for his clear commitment to improving people's quality of life. I wish him continued success in his future academic and professional pursuits. Constituent of the Week: Curry Roberts

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Patrice Summers on her 26 years of exceptional service to Prince William County. Inspired by her mother's civic engagement, Patrice committed herself to public service from a young age. For over two decades, she served as an elections officer and then chief elections officer right here in Prince William County. Patrice is also actively involved in the Virginia 512 organizing committee. Beyond her public sector and union work, Patrice is a devoted caregiver to two of her family members. Her dedication to uplifting her neighbors, her family, and giving back to her community embodies a lifetime of selflessness. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to congratulate her on this well-earned recognition and honor her as this week's Constituent of the Week. Congratulations, and I thank her for all that she does. Constituent of the Week: Pranav Vedula

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Frank W. Harris III, a United States Marine Corps Colonel whose extraordinary life of service spans three defining conflicts in our Nation's history: World War II, the Korean war, and the Vietnam war. In each of these wars, Colonel Harris stood in defense of freedoms at moments when it was tested most. Colonel Harris has demonstrated time and again what it means to put Nation before self. In doing so, he has embodied the highest ideals of the Marine Corps: honor, courage, and commitment. Having lived through a century of American history, Colonel Harris represents more than remarkable longevity. He represents resilience. To witness 101 years and to have spent so many of them in service to others is itself extraordinary. His life tells the story of perseverance through hardship, faith through uncertainty, and leadership through change. Mr. Speaker, I am truly honored to have him as my constituent. From this Army colonel: Oorah and Semper Fidelis. Constituent of the Week: Patrice Summers

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sheriff Scott Foster for his 31 years of outstanding service in law enforcement. Sheriff Foster began his career in 1994, advancing from the rank of deputy to captain. On September 15, 2022, he was appointed sheriff of the city of Fredericksburg and was sworn in shortly afterwards. Since taking office, Sheriff Foster has worked to improve the Fredericksburg Sheriff's Office by updating operational plans, implementing policies and procedures, and improving training and recordkeeping. Under his leadership, he also established a career development program to support employee growth and recognize professional excellence within the department. I personally congratulate and thank Sheriff Foster for his dedication to ensuring our Fredericksburg communities stay safe and have access to the resources they need. His impact on community will be felt for years to come.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, much has been said about the President's war in Iran. He has not made the case clear to the American people about what he is looking to achieve. Regime change from the air may be unlikely and may result in a more extreme, hostile, and dangerous regime than existed before. All of that is true, but what is truly unacceptable is the cost, both in American blood and American treasure. We don't know yet the cost of the war but by some estimates it could cost as much as $1 billion a day. The President has said 4 to 6 weeks, and that translates to $28 to $42 billion. I have heard even more alarming reports from senior DOD officials earlier today. That money won't be spent on lowering working Americans' grocery bills, prescription drugs, and gas at the pump. The most terrifying cost is the six Americans who have been killed, including one who is a constituent that lived in Spotsylvania, Virginia. Yesterday, the Secretary of Defense said it is ``tragic news'' that is reported because the press only wants to make the President look bad. That is outrageous and beyond the pale. This is not about the President. It is not about the Secretary. It is about the servicemembers. The American people are deeply concerned about our sons and daughters dying in a war that just 27 percent support.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Mrs. Laura McKie. a proud constituent of Woodbridge, Virginia as she celebrates her 90th birthday on March 21, 2026. For years, Mrs. McKie has been a leader of our community, advocating for education and women's rights. Mrs. McKie has had a distinguished career, earning a degree in cultural anthropology from Washington University in St. Louis followed by a master's degree from Harvard University. After graduating she went on to serve as Director of Education at the Smithsonian's National Museum of National History. In that role, she was responsible for the Insect Zoo, Discovery Room, Marine Ecosystems Exhibit, and the Naturalist Center including a staff of two dozen museum professionals and 300 docents. During her tenure, Mrs. McKie was also in charge of creating educational materials and guides for exhibitions, as well as