[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 40 (Monday, March 7, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E223]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               RECOGNIZING THE WORK OF MR. BRUCE THOMPSON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 7, 2022

  Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bruce Thompson 
for his achievement on being selected as the 2021 Virginia Business 
Person of the Year. One of Hampton Roads' most prominent developers and 
hoteliers, this accomplishment comes after nearly four decades of 
investing in Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads.
  A long-time businessman in Virginia Beach, Bruce opened his first 
hotel, Ocean House Hotel, around 1982. His overwhelming success led to 
the founding of Professional Hospitality Resources, Gold Key, a 
timeshare company, and significant achievements in the restaurant 
business. Bruce played a major role in establishing high-end hotel and 
amenities at the Oceanfront and was crucial in the revitalization of 
the once condemned Cavalier Hotel, turning it into the centerpiece of 
the Cavalier Resort.
  Bruce's dedication and commitment have not been limited solely to the 
business sphere. He is also very active in politics and philanthropy. 
Over the years, Bruce has sat on numerous boards and commissions, 
namely, serving as Hampton Roads' regional finance chair. After his son 
Josh lost his battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), his 
family founded a nonprofit that has raised more than $20 million for 
stem cell research and other ALS-related causes.
  Madam Speaker, I am thankful for Bruce's hard work and service to the 
entire Virginia Beach community. It is my honor to recognize Mr. Bruce 
Thompson today and I have full confidence that he will continue to be 
an integral contributor to the Virginia Beach and Hampton Road 
community.

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