Ben Cline
Representative for Virginia · Republican · United States
“Congress' primary responsibility is to defend the American people and preserve the strength of our Nation, and this resolution reflects that duty. It invests in our warfighters; supports our ranchers, farmers, and producers; and secures the integrity of our voting systems with the SAVE America Act.”
“Congress' primary responsibility is to defend the American people and preserve the strength of our Nation, and this resolution reflects that duty. It invests in our warfighters; supports our ranchers, farmers, and producers; and secures the integrity of our voting systems with the SAVE America Act.”
“Undeterred, she persevered, building [[Page H4689]] one of the Commonwealth's leading hunger relief organizations. Under her leadership, Feeding Southwest Virginia has grown from distributing 1 million pounds of food annually to more than 20 million pounds, serving 26 counties and 9 cities, and helping more than 127,000 neighbors each mon…”
“Undeterred, she persevered, building [[Page H4689]] one of the Commonwealth's leading hunger relief organizations. Under her leadership, Feeding Southwest Virginia has grown from distributing 1 million pounds of food annually to more than 20 million pounds, serving 26 counties and 9 cities, and helping more than 127,000 neighbors each mon…”
“With a membership of nearly 100 volunteers, the LFD has celebrated many milestones and accomplishments since then, and it continues to strengthen community ties through annual traditions such as the concert and ceremony held on September 11 as well as its raffle and fundraiser held on September 12.”
“With a membership of nearly 100 volunteers, the LFD has celebrated many milestones and accomplishments since then, and it continues to strengthen community ties through annual traditions such as the concert and ceremony held on September 11 as well as its raffle and fundraiser held on September 12.”
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“It demonstrates our commitment to defending our Nation, supporting the American people, and governing with responsibility. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution this week and join us in advancing policies that strengthen our country for generations to come. ____________________”
“Congress' primary responsibility is to defend the American people and preserve the strength of our Nation, and this resolution reflects that duty. It invests in our warfighters; supports our ranchers, farmers, and producers; and secures the integrity of our voting systems with the SAVE America Act. For rural districts like Virginia's Sixth, this resolution delivers real support and stability for our farmers. It empowers our national defense, stands behind our warfighters, secures our food supply, and ensures American elections are decided only by American citizens. This budget reflects a commitment to responsible governance while restoring the faith and confidence of voters in our election system. Mr. Speaker, this resolution reflects a vision of a stronger, safer, and more prosperous America.”
“With a membership of nearly 100 volunteers, the LFD has celebrated many milestones and accomplishments since then, and it continues to strengthen community ties through annual traditions such as the concert and ceremony held on September 11 as well as its raffle and fundraiser held on September 12. Today, we honor the men and women, past and present, whose selfless service reflects the very best of our Commonwealth. Join me in celebrating the strong and brave Luray Fire Department on 125 years of steadfast commitment to not only their community but to the Nation. providing certainty for america Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the passage of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2027 out of the Budget Committee last week.”
“Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Luray Fire Department of Luray, Virginia, as it marks an extraordinary milestone: 125 years of dedicated service to the people of Luray and Page County. Founded in 1901 and chartered in 1933, the Luray Fire Department has stood as a proud, all-volunteer, and nonprofit organization with the goal of protecting the lives and property of so many for over a century. From its early days when the department attended its first State Firefighters Convention in Staunton and a year later sent its first reel team to a State contest in Portsmouth, the department has remained the cornerstone of community safety and pride.”
