Mike Ross

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a respected and dedicated public servant. On July 18, 2010, our state lost a devoted citizen when Judge Carol Crafton Anthony, age 56, died following a lengthy struggle with leukemia. Judge Anthony was a proud mother, a committed jurist and a loyal Arkansan. Judge Anthony built an outstanding career as a local attorney in El Dorado prior to her exceptional service overseeing six counties as a judge in the 13th Judicial Circuit's Fourth Division. I had the honor and privilege to know Judge Anthony and I admired her passion for law and innovative approach to justice. She pioneered alternative programs for local youths and drug offenders in an effort to break the cycles of bad behavior and abuse and encouraged these offenders to live productive lives. My thoughts and prayers go out to her husband Aubra, sons Hayes, Hunter and Clay and daughter Hollis. I know I, along with many Arkansans, will sorely miss Judge Anthony's presence and will try to find solace in the fact Judge Anthony defined what it meant to be a public servant: to leave your community better than you found it. Today, I ask all members of Congress to join me as we honor the life of Judge Carol Crafton Anthony and her legacy.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, in the early morning hours of Friday, June 11, a sudden and devastating flash flood swept through the Albert Pike campground in southwest Arkansas. In just 4 short hours, the Little Missouri River along the Ouachita National Forest rose from 3 feet to 23 feet. The flood swept away tents, RVs and homes, and, tragically, took 20 lives, including many children, making it one of Arkansas's deadliest flash floods in a generation. However, this tragedy's impact is far- reaching, as many of the victims were from surrounding States, including from Congressman Hall's district in Texas and from Congressman Fleming's district in Louisiana. They join me here this evening as we remember those who died in this flood. I also want to commend the outstanding work of our first responders-- local, State, Federal--and fellow Arkansans who reacted without hesitation and rescued literally dozens of people from the debris and rushing waters. This weekend, I, along with Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell and Senators Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor, saw the devastation firsthand and spoke with families who lost loved ones. My deepest thoughts and prayers and those of all Arkansans and all Americans are with the families who lost loved ones in these destructive flash floods. Mr. Speaker, I join Congressman Hall and Congressman Fleming in asking that the House now observe a moment of silence in remembrance of each and every life we lost in this tragedy.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a true American hero and dedicated community servant. Lieutenant David Curlin of the Pine Bluff Fire & Emergency Services Department in Arkansas. Lieutenant Curlin passed away on May 22, 2010, in Little Rock at the age of 40 from injuries sustained while fighting a fire in Pine Bluff on January 4, 2010. Lieutenant Curlin was raised in Watson Chapel, AR, where he graduated from high school in 1988. After graduation, David joined the United States Marine Corps and served in Operation Desert Storm. Following his service in the Marine Corps David joined the Pine Bluff Fire & Emergency Services Department eventually rising to the rank of Lieutenant. Lieutenant Curlin served in Pine Bluff for 14 years while also volunteering with the Watson Chapel Volunteer Fire Department. Lieutenant Curlin demonstrated the best of Arkansas and of America. As a Marine, he defended and served our great country with honor and pride. As a first responder, he dedicated his life and career to serving his neighbors and protecting his community. We need more heroes like Lieutenant Curlin. His presence will be deeply missed. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with Lieutenant Curlin's wife Pamela; daughters, Tarah, Katherine and Kaylee; step-daughter, Haley; father and step-mother, George and Phyllis Curlin; mother and step- father, Rita and Joe Gronwald and his entire family during this extraordinarily difficult time. Our nation is safer and stronger because of brave service members and first responders like Lieutenant Curlin. Today, I ask all Members of Congress to join me as we honor the life, legacy and service of Lieutenant David Curlin.