Gerald E. Connolly
Representative for Virginia · Democratic · United States
“She has been involved in a remarkable breadth of important legal matters related to veterans' benefits, striving to ensure that veterans, their families, and caregivers get the benefits to which they are entitled.”
“She has been involved in a remarkable breadth of important legal matters related to veterans' benefits, striving to ensure that veterans, their families, and caregivers get the benefits to which they are entitled.”
“Founded in 1990, Homestretch has served more than 2,500 families, providing not just shelter, but the comprehensive tools and support needed to achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency.”
“Founded in 1990, Homestretch has served more than 2,500 families, providing not just shelter, but the comprehensive tools and support needed to achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency.”
“While he ended up spending the majority of his career in Washington, he spent 17 years with Cahners Publishing Company, editing magazines in the industrial supply, electronics, and systems integration industries. He also worked in weekly and daily newspapers in New Hampshire and Massachusetts.”
“On April 30, 1975, the world watched as the city of Saigon fell. For many, it marked a day of loss, of country, of family, and of home. Yet it also marked the beginning of a remarkable story of resilience, strength, and hope.”
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“Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing Anthony Robbins, Beth McGrath, Kristina Bouweiri, Jessica Scott, Souror Humpton, and Jack Daly for their innovative and effective leadership and congratulating them on being recipients of the 2025 IES Sales Excellence Awards. I wish them the best in all of their future endeavors. ____________________”
“A graduate of the IES Women in Sales Leadership Forum, she is a tireless advocate for her sales team and Carahsoft's technology partners. Souror Humpton is receiving the 2025 Institute for Excellence in Sales Jay Nussbaum Rising Sales Star award. She is a Federal Account sales leader at Oracle Corporation. Jack Daly is receiving the 2025 Institute for Excellence in Sales Speaker of the Year award. Jack Daly is the king of street-tested methods about smart selling. With a remarkable 30 plus year track record in sales, executive, and entrepreneurial positions, has been called the best professional sales trainer in America. Mr.”
“In her role she is committed to strengthening synergies across global Industries and Government and Public Services with a focus on client mission needs and solutions. Kristina Bouweiri is receiving the 2025 IES Entrepreneurial Sales Leader of the Year and serves as president, CEO and sole owner of Reston Limousine and Travel Service Inc. Kristina has built a globally recognized transportation business with a combination of innovative spirit, shrewd adaptation and a tireless dedication to diversity and international understanding. Jessica Scott is receiving the 2025 Institute for Excellence in Sales Partner of the Year award. Jessica Scott is a senior team lead and corporate new hire coach at Carahsoft. She runs the IES partnership for Carahsoft and for dozens of their partners.”
“Each year, IES recognizes individuals, teams, and organizations who demonstrate exemplary performance through leadership, risk taking, innovation, vision, and customer development. I am proud to include in the Record the following awardees: Anthony Robbins is receiving the 15th Institute for Excellence in Sales Lifetime Achievement Award. Anthony was the Senior Vice President, Federal Sales for NVIDIA. He has been responsible for supporting federal customers and their missions, providing the technology and expertise needed to transform and improve their operations. The Honorable Beth McGrath is Deloitte's Global Leader for Government and Public Services and is the 9th recipient of the IES Women in Sales Leadership award.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E372] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE 2025 INSTITUTE FOR EXCELLENCE IN SALES AND DEVELOPMENT AWARD RECIPIENTS ______ HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY of virginia in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 2025 recipients of the IES Sales Excellence Awards presented by the institute for Excellence in Sales & Business Development. IES was created to foster excellence in business sales and development practices and to help sales professionals and organizations maximize their efforts.”
