Blanche Lincoln

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I congratulate the residents of Malvern in my home State of Arkansas as they celebrate the 30th anniversary of Brickfest, a time-honored tradition that commemorates the importance of brick production to the history of the city of Malvern and Hot Spring County. Abundant clay in the area makes it a prime location for brick production, and since 1887, the industry has played a leading role in the area's economic development. Nicknamed ``The Brick Capital of the World,'' Malvern celebrates Brickfest each year on the last weekend of June. I am looking forward to attending this year's event, which will take place June 24-26 at Malvern City Park, complete with live entertainment, a 5K race, a car and tractor show, motorcycle show, and awards for best dressed brick, brick toss, brick car derby, and much more. Acme, now the only brick company operating in the Malvern area, provides a display of its product, and every year it manufactures dated mini-bricks that are distributed as souvenirs. I salute the entire community of Malvern and Hot Spring County as they celebrate this historic milestone. I commend them for keeping the history and heritage of their community alive.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I honor and congratulate 40 of Arkansas's brightest young professionals who were recently named to Arkansas Business' ``40 Under 40'' list for 2010. These young adults represent the best of our State, and I am proud to see them earn this recognition. I am particularly proud to see one of my own staffers on this list, Little Rock native Tamika Edwards. I have seen Tamika's hard work and dedication firsthand, and I know that her work ethic is shared by all of the recipients of this prestigious honor. These honorees now join an elite group of business and community leaders, and I look forward to working with them as they continue to grow in their careers. I also commend the editors and readers of Arkansas Business for choosing to highlight these young individuals and their efforts for our State. Members of the 2010 ``40 Under 40'' group, as named by Arkansas Business, are: Alexandru Biris, 36--UALR Nanotechnology Center Chris Bates, 38--The Computer Hut Allison Cox, 35--Windstream Corp. John E. Heard, 38--McGehee-Desha County Hospital Josh Jenkins, 36--Parker Cadillac Mandy Kelley, 38--Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce Deanna Newberry, 38--Honeywell International Inc. Brian Vandiver, 35--Mitchell Williams Selig Gates & Woodyard PLLC Michele Simmons Allgood, 39--Williams & Anderson PLC Kristine G. Baker, 39--Quattlebaum Grooms Tull & Burrow PLC Elizabeth Bintliff, 33--Heifer International Shannon E. Butler, 32--City Year Little Rock/North Little Rock Craig Shelly, 34--USA Truck Inc. Jim Chidester, 39--Chidester Engineering PLLC Courtney Henry, 37--Arkansas Court of Appeals and Arkansas Supreme Court Audrey House, 32--Chateau Aux Arc Vineyards & Winery Sam O'Bryant III, 30--Pulaski County Government Dan Young, 37--Rose Law Firm Tom Leonard Jr., 35--PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Robert Coon, 30--Impact Management Group John Bacon, 39--eStem Public Charter Schools Chad Evans, 39--Arvest Bank Kyle Allmendinger, 33--Datek Inc. Tim Hicks, 38--Bank of the Ozarks Cristian Murdock, 39--Arkansas State University Jason Taylor, 35--First Community Bank Justin Acri, 36--KABZ-FM, 103.7 Jean C. Block, 36--Office of the Arkansas Attorney General, Health Care Bureau Chris Cranford, 37--Jones Film Video Tamika Edwards, 31--Office of Senator Blanche Lincoln Tara Smith, 31--Arkansas Department of Higher Education Brooke Vines, 37--Vines Media Shayla Copas, 36--Shayla Copas Interiors Russell Harris, 39--Entergy Arkansas Inc. Roberts Lee, 39--Meadors Adams & Lee Gwendolyn Bryant-Smith, 35--Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System Melissa Hendricks, 37--Pulaski Technical College Scott Shirey, 34--KIPP Delta Public School Kevin Keech, 39--Keech Law Firm Melissa Snell, 33--Snell Prosthetic & Orthotic Laboratory

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I congratulate the Arkansas elementary and secondary school students who recently joined students from across the Nation to participate in the annual Kenneth E. Behring National History Day Contest in Washington, DC. This contest in our Nation's Capitol is the final stage of a series of National History Day contests throughout the school year at the State and local level. Each year, more than half a million students, encouraged by thousands of teachers nationwide, participate in National History Day. Students choose historical topics related to a theme and conduct research through libraries, archives, museums, oral history interviews and historic sites. The students then present their work in original papers, Web sites, exhibits, performances, and documentaries, which are evaluated by professional historians and educators. I commend the commitment to learning so clearly on display from the young Arkansans who took part in this event. Their hard work and dedication represents the best of our State, and I am proud of their achievements. By participating in events like National History Day, our young citizens can develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, along with confidence and self-esteem. These skills will prepare them for the future and help keep our State and Nation strong. Arkansas students recognized in the annual Kenneth E. Behring National History Day Contest are: SPECIAL AWARD: History in the Federal Government Conway High School East Conway Senior Group Exhibit: The Road to Innovation: The Federal- Aid Highway Act of 1956 Teachers: William Richardson & Charles Williams Students: Lauren Hart, Anna Jordan, Annie Patton

