[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 156 (Tuesday, September 26, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E890]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CELEBRATING RAYMOND LOPEZ OF THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL NO. 444

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PATRICK RYAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 26, 2023

  Mr. RYAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mr. Raymond Lopez 
on being named ``Knight of the Year'' by the Knights of Columbus 
Council No. 444.
  Raymond was born in New York City on September 18, 1941. After 
graduating from Harren High School, he worked in the city's Garment 
District. In 1960, Ray enlisted in the Army and served his country 
honorably for four years, one of which he served in Vietnam.
  Upon returning home, Ray married the love of his life, Gloria, on 
June 27, 1964. He went on to work as a parking lot supervisor for the 
Museum of Natural History and LaGuardia Airport. Ray then began the 
position of railroad clerk for the New York City Transit Authority, 
before receiving a promotion to collecting agent on the money train.
  Ray retired from the Transit Authority after 22 years of service in 
1990. Ray then began working in the Hudson Valley at New York Stewart 
International Airport in New Windsor, New York.
  Ray joined the Monsignor Henry O'Carroll Council No. 444 of the 
Knights of Columbus in Newburgh, N.Y. Council No. 444 was established 
on September 5, 1899, and currently has over 150 members.
  Ray quickly moved up the ranks and became a third-degree knight and 
served Council No. 444 as Grand Knight from 2020 to 2022. This year, 
Council No. 444 is honoring Ray for his service to the Knights of 
Columbus by recognizing him as ``Knight of the Year.''
  The Knights of Columbus Council No. 444 have worked tirelessly to 
support food pantries, disaster relief, assistance to the homeless in 
the community, vocations development, the Special Olympics, and many 
more worthy nonprofits. I am honored to recognize Raymond Lopez's many 
contributions he has made to the Council and our community.
  In addition to his work at the Knight of Columbus, Ray is a dedicated 
husband to his wife, Gloria, and loving father to his 2 children, 
Annette and Raymond Jr. He is also the proud grandfather of 6 
grandchildren.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to 
join me in recognizing the accomplishments of Raymond Lopez. It is my 
privilege to rise in recognition of his service to our country and our 
community.

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