On this Memorial Day...

On this Memorial Day, let's remember why we celebrate this day. It is to honor, remember, and thank the men and women who have served and serve in the Armed Services.

In the hills of Arlington National Cemetary, there are sections of graves of those who have fallen in the wars of Afghanistan and Iraq. Not too long ago, I went as part of group to visit the Cemetary and out of all the places to see this one was very special for me. Perhaps it was because these graves belonged to those who have fallen in current wars. Maybe it was hearing gunshots from rifles and the sound of Taps being played at a distance from a military funeral. I couldn't help to think that the ultimate sacrifice meant that a wife or husband was now without their spouse, a son or daughter was without a parent, a brother or sister was without a sibling, a parent was without a son or daughter, and someone's bright future was cut short.

Although I don't know anyone buried in the Cemetary, I feel compelled to visit this place again with my own family to show them this sad part of our reality, but more importantly to pay our respects for the brave men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

We need to help those who have served and serve for our nation. There are countless organizations set up to help our military brothers and sisters. I have been an active supporter for many years of Azaleas Charities, but in the interest of full disclosure this charity is based in my hometown of Dumfries, Virginia. Azaleas has been leading the effort to aid our wounded soldiers. I'm grateful for this charity and many others who dedicate their time to help our heroes.

To all men and women in the Armed Services, especially our veterans, we salute you and are ever grateful for your sacrifices for our country.

Happy Mother's Day!

"Men are what their mothers made them." Ralph Waldo Emerson

Let's celebrate this important day to honor and thank all mothers for the many sacrifices they must endure in life but most of all for their unwavering love to their children and humanity.

We Remember...

They say time heals all wounds but I’m not so sure. Today, Virginians and the nation remember the tragic Virginia Tech shootings that happened two years ago. The emotional wounds are still fresh for many and we need to support each other now more than ever. Together we can overcome this difficult moment. My prayers go out to the victims and their families. We stand with you on this day of remembrance.

My Thoughts

Since the general election last November, the Republican Party has fractured at the national, state, and now, county level as Republican candidates search for a relevant message and clear identity. In my candidacy for Delegate, I look forward to bringing a new type of politics to our county and the Republican Party of Virginia.
I am proud of my conservative record of public service, and will focus on creating jobs, keeping taxes low, and improving quality of life in our county. I will work hard for my constituents across the political and demographic spectrum, and will strive to consolidate and unify support for Republican candidates in this time of crisis and need.
The good people of Prince William County are facing an important decision, and I will appreciate your support. Please visit my website for more information and to sign up for my newsletter: www.rafaellopez.org. Thank you. -- Rafael Lopez

I-95 and I-395 HOV/BUS/HOT Hearings

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) recently conducted three Public Hearings for citizens to review plans and comment on the northern section of the I-95/I-395 HOV/BUS/HOT Lanes Project. On Tuesday Feb 10, 2009, I attended a public hearing on the I-95/I-395 HOV/BUS/HOT Lane location and design. The following is a summary of my statement at the hearing:
My name is Rafael Lopez and I live at 3983 Orange St, Triangle, VA. I'm running for State Delegate for the 52nd District, which includes Triangle, Dumfries, Dale City, Quantico and Woodbridge. I have been and continue to be in favor of the HOT/BUS/HOV Lanes Project. This is a great partnership between our state government through VDOT and Fluor Transurban, a private company. The benefits are many: faster construction, more options for commuters, more consumers for local businesses, jobs for contractors, support for military bases, and above all, a better quality of life for all Virginians. Notwithstanding these benefits, we must make sure that our transportation design needs are addressed. That is why we are here.

In regards to noise barriers: We need to make sure that existing noise barriers are checked and replaced where necessary, especially near the Carolyn Forest area. Also, proposed noise barriers along Prince William States subdivision and Stockholm Way are necessary. I was an elected official for the Town of Dumfries and I know first hand that they are necessary. Please notethat a proposed noise barrier along Princeton Woods is currently labeled "not reasonable". Please reconsider this in light of the existing residential subdivision there. In regards to bus options: The inline bus station at Lorton is a great idea and is necessary.Other commuter lots south of this station would also benefit from similar measures to promote public bus use and reduce traffic. In regards to new I-395 access points: I would like to see more access points going north onI-395 because many commuters enter the highway system at various points in eastern Prince William County. Thank you.

GOTV for Pat Herrity

Earlier today I went to volunteer for Herrity's campaign on their GOTV effort. I was happy to see my friend Clark whom I had worked with in the recent presidential election. I wish I could do more to help Herrity but the election is this Tuesday and I have to work. Good luck Mr. Herrity! PS. Go Cardinals!!

Tito the Builder is Back!

Tito the Builder is back! Thanks to Tito and Debbie Munoz for hosting an important luncheon (Taco Fiesta) yesterday to discuss our minority outreach efforts. The luncheon was a success. Among a big crowd including friends, activists, and dignitaries, Tito and Debbie opened the meeting by sharing some of their life experiences. A serious discussion, dialogue, and exchange of ideas followed. Tito, a media critic, conservative activist, and now a coalition builder is at it again. (My friend, your efforts for an outreach to minorities on behalf of our party are to be commended!)