[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E666]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                      HONORING MS. YOLANDA AMADEO

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. SANFORD D. BISHOP, JR.

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 14, 2025

  Mr. BISHOP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a distinguished 
scholar, passionate community advocate, and dedicated educator, Ms. 
Yolanda Amadeo, who celebrated her 30th anniversary as Chief 
Meteorologist at WALB-TV in Albany, Georgia, on June 15, 2025.
  Ms. Amadeo graduated from Jackson State University with a Bachelor of 
Science in Atmospheric Sciences and also earned a Bachelor of Science 
in Speech Communications from Florida State University. She proudly 
holds the prestigious American Meteorological Society's (AMS) Seal of 
Approval and has contributed extensively to the AMS community. Her 
service includes roles on the Broadcast Board of the AMS, the AMS Board 
on Pre-College Education, and the AMS Minority Scholarship National 
Committee.
  Throughout her career, Ms. Amadeo has been recognized with numerous 
accolades. In 2012, she received the Martin Luther King Jr. Dream Award 
from the Albany King Day Committee, as well as the Women of Purpose 
Award. In 2010, the Georgia Association of Broadcasters honored her 
with an Honorable Mention for Best Weather Reporting. She is also a 
recipient of the 2007 National Mark Trail Award, recognizing her 
efforts to promote weather safety through the use of weather radios. 
That same year, I had the privilege of awarding her a Certificate of 
Special Congressional Recognition for her outstanding achievements, 
dedicated service, and public distinction. Furthermore, U.S. Senator 
Johnny Isakson acknowledged her important work educating the public on 
the life-saving role of NOAA Weather Radios during severe weather. In 
2004, Ms. Amadeo was celebrated as one of Southwest Georgia's ``Steel 
Magnolias'' at the Women Making Magic Event.
  Perhaps most inspiring is her dedication to mentoring aspiring 
meteorologists. She cherishes the relationships she has built through 
sharing her expertise, providing guidance, and offering both 
motivational and emotional support. Yolanda is deeply committed to the 
success of those seeking career advice. Beyond her professional work, 
she actively shares her passion for meteorology with the community by 
educating students on the science of weather forecasting and promoting 
weather safety at civic and social events.
  Ms. Amadeo's community involvement extends to her volunteerism with 
the Southwest Georgia Chapter of the American Red Cross, where she has 
served as both a volunteer and board member. She is also an active 
member of St. Teresa's Catholic Church, serving as a lector and member 
of the Parish Council, and volunteers at St. Clare's Soup Kitchen, 
helping those in need within our neighborhood.
  As former Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm wisely said, ``Service is 
the rent we pay for the space we occupy here on this earth.'' In 
celebrating Ms. Amadeo's 30 years as Chief Meteorologist, it is clear 
she has paid her rent and paid it well. Her unwavering commitment to 
informing and uplifting her community is truly commendable, and both 
Albany and the state of Georgia are stronger and safer because of her.
  Yolanda's many accomplishments would not have been possible without 
the grace of God and the steadfast love and support of her family.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Vivian, and me, 
along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's Second District, 
in recognizing and commending Ms. Yolanda Amadeo for 30 remarkable 
years as Chief Meteorologist at WALB-TV, and in wishing her many more 
years of success and service.

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