[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.

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