[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 107 (Friday, July 18, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1533]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF LAKE RIDGE FELLOWSHIP 
                                 HOUSE

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TOM DAVIS

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 18, 2003

  Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this 
opportunity to honor the 20th anniversary of the Lake Ridge Fellowship 
House of Woodbridge, Virginia this Saturday, July 19, 2003.
  Located on the southernmost edge of Virginia's 11th congressional 
district, this affordable housing development opened its doors in June 
1983. Serving over 100 seniors on fixed incomes, Lake Ridge Fellowship 
House has grown into a vibrant example of community activism. Four out 
of five of these seniors are women, many of whom are widows who have 
lost a breadwinner's pension and a lifelong companion. Lake Ridge fills 
a unique niche in the Woodbridge area by supplying elderly residents 
with a safe environment in which they can enjoy recreational, 
educational and community-oriented activities.
  Lake Ridge is one of only four privately owned fellowship houses in 
Virginia that are operated by the Fellowship Square Foundation, a 
subsidiary of the Lutheran Church. Sponsored by the Lutheran Lay 
Fellowship organization, it is a shining example of how the power of 
faith is used to fulfill a wide range of needs in our communities.
  Lake Ridge provides affordable housing to both independent and 
mobility-impaired individuals. It provides secure and stable residences 
for seniors, thereby safeguarding citizens who might otherwise be 
unable to fully fend for themselves. In addition, Lake Ridge hosts arts 
and crafts, social activities, and boasts quiet reading alcoves. To 
better assist its mobility-impaired residents, the fellowship house 
makes available transportation to and from local shopping areas. Among 
the most critical services Lake Ridge provides is an around-the-clock 
emergency call system. Mr. Speaker, Lake Ridge Fellowship House is more 
than mere housing; it is the foundation of a rich and meaningful way of 
life for hundreds of senior citizens.
  In closing, Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Lake Ridge 
Fellowship House for providing twenty years of selfless commitment to 
Northern Virginia, and I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating 
their 20th anniversary.

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