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I recognize six Arkansas historic sites that have been added to the National Register of Historic Places. These Arkansas landmarks help define our State's history and heritage, and I am proud to see them included on the National Register. The newly listed properties are: The Century Flyer at Conway, a miniature train manufactured by the National Amusement Device Co. of Dayton, OH, around 1955. Arnold Springs Farmstead at Melbourne in Izard County, featuring a vernacular Greek Revival house built around 1857, plus several outbuildings. The Walnut Street Commercial Historic District at Walnut Ridge, with buildings dating to around 1875. Fargo Training School Historic District near Fargo in Monroe County, where Black children attended school between 1949 and 1968. Old Searcy County Jail on Center Street in Marshall, a 1902 Native- stone building influenced by the Romanesque style of architecture. Cherry Street Historic District Boundary Expansion at Helena-West Helena. Along with all Arkansans, I congratulate these communities for receiving this national recognition. I also salute the local officials and residents of our State for their efforts to maintain the beauty and history of their communities.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, this year marks the 25th anniversary of a landmark nonprofit in my home State of Arkansas. Winrock International will celebrate 25 years of empowering the disadvantaged, increasing economic opportunities and sustaining natural resources in our State and around the world. With its global headquarters in Little Rock, Winrock International traces its roots to a charitable endeavor that Arkansas Gov. Winthrop Rockefeller established at his home and ranch on Petit Jean Mountain, the Winrock International Livestock Research and Training Center. In 1985 that institution merged with the Agricultural Development Council and the International Agricultural Development Service, both founded by Mr. Rockefeller's brother, John D. Rockefeller III, to form Winrock International. From Arkansas to Africa to Asia, Winrock touches lives all across the globe. They find solutions that work in the real world, increase long- term productivity and make lasting improvements in people's lives. Near Helena-West Helena, AR, my hometown, Winrock helped five sweet potato farmers build a new industry based on local produce grown by smallholder farms. Important projects like these put infrastructure and expertise on the ground that support our traditional industry of agriculture while also building new opportunities for growth. In the Philippines, a Winrock project has supported the electrification of 474 villages, 13,422 households and 224 schools. This project improved education for more than 44,000 students and gave families and communities access to modern energy sources, which is a critical first step in increased social and economic development. I salute Winrock International for their dedication, commitment and support of our neediest communities and citizens--both in the United States and around the world, and I am proud that Winrock calls Arkansas home.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, my home State of Arkansas is known for its natural beauty, drawing thousands of visitors each year for camping, fishing, and outdoor recreation. Tragically, 20 visitors to Camp Albert Pike lost their lives last weekend after severe rain resulted in flash flooding early Friday. My heartfelt condolences go out to their families, friends, and loved ones, many of whom I met as I toured the devastation. I will continue to pray that they find peace and consolation. I have always had the utmost respect for our law enforcement, first responders, search and rescue teams and offices of emergency management. I have never been more impressed than in seeing their monumental effort during this tragedy. These brave men and women put their own safety at risk to search for survivors and victims, and they demonstrated amazing competence and dedication. I was personally moved, as once again, Arkansans rallied to help their neighbors. While most of the victims of this disaster were from outside the boundaries of our State, local citizens embraced them with love and true compassion. It was heartbreaking to hear the stories of those who struggled to make it out alive and those who were not so fortunate. There were many true heroes--of all ages--who continued to rescue others even when they knew members of their own families had perished and in the face of unbelievable personal danger. Mr. President, I ask that we remember those who lost their lives in this tragic event:

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I recognize the Celebration Singers of Central Arkansas, who will be performing this weekend at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC, as the feature choir for the 2010 Nation's Capital Festival of Youth Choirs. This group of 60 young singers from Sherwood and North Little Rock represent the best of Arkansas, and I am pleased that they will be able to share their talents at this special performance. The Celebration Singers Choir is an award-winning choir comprised of students in 6th through 12th grade, and serves as the premier worship choir for the Student Ministry at Cornerstone Bible Fellowship in Sherwood, AR. In addition to singing at Sunday worship services throughout the year, the choir takes an extensive mission tour every other summer as they share God's love through music and fellowship with people in other churches, nursing homes, retirement centers and various shelters that assist people in crisis and other needs. Under the leadership of conductor Eddie W. Airheart, the choir has performed across the United States, including at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, New York's Battery Park, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and the United States Naval Academy Chapel in Annapolis, MD. The choir has also performed across Central Arkansas at The Cathedral of St. Andrew, First Presbyterian Church, and St. James United Methodist Church. I commend these young people for their dedication to serving others through music and worship.