[Page H953]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING CHIEF OF STAFF, KARI OSMOND

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from 
New Jersey (Mrs. Watson Coleman) for 5 minutes.
  Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN. Mr. Speaker, ask any Member of Congress and they 
will tell you, none of us could adequately serve our constituents 
without staffers. They are a necessary component of our office.
  Today, I will take a moment to thank my chief of staff, Kari Osmond, 
who will be leaving our office at the conclusion of today's work.
  Kari has been working with me since I was first elected to represent 
the 12th Congressional District a decade ago, but I have known her 
since my time in the State assembly.
  In fact, we spent so much time together during my first campaign, 
driving around the 12th Congressional District listening to gospel 
music, I nearly turned her into a Black Baptist. We preferred Hezekiah 
Walker's ``Every Praise.''
  Her dedication and her commitment to the people in the four counties 
that I represent has never wavered in all of the time that I have known 
her.
  Kari is not just a friend. Bill, my husband, and I consider her 
family. She has been a tremendous professional, a committed organizer, 
and a courageous leader who has always run toward the fight.
  In her time as chief of staff, she also helped me to assemble a 
talented team committed to representing the values of the 12th 
Congressional District and fighting for everyday New Jerseyans.
  A Congress Member is only as good as their staff, and she has led one 
of the best on the Hill for the last 4 years and the best in our 
district office in New Jersey.
  I will miss her greatly. I will miss her dearly. I am certain, 
though, that she will carry her talent and her commitment to service to 
her new role at the College of New Jersey.
  Mr. Speaker, I wish Kari Godspeed, best wishes, and know that she 
goes with my love.

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