[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 191 (Tuesday, December 13, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2241]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE 4TH ANNUAL LAFAYETTE VILLAGE ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 13, 2011

  Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate Arbor Day 
2011 and to recognize the Lafayette Village Community's annual 
neighborhood cleanup and tree planting.
  Founded by J. Sterling Morton, the first Arbor Day was held in 
Nebraska April 10, 1872. Arbor Day has since grown to be celebrated in 
more than 30 countries around the world. Arbor Day recognizes and 
celebrates the value and beauty of trees in our communities, and it is 
observed by planting a new tree.
  Lafayette Village is a community of 313 homes in Fairfax County, 
Virginia. This is its fourth annual Arbor/Earth Day ceremony, and tree 
planting is a longstanding tradition for Lafayette Village. In 
conjunction with the annual tree planting, Lafayette Village conducts a 
community cleanup as well. Children are encouraged to participate, 
which helps to instill the values of community service and teamwork.
  Environmental stewardship leads to beautiful communities such as 
Lafayette Village. Hundreds of trees have been planted over the years 
as an affirmation of their commitment to this stewardship.
  Mr. Speaker, I express my gratitude to the residents of Lafayette 
Village. Their efforts prove that beautifying a neighborhood requires 
only a generous amount of time and community spirit.

                          ____________________