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I recognize the Westark Area Council Boy Scouts of America as they celebrate the 90th anniversary of their founding with a day of recreation, fun, and learning at Camp Orr, on the Buffalo River north of Jasper, AR. Founded in 1920, Westark Area Council serves 17 counties in northwest Arkansas. Under the current leadership of Bryan Feather, Scout executive and CEO, and Dr. Paul Beran, president, the Westark Area Council helps Scouts gain a sense of pride, self-confidence and responsibility. Scouting instills virtues that are an integral part of shaping a young person's life, and they can be essential in building the strong character of a leader. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every scout, scoutmaster, volunteer, parent, staff member, and alumni of the Westark Area Council as they celebrate this milestone.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I pay tribute to two airmen from Arkansas, Air Force COL William H. Mason of Camden and CMSGT. Thomas E. Knebel of Midway, who bravely gave their lives during the Vietnam War, but whose ultimate fate had remained unknown. During a recent ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, Colonel Mason and Chief Master Sergeant Knebel along with their crew members were given full military honors for their sacrifice. On May 22, 1968, these men were aboard a C-130A Hercules on an evening flare mission over northern Salavan Province, Laos. Fifteen minutes after the aircraft made a radio call, the crew of another U.S. aircraft observed a large ground fire near the last known location of the aircraft. Search and rescue could not be attempted due to heavy antiaircraft fire in the area. The fate of the plane and its crew was a mystery for decades. Military investigators pursued numerous leads before locating the crash site just inside Vietnam in 2000, then spent several more years trying to identify human remains at the site. After years of uncertainty, the families of Colonel Mason and Chief Master Sergeant Knebel can now be at peace knowing the remains of their loved ones have been found. My heart goes out to the families of these airmen, who made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of our Nation. Along with all Arkansans, I am grateful for the service and sacrifice of all of our military servicemembers and their families. I am committed to ensuring they have the full support that they need and deserve. As Arkansans, and as Americans, it is incumbent upon us to do everything we can to honor their service. It is the least we can do for those whom we owe so much.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I honor SPC William C. Yauch, 23, of Batesville who died in Jalula, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. According to initial reports, Specialist Yauch died of injuries sustained when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near his patrol. He is survived by his wife of Batesville, his mother of Cave City, and his father of Saint Charles, MO. My heart goes out to the family of Specialist Yauch who made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of our Nation. Along with all Arkansans, I am grateful for his service and for the service and sacrifice of all of our military servicemembers and their families. I am committed to ensuring they have the full support that they need and deserve. Our grateful Nation will not forget them when their military service is complete. More than 11,000 Arkansans on active duty and more than 10,000 Arkansas reservists have served in Iraq or Afghanistan since September 11, 2001. These men and women have shown tremendous courage and perseverance through the most difficult of times. As neighbors, as Arkansans, and as Americans, it is incumbent upon us to do everything we can to honor their service and to provide for them and their families, not only when they are in harm's way but also when they return home. It is the least we can do for those whom we owe so much. Specialist Yauch was assigned to B Company, 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I recognize Police Chief Bobby Southard of Hot Springs, AR. After a 22-year law enforcement career, Chief Southard will retire at the end of June. Hired as a police officer in 1988, Chief Southard has enjoyed a successful career, serving as sergeant, lieutenant, captain, acting chief of police, and in February 2007 was selected as chief of the 129- person department. Along with all Arkansans, I recognize the courage, bravery, and dedication of our Arkansas law enforcement, who risk their lives each day to keep our citizens safe. I thank these public servants for their service and sacrifice.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. In Arkansas, it would affect manufacturers and their employees: facilities such as Great Lakes Chemicals in El Dorado, Green Bay Packing in Morrilton, Nucor Steel in Blytheville, Georgia Pacific in Crossett, FutureFuel Chemical Company in Batesville, and Riceland Foods in Stuttgart. These Arkansas facilities, employing several thousand people, supporting families with good-paying jobs, would be threatened by EPA regulation of greenhouse gases. That is why I encourage my Senate colleagues, with similar consequences facing their States, to vote for this resolution. Madam President, I yield the floor.

