[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 107 (Tuesday, June 26, 2018)]
[House]
[Page H5652]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    CONGRATULATING DR. BILL LAWRENCE

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Alabama (Mr. Byrne) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise this morning to congratulate Dr. Bill 
Lawrence on his retirement after over 30 years as a principal in 
southwest Alabama.
  For the last 21 years, Dr. Lawrence worked as principal of Foley 
Elementary School in Baldwin County. Prior to that, he served for 10 
years at W. H. Council Traditional School in Mobile County.
  Being a principal is a tough job, but Dr. Lawrence thrived in the 
role throughout his career. He overcame many obstacles and always 
provided steady leadership for his students, teachers, faculty, and 
parents. I know that personally because I am one of those parents.
  Dr. Lawrence would always go above and beyond the job description. He 
said that one of his proudest accomplishments was starting the Turkey 
Takeout program to help provide families in poverty with a free 
Thanksgiving meal.
  On behalf of Alabama's First Congressional District and the countless 
students positively impacted by Dr. Lawrence over his career, including 
my daughter, Laura, I want to wish him all the best upon his 
retirement.
  Foley Elementary School and public education in Alabama will not be 
the same without him.


                     Congratulating Victor Helmsing

  Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Victor Helmsing on his 
retirement after 35 years serving as a teacher at St. Paul's Episcopal 
School in Mobile.
  Throughout his time at St. Paul's, he held a range of teaching 
positions, including everything from senior government and economics to 
AP U.S. Government and politics, to Western civilization.
  He also helped lead various extracurricular programs, including the 
Key Club for 28 years, and serving as senior class sponsor for 35 
straight years. He has also been a leader among his peers, serving as 
chair of various administrative committees.
  During various time periods, Victor served as associate headmaster, 
assistant headmaster, and director of the upper school, but his true 
passion has always rested in the classroom. I know every former student 
has their own story about something Victor Helmsing taught them or a 
way he had a lasting impact on their lives. That is just the type of 
teacher and leader he has always been.
  So on behalf of Alabama's First Congressional District, I want to 
wish Victor and his wife, Vaughan, all the best upon his retirement. 
His impact on St. Paul's and his former students will be felt for years 
to come.

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