several large-format films, and video productions. She served as the museum's accessibility coordinator, managing the implementation of fully accessible audio tours and ensuring that the museum's resources could be enjoyed by all visitors. After retiring, Mrs. McKie didn't just stop there; she continued her dedication to public service. Most notably, she volunteered to develop and direct the Lucy Burns Museum at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia, which documents the 91-year history of the prison that housed inmates from the District of Columbia. She curated the exhibitions highlighting the 1917 imprisonment, brutal treatment, and hunger strikes of suffragists like Lucy Burns and Alice Paul. Through her leadership, the museum tells the powerful story of the women of the National Women's Party and preserves the legacy of those who demanded the right to vote. In March 2020, Mrs. McKie received a special proclamation from the Fairfax County Commission for Women honoring her as a ``Valiant Woman of the Vote'' for her devoted work in bringing the Lucy Burns Museum to life and contributions to our community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mrs. Laura McKie on her remarkable life of service and leadership, and in wishing her a very happy 90th birthday.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and thank Donna Wright-Sheldrick for her extraordinary career in public safety and her steadfast commitment to the people of Stafford County, Virginia Donna Wright-Sheldrick began her distinguished service in August 1978 with the Rappahannock Regional Criminal Justice Academy as a Staff Instructor. Over the course of 19 years, she became a cornerstone of the Academy's operations and institutional development. In addition to serving as Secretary to the Board of Directors and Administrative Assistant, she rose to the role of Senior Staff Instructor, where she played a critical role in shaping curriculum, strengthening training programs, maintaining essential databases, developing lesson plans, and securing grant funding. Her diligence and foresight helped ensure not only the Academy's immediate success, but also its long-term stability and growth, benefiting countless law enforcement professionals across the region. In January 1998, Ms. Wright-Sheldrick brought her experience and leadership to the Stafford County Sheriff's Office, where she has served with distinction as a Training Officer and as a core member of the Professional Standards Division. In a role that demands precision, accountability, and unimpeachable ethics, she consistently demonstrated a positive attitude and a deep commitment to doing whatever is required to uphold the highest standards of the profession. Her integrity and reliability have earned her the trust of colleagues and community members alike. In recognition of her character and dedication, she was awarded the Sheriff's Office Integrity Award in 2011, reflecting her tireless efforts to foster transparency, professionalism, and public confidence. She has also received numerous commendations for her work as a Rape Aggression Defense Instructor, empowering members of the community with critical safety skills. Additionally, her leadership in coordinating the Citizens Police Academy and administering Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act qualifications has strengthened the bond between law enforcement and the citizens they serve while maintaining rigorous compliance and training standards. In her nearly five-decade career, Donna has exemplified the very best of public service--commitment, competence, and character. Her career reflects a sustained record of excellence and quiet leadership that has left a lasting impact on Stafford County and the broader law enforcement community. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of a grateful community, we extend our deepest appreciation to Donna Wright-Sheldrick for her lifetime of service.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Mrs. Terry Lein, a proud constituent of Woodbridge, Virginia, as she retires from the United States Navy after 29 years of extraordinary service in the Navy Nurse Corps. Mrs. Lein built a remarkable career rooted in both compassion and dedication. She earned a bachelor's degree in Zoology/Animal Biology, followed by master's degrees in nursing and business administration, an academic foundation that would prepare her to lead and care for our communities. Her commitment to service was inspired early on by her father, who served in the Navy during the Korean War. In 1996, she began serving as an Operating Room nurse, where she managed patient care in support of combat operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief efforts. Throughout her nearly three decades of service, Mrs. Lein was stationed across the world, including assignments in Italy, Iceland, Japan, and Alaska. When Hurricane Katrina hit, she was the Nurse Officer in charge, leading a unit of nurses during one of our Nation's most challenging moments, making sure patients received the consistent care they needed and deserved. Recognized for her exemplary service, she earned the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (NMCCOM) and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement (NMCAM), both of which are a testament to her superior performance and meritorious service. Although she has retired from the line of duty, Mrs. Lein's service to others continues. She now serves as Nurse Manager at the Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institute, where she oversees clinical operations, supports nursing staff, and ensures patients receive the highest standard of safe, quality care. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mrs. Lein on her well-earned retirement and thanking her for almost three decades of service to our Nation.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Gardening Gays Farm of King George County, Virginia, on earning multiple honors in the 2026 King George ``KG Best of the Best'' Awards, a community- driven recognition of outstanding local businesses. Through the votes of their neighbors and customers, Gardening Gays Farm was recognized in several categories, including best customer service, best family-owned business, best small business, best agriculture or farm business, best grocery or convenience store. This recognition reflects their outstanding service, quality, and community engagement. Their success is a testament to the dedication, innovation, and integrity that define this family-owned farm. I had the pleasure of visiting Gardening Gays Farm and witnessed firsthand the passion and hard work that have made it such a beloved local institution. From their commitment to sustainable farming practices to the welcoming atmosphere that they create for families across the region, it is clear why so many in King George County hold them in such high regard. Small businesses like Gardening Gays Farm are the backbone of our rural communities and an essential part of Virginia's proud agricultural heritage. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the owners and team at Gardening Gays Farm on these well-deserved honors and wishing them continued success in the years ahead.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the Jenkins Donelson Foundation (JDF) located in Stafford, Virginia for their decade of service to the communities of the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. Since 2016, the Jenkins Donelson Foundation have worked to promote health and healthy lifestyles for the homeless, veterans, and underserved communities. Over the years, they have provided socks, shoes, foot care supplies, clothing, blankets, beds/bedding, kitchenware, bathroom goods, and toys. In addition to their core activities, the JDF recently began hosting The Robert E. Jenkins Scholastic Chess Tournament, named after co- founder Robert Jenkins, who was an avid chess player. These tournaments help students develop decision-making and strategic thinking skills, which help improve their mental and physical well-being. The JDF has also hosted numerous interactive Health Fairs, offering critical information on diabetes, hypertension, healthy eating, and foot health. Most notably, the JDF was recognized as a Top-Rated Nonprofit by Great Nonprofits, a prestigious recognition that reflects their unwavering dedication to serving our community. I want to thank all the board members and volunteers that play a crucial role in making sure our communities have access to these necessary resources. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in celebrating and honoring the Jenkins Donelson Foundation for their ten years of service in our community. I look forward to witnessing their continued impact in the years to come.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor an exceptional member of my staff who is moving on to his next chapter. Marc Rabourdin, my deputy district director, has served the people of Virginia's Seventh Congressional District with distinction for more than 4 years. Marc began his service to the Seventh Congressional District working for my dear friend and predecessor, former Congresswoman and now Governor Abigail Spanberger. He has continued to deliver results for central and Northern Virginia on my team with the same professionalism and care. From day one, his dedication has made a real difference in the lives of the people we serve. Always calm, steady, and deeply knowledgeable, Marc has been a trusted presence and an invaluable resource to our constituents and our team. A true public servant, Marc earned his nickname, the mayor, in our office because he knows the communities, local leaders, and needs of the Seventh District better than just about anyone. Mr. Speaker, while we will miss him, we are grateful for his service to Virginia's Seventh Congressional District and wish him every success in his next endeavor serving Virginians.