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a model citizen, revered husband and father and one of our Nation's great heroes. On May 24, 2010, our State and Nation lost a true patriot when Major Ronald Wayne Culver, Jr., aged 44, died in Iraq from injuries sustained during combat operations in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Major Culver was raised in Shreveport, LA, by his loving parents, Ronald and Betty Culver, and graduated from Louisiana State University in Shreveport. He lived and worked in El Dorado, AR, for most of his life and has been the commander of the John C. Carroll VFW Post 2413 in El Dorado for the last three years. He was an active member of the El Dorado community and served on the Union County 4-H Foundation Board, helping to raise funds for the local 4-H program's activities. Major Culver served in the Army National Guard for 22 years. He carried out his duties with pride in his country and without reservation and each of us owes him our eternal gratitude for his selfless sacrifice. Major Culver was a highly-decorated combat veteran and received numerous awards and citations during his 22-year career, including the Bronze Star; Purple Heart; Army Commendation Medal;. Army Achievement Medal; Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star; Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Armed Forces Reserve Medal with ``M'' device; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; Louisiana War Cross; Louisiana Commendation Medal; Louisiana Longevity Ribbon; Louisiana Emergency Services Ribbon; Louisiana Cross of Merit; Combat Action Badge; and Overseas Service Bar. Major Culver committed his life to his family; his community and his country. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with his loving wife, Tracey, and two children who live in El Dorado, his parents and the rest of his friends and family during this extraordinarily difficult time. Our Nation is safer and stronger because of brave heroes like Major Culver. Today, I ask all Members of Congress to join me as we honor the life of Major Wayne Culver and his legacy, as well as each man and woman in our Armed Forces who give the ultimate sacrifice in service to our great country.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a good man who left this world much too soon. On May 7, 2010, our State and Nation lost a great patriot when decorated Vietnam War veteran, tireless veterans advocate and long-time congressional staffer Captain Don Grigg died at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Little Rock. He was 71 years old. Captain Don Grigg was a proud Arkansan and an even prouder American. I had the privilege and honor to know and work alongside Captain Grigg for the last 10 years and I am a better person for having done so. There are few men in America like Captain Grigg. He was a true American hero, relentless veterans advocate, dedicated public servant with strong morals and an even stronger personality. With his passing, America has lost one of its biggest fans and veterans have lost one of their staunchest supporters. Captain Grigg served this country with bravery and honor in both the U.S. Marine Corps and the Army. He fought in the Vietnam War, earning a Silver Star for gallantry in action, a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts for injuries he sustained in the line of duty. Captain Grigg has served veterans in Arkansas for many years in a number of capacities, including as a congressional aide to both former U.S. Congressman Jay Dickey and myself. Most recently, he served the people of Arkansas's Fourth Congressional District as senior district aide for military and veteran affairs in our Pine Bluff office. In this role, he worked around the clock to help veterans cut through the red tape and get the benefits they deserved. And, he was never shy about getting the information and help these veterans sought. When Don Grigg called, the VA office answered. In 2008, Governor Mike Beebe appointed Captain Grigg to the Governor's Commission on Veterans Affairs. Captain Grigg was also one of the originators of the Arkansas Vietnam Veterans Memorial and served on its executive committee, overseeing the memorial's design and construction. And, for more than 15 years, Captain Grigg served as the Coordinator of the Vietnam Veterans Leadership Program of the Southeast Arkansas Economic Development District, devoting his time to help Vietnam veterans find jobs following the war. Above all, Captain Grigg was known for his love of country and faith in God. He is survived by his loving wife, Lisa; his two children, Grant Grigg and Danielle Pinney; his two grandchildren, Sam and Anna Marie; and, by numerous friends, family members and coworkers whose lives will be less rich because he is no longer in them, including mine. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this extraordinarily difficult time. Our Nation is better, safer and stronger because of heroes and patriots like Captain Grigg. As I honor him today in the U.S. House of Representatives, Captain Grigg is being laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery alongside thousands of other American heroes. Today, I ask all Members of Congress to join me as we honor the life of Captain Don Grigg and his legacy, as well as each man and woman in our Armed Forces who gives the ultimate sacrifice in service to our great country.