[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 147 (Thursday, October 15, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2189]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                     HONORING PHIL AND MARGE ODEEN

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. THOMAS M. DAVIS

                              of virginia

                          HON. JAMES P. MORAN

                              of virginia

                           HON. FRANK R. WOLF

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 15, 1998

  Mr. DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, it gives my colleagues, Mr. Moran 
of Virginia and Mr. Wolf of Virginia, and I great pleasure to rise 
today and pay tribute to Phil and Marge Odeen, who are outstanding 
members of the Northern Virginia community. The Odeens are this year's 
recipients of the Northern Virginia Community Foundation Founders 
Award. The award is presented annually to an individual or individuals 
who have demonstrated extraordinary civic and humanitarian 
responsibility and have contributed to improving the quality of life in 
Northern Virginia through leadership in one or more of the following 
areas: The Arts, Education, Health, Youth and Community improvement.
  The Odeens have given generously of their time and resources and have 
made a positive impact on Northern Virginia. Since moving to the area 
in 1960, the Odeens have actively engaged in Philanthropy and civic 
activities. They have made Northern Virginia their home and contributed 
to the quality of life for their neighbors and colleagues and have 
encouraged the spirit of volunteering by actively supporting programs 
that make a difference in the community.
  Originally from South Dakota, the Odeens have brought to Northern 
Virginia that indomitable small town spirit so prevalent in tight knit 
communities. They have demonstrated what a difference one or two people 
can make and have brought energy and leadership to the programs they 
have supported. Through their personal efforts the at risk children and 
their families of Northern Virginia have received services that have 
increased their odds of living successful and productive lives.
  Phil and Marge Odeen have been effective in both their individual and 
joint endeavors. Until December 1997, Phil served as CEO of BDM; when 
BDM was acquired by TRW, Inc., he became Executive Vice President and 
General Manager of the new Systems & Information Technology Group 
(which includes the former BDM). He served as chairman of the National 
Defense Panel which examined national security needs and challenges for 
the future. He is a leader in addressing national defense issues 
affecting both the contracting community and the military and has also 
been active in the World Affairs Council and other international 
organizations.
  Marge Odeen created the innovative Potomac Parties for the Women's 
Center and helped build strong corporate support for the organization. 
She has chaired and spearheaded many successful functions and 
initiatives for organizations including the Northern Virginia Community 
College, and has always done them with a special style and spirit. She 
believes passionately in ``giving something back'' to the community, 
and Northern Virginia has benefited as a result.
  Their combined efforts on behalf of Childhelp have had a significant 
impact on the lives of many severely abused children. In addition to 
mobilizing BDM employees for several work projects (including the Odeen 
Cottage named in their honor) at this unique residential treatment 
center, they have been generous both with personal gifts and by 
encouraging other individuals and corporations to support this worthy 
cause. The results have been immediate and major.
  We wish to formally recognize the Odeens' contributions to the 
Northern Virginia community and to the world. They are an inspiration 
to all of us.




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