Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-06-11

RECOGNIZING THE FAIRFAX CONNECTOR MAINTENANCE TEAM'S STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

TaxesEnvironmentInfrastructure

Context

On 2026-06-11, Representative James R. Walkinshaw (D-VA-11) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING THE FAIRFAX CONNECTOR MAINTENANCE TEAM'S STATE CHAMPIONSHIP" in the House.

Full Text

RECOGNIZING THE FAIRFAX CONNECTOR MAINTENANCE TEAM'S STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 99 (Thursday, June 11, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 99 (Thursday, June 11, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E565-E566] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE FAIRFAX CONNECTOR MAINTENANCE TEAM'S STATE CHAMPIONSHIP ______ HON. JAMES R. WALKINSHAW of virginia in the house of representatives Thursday, June 11, 2026 Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding achievement of the Fairfax Connector maintenance team and to congratulate them on securing first place at the 2026 Virginia State Bus Roadeo. Technicians Jerry Salgado, Matthew Bender, and Martin Lopez earned top honors at this year's statewide competition, marking the fifth consecutive year that Fairfax Connector has claimed the championship. The Virginia State Bus Roadeo brings together transit professionals from across the Commonwealth to test their skills in real world scenarios, including vehicle inspection and troubleshooting challenges. This continued success speaks to the high level of expertise, preparation, and consistency demonstrated by this team. Their performance reflects both the technical knowledge and attention to detail required to maintain a safe and reliable public transit system. As a result of their first-place finish, the Fairfax Connector maintenance team will represent the Commonwealth of Virginia at the American Public Transportation Association International Bus Roadeo this month in Salt Lake City, Utah. This event brings together top transit maintenance teams from across North America for a premier showcase of technical skill and precision. While their work often takes place behind the scenes, the impact of their efforts is felt every day by the thousands of riders who rely on Fairfax Connector. This achievement offers [[Page E566]] a well-earned opportunity to celebrate their skill, dedication, and the vital role they play in keeping our community moving. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Jerry, Salgado, Matthew Bender, and Martin Lopez on their state championship and in wishing them continued success as they represent Virginia on the international stage. ____________________

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RECOGNIZING THE FAIRFAX CONNECTOR MAINTENANCE TEAM'S STATE CHAMPIONSHIP Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 99 (Thursday, June 11, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 99 (Thursday, June 11, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E565-E566] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE FAIRFAX CONNECTOR MAINTENANCE TEAM'S STATE CHAMPIONSHIP ______ HON. JAMES R. WALKINSHAW of virginia in the house of representatives Thursday, June 11, 2026 Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding achievement of the Fairfax Connector maintenance team and to congratulate them on securing first place at the 2026 Virginia State Bus Roadeo. Technicians Jerry Salgado, Matthew Bender, and Martin Lopez earned top honors at this year's statewide competition, marking the fifth consecutive year that Fairfax Connector has claimed the championship. The Virginia State Bus Roadeo brings together transit professionals from across the Commonwealth to test their skills in real world scenarios, including vehicle inspection and troubleshooting challenges. This continued success speaks to the high level of expertise, preparation, and consistency demonstrated by this team. Their performance reflects both the technical knowledge and attention to detail required to maintain a safe and reliable public transit system. As a result of their first-place finish, the Fairfax Connector maintenance team will represent the Commonwealth of Virginia at the American Public Transportation Association International Bus Roadeo this month in Salt Lake City, Utah. This event brings together top transit maintenance teams from across North America for a premier showcase of technical skill and precision. While their work often takes place behind the scenes, the impact of their efforts is felt every day by the thousands of riders who rely on Fairfax Connector. This achievement offers [[Page E566]] a well-earned opportunity to celebrate their skill, dedication, and the vital role they play in keeping our community moving. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Jerry, Salgado, Matthew Bender, and Martin Lopez on their state championship and in wishing them continued success as they represent Virginia on the international stage. ____________________