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, on Monday, May 24, 2010, I was not present for votes 291, 292, and 293. Had I been present for rollcall No. 291, expressing the sense of Congress that a grateful Nation supports and salutes Sons and Daughters in Touch on its 20th Anniversary that is being held on Father's Day, 2010, at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, the District of Columbia, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 292, Chiropractic Care Available to All Veterans Act, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 293, Antitrust Criminal Penalty Enhancement and Reform Extension Act, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, on Thursday, April 29, 2010, I was not present for rollcall vote 241. Had I been present for rollcall vote 241, a motion to recommit H.R. 2499, the Puerto Rico Democracy Act, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize two milestones for Hot Springs National Park located in my home state of Arkansas. This day not only marks the 178th anniversary of Hot Springs Reservation-- which later became Hot Springs National Park--but it also marks the release date of the Hot Springs National Park quarter, the first installment of the U.S. Mint's America the Beautiful Quarters program. On April 20, 1832, Hot Springs Reservation was the first piece of federal land set aside for preservation primarily because of the area's natural hot springs, which people have used for more than two hundred years for recreation and for their therapeutic qualities. The Reservation--eventually becoming known as ``The American Spa''--became Hot Springs National Park in 1921. Because of its important place in American history, the U.S. Mint also released the Hot Springs National Quarter today as the first of 56 quarters in the America the Beautiful Quarters program, which Congress established in 2008. The U.S. Mint will subsequently release five new coins per year and one in 2021 honoring the rest of our Nation's many national parks, forests and wildlife refuges in the order they were first preserved by the federal government. It is also fitting that we reach these two milestones during National Park Week, a time to celebrate and recognize national and state parks, national monuments, and historic sites in the United States. I stand today proud to represent Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas. This truly is a great honor and will draw much-deserved recognition and unprecedented attention to one of our nation's most beautiful and unique national parks. God has blessed Arkansas with many natural wonders and Hot Springs National Park is just the beginning. I invite all Americans and their families to come to Arkansas and see what makes these hot springs and our state so special.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff's (UAPB) men's basketball coaches and players for their first ever National College Athletics Association (NCAA) Tournament win in the history of the school's program. On March 16, 2010, the UAPB Golden Lions defeated the Winthrop Eagles 61-44 at University of Dayton Arena in the opening-round game of the 2010 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament. The win also marks the first NCAA Tournament win for a team from the Southwestern Athletic Conference in 17 years. As the No. 16 seed in the South Regional bracket, the UAPB Golden Lions now face Duke University, the No. 1 seed, in Jacksonville, Florida, on March 19. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is an extraordinary institution of higher education and a renowned historically black university. It has a long history of successful alumni and its influence reaches across this country. This basketball team's achievement will bring some much-deserved national attention to the university, its stellar academic record, its dedicated student body, and, of course, its strong athletic program. I have the privilege of representing UAPB in the U.S. House of Representatives and stand even prouder today on this historic win. I wish them the best of luck on their Friday game against Duke. Today, I encourage all my colleagues to help me congratulate this deserving team and all of our young men and women in college athletics who represent our Nation's next generation of leaders, many of whom may one day walk these very halls in Congress.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, on Wednesday, January 13, 2010, I was not present for votes 4 and 5. Had I been present for rollcall 4, supporting the initiatives of Chicago Wilderness and the Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall 5, to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 101 West Highway 64 Bypass in Roper, North Carolina, as the E.V. Wilkins Post Office, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of James Terrell Jordan of Monticello, Arkansas, who passed away on December 27, 2009, at the age of 84. Having fought for freedom in World War II, James then committed his life to the people of Arkansas through public office for over five decades. James was born in Drew County, Arkansas, to his late parents Alvin and Linnie Jordan, and attended schools in Monticello and California. He was a member of the 101st Airborne Division in World War