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Candi Mundon King on her appointment as Virginia's Secretary of the Commonwealth. Born and raised in Portsmouth, Virginia, Secretary Mundon King is a proud graduate of Norfolk State University and has been a lifelong champion for the people of Virginia. From 2021 until her appointment, she represented Virginia's 23rd House District, which includes parts of Prince William and Stafford Counties. During her time in the Virginia House of Delegates, she remained a strong advocate and proven leader within the General Assembly. Having served as Chair of the House Committee on Counties, Cities, and Towns, Vice Chair of the Public Safety Committee, and as a member of the House Finance and Labor and Commerce Committees, Secretary Mundon King advocated for important legislation across sectors, including securing pay raises for teachers, protecting victims of human trafficking, providing paid sick leave for home health care workers, and safeguarding renters from unauthorized home access. Most notably, she passed the historic Virginia Momnibus, landmark legislation that transformed maternal health care across the Commonwealth by allocating almost $7 million in funding. She also founded the Sickle Cell Caucus and the Black Maternal Health Caucus, advancing health equity for communities across Virginia. With more than two decades of experience in advocacy and community engagement, Secretary Mundon King brings a deep understanding of governance and service to her new role. Prior to serving as Delegate, she worked in philanthropy and global advocacy at leading organizations. As Deputy Director of CARE, she advanced its advocacy agenda and helped secure passage of the Global Food Security Act. At the Gates Foundation, she worked with senior leadership to strengthen relationships with elected officials, appointed leaders, and community partners, while leading community relations efforts in Washington, D.C. Beyond her professional service, Secretary Mundon King has remained deeply rooted in her community. She serves as a Girl Scouts troop leader, volunteer color guard coach, a member of the Virginia Employment Commission, and the Commission on Electric Utility Regulation. She is also an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. I want to personally congratulate Secretary Mundon King on this well- deserved appointment and commend her unwavering and continued commitment to the people of the Commonwealth. I have had the pleasure of working alongside her on critical issues, including maternal health, and have witnessed firsthand her leadership and tireless advocacy. Mr. Speaker, I applaud Candi Mundon King on her appointment to serve as Secretary of the Commonwealth of Virginia and wish her great success.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 41st Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Youth Oratorical Contest, hosted by the Prince William County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. For more than four decades, the members of the Prince William County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. have hosted this community event in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. This year marks the 41st anniversary of this distinguished program, one of the oldest and largest celebrations of Dr. King's legacy in the greater Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. The event brings together students in grades six through twelve from Prince William County Public Schools and surrounding areas, offering them a unique opportunity to research, write, and deliver original orations honoring the life, leadership, and vision of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This year's speech topic: ``Awakening the Dream: Breaking Barriers in the Fight for Justice and Unity, ``is inspired by the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whose calls for justice, unity, and an equitable future continue to resonate today.'' I want to personally congratulate the following contestants in the 41st ``Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Youth Oratorical Contest: Middle School Contestants: Brianna McGlawn--Manassas Park Middle School; Daniella Odom--Rippon Middle School; Jasraj Saini--Benton Middle School; Salima Lankford-Diallo--Manassas Park High School; Beulah Sarsah--C.D. Hylton High School; and Ryqah Shaikh--Gainesville High School. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the Prince William County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for its unwavering commitment to uplifting our youth and preserving Dr. King's legacy. I also congratulate these talented students for using their voices to advance the ideals of justice, unity, and equality. Let us learn from this next generation and consider how we may honor Dr. King's legacy by continuously seeking justice and leading with light in our own communities.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Alexandra Vakos on being named the 2025 Distinguished Assistant of the Year in a medium-sized office by the Virginia Association of Commonwealth's Attorneys. Each year, this award honors just three prosecutors across the Commonwealth. Alexandra was selected from approximately 1,000 prosecutors who were qualified. She stood out because of her outstanding trial accomplishments and contributions to the Virginia Association of Commonwealth's Attorneys. She played a pivotal role in establishing a regional behavioral health docket in the Fredericksburg area. This initiative helps connect individuals with serious mental health illness and substance abuse disorders to treatment and support through evidence-based practices and judicial oversight. As her Representative in Congress, I am grateful for her commitment to justice and strengthening our community. That is why I am proud to name her Constituent of the Week.