Mrs. LINCOLN. Madam President, I rise today in support of S.J. Res. 26, Senator Murkowski's resolution of disapproval. First, I would like to thank my friend and colleague, Senator Murkowski, for her leadership to prevent this heavy-handed EPA regulation of carbon emissions. I am proud to be part of a bipartisan group of Senators cosponsoring the resolution because I do believe EPA's regulatory approach is the wrong way to promote renewable energy and clean energy jobs in Arkansas and the rest of the country. Allowing the courts and EPA to use the Clean Air Act to regulate greenhouse gases is truly misguided. It would threaten valuable jobs during an economic downturn, and it has the potential of actually discouraging the use of clean, renewable energy that is already helping to keep people working today. But, first, let me say a few words on the energy challenges facing our Nation. We have committed to ambitious renewable fuel goals, and I have supported efforts to set a national renewable energy standard. Just last June we passed a bipartisan energy bill out of the Senate Energy Committee, and I was very proud of that bill and hoped we would move forward on it. In order to meet these goals and prosper in the 21st century, we must develop clean domestic energy supplies. This means developing all sources of energy--everything from wind, to natural gas, to, of course, biofuels. My home State of Arkansas is already leading in this effort. Wind turbines and blades are manufactured in my home State of Arkansas, providing hundreds of green jobs to Arkansans. These include Nordex, LM Wind Power, Polymarin Composites, and Mitsubishi. Arkansas is also home to the Fayetteville Shale, where clean burning natural gas has provided an enormous boost to the economy of central and north central Arkansas, producing jobs in a huge part of what has been positive for our economy. Arkansas companies such as Future Fuel in Batesville, AR, are producing huge amounts of biodiesel, helping our Nation to meet the renewable fuel targets set forth in the 2007 Energy bill, not to mention their advanced battery technologies that they are researching and building upon. Our wood and paper industry produces about two-thirds of the energy it needs from renewable forest biomass, providing and sustaining tens of thousands of jobs in the process. Facilities that range from small sawmills such as Bean Lumber in Glenwood and huge paper mills such as Domtar in Ashdown have taken steps to increase their use of renewable energy in recent years, saving thousands of critical jobs in the process. These efforts in Arkansas, and similar efforts all around our country, are leading the way toward a clean energy future--one that reduces our emissions, reduces our dependency on foreign oil, and provides economic opportunity and jobs to so many of our citizens. Unfortunately, EPA regulation of greenhouse gases does not move us any closer to a clean energy future or to reducing our dependency on foreign oil. Furthermore, it is simply the wrong tool for addressing greenhouse gas emissions. Congress, the elected representatives of the people of this Nation-- not unelected bureaucrats--should be making the complicated, multifaceted decisions on energy and climate policy. Furthermore, it is a widely shared view that the Clean Air Act, with its command-and- control approach to regulating air emissions, is the wrong fit for addressing greenhouse gas emissions. One example of the way the EPA's approach to regulating carbon emissions does wrong is the way the proposed tailoring rule treats emissions from biomass energy. The tailoring rule equates carbon emissions from renewable energy with fossil fuel emissions. This is not consistent with years of internationally accepted policy, and it could penalize important industries and cost thousands of jobs, including some 10,000 direct and thousands of