Community Corner

Northern Virginia Politicians Reflect on 'What I Am Thankful For'

Giving thanks to families, voters, community at Thanksgiving

As Northern Virginians celebrate Thanksgiving, some of the area's politicians reflected on what they are most thankful for this year:

Del. Scott Surovell (D-44th):  I am most thankful for the voters of Mt. Vernon and Lee in the 44th District who entrusted me with leading them for the next two years!  I am also thankful for my wife, four kids, and extended family, and for the wonderful community that makes Mount Vernon an amazing place to live.”

U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-11th): “Thanksgiving is among my favorite holidays of the year. It's all about enjoying the company of family and friends. In my household, we make a point of inviting anyone we know who doesn’t have other plans to join us for dinner. For my family, it is a tranquil and reflective day. It is a time to take a break from the rigors of Washington. It is a time for long walks on the Cross-County trail and long talks with friends.”

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Lee District Supervisor Jeff McKay (D): "I've got a lot to be thankful for this year. First of all, for my beautiful wife and daughter and our new baby who'll arrive next month. When I open the newspaper and read about localities declaring bankruptcy and having to cut critical services, I'm thankful for Fairfax County and the sensible way we've handled our finances during the great recession.  I'm thankful for the residents of Lee District and their volunteerism and dedication to good government. And, of course, I'm thankful that they returned me to office with more than 99 percent of the vote."

Former U.S. senator and Gov. George Allen (R), U.S. Senate candidate: “This Thanksgiving I am most thankful for my loving family, especially my wife Susan, our daughters Tyler and Brooke and our son Forrest. Their heartwarming spirit is a joy to be around.  After helping the Rising Hope Mission Church our family will be celebrating the holidays with Susan’s parents at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. I am also grateful and prayerful for our troops and their families who are always in our hearts and minds as we give thanks for the freedom we enjoy and they valiantly help protect. 

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“As we sit down for our Thanksgiving dinner, let us remember to pray for the families who are struggling to put food on their table and make ends meet in these difficult economic times. During this holiday season and beyond, Susan and I encourage everyone to open their hearts, to come together and help their family, friends and people in our communities in their time of need. May God continue to bless you, your loved ones, Virginia and America.”

Mount Vernon District Supervisor Gerry Hyland (D): “I am thankful for the opportunity to continue to work to make Mount Vernon a better place for its residents by implementing the recommendations of the Visioning Task Force and that Fairfax County has been able to provide assistance to those in need during this difficult economic time. I hold out hope that their conditions will improve.”

Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell (R): “I am thankful for the indefatigable spirit of the people of Virginia that has been on clear display in the response to severe wildfires, tornadoes, an earthquake and prolonged aftershocks and the flooding and severe winds associated with a hurricane and tropical storm. There have been so many touching displays of neighbors helping neighbors, coming together in the face of these challenges to recover and rebuild.  This Thanksgiving, I am thankful to be a Virginian.”

State Sen. George Barker (D-39th): "I am most thankful for my family, and the opportunity to spend time with those who are important to me. I am thankful for the blessing of friends across the Commonwealth, and during this holiday season I wish them well. I am also thankful for the renewed opportunity to serve the people of the 39th District, and for the great honor of serving as their elected representative in Richmond." 

"I hope that everyone will take a few moments during this holiday season to remember those less fortunate, those struggling to find employment in these tough economic times, and our brave men and women who are serving overseas and will not be able to spend this time with family."

Mason District Supervisor Penny Gross (D): Although I am thankful, of course, to the voters who re-elected me earlier this month, I am most thankful to be able to represent a diverse, dynamic, and densely populated district where people work together to solve community challenges. Bringing together residents and businesses, faith communities, non-profit organizations and civic groups, elected officials and county agencies to address small and large problems makes us all stronger and more resilient. We are so fortunate to live in Fairfax County, where positive approaches overcome the occasional negative perspective, and where we celebrate diversity and humanity, not just on Thanksgiving, but every day.”  

U.S. Rep. Jim Moran (D-8th): “This Thanksgiving, as our nation confronts enormous challenges including high unemployment, a fractured political system, and military involvements overseas, I am thankful for my family and for those working tirelessly everyday to improve the lives of others and make this a better world for future generations. So many in Northern Virginia volunteer their time and money to causes benefitting those less fortunate both here and abroad. And our military servicemen and women bravely answer the call of duty in dangerous places around the globe, forgoing precious time with loved ones to keep us safe. To all, your efforts do not go unnoticed or unappreciated this holiday season.”

Former Gov. Tim Kaine (D), U.S. Senate candidate: "As we join with friends and family to celebrate Thanksgiving, I am reminded that Americans have much to be thankful for and much that should give us hope. Our troops serving overseas and their families, many of whom are our neighbors and friends right here in Virginia, have made incredible sacrifices on behalf of our Commonwealth and our nation and we are extraordinarily grateful for their service. 

"Here in Virginia, the home of the first Thanksgiving, we have seen many communities conquer unforeseen challenges by joining together to help one another. This is the spirit of Virginia and it is something we should always cherish. I encourage all Virginians to find out how they can help those in need in their own community as the holiday season begins. Anne and I wish safe travels and a joyous Thanksgiving to all our fellow Virginians."


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