Floor Statements

Mr. President, today I pay tribute to an outstanding Arkansas educator, Tracy Valentine.

A teacher at Bragg Elementary School in West Memphis, Tracy is a recipient of the 2010 Milken Educator Award.

This prestigious award is the Nation's preeminent teacher recognition program that has honored 2,500 teachers, principals and specialists with $25,000 awards. The criteria for selection of this award is exceptional educational talent as evidenced by outstanding instructional practices in the classroom, school and professional and policy leadership, and an engaging and inspiring presence that motivates and impacts students, colleagues and the community. Tracy surpassed these criteria. Her outstanding contributions and commitment to education have been noticed by her students, their parents as well as her colleagues.

Tracy's passion for educating not only helps students, but also inspires those who work with her to do their best to encourage further development in the classroom. This truly is a major accomplishment in her career and something of which to be very proud.

I would like to offer my appreciation for Tracy Valentine's determination and devotion to provide a quality educational experience for students as we continue to shape the eager, young minds of West Memphis and work to keep America globally competitive.

Mr. President, today I pay tribute to an outstanding Arkansas educator, Tamika Jordan.

A curriculum technology specialist at Avondale Elementary School in West Memphis, Tamika is a recipient of the 2010 Milken Educator Award.

This prestigious award is the Nation's preeminent teacher recognition program that has honored 2,500 teachers, principals and specialists with individual $25,000 awards. Selection of this award is based on several criteria including exceptional educational talent as evidenced by outstanding instructional practices in the classroom, school and professional and policy leadership, and an engaging and inspiring presence that motivates and impacts students, colleagues and the community. Tamika surpasses these standards. Her outstanding contributions and commitment to education have been noticed by her students, their parents as well as her colleagues.

Tamika's passion for educating not only helps students, but also inspires those who work with her to do their best to encourage further development in the classroom. This truly is a major accomplishment in her career and something of which to be very proud.

I would like to offer my appreciation for Tamika Jordan's determination and devotion to provide a quality educational experience for students as we continue to shape the eager young minds of West Memphis and work to keep America globally competitive.

Mr. President, today I honor the life of C. Ray Baker, a devoted champion of Fort Smith, AR.

Ray Baker was a lifelong cheerleader of Fort Smith, proving his love for the community through serving its citizens for 20 years as mayor.

Dedicating countless hours volunteering for civic service organizations, he brought an unmatched, contagious energy to ribbon cuttings, groundbreakings, awards ceremonies and special community events. His commitment to Fort Smith inspired the ``Ray Baker Lifetime Achievement Award.''

He shared his enthusiasm for the community with the generations of students he taught over his 46 years as an educator. His legacy is far reaching beyond the halls of Southside High School where he taught for 44 years.

He received numerous awards and commendations for his years in the classroom including being named Arkansas PTA Teacher of the Year, a Milken Family National Educator, Arkansas Teacher of the Year and Daughters of the American Revolution National American History Teacher of the Year.

Ray is a true American hero who not only taught what it means to participate in the government, but also showed his students and the citizens by the example he set.

Ray Baker's legacy will live on for future generations to experience the projects he supported encouraged to the lives he touched in the classroom and civic outings all across the region.

His energetic spirit has given us all strength, and we are fortunate to have had his leadership. During the opportunities I had to share the stage with Mayor Baker, I often had to follow his passionate and enthusiastic addresses. I would joke with the audience that I needed to spend a few days with the mayor so I could learn how to become as animated as he was.

We all came to know and say his famous words he would recite after his speeches and proclamations, ``Life's worth living in Fort Smith, Arkansas.'' I am confident this will always be a motto for the community, and thanks to Ray Baker's determination, perseverance and dedication, he certainly made Fort Smith a place worth living.

Mr. President, today I recognize Michael Shepard for his achievement of being named the National Assistant Principal of the Year for his work at Har-Ber High School in Springdale, AR.