II, serving as a paratrooper and receiving a Purple Heart Medal. Following active duty on the frontlines, James returned to serve his community beginning as Drew Country treasurer in 1956. He then served as county judge for eight years before becoming mayor of Monticello for 17 years. Having also given his time and energy to numerous agencies, councils and committees, James was awarded the ``Man of the Year'' award in 1985 from the Drew County Chamber of Commerce. James was elected to the Arkansas House of Representatives in 1986 and served for 12 years. Representing District 92, he served on the Committee on City, County and Local Affairs and the Committee on Public Transportation. His lifetime love of education led to his eventual appointment to the University of Arkansas Board of Visitors by Governor Mike Huckabee. I had the distinct privilege of serving with James during my time in the Arkansas state legislature and he was someone I respected and trusted for sincere advice and counsel. As an admired and respected public officer, James worked tirelessly to better the lives of those around him. James was well known for far more than being a member of the Greatest Generation who committed himself to the state he loved so much; he was also known to many as a good friend and role model. My thoughts and prayers and those of every Arkansan are with his wife, Bonnie; two sons, Terrell and Jerry; daughter, Cindy; his nine grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and the rest of his family and friends during this difficult time. James will be profoundly missed and the people of Arkansas are deeply grateful to his lifetime of exemplary effort and legacy of community service and leadership.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a true American hero. On December 30, 2009, our state and nation lost a great patriot when former Navy SEAL Special Warfare Operator First Class Jeremy Wise, aged 35, died in an attack on a CIA outpost near Khost, Afghanistan. He died when a terrorist detonated a bomb at the facility killing seven Americans in the attack. Petty Officer Wise was raised in Arkansas by his loving parents, Dr. Jean and Mary Wise, and graduated from Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas. Although I never had the honor to meet Petty Officer Wise, I extend my deepest condolences on behalf of all Arkansans to his family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances for this devastating loss. Petty Officer Wise joined the U.S. Navy in 2001 where he rose to the rank of Special Warfare Operator First Class as a Navy SEAL, joining an elite group of service men and women. Petty Officer Wise served with the U.S. Navy until September 2009. After his Naval service, he headed to the front lines in Afghanistan as a security contractor doing the important work over there that needs to be done to secure our nation here at home. Throughout his extended period of service to our nation, Petty Officer Wise was an exemplary serviceman who embodied the true patriot. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Dana; son, Ethan; parents, Jean and Mary; and the rest of his family during this extraordinarily difficult time. Today, I ask all members of Congress to join me as we honor the life of Navy SEAL Special Warfare Operator First Class Jeremy Wise and his legacy, as well as each man and woman in our armed forces, and those in harm's way supporting their efforts, who give the ultimate sacrifice in service to our great country.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Joseph ``Jodie'' Mahony II of El Dorado, Arkansas, who passed away on Saturday, December 5, 2009, at the age of 70. Having served 36 years in the Arkansas state legislature, Jodie was a legend in Arkansas government and politics and his presence will be deeply missed. Jodie committed his life to making Arkansas a better place to get an education, to live and to work. He was first elected to the Arkansas House of Representatives in 1970 and served 24 years before winning a Senate seat in 1994. In 2002, after two 4-year terms, when newly adopted term limits kept him from seeking re-election as senator, he ran for the House again, where he was still eligible to serve two more 2-year terms. Jodie retired officially from elected office in 2006, but his presence remained at the State Capitol where he served as a part-time aide to the House Speaker during the 2007 legislative session. Throughout his career, Jodie filed 1,429 bills, with much of his efforts focused on public and higher education, the developmentally disabled, child support enforcement and natural resources conservation. In addition to Jodie's public service, he and his family have played an influential role in the state's legal history. The grandson and son of lawyers, Jodie followed in his family's footsteps to become a lawyer, and today, in its 113th year, the Mahony law firm is the oldest operating law firm in the State of Arkansas. Jodie also served in the U.S. Marine Corps in active duty and the reserves. Our State is better for Jodie's