“Undeterred, she persevered, building [[Page H4689]] one of the Commonwealth's leading hunger relief organizations. Under her leadership, Feeding Southwest Virginia has grown from distributing 1 million pounds of food annually to more than 20 million pounds, serving 26 counties and 9 cities, and helping more than 127,000 neighbors each month. Guided by compassion, faith, and an unwavering belief that no one should go hungry, Pam Irvine has transformed the fight against hunger throughout southwest Virginia. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Virginia's Sixth Congressional District, I thank Pamela Irvine for her extraordinary service, congratulate her on an exceptional career, and wish her every happiness in her well- deserved retirement. Recognizing Luray Fire Department Mr. CLINE. Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4688-H4689] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING PAMELA IRVINE (Mr. Cline of Virginia was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary Virginian whose life has been defined by service to others. After 45 years of leadership, Pam Irvine is retiring as president and CEO of Feeding Southwest Virginia. When Ms. Irvine founded the organization in 1981, it began with little more than a vision--and even the food bank's first truck caught fire on the road.”
“It demonstrates our commitment to defending our Nation, supporting the American people, and governing with responsibility. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution this week and join us in advancing policies that strengthen our country for generations to come. ____________________”
“Congress' primary responsibility is to defend the American people and preserve the strength of our Nation, and this resolution reflects that duty. It invests in our warfighters; supports our ranchers, farmers, and producers; and secures the integrity of our voting systems with the SAVE America Act. For rural districts like Virginia's Sixth, this resolution delivers real support and stability for our farmers. It empowers our national defense, stands behind our warfighters, secures our food supply, and ensures American elections are decided only by American citizens. This budget reflects a commitment to responsible governance while restoring the faith and confidence of voters in our election system. Mr. Speaker, this resolution reflects a vision of a stronger, safer, and more prosperous America.”
“With a membership of nearly 100 volunteers, the LFD has celebrated many milestones and accomplishments since then, and it continues to strengthen community ties through annual traditions such as the concert and ceremony held on September 11 as well as its raffle and fundraiser held on September 12. Today, we honor the men and women, past and present, whose selfless service reflects the very best of our Commonwealth. Join me in celebrating the strong and brave Luray Fire Department on 125 years of steadfast commitment to not only their community but to the Nation. providing certainty for america Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the passage of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2027 out of the Budget Committee last week.”
“Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Luray Fire Department of Luray, Virginia, as it marks an extraordinary milestone: 125 years of dedicated service to the people of Luray and Page County. Founded in 1901 and chartered in 1933, the Luray Fire Department has stood as a proud, all-volunteer, and nonprofit organization with the goal of protecting the lives and property of so many for over a century. From its early days when the department attended its first State Firefighters Convention in Staunton and a year later sent its first reel team to a State contest in Portsmouth, the department has remained the cornerstone of community safety and pride.”
“Undeterred, she persevered, building [[Page H4689]] one of the Commonwealth's leading hunger relief organizations. Under her leadership, Feeding Southwest Virginia has grown from distributing 1 million pounds of food annually to more than 20 million pounds, serving 26 counties and 9 cities, and helping more than 127,000 neighbors each month. Guided by compassion, faith, and an unwavering belief that no one should go hungry, Pam Irvine has transformed the fight against hunger throughout southwest Virginia. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Virginia's Sixth Congressional District, I thank Pamela Irvine for her extraordinary service, congratulate her on an exceptional career, and wish her every happiness in her well- deserved retirement. Recognizing Luray Fire Department Mr. CLINE. Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4688-H4689] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING PAMELA IRVINE (Mr. Cline of Virginia was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary Virginian whose life has been defined by service to others. After 45 years of leadership, Pam Irvine is retiring as president and CEO of Feeding Southwest Virginia. When Ms. Irvine founded the organization in 1981, it began with little more than a vision--and even the food bank's first truck caught fire on the road.”
“Founded in 1970 by the Statler Brothers, Happy Birthday America has spent more than five decades fostering civic pride, community engagement, and appreciation for the ideals upon which our Nation was founded. Designated an official America250 Block Party and VA250 Commemorative Partner, this year's celebration highlights Virginia's central role in our country's story. The event brings together veterans, service members, first responders, youth organizations, and community leaders in a powerful display of patriotism and service. It also honors Virginia's rich musical heritage through performances by Wilson Fairchild and Jimmy Fortune. As thousands gather for the annual parade, festivities, and fireworks, Happy Birthday America stands as a fitting tribute to our Nation's enduring spirit and history. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E679] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA ______ HON. BEN CLINE of virginia in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 14, 2026 Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Happy Birthday America, a cherished Independence Day tradition in Staunton, Virginia, as it joins communities across the Nation in celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence through the America250 initiative.”