“Under the visionary leadership of National Area II Director Lady Hope V. Ruffin and President and CEO, Lady Eddie Lee Marsh, Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. continues to leave a lasting impact on communities across the Nation through service, mentorship, and advocacy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Fairfax County Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. I commend these outstanding women for their dedication to service, mentorship, and community engagement. ____________________”
“A cornerstone of their efforts remains the Top Teens of America (TTA) program, which provides young people with educational, social, cultural, and economic development opportunities. Today, more than 3,200 Top Teens benefit from this vital program. Now, in 2025, the Fairfax County Chapter joins this legacy of service under the leadership of: Amber R. Talbert, President Dr. Charlotte Lofton, 1st Vice President Millisa Lucas Gary, 2nd Vice President Angel Lungelow Cooper, Recording Secretary Indra' Gibson, Treasurer Crystal Bivens, Financial Secretary Marlo Thomas Watson, TTA Advisor Additionally, the chapter is privileged to have Lady Tangie Lafaye Phair as its Organizer, guiding a distinguished group of charter members committed to advancing TLOD's mission in Fairfax County.”
“Lyndon Baines Johnson, she asked Major Ozell M. Dean to attend in her place. Inspired by what she witnessed at that gathering, Major Dean reached out to Mrs. Glass and other distinguished Texas women to explore the possibility of forming an organization dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by youth in their communities. From its inaugural meeting on June 4, 1964, at Texas College in Tyler, Texas, TLOD has grown into a renowned national service organization with 135 chapters and over 5,300 members across the country. Their mission has expanded to include service initiatives for youth, women, senior citizens, community beautification, and strategic partnerships.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E371] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE CHARTERING OF THE FAIRFAX COUNTY CHAPTER OF THE TOP LADIES OF DISTINCTION, INC. ______ HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY of virginia in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the distinguished service organization, Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. (TLOD), and to celebrate the chartering of their Fairfax County Chapter. The story of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. began in 1964 with a simple lunch invitation. When Mrs. Willie Lee Glass was unable to attend a luncheon hosted by Mrs.”
“Their contributions have made our communities stronger and better. Their journey embodies the ideals we hold dear: perseverance through hardship, strength in adversity, and an enduring hope for a better future. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring this history, paying tribute to the lives lost and forever changed, and reaffirming our commitment to the universal values of freedom, democracy, and human dignity. ____________________”
“On April 30, 1975, the world watched as the city of Saigon fell. For many, it marked a day of loss, of country, of family, and of home. Yet it also marked the beginning of a remarkable story of resilience, strength, and hope. In the years that followed, hundreds of thousands fled Vietnam in search of liberty and opportunity, many finding a new beginning here in the United States. Northern Virginia is home to one of the largest and most vibrant Vietnamese American communities in the country. Places like the Eden Center stand as a testament of the rich cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit. The businesses, traditions, and values the Vietnamese American community upholds continue to enrich our region and make invaluable contributions. The Vietnamese American community's story is one of perseverance, courage, and hope.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E369] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FALL OF SAIGON ______ HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY of virginia in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th Anniversary of the Fall of Saigon. April 30, 2025, marks 50 years since the pivotal moment that signaled both the end of the Vietnam War and the beginning of a new chapter for millions of Vietnamese refugees--many of whom have made extraordinary contributions to communities across the United States, particularly in Northern Virginia.”
“These include strengthening its food pantry and case management programs and investing in education and workforce development. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating LCAC on 50 years of transformative service. I extend my deepest appreciation to the board of directors, staff, and countless volunteers past and present who have made this work possible. Through their compassion and commitment, they have built not just a service organization, but a pillar of hope and dignity for all in our community. Here's to the next 50 years of progress, partnership, and purpose. ____________________”
“From serving 1,700 individuals in FY 2023 to nearly 1,800 in just the first half of FY 2025, LCAC has never wavered in its commitment to serving our community. Food pantry visits alone are expected to top 11,000 this year, a testament to both growing need and the Center's enduring role in meeting it. As Executive Director Rob Rutland-Brown has noted, this work continues through trusted partnerships, dedicated volunteers, and the incredible generosity of donors. Even amid economic uncertainties and the potential impacts of federal policy changes, LCAC remains steadfast, adaptive, and deeply rooted in service. In 2025, LCAC is not only marking its golden anniversary with a gala celebration and a tribute to its founder, but also with strategic initiatives to deepen its impact.”