additional indirect jobs in our State of Arkansas. As chairman of the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, I am also concerned about the effects EPA's regulation of greenhouse gases will have on production agriculture and domestic food security. The hard-working farm families of this great Nation produce the safest, most abundant, affordable supply of food and fiber in the world, and they do it with greater respect to the environment than any other growers across the globe. For every one American mouth we feed, we feed 20 mouths globally, and it is critical we make sure we maintain the ability to do that. According to a recent University of Tennessee economic analysis, EPA regulation will result in billions of dollars in losses in net returns for agriculture from 2010 to 2015, with the largest declines occurring in crops grown in our State of Arkansas, such as soybeans, cotton, and rice. These figures are frightening for agriculture in our State, particularly during a time of recession. Furthermore, over 100 agricultural groups have expressed their concerns with EPA regulation of carbon and expressed their support of the Murkowski resolution. These groups include national associations for wheat, dairy, corn, cotton, rice, poultry, beef, pork, and eggs. These groups also include many specialty crop growers as well. I also want to speak for a moment about what this resolution does not do. Some think this resolution weakens the Clean Air Act. It would not amend or otherwise affect the plain language of the Clean Air Act. It would not change or in any other way alter the words within the existing statute. My colleagues and I are concerned about what will follow EPA's decision to release the endangerment finding--a unilaterally imposed all-sticks-no-carrot policy that actually discourages renewable energy use and penalizes those industries that have acted early to adopt clean energy technologies. That is not the direction in which we want to go. We know, desperately, that we want to lower our carbon emissions, lessen our dependence on foreign oil, and create good, green jobs. This attempt, overreach, and this action by unelected bureaucrats at EPA is not going to help us achieve those goals. Lastly, let me address a criticism heard in recent days: that a vote for the Murkowski resolution is a bailout or somehow a boon for big oil in the wake of the tragic oilspill in the Gulf of Mexico. Nothing could be further from the truth. These critics would like the public to believe that opposing EPA regulation of greenhouse gas emissions is somehow related to the oilspill. Nothing could be further from the truth. We all know the British Petroleum spill in the Gulf of Mexico needs to be addressed through legislation that ensures the safety, effectiveness, and sustainability of oil and other resource extractions--as we will very soon. We are all concerned about what has happened in the gulf. I certainly know, as a neighbor to the north of Louisiana, and one whose economic livelihood depends on the Port of New Orleans--not to mention the wonderful natural resources that we partner with the State of Louisiana in trying to preserve--this is a horrific circumstance that exists there, and we are all going to do everything we can not only to provide the cleanup but to ensure this kind of catastrophe never happens again. But this issue is separate from the EPA regulation of greenhouse gases. I do not know, in my recent election if people had listened to what was on the TV, they would have thought I single-handedly was responsible for what happened in the Gulf of Mexico. This is not where we solve that problem. We have much to do there and we should do it and I am all about getting about that business. What would EPA regulations affect? I think that is the question we have before us. In Arkansas, it would affect manufacturers and their employees.