“The Working Families Tax Cut Act is what it looks like when Washington works for families. For millions of Americans, this marks the 1-year anniversary of more money for groceries, more money for childcare, and more money for the things the average American needs to succeed in the country. I look forward to celebrating more wins for American economic security. House Republicans have delivered, and the American people are better for it. ____________________”
“For years, American families were burdened by unnecessary taxes, forcing families to bear the brunt of government overreach. Under House Republican leadership, we returned that money to the American people and restored commonsense, family-first policies to Washington. Mr. Speaker, the numbers do not lie. According to IRS data, the Working Families Tax Cut Act returned more than $310 billion to Americans and their families, with the average tax refund climbing to nearly $3,300, an increase of more than 11 percent from the year before. More than 60 million Americans, over 40 percent of all filers, claimed relief through commonsense provisions like no tax on tips and no tax on overtime, and our seniors gained an additional deduction on their Social Security benefits.”
“In the past year alone, the club distributed more than $40,000 in community donations while providing student vision screenings, recycling eyeglasses, and supporting families across the region. I also recognize the club's current leadership: President Phil Eddy, Secretary Tammie Brightwell, Administrative Treasurer Earl Pettrey, and Activities Treasurer Barry Dick. For 90 years, the Salem Host Lions Club has exemplified service above self and the enduring spirit of volunteerism. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Salem Host Lions Club on this milestone anniversary and thanking its members for their outstanding service. Promises Made, Promises Kept Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the Working Families Tax Cut Act, one of the boldest, most successful acts of legislation in recent history.”
“Speaker, this was a complete team victory earned through discipline, toughness, and trust in one another in a moment that will be remembered in Luray for generations. Please join me in congratulating the Luray Bulldogs. Celebrating Salem Host Lions Club's 90th Anniversary Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 90th anniversary of the Salem Host Lions Club, whose members have faithfully served the city of Salem and the Roanoke Valley since 1935. Founded with 21 charter members, the club continues its proud tradition of service through dedicated volunteers who strengthen their community every day. For decades, Salem Host Lions have operated concession stands at Salem Stadium, raising funds that support scholarships, local schools, youth programs, charitable organizations, and first responders throughout southwest Virginia.”
“Speaker, the Luray High School Bulldogs boys' basketball team are champions for the first time in 50 years, defeating Fort Chiswell in a historic, double-overtime victory at the Siegel Center. This championship was not about one star. It was a total team effort. While a player from Fort Chiswell delivered a record-setting performance, Luray answered with contributions across the roster. Matthew Owens, Connor Hilliard, Riley Benson, Ayden Haddock, and Will Judy all stepped up in key moments, while younger players like Cole Hilliard, Aiden Cook, and Cade Horn delivered when called upon. Under the leadership of Coach Mat Huff, this team showed resilience through foul trouble, multiple lead changes, and two overtime periods. They stayed composed, executed when it mattered most, and never quit. Mr.”
“They supported the establishment of the Front Royal State Fish Hatchery and helped found the local Chamber of Commerce. For generations, many of the community's civic, business, and educational leaders have been proud Rotarians. For a century, the Rotary Club of Front Royal has embodied the commitment of Service Above Self. The club [[Page H4420]] has contributed more than $1.5 million to local and international causes, supported youth leadership and scholarship programs, and partnered with Warren County Public Schools and countless community organizations. Mr. Speaker, I commend the club for 100 years of extraordinary leadership and service, and I look forward to its continued impact in the century ahead. {time} 1115 Recognizing Luray High School Boys' Basketball Team Mr. CLINE. Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4419-H4420] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE FRONT ROYAL ROTARY CLUB (Mr. Cline of Virginia was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Rotary Club of Front Royal as it celebrates 100 years of service to Warren County and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Chartered in 1926, this club has helped shape the very fabric of its community. Its members were instrumental in the early advocacy that led to the creation of Skyline Drive and Shenandoah National Park, even sending a delegation to meet with President Calvin Coolidge.”
