HONORING KATHARINE "KAYE" PARTIN WHALEY AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH

HONORING KATHARINE "KAYE" PARTIN WHALEY AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 60 (Monday, March 30, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 60 (Monday, March 30, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E295-E296] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING KATHARINE ``KAYE'' PARTIN WHALEY AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH _____ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Monday, March 30, 2026 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker I rise to honor Katharine ``Kaye'' Partin Whaley as a Distinguished Leader in Central Florida for Women's History Month. For more than three decades, Katharine ``Kaye'' Partin Whaley has been a driving force in education, community service, and cultural preservation in Osceola County. A respected educator for 32 years, she has influenced thousands of students as a classroom teacher and, for the past nine years, as the Reading Coach at Harmony High School. Her dedication to academic excellence has earned her three Teacher of the Year awards and two Disney Teacherrific Awards, reflecting her long- standing commitment to elevating student achievement and supporting educators across the district. Kaye's leadership extends far beyond the classroom. A fifth- generation Osceola County rancher, she remains actively involved in her family's ranching operations. Her deep community roots are also evident in her long service to the Silver Spurs Club, where she has strengthened one of Osceola County's most treasured traditions. Over the years, she has contributed in numerous operational roles including concessions, ticketing, souvenirs, posters, stock support, and other behind-the-scenes efforts essential to producing rodeo events that bring families, visitors, and economic vitality to the region. As Silver Spurs Parade Chairman for the past eight years, Kaye revitalized the historic parade, returning it to downtown St. Cloud and reinvigorating community participation. Her most ambitious accomplishment came in 2024, when she led the Silver Spurs Quadrille in its first-ever appearance in the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California. Through extensive planning and coordination, she organized the transport of 25 members and horses, earning national recognition for Osceola County and showcasing the cultural importance of the Silver Spurs Rodeo. Now serving as the 2025-2026 Big Boss (President) of the Silver Spurs Club, Kaye brings unwavering dedication, vision, and a heart for service. Her priorities remain focused on strengthening family-friendly rodeo entertainment, expanding community impact, and supporting organizations that enrich Osceola County. Kaye Whaley continues to lead with passion, integrity, and a deep commitment to her community. [[Page E296]] ____________________