Recognizing the Career of Tim Sims

Floor Speech

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Mr. GRIFFITH. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Senior Park Ranger Tim Sims, who is retiring after an incredible 34 years working at the Booker T. Washington National Monument, located in Franklin County, Virginia. After graduating from Ferrum College in 1988, Tim applied for a seasonal maintenance job at the park, which would eventually turn into a lifelong career after he was given a full-time position in 1991. Originally hired as a maintenance worker, Tim worked his way to the role of chief park ranger in charge of interpretation and resource management. In addition to working in the park's gardens, Tim served as primary caretaker for the park's many animals, which include chickens, pigs, and sheep.

Throughout the years, Tim also got the opportunity to speak with the park's visitors as a part of his duties, something he both grew to enjoy and had a talent for. Tim said that he'll remain close to the monument once retired, living in the Callaway community of Franklin County, with his wife Robyn, so that he can continue to watch the park grow. Retirement will also afford Tim more opportunities to visit his two daughters, Willow and Rowan, and to dedicate more time to his other passion, as a keyboard player for a few local bands. I congratulate Tim on a job well done in his many years working at the Booker T. Washington National Monument. Though his colleagues will surely miss working with him every day, retirement is well deserved.

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