“Founded in 1975 as the Lorton Community Information Center, LCAC began as a grassroots effort to connect neighbors in need with basic essentials such as food, clothing, and human services. What began at Gunston Elementary has since evolved into a lifeline for thousands across Lorton, Fort Belvoir, Newington, and beyond. Under the visionary leadership of founder Christine Herbstreith, LCAC was built on the idea of a ``supermarket of human services,'' a dream that became reality in 2022 with the opening of the co-located Lorton Community Center and Lorton Library. From this vibrant hub, LCAC continues to expand its reach and impact. In just the past three years, LCAC has witnessed a steady rise in demand.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E368] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LORTON COMMUNITY ACTION CENTER (LCAC) ______ HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY of virginia in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Lorton Community Action Center (LCAC) on the momentous occasion of its 50th Anniversary and to honor its extraordinary service to the residents of southeastern Fairfax County.”
“This incredible work is made possible by the dedicated staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners who have supported Homestretch for 35 years. It is a shining example of what can be achieved when we invest in people, meet them where they are, and give them the tools they need to succeed. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Homestretch on its 35th Anniversary. Northern Virginia is stronger, healthier, and more compassionate because of the work of Homestretch. ____________________”
“Homestretch measures success not simply by whether a family finds shelter, but by whether they emerge with the ability to maintain stable housing, meet their basic needs, and chart a course toward economic mobility. For someone experiencing homelessness, knowing you are part of a community that cares and will give you the assistance necessary to get back on your feet can help ease the burden of your plight. In a county as economically prosperous as Fairfax County, it can be easy to forget there are still citizens who go without the most basic necessities. Organizations like Homestretch are helping to make sure that we bring everyone to the table and providing all with a path towards economic success and independence.”
“A majority are survivors of domestic violence, individuals with disabilities or no work history, and many face high debt, damaged credit, and language barriers. Roughly 60 percent of those served are people of color, and one-third are refugees or seeking asylum. Despite these challenges, Homestretch helps families not only secure housing, but also access education, develop a career path, find childcare, secure reliable transportation, and improve their physical and financial health. Their model is comprehensive and long-term. Participants work toward degrees and certifications, learn financial literacy, improve their credit, save for the future, and gain the tools to provide for themselves and their children.”
“Founded in 1990, Homestretch has served more than 2,500 families, providing not just shelter, but the comprehensive tools and support needed to achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency. Their mission is deeply rooted in the belief that with the right resources, even the most vulnerable families can overcome the devastating cycles of homelessness and poverty. We are in the midst of an unprecedented affordable housing crisis, both nationally and in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Since 2020, homelessness in Virginia has increased by 10 percent, with family homelessness alone rising a staggering 17 percent between 2021 and 2022. The work of organizations like Homestretch has never been more vital. Homestretch serves families in the most challenging of circumstances. 90 percent of the adults in their program are single mothers.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E366] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE 35TH ANNIVERSARY OF HOMESTRETCH ______ HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY of virginia in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 35th Anniversary of Homestretch, an extraordinary organization based in Northern Virginia that has transformed the lives of thousands of families facing homelessness and poverty.”
“She has been involved in a remarkable breadth of important legal matters related to veterans' benefits, striving to ensure that veterans, their families, and caregivers get the benefits to which they are entitled. Her contributions to developing and evolving the practice of veterans' law will have a lasting legacy and merit special recognition. As Ms. Flynn embarks on a new chapter in life, it is my hope that she will recall, with a deep sense of pride and accomplishment, the outstanding contributions she has made to the United States Navy, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and veterans of the United States. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Ms. Mary Ann Flynn for her years of service to our armed forces and our Nation. I congratulate Ms. Flynn on her retirement. May her life be filled with health and happiness.”
“Flynn progressed from a staff attorney to Deputy Assistant General Counsel, then Principal Deputy Assistant General Counsel, and finally Chief Counsel of OGC's Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims Litigation Group, an appellate litigation office of over 125 attorneys representing the Secretary of Veterans Affairs before the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. Her career in public service is a testament to the importance of selfless service to others. For the vast majority of her legal career, Ms. Flynn provided guidance and legal counsel to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs in cases before the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.”
