Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-06-11

HONORING KURT ROSE, HERNDON-RESTON ROTARY CLUB'S 2026 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

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Context

On 2026-06-11, Representative James R. Walkinshaw (D-VA-11) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING KURT ROSE, HERNDON-RESTON ROTARY CLUB'S 2026 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR" in the House.

Full Text

HONORING KURT ROSE, HERNDON-RESTON ROTARY CLUB'S 2026 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 99 (Thursday, June 11, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 99 (Thursday, June 11, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E569-E570] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING KURT ROSE, HERNDON-RESTON ROTARY CLUB'S 2026 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR ______ HON. JAMES R. WALKINSHAW of virginia in the house of representatives Thursday, June 11, 2026 Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding member of our Northern Virginia community, Kurt Rose, on the occasion of being named the 2026 Citizen of the Year by the Rotary Club of Herndon-Reston. For decades, Kurt Rose has exemplified the very best of public service through his unwavering commitment to children, families, and community organizations throughout the Herndon and Reston areas. His leadership reflects the Rotary ideal of ``Service Above Self,'' and his impact can be felt across countless lives in our region. In 2005, Kurt helped bring the Dolly Parton Imagination Library to the Herndon-Reston community, a transformative initiative that provides free books each month to young children from birth to age five. Through this effort, thousands of local children have gained access to books in their homes, fostering early literacy and a lifelong love of reading. Kurt is also the co-founder of Aspen Jewelry Designs, where he has demonstrated that business success and community service can go hand in hand. Through his work, he has supported numerous charitable initiatives and strengthened local partnerships. In addition, he co- founded the Ro-Sigle Community Giving Foundation, which raises funds and awareness to expand access to literacy resources for children and families in need. Beyond these accomplishments, Kurt has generously given his time and support to organizations such as Kids R First, Cornerstones, the South Lakes High School PTSA Food Pantry, the South Lakes and Herndon High School Bands, the Reston YMCA, and the Reston Museum's Annual Cardboard Boat Regatta. He has also served as a dedicated board member of the Reston Historic Trust & Museum, helping to preserve the unique heritage of the Reston community. The Citizen of the Year distinction awarded by the Rotary Club of Herndon-Reston carries deep significance within the community. Each year, this honor is bestowed upon an individual whose service, leadership, and compassion have made a lasting and measurable impact on the lives of others. It is a recognition not only of professional achievement, but of a sustained commitment to uplifting neighbors, strengthening families, and building a more connected and resilient community. The annual celebration brings together community leaders, local organizations, families, and friends to reflect on the values that define Herndon and Reston: service, generosity, and civic engagement. It serves as a powerful reminder of the role that local leadership plays in addressing community needs and inspiring others to contribute their time and talents in meaningful ways. Kurt Rose's selection as the 2026 honoree reflects a lifetime of dedication to these ideals. [[Page E570]] His work in advancing childhood literacy, supporting local nonprofits, and fostering community partnerships embodies the very spirit of this award. Through both his professional endeavors and volunteer service, he has set a standard of leadership that continues to inspire those around him. On April 26, 2026, the Rotary Club of Herndon-Reston honored Kurt Rose at the Reston Community Center, celebrating a lifetime of service that has strengthened our community and uplifted those most in need. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Kurt Rose on this well-deserved recognition. His leadership, generosity, and steadfast dedication to others serve as an inspiration to us all and embody the very spirit of community that defines Northern Virginia. ____________________

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HONORING KURT ROSE, HERNDON-RESTON ROTARY CLUB'S 2026 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 99 (Thursday, June 11, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 99 (Thursday, June 11, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E569-E570] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING KURT ROSE, HERNDON-RESTON ROTARY CLUB'S 2026 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR ______ HON. JAMES R. WALKINSHAW of virginia in the house of representatives Thursday, June 11, 2026 Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding member of our Northern Virginia community, Kurt Rose, on the occasion of being named the 2026 Citizen of the Year by the Rotary Club of Herndon-Reston. For decades, Kurt Rose has exemplified the very best of public service through his unwavering commitment to children, families, and community organizations throughout the Herndon and Reston areas. His leadership reflects the Rotary ideal of ``Service Above Self,'' and his impact can be felt across countless lives in our region. In 2005, Kurt helped bring the Dolly Parton Imagination Library to the Herndon-Reston community, a transformative initiative that provides free books each month to young children from birth to age five. Through this effort, thousands of local children have gained access to books in their homes, fostering early literacy and a lifelong love of reading. Kurt is also the co-founder of Aspen Jewelry Designs, where he has demonstrated that business success and community service can go hand in hand. Through his work, he has supported numerous charitable initiatives and strengthened local partnerships. In addition, he co- founded the Ro-Sigle Community Giving Foundation, which raises funds and awareness to expand access to literacy resources for children and families in need. Beyond these accomplishments, Kurt has generously given his time and support to organizations such as Kids R First, Cornerstones, the South Lakes High School PTSA Food Pantry, the South Lakes and Herndon High School Bands, the Reston YMCA, and the Reston Museum's Annual Cardboard Boat Regatta. He has also served as a dedicated board member of the Reston Historic Trust & Museum, helping to preserve the unique heritage of the Reston community. The Citizen of the Year distinction awarded by the Rotary Club of Herndon-Reston carries deep significance within the community. Each year, this honor is bestowed upon an individual whose service, leadership, and compassion have made a lasting and measurable impact on the lives of others. It is a recognition not only of professional achievement, but of a sustained commitment to uplifting neighbors, strengthening families, and building a more connected and resilient community. The annual celebration brings together community leaders, local organizations, families, and friends to reflect on the values that define Herndon and Reston: service, generosity, and civic engagement. It serves as a powerful reminder of the role that local leadership plays in addressing community needs and inspiring others to contribute their time and talents in meaningful ways. Kurt Rose's selection as the 2026 honoree reflects a lifetime of dedication to these ideals. [[Page E570]] His work in advancing childhood literacy, supporting local nonprofits, and fostering community partnerships embodies the very spirit of this award. Through both his professional endeavors and volunteer service, he has set a standard of leadership that continues to inspire those around him. On April 26, 2026, the Rotary Club of Herndon-Reston honored Kurt Rose at the Reston Community Center, celebrating a lifetime of service that has strengthened our community and uplifted those most in need. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Kurt Rose on this well-deserved recognition. His leadership, generosity, and steadfast dedication to others serve as an inspiration to us all and embody the very spirit of community that defines Northern Virginia. ____________________