“Founded in 1970 by the Statler Brothers, Happy Birthday America has spent more than five decades fostering civic pride, community engagement, and appreciation for the ideals upon which our Nation was founded. Designated an official America250 Block Party and VA250 Commemorative Partner, this year's celebration highlights Virginia's central role in our country's story. The event brings together veterans, service members, first responders, youth organizations, and community leaders in a powerful display of patriotism and service. It also honors Virginia's rich musical heritage through performances by Wilson Fairchild and Jimmy Fortune. As thousands gather for the annual parade, festivities, and fireworks, Happy Birthday America stands as a fitting tribute to our Nation's enduring spirit and history. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E679] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA ______ HON. BEN CLINE of virginia in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 14, 2026 Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Happy Birthday America, a cherished Independence Day tradition in Staunton, Virginia, as it joins communities across the Nation in celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence through the America250 initiative.”
“The Working Families Tax Cut Act is what it looks like when Washington works for families. For millions of Americans, this marks the 1-year anniversary of more money for groceries, more money for childcare, and more money for the things the average American needs to succeed in the country. I look forward to celebrating more wins for American economic security. House Republicans have delivered, and the American people are better for it. ____________________”
“For years, American families were burdened by unnecessary taxes, forcing families to bear the brunt of government overreach. Under House Republican leadership, we returned that money to the American people and restored commonsense, family-first policies to Washington. Mr. Speaker, the numbers do not lie. According to IRS data, the Working Families Tax Cut Act returned more than $310 billion to Americans and their families, with the average tax refund climbing to nearly $3,300, an increase of more than 11 percent from the year before. More than 60 million Americans, over 40 percent of all filers, claimed relief through commonsense provisions like no tax on tips and no tax on overtime, and our seniors gained an additional deduction on their Social Security benefits.”
“In the past year alone, the club distributed more than $40,000 in community donations while providing student vision screenings, recycling eyeglasses, and supporting families across the region. I also recognize the club's current leadership: President Phil Eddy, Secretary Tammie Brightwell, Administrative Treasurer Earl Pettrey, and Activities Treasurer Barry Dick. For 90 years, the Salem Host Lions Club has exemplified service above self and the enduring spirit of volunteerism. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Salem Host Lions Club on this milestone anniversary and thanking its members for their outstanding service. Promises Made, Promises Kept Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the Working Families Tax Cut Act, one of the boldest, most successful acts of legislation in recent history.”
“Speaker, this was a complete team victory earned through discipline, toughness, and trust in one another in a moment that will be remembered in Luray for generations. Please join me in congratulating the Luray Bulldogs. Celebrating Salem Host Lions Club's 90th Anniversary Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 90th anniversary of the Salem Host Lions Club, whose members have faithfully served the city of Salem and the Roanoke Valley since 1935. Founded with 21 charter members, the club continues its proud tradition of service through dedicated volunteers who strengthen their community every day. For decades, Salem Host Lions have operated concession stands at Salem Stadium, raising funds that support scholarships, local schools, youth programs, charitable organizations, and first responders throughout southwest Virginia.”
“Speaker, the Luray High School Bulldogs boys' basketball team are champions for the first time in 50 years, defeating Fort Chiswell in a historic, double-overtime victory at the Siegel Center. This championship was not about one star. It was a total team effort. While a player from Fort Chiswell delivered a record-setting performance, Luray answered with contributions across the roster. Matthew Owens, Connor Hilliard, Riley Benson, Ayden Haddock, and Will Judy all stepped up in key moments, while younger players like Cole Hilliard, Aiden Cook, and Cade Horn delivered when called upon. Under the leadership of Coach Mat Huff, this team showed resilience through foul trouble, multiple lead changes, and two overtime periods. They stayed composed, executed when it mattered most, and never quit. Mr.”