Mrs. LINCOLN. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent for an additional 30 seconds.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I pay tribute to firefighter David Curling of Pine Bluff who made the ultimate sacrifice while working to keep his fellow Arkansans safe. In late May, David lost his life after a 4-month battle with injuries he sustained when a wall fell on him during a January fire. A 14-year firefighting veteran, he was a lieutenant assigned to Station 3 at 30th Avenue and Ash Street in Pine Bluff. I extend my heartfelt condolences to David's family, who mourn the loss of their loved one. David bravely and courageously fought to protect the lives of those under his watch. Along with all Arkansans, I recognize the courage, bravery, and dedication of our Arkansas emergency responders, who risk their lives each day to keep our citizens safe. We must do all we can to honor and remember those who make the ultimate sacrifice, as well as the family members, friends, and fellow officers they left behind. I thank these public servants for their service and sacrifice.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I join residents of Eureka Springs in my home State of Arkansas to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Eureka Springs Carnegie Public Library. Throughout the majority of the town's history, the library has served as a vital resource for children and adults of all ages. Eureka Springs Carnegie Public Library is one of four Arkansas library buildings built with funding by Andrew Carnegie. The building itself was constructed of locally quarried stone and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Libraries help build strong communities by promoting the joy of reading, the love of knowledge, and the excitement of discovery. As the mother of twin boys, I know that reading is the foundation for success in the classroom, and I encourage my boys to read not only at school but also at home. We must do everything we can to ensure that our Arkansas children have the books and technology they need to develop critical literacy skills and reach their full potential. Mr. President, I commend the librarians, staff, and board members of Eureka Springs Carnegie Library for their success in informing and inspiring their community. I encourage all Arkansans to make a stop at their public library today to share in the joy of learning and knowledge.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I honor MAJ Ronald W. Culver, Jr., 44, of El Dorado. Major Culver was killed May 24 in Numaniyah, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. According to initial reports, Major Culver died of injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. Major Culver was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 108th Calvary, Army National Guard, Shreveport, LA. My heart goes out to the family of Major Culver, who made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of our Nation. Major Culver's wife and children reside in El Dorado. His mother and father live in Shreveport, LA. As a member of the Louisiana National Guard, Major Culver served three tours of duty in Iraq. During his military career, he was awarded numerous service medals and was posthumously awarded two Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart, as well as a Combat Action Badge from the State of Louisiana. Culver was an active member of the El Dorado community, serving in various capacities with Boy Scouts, Campfire Girls, Union County 4-H Foundation board, Saddle Club, Main Street El Dorado, and the John C. Carroll VFW Post 2413, where he was the post commander at the time of his death. Along with all Arkansans, I am grateful for the service and sacrifice of all of our military servicemembers and their families. More than 11,000 Arkansans on Active Duty and more than 10,000 Arkansas reservists have served in Iraq or Afghanistan since September 11, 2001. It is the responsibility of our Nation to provide the tools necessary to care for our country's returning servicemembers and honor the commitment our Nation made when we sent them into harm's way. Our grateful Nation will not forget them when their military service is complete. It is the least we can do for those whom we owe so much.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I salute the students, faculty, and staff of the El Dorado School District for their outstanding efforts to maintain the health and well-being of their school community. The district was recently named the Gold Award Winner of the 2010 Arkansas Healthy School Board, in addition to being named the 2010 International PRIDE Team of the Year for their efforts to prevent youth drug abuse and violence. El Dorado was named to the Arkansas Healthy School Board for their efforts to offer healthier school lunches and healthy food in vending machines. As the mother of two boys, I understand how important it is for parents to make healthy choices for their kids and help them learn to make healthy choices for themselves. Obesity is a growing problem across our Nation, and if kids learn good eating habits while they are young, that knowledge will stay with them throughout their entire lives. In addition, kids who are healthy and feel good perform better at school and in all areas of their lives. Unfortunately, many families in our country are unable to provide healthy, nutritious meals. More than ever, families are looking to programs like the National School Lunch Program to ensure children's nutritional needs are met. My Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 invests $4.5 billion in new child nutrition program funding over the next 10 years, the most historic investment in child nutrition programs since their inception. This investment is fully paid for and will not add to the national debt. I also commend the El Dorado PRIDE Youth Team, which was named the 2010 International PRIDE Team of the Year. PRIDE Youth Programs, formerly Parents Resource Institute for Drug Education, is the Nation's oldest and largest organization devoted to drug abuse and violence prevention through education. The mission of PRIDE is to educate, promote, and support drug-free youth. For the past 4 years, the El Dorado PRIDE team has been nominated as one of the top three teams in the Nation. There are also 30 PRIDE members named each year to the National Team from all over the country. This year, three El Dorado students--Allison George, Tylor Ritz and Amanda York--were named to the national team. Mr. President, I salute the entire El Dorado community for their efforts to keep their schools healthy and safe.