Recognizing Washington State University's Roar Program

Floor Speech

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Mr. BAUMGARTNER. Mr. Speaker, on March 21, we celebrated World Down Syndrome Day. Today, I rise to honor a program that reflects that spirit of inclusion--Washington State University's ROAR program--and to celebrate one of its newest admitted students, Cole Rodgers.

Cole has a dream shared by many young people: to go to college, study alongside great students, and cheer on the Cougs. He is energetic, kind, and passionate about serving others, and he brings a love of music, basketball, and Cougar sports wherever he goes. He hopes to study communications and government affairs, build his public-speaking skills, and explore career paths that will help him live independently.

WSU ROAR makes those dreams possible. As part of a federally- supported initiative under the model Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities, otherwise known as TPSID, ROAR reflects a proven model being implemented successfully on campuses across the country.

The program provides inclusive coursework, on-campus living, hands-on internships, and real preparation for life after college, opening doors for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to learn, grow, and thrive. Just last week, ROAR received a $2.48 million Federal grant, funding I was proud to help secure.

WSU ROAR opens up doors for students like Cole and other students across campus to develop the skills and experience needed to contribute meaningfully to our communities and economy.

Mr. Speaker, as a proud member of Coug Nation, I know what it means personally to be a Cougar. Cole is a Cougar, too, and programs like WSU ROAR ensure that every student with a dream has a chance to pursue it. Congratulating Sergeant Mike Swim

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Mr. BAUMGARTNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Sergeant Mike Swim of Stevens County on his well-earned retirement after 29 years with the Stevens County Sheriff's Department.

Sergeant Swim has spent his entire life in service, from Explorers Search and Rescue at age 12, to the U.S. Navy, to nearly three decades protecting the community he loves.

His courage was tested on September 27, 2017, when a suspect fired nine rounds into his patrol vehicle at point-blank range. Miraculously, he survived. The bullet-ridden door he keeps in his garage is a powerful reminder of both the blessings and the dangers that law enforcement faces every day.

Even in retirement, Sergeant Swim will continue serving as a special deputy, assisting with crime scenes, cold cases, and emergency response.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Sergeant Swim for his extraordinary dedication and wish him the very best in his next chapter. Congratulating Gonzaga Bulldogs and University of Idaho Vandals Basketball Teams

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Mr. BAUMGARTNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Gonzaga Bulldogs and the University of Idaho Vandals, both men's and women's basketball teams, for outstanding seasons. It has been incredible to watch them bring true determination and passion to the court.

Like many young people who grew up in the Inland Northwest and on the Palouse, I followed all of our local sports teams, including the Cougs, the Zags, the Eags, the Vandals, and the Whitworth sports teams.

This year, the Zags and Vandals gave us plenty to cheer about. The Gonzaga men's team showed their relentless Bulldog spirit, powering through the season with a 31-4 record and a WCC championship. The Gonzaga women's team delivered a thrilling season of their own, finishing 24-10 and capturing their 11th WCC championship title.

I also recognize the Vandals men's team for an impressive 21-15 season that kept fans on their feet and their appearance in the NCAA Tournament. Finally, I recognize the Vandals women's team that lit up the court with a phenomenal 29-6 record, earning their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2016, capped by a huge 60-57 win over rival Montana State.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate all of these teams for an electric season and their truly remarkable performance. Go Zags. Go Vandals. All of the fans of the Inland Northwest should never forget how spoiled they are with all of our wonderful teams.

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