[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 172 (Tuesday, December 21, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2233]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


RECOGNIZING PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY BEING NAMED ONE OF THE NATION'S ``100 
                  BEST COMMUNITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE''

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 21, 2010

  Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
Prince William County, Virginia on being named one of the nation's 
``100 Best Communities for Young People'' by America's Promise Alliance 
and ING.
  The annual ``100 Best Communities for Young People'' competition 
began in 2005 and was established to honor communities that work to 
improve young people's chances of earning a high school diploma, 
finding employment in a competitive 21st century workforce, and 
contributing to a robust American economy. America's Promise Alliance 
advocates for providing youth with the resources they require to 
graduate from high school prepared for college, work and life. The 
global financial institution, ING, sponsors the awards.
  This is the first year the ``100 Best'' list includes Prince William 
County. The county received the distinction for its efforts to offer 
students leadership opportunities and reach out to at-risk youth. 
Students in Prince William County who participate in the student 
committee, Learning Essential Assets of Development (LEAD), organize 
service projects to gain experience in practical planning, 
communication and decision-making. The county also partnered with 
private businesses to fund the construction and staffing of a community 
center and daycare facility in an at-risk neighborhood. Prince William 
County boasts an on time graduation rate of 88 percent, almost 20 
percent higher than the national average.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating 
Prince William County on being recognized as one of the nation's ``100 
Best Communities for Young People.'' This is a well-deserved 
recognition for a county dedicated to providing a high quality of life 
for its residents and a world class education for its children.

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