“They supported the establishment of the Front Royal State Fish Hatchery and helped found the local Chamber of Commerce. For generations, many of the community's civic, business, and educational leaders have been proud Rotarians. For a century, the Rotary Club of Front Royal has embodied the commitment of Service Above Self. The club [[Page H4420]] has contributed more than $1.5 million to local and international causes, supported youth leadership and scholarship programs, and partnered with Warren County Public Schools and countless community organizations. Mr. Speaker, I commend the club for 100 years of extraordinary leadership and service, and I look forward to its continued impact in the century ahead. {time} 1115 Recognizing Luray High School Boys' Basketball Team Mr. CLINE. Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4419-H4420] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE FRONT ROYAL ROTARY CLUB (Mr. Cline of Virginia was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Rotary Club of Front Royal as it celebrates 100 years of service to Warren County and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Chartered in 1926, this club has helped shape the very fabric of its community. Its members were instrumental in the early advocacy that led to the creation of Skyline Drive and Shenandoah National Park, even sending a delegation to meet with President Calvin Coolidge.”
“We are seeing the most secure border in our Nation's history, a manufacturing boom, and real relief for families who spent years struggling under failed leadership. House Republicans are proud to be working with President Trump to keep our promises to the American people by strengthening our economy, protecting our communities, and restoring America's standing in the world. Mr. Speaker, America is getting stronger every day, and we are just getting started. ____________________”
“Also competing were Aly Ory, Zippy Elliot, Tori Iverson, and Lori Lowry, all rising stars, along with Kaelyn Henzey, the team's manager, who made sure every detail of the event ran smoothly. This team is more than a powerhouse. It is a legacy of excellence. Congratulations to Salem, whose voices are making history. President Trump's First 100 Days Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, today marks 100 days since President Trump returned to the White House, and already the results speak for themselves. In just 100 days, President Trump has delivered where it matters most: securing our border, cutting inflation, restoring American energy independence, rebuilding our economy, and enforcing the rule of law.”
“Speaker, I rise today to honor the Salem High School speech team, who just made history by winning their 19th consecutive VHSL State Championship, the most in Virginia history. With a commanding 39-11 win over E.C. Glass, Salem now holds 103 individual State titles, a record capped by senior Claire Rawlins, who earned the school's 100th with her second straight title in impromptu speaking. Joining Claire were State champions Charlie Bain in serious dramatic, Rosalie Botos in prose, and the dynamic duo of Lacy Stratton and Bella Poarch in humorous duo. Rounding out the team's strength were runners-up Hall Blackwood, Rebekah Steinweg, Parneet Gill, Tara Farrokhpoor, and Noah Lovern. Third place finishes went to Connor Smythers and Colton Easter, Brenasha Devlin, Ariana Turner, and Caden Smythers.”
“Eight players were also named to the Academic All-American Team: McCaughey, Bonvissuto, Thomas, M. Keller, Pennefather, Kolesar, Speier, and S. Keller. These student athletes demonstrated incredible discipline, teamwork, and commitment both on and off the court. Coach Minick, now in her seventh season, has fostered a winning culture built on faith, leadership, and mentorship. Her guidance, along with Assistant Coaches Annie Heisler and Jeremy Minick, has elevated the program into a true national powerhouse. Congratulations again to the 2025 Christendom Lady Crusaders on this historic season. It is an honor to recognize such an outstanding team and the pride they bring to our community. I wish them continued success in the years to come. Congratulating Salem High School Speech Team Mr. CLINE. Mr.”
