The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE OF RICHARD RICE” mentioning Mark Kelly was published in the Extensions of Remarks section on page E90 on Feb. 2.
Of the 100 senators in 117th Congress, 24 percent were women, and 76 percent were men, according to the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress.
Senators' salaries are historically higher than the median US income.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE OF RICHARD RICE
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HON. TRENT KELLY
of mississippi
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, February 2, 2021
Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of Mr. Richard Rice who passed away on Saturday, January 16 at North Mississippi Medical Center. His beloved wife, Jill, passed away in November of 2020.
Richard was born in September of 1940 in Ware, Massachusetts to Thomas and Jean Lech Rice. After attending public high schools, Richard enlisted in the United States Navy. During Basic Training in Millington, Tennessee, he met his wife Jill. The two were married in September of 1960. Throughout his military career, Chief Petty Officer Rice served as a meteorologist, forecasting sea swells and tracking atmospheric changes for missile launches.
In July, 1979, Richard and Jill moved to Tupelo, Mississippi where Richard soon became a household name. He was Northeast Mississippi's weatherman and delighted children each Christmas as the ``Santa Tracker.'' He was deeply invested in the community, frequently speaking to local organizations and schools about his career in meteorology. He mentored colleagues at WTVA and was a role model for local broadcasters. Off screen, Richard was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, as well as an accomplished gardener.
Richard Rice is survived by his daughter, Debbie; three grandchildren, John, Robert, and Scotty; and three great-grandchildren, Lauren, Aaryn, and Chloe.
Richard Rice was a local hero, community leader, and role model to many. I sincerely thank him for his service to the state of Mississippi and extend my deepest condolences to his loved ones.
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