Congratulating Nancy Howell Agee

Floor Speech

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Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight a remarkable individual from our great Commonwealth of Virginia, Nancy Howell Agee. Nancy was born at Roanoke Memorial Hospital, and it was here that she also began her journey into nursing at just 18 years old, a journey fueled by her passion for servant leadership.

Over the last 50 years, Nancy has dedicated herself to the health of our community. Starting as a nurse, she rose to the role of president and CEO of Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, making her the only female top executive in that position.

Under her leadership, the hospital has flourished, forging vital partnerships with Virginia Tech to establish a new medical school and Radford University's premier nursing program. These initiatives are essential to keeping world-class talent in the Roanoke Valley.

As she retires, we must recognize her contributions, especially the future projects she leaves behind, including the new Crystal Spring Tower and the highly anticipated Taubman Cancer Center.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Nancy Howell Agee for her unwavering service and the lasting impact she has made on the Roanoke Valley. We wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement. Congratulating Wayne F. Pryor

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Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary leader in Virginia agriculture, Wayne Pryor. This December, Wayne will retire as president of the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation after 18 remarkable years of service as State president.

His dedication goes back even further, having previously served as vice president and as a member of the board since 1988. Wayne's contributions to farming haven't gone unnoticed. He was named Virginia Farm Bureau's Eastern District Young Farmer of the Year early in his career and received the organization's Warren Beach Award in 2005, a testament to his commitment to nurturing future leaders in the agriculture industry.

His accolades also include the Honorary American FFA Degree, highlighting his dedication to agricultural education and FFA.

Wayne's impact extends beyond Virginia. He serves on the board of the American Farm Bureau Federation and is involved with several key organizations within the agricultural community.

Additionally, ``Virginia Business'' magazine has recognized him multiple times in its annual ``Virginia 500`` list of the Commonwealth's most influential business, government, and political leaders.

Mr. Speaker, Wayne Pryor's leadership has made a lasting impact on the agricultural community and on Virginia itself. We thank him for his service and wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement. Congratulating the Roanoke Catholic School Girls Track and Field Team

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Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Roanoke Catholic School girls track and field team for winning the 2024 Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association Division II State Championship.

After finishing second or third in the last three years, the Celtics were determined to improve. With hard work in technique, strength training, and practice, they made their championship dreams a reality.

This achievement reflects the dedication of both the athletes and their coaches, Jason Smith, Sara Planta, P.J. Moyer, Erika Barger, and Brandie Smith. I especially recognize Jason for being named VISAA Girls Outdoor Division II Coach of the Year.

This year's exceptional roster--Aubrey Aaron, Sophia Bradley, Allison Brundrett, Eva Coniglione, Bailey Cundiff, Barrett Cundiff, Charlie Floyd, Annie Kovats, Justinne Llavore, Nicole Medina-Salinas, Mickie O'Herron, Ellie Patel, Karly Smith, Natalie Smith, and Sydney Whitt-- had the honor of bringing home this historic title, marking the first girls track and field championship for Roanoke Catholic and the first private school to win a team title at the Cosmopolitan Invitational.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Roanoke Catholic School girls track and field team on this remarkable achievement. It is a great honor to have such talent in Virginia's Sixth Congressional District. Honoring the Life of Leonard Kraemer

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Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, today I honor the remarkable life of a true patriot from Virginia's Sixth District, Mr. Leonard Kraemer, who recently passed away at the remarkable age of 100.

Leonard exemplified what it means to serve our country. During World War II, he proudly served in the United States Navy as an electrician on the USS Erben, a Fletcher-class destroyer in the Pacific. His bravery earned him six battle stars, showcasing his dedication and sacrifice.

Beyond his military service, Leonard was a pillar of the community. He led as president of the Winchester Host Lions Club for three terms, supported Little League Baseball programs, and even had the honor of playing baseball with Joe DiMaggio at Yankee Stadium. His generous spirit and love for his community continue to inspire us all.

As we remember Mr. Leonard Kraemer, let us celebrate his extraordinary life, his wartime sacrifices, and his lifelong commitment to Virginia and our Nation.

We thank Leonard for his service and dedication. May he rest in peace.

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