In his fourth year as an assistant principal at Har-Ber, Michael is continuously looking for ways to improve educating students. His efforts as the advanced placement coordinator helped secure funding for lead AP instructors for math, English and science. Since taking on the role of AP coordinator the number of students taking AP courses has more than doubled and minority participation has increased tremendously. Going above and beyond, Michael found funds to expand Har-Ber's technological capabilities, allowing students the use of laptops, wireless Internet access, and projection units.

Michael is committed to educating our youth and continues improving his skills to help meet the needs of Springdale students. He recently earned a licensure endorsement in English as a second language to help meet the needs of the district's 8,000 English language learners.

It is the efforts of educators like Michael Shepard that will enable our future generations to reach their full potential and I am proud of his commitment to education and his efforts to improve the lives of students in Arkansas. National Assistant Principal of the Year is a well-deserved honor and I congratulate Michael on this recognition.

Mr. President, today I wish to recognize Colby Qualls from Monette, AR, for being selected for participation in the annual U.S. Senate Youth Program.

Created in 1962, the U.S. Senate Youth Program was organized to encourage an understanding of our government with an emphasis of how its three branches work and how elected officials work for their constituents and create policies that impact our Nation and the world. The weeklong visit to Washington, DC, allows students to meet and interact with lawmakers, appointed officials and staff who are involved in crafting legislation and making decisions that influence our laws.

This program brings together some of our Nation's top youth leaders, like Colby, who show a commitment to public service. An outstanding student at Buffalo Island Central High School, Colby excels both in and out of the classroom.

He previously served as student council vice president and treasurer, in addition to his activities with the Future Business Leaders of America as vice president and national convention representative. Colby is captain of Quiz Bowl and all-region MVP; he is president of the 4-H Club and a member of the Buffalo Island Youth Council and the Arkansas Teen Leadership Council. In addition, he participates in many community volunteer activities. Colby plans to attend a top university and aspires to hold public office one day.

Colby is very deserving of this honor. I congratulate him for his determination, dedication, and service and encourage his growth as a leader.

Mr. President, today I recognize Victoria Maloch from Magnolia, AR, for being selected for participation in the annual United States Senate Youth Program.

Created in 1962, the United States Senate Youth was organized to encourage an understanding of our government with an emphasis of how its three branches work and how elected officials work for their constituents and create policies that impact our Nation and the world. The weeklong visit to Washington, DC, allows students to meet and interact with lawmakers, appointed officials and staff who are involved in crafting legislation and making decisions that influence our laws.

This program brings together some of our Nations top youth leaders, like Victoria, who show a commitment to public service. An outstanding student at Emerson High School, Victoria excels both in and out of the classroom.

She serves as president of the 4-H Club and Future Farmers of America; vice president of Arkansas Junior Brangus Breeders Association; secretary of the Science Club and captain of Quiz Bowl. Victoria is a member of the Beta club, Future Business Leaders of America, and Family Career and Community Leaders of America. She was a People-to-People ambassador and volunteers in her community with the Youth Advisory Council and Today's Youth Tomorrow's Leaders program. Victoria plans to attend the University of Arkansas and continue her education in law school.

Victoria is very deserving of this honor. I congratulate her for her determination, dedication, and service and encourage her growth as a leader.

Mr. President, I rise to honor the life of one of America's bravest killed in action in Afghanistan--SPC Ethan C. Hardin--a fallen hero who served our Nation in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Specialist Hardin, 22, grew up in Fayetteville, AR, where he graduated Fayetteville Christian Schools. His former principal, Kenny Francis, remembered Specialist Hardin's ``pleasant, likeable, gentle personality.''

His pastor remembers Specialist Hardin as an excellent young man who was very dedicated to Christ. He called Specialist Hardin ``gentle'' as well, saying he harbored no particular hostilities toward the enemy, but a strong desire to protect our country.

Specialist Hardin was a member of the 10th Mountain Division. He was killed when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device and small arms fire. PFC Ira Laningham of Zapata, TX, also of the 10th Mountain Division, was also killed in the attack.

Mr. President, Specialist Hardin made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. I ask my colleagues in the Senate to join me in honoring his life and legacy. He is a true American hero.