“Under the leadership of Head Coach Mary Minick, the Lady Crusaders entered the season ranked number 1 and lived up to the challenge, finishing with an exceptional record of 26-2 and securing three straight victories in the postseason tournament to bring home the title once again. This remarkable team is led by seniors Bridget McCaughey, Regina Bonvissuto, Catherine Thomas, and Miranda Keller, and includes Grace Hatley, Lilly Vander Woude, Mary Pennefather, Georgie Snyder, Libby Kolesar, Audrey Speier, Elizabeth Heisler, and Serena Keller. Miranda Keller was named Student-Athlete of the Year; Regina Bonvissuto was named Honorable Mention All-American; Mary Pennefather was named First Team All-American and Tournament MVP; and Catherine Thomas was named First Team All-American and Women's Basketball Player of the Year.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 71 (Tuesday, April 29, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 71 (Tuesday, April 29, 2025)] [House] [Pages H1689-H1690] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE CHRISTENDOM COLLEGE LADY CRUSADERS (Mr. Cline of Virginia was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Christendom College Lady Crusaders women's basketball team on their extraordinary [[Page H1690]] achievement in capturing the 2025 USCAA National Championship, their second consecutive national title.”
“We are seeing the most secure border in our Nation's history, a manufacturing boom, and real relief for families who spent years struggling under failed leadership. House Republicans are proud to be working with President Trump to keep our promises to the American people by strengthening our economy, protecting our communities, and restoring America's standing in the world. Mr. Speaker, America is getting stronger every day, and we are just getting started. ____________________”
“Also competing were Aly Ory, Zippy Elliot, Tori Iverson, and Lori Lowry, all rising stars, along with Kaelyn Henzey, the team's manager, who made sure every detail of the event ran smoothly. This team is more than a powerhouse. It is a legacy of excellence. Congratulations to Salem, whose voices are making history. President Trump's First 100 Days Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, today marks 100 days since President Trump returned to the White House, and already the results speak for themselves. In just 100 days, President Trump has delivered where it matters most: securing our border, cutting inflation, restoring American energy independence, rebuilding our economy, and enforcing the rule of law.”
“Speaker, I rise today to honor the Salem High School speech team, who just made history by winning their 19th consecutive VHSL State Championship, the most in Virginia history. With a commanding 39-11 win over E.C. Glass, Salem now holds 103 individual State titles, a record capped by senior Claire Rawlins, who earned the school's 100th with her second straight title in impromptu speaking. Joining Claire were State champions Charlie Bain in serious dramatic, Rosalie Botos in prose, and the dynamic duo of Lacy Stratton and Bella Poarch in humorous duo. Rounding out the team's strength were runners-up Hall Blackwood, Rebekah Steinweg, Parneet Gill, Tara Farrokhpoor, and Noah Lovern. Third place finishes went to Connor Smythers and Colton Easter, Brenasha Devlin, Ariana Turner, and Caden Smythers.”
“Eight players were also named to the Academic All-American Team: McCaughey, Bonvissuto, Thomas, M. Keller, Pennefather, Kolesar, Speier, and S. Keller. These student athletes demonstrated incredible discipline, teamwork, and commitment both on and off the court. Coach Minick, now in her seventh season, has fostered a winning culture built on faith, leadership, and mentorship. Her guidance, along with Assistant Coaches Annie Heisler and Jeremy Minick, has elevated the program into a true national powerhouse. Congratulations again to the 2025 Christendom Lady Crusaders on this historic season. It is an honor to recognize such an outstanding team and the pride they bring to our community. I wish them continued success in the years to come. Congratulating Salem High School Speech Team Mr. CLINE. Mr.”
“Under the leadership of Head Coach Mary Minick, the Lady Crusaders entered the season ranked number 1 and lived up to the challenge, finishing with an exceptional record of 26-2 and securing three straight victories in the postseason tournament to bring home the title once again. This remarkable team is led by seniors Bridget McCaughey, Regina Bonvissuto, Catherine Thomas, and Miranda Keller, and includes Grace Hatley, Lilly Vander Woude, Mary Pennefather, Georgie Snyder, Libby Kolesar, Audrey Speier, Elizabeth Heisler, and Serena Keller. Miranda Keller was named Student-Athlete of the Year; Regina Bonvissuto was named Honorable Mention All-American; Mary Pennefather was named First Team All-American and Tournament MVP; and Catherine Thomas was named First Team All-American and Women's Basketball Player of the Year.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 71 (Tuesday, April 29, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 71 (Tuesday, April 29, 2025)] [House] [Pages H1689-H1690] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE CHRISTENDOM COLLEGE LADY CRUSADERS (Mr. Cline of Virginia was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Christendom College Lady Crusaders women's basketball team on their extraordinary [[Page H1690]] achievement in capturing the 2025 USCAA National Championship, their second consecutive national title.”
