Bill Text: VA HJR223 | 2016 | Regular Session | Enrolled


Bill Title: Celebrating the life of Priscilla Ames.

Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 1-0)

Status: (Passed) 2016-02-12 - Bill text as passed House and Senate (HJ223ER) [HJR223 Detail]

Download: Virginia-2016-HJR223-Enrolled.html

HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 223
Celebrating the life of Priscilla Ames.

Agreed to by the House of Delegates, February 5, 2016
Agreed to by the Senate, February 11, 2016

WHEREAS, Priscilla Ames, a longtime resident of Reston and a spirited advocate for its citizens, who helped build a strong future for the community and dedicated her life to serving and inspiring others, died on January 8, 2016; and

WHEREAS, a native of New York City, Priscilla Ames moved to Reston in 1965 and was one of the community's earliest residents; she was a passionate believer in Robert E. Simon's concept of a "New Town," where individuals of all races, backgrounds, and income levels could find a home; and

WHEREAS, desirous to be of service to her fellow residents, Priscilla Ames was one of the first members of Reston-Herndon FISH, a nonprofit organization that provides emergency support to individuals and families in need, and volunteered with Lake Anne Hall and Reston Interfaith (now Cornerstones); and

WHEREAS, Priscilla Ames later worked to strengthen the community as a member of the Fairfax County Human Services Board and helped the Reverend Embry Rucker, her longtime partner, establish and raise funds for what is now the Embry Rucker Community Shelter; and

WHEREAS, often one of the first people in the community to welcome new families, Priscilla Ames was a trusted mentor to many young men and women in Reston; as the demographics of the community changed, she devoted her time to working with nonprofit organizations, faith groups, and members of local and state government to break down language barriers for Reston residents; and

WHEREAS, Priscilla Ames earned numerous awards and accolades for her good work, including the prestigious Robert E. Simon Lifetime Achievement Award from the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce and Reston Interfaith, in 2011; and

WHEREAS, predeceased by her daughter, Gwen, Priscilla Ames will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by numerous family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby note with great sadness the loss of Priscilla Ames, a beloved community leader in Reston; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Priscilla Ames as an expression of the General Assembly's respect for her memory.

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