[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 9 (Tuesday, January 13, 2026)]
[House]
[Pages H667-H668]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING EASTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY'S ADAPTIVE ATHLETICS PROGRAM

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair now recognizes the gentleman from 
Washington, Mr. Baumgartner, for 5 minutes.


 =========================== NOTE =========================== 

  
  On January 13, 2026, page H667, in the third column, the 
following appeared: (Mr. BAUMGARTNER of Washington was recognized 
to address the House for 5 minutes.)
  
  The online version has been corrected to read: The SPEAKER pro 
tempore. The Chair now recognizes the gentleman from Washington, 
Mr. Baumgartner, for 5 minutes.


 ========================= END NOTE ========================= 


  Mr. BAUMGARTNER. Mr. Speaker, there are many things that make eastern 
Washington the greatest place to live in these wonderful United States 
of America. Today, I rise to recognize one of those wonderful things, 
the Eastern Washington University Adaptive Athletics Program, home of 
the first collegiate National Wheelchair Basketball Association team in 
the Western United States.
  Founded in 2019, this program embodies the values of leadership, 
teamwork, positivity, and integrity, helping student athletes build 
confidence, discipline, and independence both on and off the court. 
These athletes balance the same rigorous demands as all EWU varsity 
players--classes, practices, study sessions, travel, and competition--
all while setting a powerful example of determination and excellence.
  They continue to raise the bar for what collegiate athletics can be, 
showing that true greatness is defined by heart and perseverance.
  I know, on a personal level, each and every time I see these 
wonderful student athletes in person, I am inspired. I have seen the 
team traveling to and from games on my own trips to D.C., and I 
couldn't be prouder of their dedication and the way they represent 
Eastern Washington University. Go Eags.


                    Honoring Officer Kellsey Torres

  Mr. BAUMGARTNER. Mr. Speaker, last week was National Law Enforcement 
Day, and I rise to recognize wonderful Officer Kellsey Torres of the 
Spokane Police Department, who was named officer of the quarter, and to 
shine the eastern Washington spotlight on her outstanding service.

[[Page H668]]

  This recognition is not just about one moment or one case. It 
reflects a pattern of service, compassion, and integrity that defines 
Officer Torres' work every single day. She embodies the values that 
make eastern Washington so special: hard work, humility, and a deep 
commitment to helping neighbors in need. Her dedication reminds us that 
public service is about people and showing up, lending a hand, and 
treating every person with dignity and respect while protecting us.
  It is officers like Kellsey Torres who strengthen the trust between 
law enforcement and our communities and give us pride in the place we 
call home.
  Today, we honor her not only for her outstanding service but for 
embodying the very best of the eastern Washington spirit. We honor all 
of our Nation's law enforcement officers, and may this body back the 
blue.


                  Celebrating North County Food Pantry

  Mr. BAUMGARTNER. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to celebrate the North 
County Food Pantry in rural Elk, Washington.
  Nestled between the pristine forests and recovering farmland, this 
small 1982 mobile home has nourished hundreds of families in body and 
soul for decades.
  The pantry does far more than provide food. It offers connection, 
dignity, and a true sense of community.
  At the heart of the community is the director, Lora Benzinger, who 
has led the pantry for a little over a year after years and years of 
service. Drawing on her background in social services, she has made it 
her mission to ensure the pantry nourishes not only families' tables 
but also a sense of belonging.
  Families come not just for groceries but for fellowship, 
encouragement, and a place to be seen and valued.
  The pantry brings in volunteers from every walk of life. The North 
County Food Pantry stands as a powerful reminder that fighting hunger 
is about more than filling plates. It is about nurturing the human 
spirit. It reflects the compassion and resilience that define eastern 
Washington.

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