“Flynn began her distinguished legal career in the United States Navy, where she served on both active duty and in the Navy reserves as an attorney. As a Captain, she served as a military judge on the United States Navy-Marine Corps Court of Criminal Appeals. Following her time on active duty, Ms. Flynn joined the Department of Veterans Affairs in its Office of General Counsel (OGC), where, with the exception of a short period when she served as the Deputy Director for Policy and Procedures for the Veteran's Benefits Administration's Compensation Service, she spent the bulk of her more than 32 years of service. In OGC, Ms.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E365] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CONGRATULATING MARY ANN FLYNN ON HER RETIREMENT ______ HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY of virginia in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate a dedicated professional with the Department of Veterans Affairs on the occasion of her retirement. Ms. Mary Ann Flynn is an exemplary public servant who has demonstrated the highest standards of professionalism serving our Nation's veterans. Ms.”
“The event makes contributions to the Federal Employees Education and Assistance Fund (FEEA), Friends of Patients at the NIH, and the U.S. War Dogs Association. Throughout his career, Tom has been a speaker and moderator at events staged by groups such as AFCEA, the Association for Federal IRM (AFFIRM), and ACTIAC. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Tom Temin on his retirement. I wish him the best in all of his future endeavors and hope he enjoys retirement with his wife, children, grandchildren, and his Harley-Davidson Motorcycle. ____________________”
“There he oversaw the content of GCN, Washington Technology--also a Jesse H. Neal award winner--and several other properties. For the past 16 years Tom has hosted Federal Drive with Tom Temin, weekday mornings on Federal News Network (FNN) 1500 AM. The show covers a range of topics, such as legislation, federal IT, oversight, and the federal workforce, His guests are often federal executives, members of Congress, think tank experts, and attorneys with subject matter expertise on a myriad of federal issues. Podcasts of Federal Drive broadcast interviews garner some 50,000 downloads per month, and Tom has conducted approximately 10,000 interviews over the course of hosting the show. In addition to his show, Tom organizes and stages a Motorcycle Ride for Charity each year with FNN's support.”
“While he ended up spending the majority of his career in Washington, he spent 17 years with Cahners Publishing Company, editing magazines in the industrial supply, electronics, and systems integration industries. He also worked in weekly and daily newspapers in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Once in D.C., Tom immersed himself in the federal government market. He has held numerous leadership roles in this space, including editor- in-chief of Government Computer News (GCN) for 15 years, then the most- read and highest revenue business-to-business publication in the market. The publication won several Jesse H. Neal awards from the American Business Media (ABM) editorial program. After the Washington Post Company acquired GCN, Tom became executive vice president, editorial, at the newly formed PostNewsweek Tech Media Group.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E364] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CONGRATULATING TOM TEMIN ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT ______ HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY of virginia in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Tom Temin on the occasion of his retirement after nearly 48 years in journalism. Tom has had a storied career in journalism that began with a bachelor's degree in photojournalism from the Rochester Institute of Technology. He also completed the Stanford Professional Publishing Program.”
“Illinois, Virginia, California, and Indiana's Senate have passed permanent legislation designating the month as well. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the contributions of Arab Americans and hereby declare April 2025 to be recognized as National Arab American Heritage Month by Virginia's 11th Congressional District. We encourage our citizens to join us in this special observance. ____________________”
“The first known Arab immigrants arrived in 1527, before the founding of United States, and have helped shape and strengthen modern America to be the great nation it is today. Their resilient family values, strong work ethic, dedication to education, and diversity in faith and creed add strength to our great democracy and enrich our society. The celebration of Arab American ancestry and cultural heritage educates our fellow Americans, counters misconceptions and harmful stereotyping, promotes diversity and equality in our society, and acknowledges the valuable contributions and heritage of Arab Americans in this country. In 2023 and 2024, President Biden made official proclamations recognizing the month of April as National Arab American Heritage Month.”
“During the month of April, the Arab American Foundation formally recognizes and celebrates the achievements of Arab Americans, embraced by cultural institutions, school districts, municipalities, state legislatures, public servants, and non-profit organizations nationwide. Since migrating to America, men and women of Arab descent have shared their rich culture and traditions with neighbors and friends, while also setting fine examples of model citizens and public servants. The Arab American Institute estimates there are roughly 3.7 million Arab Americans living in the United States, contributing to virtually every aspect of American society: in medicine, law, business, education, technology, government, military service, and culture.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E363] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING APRIL AS NATIONAL ARAB AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH ______ HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY of virginia in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing April as National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM).”
“Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing Anthony Robbins, Beth McGrath, Kristina Bouweiri, Jessica Scott, Souror Humpton, and Jack Daly for their innovative and effective leadership and congratulating them on being recipients of the 2025 IES Sales Excellence Awards. I wish them the best in all of their future endeavors. ____________________”
“A graduate of the IES Women in Sales Leadership Forum, she is a tireless advocate for her sales team and Carahsoft's technology partners. Souror Humpton is receiving the 2025 Institute for Excellence in Sales Jay Nussbaum Rising Sales Star award. She is a Federal Account sales leader at Oracle Corporation. Jack Daly is receiving the 2025 Institute for Excellence in Sales Speaker of the Year award. Jack Daly is the king of street-tested methods about smart selling. With a remarkable 30 plus year track record in sales, executive, and entrepreneurial positions, has been called the best professional sales trainer in America. Mr.”
“In her role she is committed to strengthening synergies across global Industries and Government and Public Services with a focus on client mission needs and solutions. Kristina Bouweiri is receiving the 2025 IES Entrepreneurial Sales Leader of the Year and serves as president, CEO and sole owner of Reston Limousine and Travel Service Inc. Kristina has built a globally recognized transportation business with a combination of innovative spirit, shrewd adaptation and a tireless dedication to diversity and international understanding. Jessica Scott is receiving the 2025 Institute for Excellence in Sales Partner of the Year award. Jessica Scott is a senior team lead and corporate new hire coach at Carahsoft. She runs the IES partnership for Carahsoft and for dozens of their partners.”
“Each year, IES recognizes individuals, teams, and organizations who demonstrate exemplary performance through leadership, risk taking, innovation, vision, and customer development. I am proud to include in the Record the following awardees: Anthony Robbins is receiving the 15th Institute for Excellence in Sales Lifetime Achievement Award. Anthony was the Senior Vice President, Federal Sales for NVIDIA. He has been responsible for supporting federal customers and their missions, providing the technology and expertise needed to transform and improve their operations. The Honorable Beth McGrath is Deloitte's Global Leader for Government and Public Services and is the 9th recipient of the IES Women in Sales Leadership award.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E372] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE 2025 INSTITUTE FOR EXCELLENCE IN SALES AND DEVELOPMENT AWARD RECIPIENTS ______ HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY of virginia in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 2025 recipients of the IES Sales Excellence Awards presented by the institute for Excellence in Sales & Business Development. IES was created to foster excellence in business sales and development practices and to help sales professionals and organizations maximize their efforts.”
“Under the visionary leadership of National Area II Director Lady Hope V. Ruffin and President and CEO, Lady Eddie Lee Marsh, Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. continues to leave a lasting impact on communities across the Nation through service, mentorship, and advocacy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Fairfax County Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. I commend these outstanding women for their dedication to service, mentorship, and community engagement. ____________________”
“A cornerstone of their efforts remains the Top Teens of America (TTA) program, which provides young people with educational, social, cultural, and economic development opportunities. Today, more than 3,200 Top Teens benefit from this vital program. Now, in 2025, the Fairfax County Chapter joins this legacy of service under the leadership of: Amber R. Talbert, President Dr. Charlotte Lofton, 1st Vice President Millisa Lucas Gary, 2nd Vice President Angel Lungelow Cooper, Recording Secretary Indra' Gibson, Treasurer Crystal Bivens, Financial Secretary Marlo Thomas Watson, TTA Advisor Additionally, the chapter is privileged to have Lady Tangie Lafaye Phair as its Organizer, guiding a distinguished group of charter members committed to advancing TLOD's mission in Fairfax County.”