Sergeant Zainah Caye Creamer

Mr. President, I also rise to honor the life of one of America's bravest killed in action in Afghanistan--SGT Zainah Caye Creamer--a fallen hero who served our nation in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Sergeant Creamer, 28, was born in Texarkana, TX, and graduated from Arkansas High School in Texarkana, AR, where she was known for her generosity and kindness. Her friends and family say they will remember her lovely singing voice and her love of country, friends, family and fellow soldiers--including her K-9 partner, Jofa.

A soldier for more than 6 years, Sergeant Creamer was assigned to the 212th Military Police Detachment as an Army dog handler. She and her dog, Jofa, were assigned to check vehicles and facilities for explosives and were carrying out a route and clearance mission when the blast occurred.

She died of injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near her unit in Kandahar.

Mr. President, Sergeant Creamer made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. I ask my colleagues in the Senate to join me in honoring her life and legacy. She is a true American hero.

Mr. President, today I wish to reflect on the courage and strength of Johnny Ties or as most people know him, Johnny the Brave.

Johnny lives in Gravette, AR, with his family who supports him with their faith and love. While he enjoys playing soccer, off the field he is a true warrior and champion who is setting a great example for us all.

Johnny is bravely battling an illness. I join his family, friends and community in showing just how proud we are of this amazing 8-year-old whose optimism and zest for life is something we can all learn from.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Johnny the Brave.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in gratitude of the lifetime of generous contributions to Arkansas and its citizens by Jim Davis.

Service was an integral part of Jim's life, serving in the U.S. Army in the Western Pacific and Korea. He continued his passion for his community throughout his life as a gracious contributor who served on several boards and commissions and actively volunteered and devoted his time to create a better life for all in Arkansas.

Jim served as the chairman of the Leadership Council and the Arkansas Chapter of the National Federation of Independent Business. Former Governor Mike Huckabee appointed him to the Arkansas State Health Board, the Beverage Control Board, and the Arkansas State Police Commission. He was currently serving as a member of the Arkansas Commission for Veterans Affairs, and he was a proud Shriner and Mason.

After a long, fulfilling life, Jim passed away on December 18, and he will certainly be missed. However, his legacy will live for generations to come because of his generosity.

I ask my colleagues to keep Jim's family and friends in their thoughts and prayers during these difficult times.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Karen Ladd for her outstanding contributions to Arkansas students. Karen's efforts in the classroom earned her the highest recognition our Nation's kindergarten through 12th grade mathematics and science teachers may receive for outstanding teaching, the Presidential Awards for Excellence for Mathematics and Science Teaching.

A Chemistry, Advanced Placement Chemistry, and Physics teacher at Nettleton High School, in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Karen exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding educator. Teaching for 33 years, Karen constantly works to challenge her students to succeed, receiving many classroom grants to provide her students with additional resources.

Karen's teaching is held in high regard and her work inspires her colleagues to do their best to encourage further development in the classroom. Her leadership has helped teachers in her region through the Constructing Physics Understanding and Modeling Physics workshops as well as mentoring other teachers. Karen is working to improve science education and help other teachers use innovative methods in the classroom.

I would like to offer my appreciation for the work of Karen Ladd and her determination to provide her students with the best science education as we work to maintain America's global competitiveness in science.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of America's bravest, Corporal Chad Stafford Wade of Bentonville, Arkansas, who valiantly sacrificed his life in support of combat missions in Afghanistan. Corporal Wade was a devoted family man and friend who was known to make those around him laugh. He shared his zest for life through the small things he did that put a smile on the faces of those who loved him, demonstrating his love of music, singing his favorite country songs, and enjoying the outdoors.