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Madam President, today I salute two Arkansas teachers who have been named as recipients of the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching: Lorraine Darwin from Cabot, Math, and Karen Ladd of Jonesboro, Science. This award is given annually to the best pre-college-level science and mathematics teachers from across the country. The winners are selected by a panel of distinguished scientists, mathematicians, and educators. Lorraine and Karen represent the best of Arkansas. Students and parents in Cabot and Jonesboro are fortunate to have them as educators and as leaders for the community. I commend their hard work and dedication to helping students learn and grow. There is no issue more intricately connected to the future prosperity of our Nation than the quality of our educational system. A skilled and educated population is critical if we are to create new jobs in Arkansas and sustain economic growth over the long term. Every student, regardless of background, deserves the chance to achieve his or her full potential, which can only happen with a quality education. That is why I will continue doing all I can to make high- quality education more accessible for Arkansas students and their families. Again, congratulations to Lorraine and Karen for their dedication to education and for giving our youngest Arkansas citizens a solid foundation for future success.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I pay tribute to our Arkansas Air National Guard and their efforts to keep our Nation safe. In particular, I recognize the members of the 188th Fighter Wing, who are returning home throughout May after a 2 month deployment overseas. The airmen spent 2 months at Kandahar Airfield in southern Afghanistan, flying 12 to 16 flights a day. Their day-and-night operations supported the ground troops who were fighting enemy insurgents. The work in Afghanistan was the unit's first combat deployment using A-10s. The unit flew F-16s until April 2007, including during their 4 month deployment in 2005 to Balad Air Base in Iraq. Along with all Arkansans, I honor these servicemen and women for their bravery, and I am grateful for their service and sacrifice. More than 11,000 Arkansans on active duty and more than 10,000 Arkansas reservists have served in Iraq or Afghanistan since September 11, 2001. It is the responsibility of our Nation to provide the tools necessary to care for our country's returning servicemembers and honor the commitment our Nation made when we sent them into harm's way. Our grateful Nation will not forget them when their military service is complete. It is the least we can do for those whom we owe so much.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, I rise today in recognition of National Foster Care Month, a time to recognize and shine a light on the needs of our foster children in Arkansas and across the U.S. and to highlight the countless men, women, and families who work tirelessly on their behalf. Arkansas has more than 3,500 children in foster care. It is imperative that we ensure their safety and well-being and work to find them a permanent family to provide the love and support they need and desire. That is why I have introduced my Child Welfare Workforce Study Act, which will help identify the barriers that prevent children and families from accessing the essential services they need. It will also better ensure that necessary steps are taken to recruit and retain a quality and experienced workforce that can effectively address the needs and risks of our Nation's most vulnerable children and the families that provide them care. With thousands of children in Arkansas seeking nothing but a safe and stable family to provide them comfort and security, we have a responsibility to ensure that families are adequately prepared to provide them with the care and supervision they deserve. These families should be appropriately supported and equipped with the resources they need. Our current system is burdened by the ongoing challenges of recruiting and retaining enough families to care for and welcome these children into their homes, and experienced caseworkers to effectively manage their cases. We have children slipping through the cracks, and that is simply unacceptable. We need to create an environment that best provides for the well-being of these children and that most effectively helps them find a loving and permanent home. I have also introduced the Resource Family Recruitment and Retention Act, which establishes much-needed standards of consistency in agency and state policies for foster and adoptive care. It also calls on agencies to follow best practices proven to increase and retain the number of foster, adoptive and kinship parents. These practices include efforts to allow foster parents to actively participate and have input in the case-planning and decisionmaking process regarding the child; to receive complete and timely responses from the agency; and to receive support services and appropriate training that will enhance the skills and ability of resource parents to meet their children's needs. Finally, the bill establishes a grant program to better allow states to develop innovative methods of education and support for families. As lawmakers, it is our role to honor the critical role that foster families play in the lives of foster youth and provide them with the services and the support they need. Foster children seek nothing more than a safe, loving and permanent home, and resource families often help address this need. By strengthening efforts to recruit and retain these families, we also enhance our best recruitment tool, and retain prospective adoptive resources. As members of this body, we have an obligation to do right by those whom we represent each and every day. We also have a moral obligation to do everything we can on behalf of the most vulnerable in our society. For the over 500,000 children in foster care and the many thousands of families who have provided them with the love and support they desperately need, it is the least we can do.