service to it and its people. I never thought of Jodie as a politician, but rather as a statesman. He had the respect of every legislator for his knowledge, fairness and commitment to our great State. I had the privilege of serving with Jodie during my time in the Arkansas state legislature from 1991 through 2000 and he was a friend, a role model and someone I trusted for sincere advice and counsel. My thoughts and prayers and those of every Arkansan are with Jodie's family during this difficult time, especially to his wife, Bettie Anne; his two sons, Joseph K. Mahony III and Michael Emon Mahony; and three grandchildren, Jordan, Alexandra and Joseph K. Mahony IV. Jodie will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. Although he is no longer with us, Jodie's many contributions to improving our state will continue on forever, serving as a reminder of his hard work and many good deeds throughout an accomplished legislative career and life.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Greg Arnold who will be the 94th individual inducted into the Arkansas Aviation Hall of Fame on Thursday, November 12, 2009, at the Aerospace Education Center in Little Rock, Arkansas. Greg Arnold is president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Truman Arnold Companies (TAC), a Texarkana, Texas, based company founded by Truman Arnold in 1964 as a branded petroleum jobber. Today, TAC is a leading national petroleum marketing company, offering a variety of services through a network of petroleum terminals and aviation Fixed Base Operations (FBO) facilities. A rapidly growing company, TAC currently employs more than 500 highly trained people. As president of TAC for more than 16 years and CEO for 6, Greg has served as president of the Arkansas Oil Marketers Association, president of the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce, vice president of the Independent Liquid Terminal Association, board and campaign member of the United Way of Texarkana, board member of CHRISTUS St. Michael Hospital and CHRISTUS St. Michael Health Care Center Foundation, chairman of the Governor's Task Force on Flooding on the Lower Red River, board member of Century Bancshares and member of the Red River Redevelopment Authority. He recently completed a term as board chairman of the National Air Transportation Association, one of the aviation industry's leading advocacy organizations. Greg and his wife, Ashley Arnold, have three children: Anthony, Regan and Carsen. Established in 1980 by the Arkansas Aviation Historical Society, the Arkansas Aviation Hall of Fame inducts those who make a difference or play a significant role in the history of aviation on the national or state scenes. Greg Arnold has had a major impact on aviation in Arkansas and in this country and he deserves a place on this esteemed list. His commitment to community, to state, to country and to excellence in his field is what makes Greg the respected and admired leader he is today. I applaud Greg's vision and leadership in the field of aviation. I offer my deepest gratitude and admiration for all that he has done to make our state a better place to live and I extend to him my congratulations on this prestigious accomplishment.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor my dear friend and pastor, Rev. Carlton Cross, from my hometown of Prescott, Arkansas, and today's guest chaplain in the U.S. House of Representatives. As an ordained deacon and elder, Rev. Cross has been serving in the United Methodist Church for the past 20 years. Leading congregations throughout Arkansas, Rev. Cross is well respected and admired wherever he goes. Possessing a great passion for mission work, Rev. Cross' impact on the community reaches far beyond the pulpit, including his active involvement in the Ozark Mission Project for the past 15 years. Rev. Cross is a graduate of Arkansas State University and holds a Master of Divinity from Memphis Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Tracy, have 10-year-old twins, Brady and Shelby. Rev. Cross currently serves First Methodist United Church in Prescott, where my family and I are members. As a close personal friend and my spiritual guide, I can attest to Rev. Cross' sincere commitment to his church, his community, his faith and his country. It is my distinct privilege and honor to recognize Rev. Carlton Cross as guest chaplain on this day in the United States House of Representatives.