RECOGNIZING THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF JAMES WOOD HIGH SCHOOL

On 2025-05-21, Representative Ben Cline (R-VA-6) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF JAMES WOOD HIGH SCHOOL" in the House.

RECOGNIZING THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF JAMES WOOD HIGH SCHOOL

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 86 (Wednesday, May 21, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 86 (Wednesday, May 21, 2025)] [House] [Pages H2205-H2206] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF JAMES WOOD HIGH SCHOOL (Mr. Cline of Virginia was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor James Wood High School in Frederick County, Virginia, as it celebrates its 75th anniversary, a proud milestone for an institution dedicated to cultivating excellence through student engagement. James Wood High School, established in 1950 and led by Principal Paul Beable, became the sole high school serving Frederick County. Prior to its opening, the county supported five smaller high schools located in the rural communities of Stephens City, Middletown, Stonewall, Gore, and Gainesboro. Each school was named for the community it served and played a key role in educating local students. While those schools no longer exist, the communities they represent continue to grow and stand as a lasting reminder of the county's history and progress. Named for James Wood, founder of Winchester, colonel of the Virginia Continental Militia, and friend of George Washington, the school stands on a foundation of history, leadership, and service. Today, James Wood High School is led by Principal R. Shelly Andrews and thrives by promoting the Four Colonel C's: critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. Mr. Speaker, as James Woods celebrates 75 years of service to our community, we reflect with pride on its past and look forward to its continued role in shaping future generations. Congratulations to James Wood High School and all who have contributed to its remarkable journey. Celebrating Lord Botetourt High School's 2025 VHSL Title Victory Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the exceptional achievements of Lord Botetourt High School Lady Cavaliers basketball team, who were recently crowned the 2025 Class 3A State champions. The Lady Cavaliers capped an extraordinary 26-3 season by toppling previously undefeated James Monroe, earning the program's fifth State title since 1995. Under the remarkable leadership of Head Coach Renee Favaro, now a two-time State champion with an impressive 117-29 record over six seasons, this team has continued to raise the bar. The Lady Cavaliers also captured the Region 3D championship and saw standout players Madilyn Winterton and Maddie Caron named to the VHSL Class 3A All-State First Team. This State championship adds to a storied program legacy, including back-to-back titles in 1995 and 1996 under Coach David Wheat, a 2018 title with Coach Chuck Pound, and a shared championship in 2020. I would like to commend each of the dedicated student-athletes: Addison Naff, Reagan Meade, Abby Kingery, Jaiden Dann, Madilyn Winterton, Alicia Holmes, Madelyn Caron, Maggie Hoover, and Kayla Windsor, and extended heartfelt congratulations to [[Page H2206]] Coach Renee Favaro and the entire Botetourt community. They have made their school and Virginia's Sixth Congressional District extraordinarily proud. Go Lady Cavs. Celebrating First Baptist Church of Roanoke's 150th Anniversary Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 150th anniversary of First Baptist Church of Roanoke, a beacon of faith, service, and resilience, since its founding as Big Lick Baptist Church on May 16, 1875. From just 20 charter members in a small village, this church has grown alongside the city it calls home. As Roanoke emerged as a railroad hub and flourished, so too did First Baptist, driven by a people focused on God, devoted to discipleship, missions, and the community. From their first sanctuary in 1878 to today's impressive 300,000- square-foot campus spread over 11 acres, First Baptist Church of Roanoke has faithfully expanded its reach, and they have held onto their heritage, including the original pulpit from their 1891 sanctuary, a powerful symbol of enduring faith. For 150 years, they have been a light in the valley, feeding the hungry, sending missionaries, broadcasting the Gospel, and transforming lives. May God continue to bless First Baptist Church of Roanoke for generations to come. Memorial Day Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, on this Memorial Day, we do more than remember. We honor the men and women who gave everything for this Nation. We remember the fallen, those still missing in action, those lost at sea, and the thousands who now rest beneath our flag, having paid the ultimate price for our freedom. These heroes answered the call to defend liberty, knowing it could cost them their lives. Because of them, we live in a country where freedom still rings and the American Dream endures. Their sacrifice is not just a chapter in our history; it is the foundation of our Republic. We are duty-bound to remember them, to honor them, and to ensure that their service is never forgotten. May God bless the memory of our fallen warriors, and may He continue to bless the United States of America and all who wear the uniform in its defense. ____________________