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I pay tribute to the volunteers, staff, and board members of Habitat for Humanity of Pulaski County. These men and women work tirelessly to provide safe, secure homes for families who would not otherwise be able to afford them. Under the leadership of CEO Bill Plunkett, Habitat for Humanity of Pulaski County celebrates two milestones this year: its 20th anniversary and construction of its 100th home. Habitat built its first home in Little Rock in 1990. More than 75 families in Pulaski County own homes built and financed with Habitat, and more homes are under construction. I commend the efforts of Habitat for Humanity, which works to eliminate substandard housing while providing simple, decent housing to qualified low-income families. In addition to building homes, Habitat builds a spirit of community and cooperation among its volunteers, supporters and beneficiaries. Habitat for Humanity of Pulaski County also partners with other community development organizations to rebuild neighborhoods. For example, Habitat and the Argenta Community Development Corporation are currently building and rehabilitating a home in the HOLT neighborhood in North Little Rock. As a result of their activity, the city of North Little Rock recently built a children's park in this neighborhood. Along with all Arkansans, I congratulate the entire Habitat team for their efforts to help our central Arkansas families in need.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Mr. President, today I recognize the residents of Norfork in my home State of Arkansas as they commemorate the 100th anniversary of their town's founding. In conjunction with the annual ``Pioneer Days'' festival, Norfork celebrated its historic milestone with events throughout the community, including a Dutch oven cook-off, music, a Civil War re-enactment, a 5K walk/run, food, games, and a photo exhibit showing local scenes, pioneers and historic sites. These events symbolize the history, heritage, and community spirit that define Norfork and its citizens. With a population of 484, Norfork claims four sites on the National Register of Historic Places. Probably the best known is the 1829 Jacob Wolf House, a territorial courthouse and the oldest remaining public structure in Arkansas. I was proud to help authorize a study to determine the feasibility of naming the Jacob Wolf House a park within the National Park System. Also on the National Register are the Davis House, a 1928 pyramid- roofed cottage; the Horace Mann school complex, including the main school building constructed by the Works Progress Administration in 1936; and the North Fork Bridge, a steel deck truss span built 70 feet above the river in 1937. I salute the residents of Norfork for their efforts to maintain the beauty and history of their community. I join all Arkansans to express my pride in this treasure of our State.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Madam President, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Sergeant Brandon Paudert, 39, and Officer Bill Evans, 38, of West Memphis, who were tragically killed last week while protecting their community. Both officers were part of West Memphis' Crime Interdiction Unit, which regularly patrols 1-40 and where they eventually lost their lives during a routine traffic stop. For these two men, law enforcement was a family affair. Paudert was the son of West Memphis Police Chief Bob Paudert. Officer Evans comes from a long line of police officers and was a third-generation policeman. He also has a brother in the West Memphis Police Department. Evans' father, father-in-law, and grandfather were also law enforcement officers. I was honored to attend a visitation ceremony in West Memphis for Sergeant Paudert and Officer Evans. It was clear from the outpouring of emotion and condolences that these two officers were beloved members of the West Memphis community and will be greatly missed. My heart goes out to the children and family members of these officers. Through their sadness, I pray that they can be proud knowing that these men made the ultimate sacrifice protecting their fellow Arkansans while in the line of duty. Along with all Arkansans, I recognize the courage, bravery, and dedication of our Arkansas law enforcement officers, who risk their lives each day to keep our citizens safe. We must honor and remember these law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, as well as the family members, friends and fellow officers they left behind. I thank these public servants for their service and sacrifice.

Mrs. LINCOLN

Mrs. LINCOLN. Madam President, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Sergeant Brandon Paudert, 39, and Officer Bill Evans, 38, of West Memphis, who were tragically killed last week while protecting their community. Both officers were part of West Memphis' Crime Interdiction Unit, which regularly patrols 1-40 and where they eventually lost their lives during a routine traffic stop. For these two men, law enforcement was a family affair. Paudert was the son of West Memphis Police Chief Bob Paudert. Officer Evans comes from a long line of police officers and was a third-generation policeman. He also has a brother in the West Memphis Police Department. Evans' father, father-in-law, and grandfather were also law enforcement officers. I was honored to attend a visitation ceremony in West Memphis for Sergeant Paudert and Officer Evans. It was clear from the outpouring of emotion and condolences that these two officers were beloved members of the West Memphis community and will be greatly missed. My heart goes out to the children and family members of these officers. Through their sadness, I pray that they can be proud knowing that these men made the ultimate sacrifice protecting their fellow Arkansans while in the line of duty. Along with all Arkansans, I recognize the courage, bravery, and dedication of our Arkansas law enforcement officers, who risk their lives each day to keep our citizens safe. We must honor and remember these law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, as well as the family members, friends and fellow officers they left behind. I thank these public servants for their service and sacrifice.