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the nearly 600 employees at Aerojet-General Corporation's Camden, Arkansas, production facility and their achievement of the milestone shipment of their 5,000th MK 104 Dual Thrust Rocket Motor to Raytheon Missile Systems and the United States Navy. Aerojet is a world-recognized aerospace and defense leader principally serving the missile, space propulsion and armaments markets. This most significant milestone will be commemorated with a celebration ceremony held in Camden, Arkansas, on Wednesday, October 28, 2009. The MK 104 Dual Thrust Rocket Motor provides the main propulsion for the Standard Missile 2 (SM-2), the United States Navy's primary surface-to-air air defense weapon. SM-2 is an integral part of the AEGIS Weapon System aboard Ticonderoga-class cruisers and Arleigh Burke-class destroyers. The MK 104 Dual Thrust Rocket Motor also is the second stage propulsion for the Navy's newest defensive weapon, the Standard Missile 6 Extended Range Active Missile (SM-6), which will provide extended-range, anti-air warfare capability over both sea and land. The MK 104 is also utilized on the Standard Missile 3 (SM-3) for Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) from sea missions. Aerojet has manufactured the MK 104 Dual Thrust Rocket Motor since 1987 at its Camden facility. The Standard Missile family of products, which also include the MK 72 booster and MK 125 warhead, is a noteworthy element of Aerojet's industry-leading tactical propulsion portfolio produced in Camden, generating significant employment opportunities for the area. On the occasion of this milestone, I am proud to recognize the dedicated, hardworking employees of Aeroject in Camden and their achievements so far. These Arkansans are working hard to ensure our men and women in uniform have the resources they need to carry out their missions effectively and quickly and they deserve our sincere appreciation.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to share my support and acknowledgement of September as Craniofacial Acceptance Month. Each year, approximately 100,000 children are born in the United States with some form of facial disfigurement. In many cases, reconstructive surgeons can correct these problems early--often while the children are still infants. In other cases, however, reconstruction is not as easy or even possible. The Children's Craniofacial Association (CCA) is an organization that supports these children and their families. Nationally and internationally, CCA addresses the medical, financial, psychosocial, emotional, and educational concerns relating to craniofacial conditions. CCA's mission is to empower and give hope to individuals and families affected by facial differences. I am honored to acknowledge that 2009 marks their 20th anniversary and am pleased to share my support and thanks for their designation of September as Craniofacial Acceptance Month. In 2001, my constituent Wendelyn Osborne brought the craniofacial disorders issue to my attention. At a young age, Wendelyn was diagnosed with Craniometaphyseal Dysplasia (CMD). CMD is a rare disorder that affects only 200 people worldwide. Specifically, CMD involves an overgrowth of bone which never deteriorates. In Ms. Osborne's case, this caused an abnormal appearance, bilateral facial paralysis and deafness. Other cases can include those characteristics, as well as blindness and joint pain. Wendelyn has undergone many extensive reconstructive surgeries to counteract the medical difficulties that comprise her disorder. Unfortunately, the majority of reconstructive surgeries, such as those Wendelyn has undergone, are not covered by insurance companies. Rather, many of them are treated as strictly cosmetic. As a result, individuals are forced to fight their insurance companies just to receive the life-saving surgeries they need. The fact that these surgeries have been grouped in the same ``cosmetic'' category as surgeries that simply make people look better or younger is a tragedy. It is my hope that further education and understanding of craniofacial disorders will allow our nation to move forward and update existing laws to better meet the medical needs of those needing reconstructive, not cosmetic, surgery. I urge my colleagues--especially in a year focused on health care reform--to join in this effort and help recognize these conditions through Craniofacial Acceptance Month so that all Americans can access the care they need.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a dedicated patriot and a true American hero. On August 17, 2009, our nation lost a brave service member when Army Specialist Matthew D. Hastings died in Baghdad, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, from a non-combat related incident. Army Specialist Hastings lived in Claremore, Oklahoma, but his father resides in Jefferson, Arkansas. Although I never had the honor to meet Specialist Hastings, on behalf of the State of Arkansas, I extend my utmost condolences to his family, friends and all who knew him for this devastating loss. Army Specialist Hastings was assigned to the 582nd Medical Logistics Company, 1st Medical Brigade, 13th Sustainment Command, Fort Hood, Texas. He graduated from Broken Arrow Alternative Academy in 2005 and joined the military a year later as a light-wheel vehicle mechanic. According to those who knew him, he loved to hunt and fish, took great pride in his work and treasured time spent with his family and friends. I am sure he will be sorely missed. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with his mother and stepfather, Lawanda and Roger Lowry; his father, Chuck Hastings, Jr.; his sister, Michelle; and, the rest of his family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time. Today, I ask all members of Congress to join me as we honor the life of Army Specialist Matthew Hastings and all those men and women in our Armed Forces who give the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a true American hero. On August 18, 2009, our nation lost a brave soldier when Army Private First Class Jonathan C. Yanney died in Arghandad, Afghanistan, in support of operation Enduring Freedom at 20 years of age. He died of wounds sustained when his military vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. PFC Yanney grew up in Norwood and Litchfield, Minnesota, but his father resides in Grapevine, Arkansas. Although I never had the honor to meet PFC Yanney, on behalf of the state of Arkansas, I extend my utmost condolences to his family, friends and all who knew him for this devastating loss. PFC Yanney was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 5th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division at Fort Lewis, Washington. He carried out his duties with pride in his country and without reservation and each of us owes him our eternal gratitude for his selfless sacrifice. A young, decorated soldier, Yanney's awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the Combat Action Badge, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Bar, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Weapons Qualification Badge Bar--Weapon Rifle Expert, and the NATO Medal. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with his mother, Jane; his father, Russ; his brother, Josh; and, the rest of his family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time. Today, I ask all members of Congress to join me as we honor the life of Army Private First Class Jonathan Yanney and his legacy and all those men and women in our Armed Forces who gave the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, on Monday, July 13, 2009, I was not present for votes because I was attending a meeting with President Obama in the Oval Office. Had I been present for roll call 530, The Motion to Adjourn, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a dedicated patriot and a true American hero. On May 19, 2009, our state and our nation lost a brave servicemember when Naval Air Crewman 1st Class Samuel ``Grant'' Kerslake died during training operations off the Pacific Ocean near San Diego, California. In all, the U.S. Navy lost six members of its Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) when its HH- 60 Seahawk helicopter crashed. Petty Officer Kerslake was a 1986 graduate of Lake Hamilton High School in Pearcy, Arkansas. Dedicating his life to his country, Petty Officer Kerslake had just completed 20 years of honorable service with the U.S. Armed Forces. While his untimely and tragic death is a shock to all of us in Arkansas, we are left with the memories and inspiration Petty Officer Kerslake shared with all who met him. We admired Petty Officer Kerslake for his commitment to his family, community and country. His legacy of service, patriotism and honor will forever define what we remember about this brave sailor. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Christine; two sons, Samuel Ryan Kerslake and Justin Fields; his mother, JoAnne Kerslake of Hot Springs; his father, Samuel Kerslake of Florida; and the rest of his family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time. Today, I ask all members of Congress to join me as we honor the life of Petty Officer Samuel ``Grant'' Kerslake and his legacy and all those men and women in our Armed Forces who give the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Jim Hudson of Texarkana, Arkansas, who passed away on May 3, 2009, at the much too early age of 56. As a man of faith, a devoted husband and father, and a committed statesman, his life and legacy is an example to us all. As a circuit judge for the 8th judicial district south serving Miller and Lafayette Counties since 1991 and as a former prosecuting attorney, Jim was one of the most fair-minded and selfless people I have had the pleasure to know. Arkansas lost a true public servant with Jim's passing and he will be deeply missed. I knew Jim my entire adult life and was proud to call him my friend. His steadfast commitment to justice and his devotion to his community made Jim a person many of us looked up to and respected, as we witnessed Jim help countless individuals and families throughout his career in public service. He was so respected in his profession that both Arkansas's U.S. Senators Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor recently selected Jim as a possible nominee to fill a U.S. district judge's position in the Western District of Arkansas, a position for which he would have been perfectly suited. Jim's cheerful personality was contagious and he was liked by all he encountered. In fact, over the course of Jim's difficult five-week struggle with post- surgical complications, a website updated daily with information