“This is money that should have gone to serve the American people, not to subsidize private union interests. Ending ``official time'' is a commonsense step to ensure taxpayer dollars are used responsibly and to increase accountability across the Federal workforce. Public funds should serve the American people, not private union interests. Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues to support this important bill. ____________________”
“Speaker, yesterday I joined Senator Mike Lee of Utah in introducing the No Union Time on the [[Page H1468]] Taxpayer's Dime Act, a critical step toward restoring accountability in the Federal workforce. This bill will end the abuse of official time which allows Federal employees to engage in union activities while being paid by the taxpayers. For years, Federal employees have spent millions of taxpayer dollars on union-related work instead of performing their official responsibilities. Federal employees spent 3.6 million hours performing union-related activities in 2016 alone, costing taxpayers $177.2 million. Even after reforms under the Trump administration brought that number down to 2.6 million hours and $135 million in 2019, the lack of unified reporting means the full scope of the problem remains unknown today.”
“A Roanoke native and graduate of Virginia Tech and the University of Richmond School of Law--go Spiders--Justice Koontz was known for his clarity of writing, profound sense of fairness, and deep commitment to justice. Justice Koontz mentored generations of legal professionals and leaves a legacy of wisdom, service, and an unwavering dedication to the rule of law. We extend our deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Elizabeth, his children, grandchildren, and all who were touched by his wisdom and kindness. May his memory be a blessing, and may we all strive to live with the same dedication to service that Justice Koontz so fully embodied. Restoring Accountability in the Federal Workforce Mr. CLINE. Mr.”
“I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating these outstanding young athletes. Honoring the Life of Justice Lawrence Larkins Koontz, Jr. Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Justice Lawrence Larkins Koontz, Jr., of Salem, Virginia, who passed away at the age of 85. Justice Koontz was one of the most consequential judges in the Commonwealth's history. Over a judicial career spanning 42 years, he served at every level of Virginia's court system, culminating in his roles as the founding chief judge of the Virginia Court of Appeals and as a justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia.”
“With a squad of just 11 boys, Glenvar scored an impressive 280 points, outpacing second-place Radford High by 75 points. Of the 11 swimming events contested, the Highlanders won 5 and were runners-up in 2 others. Congratulations to team members: seniors Avery McClanahan, Alec McIlwain, Kees VanGerven, Connor Wilkes, and Zach Adams; juniors Landon Cairns, Darren Delby, Grayson Shearer, and Avery Thompson; sophomore Cooper Ermel; and freshman Aspen Thompson. Special recognition goes to individual champions Connor Wilkes, Landon Cairns, and Aspen Thompson, as well as the championship relay teams. Connor Wilkes closes his Glenvar career as one of the most decorated swimmers in school history and will continue his athletic and academic journey at Carson-Newman University. The Glenvar Highlanders have made their school and community proud.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 63 (Tuesday, April 8, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 63 (Tuesday, April 8, 2025)] [House] [Pages H1467-H1468] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CONGRATULATING GLENVAR HIGH SCHOOL BOYS' SWIM TEAM (Mr. Cline of Virginia was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary achievement of the 2025 Glenvar High School boys' swim team, the VHSL Class 1 and 2 combined State champions. The Glenvar Highlanders traveled to Richmond on February 27 and captured their second consecutive State title, an incredible accomplishment that reflects their hard work, talent, and dedication.”