“Lyndon Baines Johnson, she asked Major Ozell M. Dean to attend in her place. Inspired by what she witnessed at that gathering, Major Dean reached out to Mrs. Glass and other distinguished Texas women to explore the possibility of forming an organization dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by youth in their communities. From its inaugural meeting on June 4, 1964, at Texas College in Tyler, Texas, TLOD has grown into a renowned national service organization with 135 chapters and over 5,300 members across the country. Their mission has expanded to include service initiatives for youth, women, senior citizens, community beautification, and strategic partnerships.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E371] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE CHARTERING OF THE FAIRFAX COUNTY CHAPTER OF THE TOP LADIES OF DISTINCTION, INC. ______ HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY of virginia in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the distinguished service organization, Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. (TLOD), and to celebrate the chartering of their Fairfax County Chapter. The story of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. began in 1964 with a simple lunch invitation. When Mrs. Willie Lee Glass was unable to attend a luncheon hosted by Mrs.”
“Their contributions have made our communities stronger and better. Their journey embodies the ideals we hold dear: perseverance through hardship, strength in adversity, and an enduring hope for a better future. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring this history, paying tribute to the lives lost and forever changed, and reaffirming our commitment to the universal values of freedom, democracy, and human dignity. ____________________”
“On April 30, 1975, the world watched as the city of Saigon fell. For many, it marked a day of loss, of country, of family, and of home. Yet it also marked the beginning of a remarkable story of resilience, strength, and hope. In the years that followed, hundreds of thousands fled Vietnam in search of liberty and opportunity, many finding a new beginning here in the United States. Northern Virginia is home to one of the largest and most vibrant Vietnamese American communities in the country. Places like the Eden Center stand as a testament of the rich cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit. The businesses, traditions, and values the Vietnamese American community upholds continue to enrich our region and make invaluable contributions. The Vietnamese American community's story is one of perseverance, courage, and hope.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E369] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FALL OF SAIGON ______ HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY of virginia in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th Anniversary of the Fall of Saigon. April 30, 2025, marks 50 years since the pivotal moment that signaled both the end of the Vietnam War and the beginning of a new chapter for millions of Vietnamese refugees--many of whom have made extraordinary contributions to communities across the United States, particularly in Northern Virginia.”
“These include strengthening its food pantry and case management programs and investing in education and workforce development. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating LCAC on 50 years of transformative service. I extend my deepest appreciation to the board of directors, staff, and countless volunteers past and present who have made this work possible. Through their compassion and commitment, they have built not just a service organization, but a pillar of hope and dignity for all in our community. Here's to the next 50 years of progress, partnership, and purpose. ____________________”
“From serving 1,700 individuals in FY 2023 to nearly 1,800 in just the first half of FY 2025, LCAC has never wavered in its commitment to serving our community. Food pantry visits alone are expected to top 11,000 this year, a testament to both growing need and the Center's enduring role in meeting it. As Executive Director Rob Rutland-Brown has noted, this work continues through trusted partnerships, dedicated volunteers, and the incredible generosity of donors. Even amid economic uncertainties and the potential impacts of federal policy changes, LCAC remains steadfast, adaptive, and deeply rooted in service. In 2025, LCAC is not only marking its golden anniversary with a gala celebration and a tribute to its founder, but also with strategic initiatives to deepen its impact.”
“Founded in 1975 as the Lorton Community Information Center, LCAC began as a grassroots effort to connect neighbors in need with basic essentials such as food, clothing, and human services. What began at Gunston Elementary has since evolved into a lifeline for thousands across Lorton, Fort Belvoir, Newington, and beyond. Under the visionary leadership of founder Christine Herbstreith, LCAC was built on the idea of a ``supermarket of human services,'' a dream that became reality in 2022 with the opening of the co-located Lorton Community Center and Lorton Library. From this vibrant hub, LCAC continues to expand its reach and impact. In just the past three years, LCAC has witnessed a steady rise in demand.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E368] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LORTON COMMUNITY ACTION CENTER (LCAC) ______ HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY of virginia in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Lorton Community Action Center (LCAC) on the momentous occasion of its 50th Anniversary and to honor its extraordinary service to the residents of southeastern Fairfax County.”
“This incredible work is made possible by the dedicated staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners who have supported Homestretch for 35 years. It is a shining example of what can be achieved when we invest in people, meet them where they are, and give them the tools they need to succeed. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Homestretch on its 35th Anniversary. Northern Virginia is stronger, healthier, and more compassionate because of the work of Homestretch. ____________________”