regarding his progress was visited more than 60,000 times. As a respected jurist, Jim's greatest legacy is to the legal profession where he had a coveted grasp of complex legal issues and a commitment to helping troubled youth find their way. He also mentored numerous young lawyers and jurists that now practice across the region, passing on his knowledge and teachings that exemplified his fairness and passion for law. His legacy will live on for decades in our region's legal system through the many lives and careers he touched. My thoughts and prayers and those of every Arkansan are with Jim's family during this difficult time, especially to his wife, Kathy; his two daughters, Sarah and Claire Hudson; his stepmother, Jane Hudson; and, his grandson, Jaxson Hudson. Jim left us much too early and those of us who knew him will always remember the laughter and lessons he shared with us all. We too often forget how much one person can make a difference in this world and Jim's life and legacy is an example of how one man can better the lives of so many, the profession he cared so deeply about and the church, community and state he called home.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Robert E. ``Bob'' Wheeler of Hot Springs, who passed away on April 16, 2009, at the age of 72. Affectionately called ``Mister Hot Springs,'' Bob dedicated his life's work to Hot Springs, the city he loved and the city he called home. Bob was a hard worker and an inspiring leader, and it was his vision that helped make Hot Springs the vibrant center of tourism, commerce and history that it is today. In response to the city's struggling economy in the 1980s, Bob was instrumental in passing bond issues that renovated and expanded the former Hot Springs Convention Auditorium into the Hot Springs Convention Center, a state-of-the-art conference facility that now hosts groups from across the country. He was also key in reopening the Magic Springs & Crystal Falls amusement park, as well as envisioning and seeing to completion Summit Arena, which now hosts major concerts and athletic events. In an official capacity, Bob served as the City Director from 1986 until 2004, when he declined to run for re-election. He also served on the Hot Springs Advertising and Promotion Commission for 15 years, being named the commission's only ``Commissioner Emeritus'' upon his retirement. Bob was a successful businessman heading Wheeler Printing, and he was the motivation for making Hot Springs the permanent home of the Miss Arkansas Pageant, where he served more than 40 years as the state pageant's Executive Director. Realizing the city's important contributions to Arkansas over the years, Bob's vision included a city that recognizes and honors its past and traditions while embracing change and economic development. Today, as a direct result of Bob's efforts, Hot Springs is a year-round destination for conventions and tourists and a thriving community in which to raise a family. Most importantly. Bob inspired a new generation of leaders in Hot Springs all of whom embraced his vision and shared his infectious energy and passion that will carry the city well into the 21st century. Unfortunately. Bob lost his long battle with Alzheimer's disease last week. Though he is no longer with us and will be deeply missed, Bob's legacy will live on as Hot Springs and its leaders continue to meet the expectations, dreams and goals outlined by the city's biggest champion.

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, on Tuesday, March 31, 2009, I was not present for rollcall vote 170. Had I been present for rollcall 170, H.R. 577, the Vision Care for Kids Act of 2009, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. ROSS

Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Rison High School in Rison, Arkansas, for having been selected as one of the top high schools in America by U.S. News and World Report. U.S. News and World Report honored Rison High School with its Silver Medal, one of only four schools in Arkansas to receive such recognition. In order to qualify for this honor, a high school must have a challenging college-ready curriculum, performed well on standardized tests, and provide support and programs that best serve students from all backgrounds, according to the report. I am personally proud of Rison High School for working to achieve excellence in the classroom and helping to ensure their students have the means they need to succeed in this 21st century global marketplace. A stellar education requires not only good educators and administrators, but also support from the surrounding community. The Rison community, with its top-notch educators, active parents and involved local leadership, deserve much-needed praise for their unified efforts in providing Rison High School students with a world-class education, and I am pleased that U.S. News and World Report took notice. Once again, I would like to congratulate Rison High School on this significant accomplishment and hope they will continue to strive for excellence in the years to come.