Corporal Wade taught others the importance of service, joining the Marine Corps in October of 2007. He was a member of the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force based in Camp Pendleton, California, and served in combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

My prayers and the prayers of Arkansans are with Corporal Wade's family, including his wife, Katie, his mom, Tami, and his dad Terence. I humbly offer my thanks to Corporal Wade, a true American hero, for his selfless service to the security and well-being of all Americans, and I ask my colleagues to keep his family in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lorraine Darwin for her outstanding contributions to Arkansas students. Lorraine's efforts in the classroom earned her the highest recognition that can be bestowed upon our Nation's kindergarten through 12th grade mathematics and science teachers for outstanding teaching, the Presidential Awards for Excellence for Mathematics and Science Teaching.

As the Pre-AP Precalculus/Trigonometry and AP Calculus Teacher and the Mathematics Department Chairperson at Cabot High School in Cabot, Arkansas, Lorraine exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding educator. Her techniques to engage students in math and improve their understanding of this discipline have been noticed by her students, their parents and her colleagues.

Lorraine's teaching is held in high regard, one of 103 teachers chosen for this award and one of only 51 mathematics teachers. This truly is a major accomplishment in her career. Her passion for teaching not only helps her students, but also inspires those who work with her to do their best to encourage further development in the classroom.

I would like to offer my appreciation for the work of Lorraine Darwin and her determination to provide her students with the best math education as we work to keep America competitive in an increasingly high tech and science oriented global economy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of America's bravest, Sergeant David Robinson of Fort Smith, Arkansas, who valiantly sacrificed his life in support of combat missions in Afghanistan.

Service runs in Sergeant Robinson's family, with a grandfather who served as a sharpshooter in the military. So, when at a young age he told his mother he wanted to serve in the military, it was no surprise. He followed in his grandfather's footsteps, going into the artillery field when he joined the Army in 2004.

As a member of the 2nd Cavalry, he served as a gunner, a rifleman, and an ammunitions handler. At the young age of 25, he already had remarkable service to our Nation during his three tours: two in Operation Iraqi Freedom and one in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

My prayers and the prayers of Arkansans are with Sergeant Robinson's family, including his wife Heidi and three young children, Jerimy, Tyler, and Madison. I humbly offer my thanks to Sergeant David Robinson, a true American hero, for his selfless service to the security and well-being of Americans, and I ask my colleagues to keep his family in their thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.

Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to recognize the service of one Arkansas Agriculture's greatest advocates--Dr. Milo Shult, who is retiring this year.

Since 1992, Dr. Shult has served Arkansas's agricultural community as the vice president for agriculture of the University of Arkansas System and I express my sincere gratitude to him and his family for their steadfast service to `The Natural State.'

Agriculture is a critical part of our State's economy, accounting for more than $16 billion in added value, 12 percent of GDP, and supporting more than 250,000 jobs. Dr. Shult's administration of the Agricultural Experimentation Station and Cooperative Extension Service have strengthened Arkansas's agribusiness and his legacy will ensure that our State will continue to be a national leader in agriculture research and the production of food and fiber. It has been an honor and a privilege to get to know and work with Dr. Shult during my service in Congress. He has always been a strong voice for Arkansas agriculture in communicating their needs to the Arkansas Congressional Delegation and his leadership has helped us remain focused on making our State a leader in food safety, resource management, sustainability, and other critical research.

Dr. Shult has also been a regional and national leader for agriculture advocacy and his service includes, but is not limited to: National Association of State Universities and Land Grant Colleges Chair of the Board on Agriculture, president of the Southern Association of Agricultural Scientists, service on the National Agricultural Library Board of Directors, 4-H Natural Resources Program Steering Committee, United States Department of Agriculture, USDA, Natural Resource National Initiative Task Force. He has also chaired the USDA Research, Education, and Economics Information System, REEIS, Steering Committee since 1997.

While the University of Arkansas System may be losing one of its most valued vice presidents, I know that the agriculture community, particularly Arkansas's, will continue to have a strong voice and a friend in Dr. Milo Shult. On behalf of myself and Arkansas's Third Congressional District I say ``Thank You'' for your selfless dedication and commitment to `The Natural State' and the advancement of agriculture everywhere.

Madam Speaker, on rollcall No. 579, I was not present and am not recorded due to a family illness. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.''