[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 107 (Wednesday, September 13, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1467]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING KEITH CLARK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 13, 2000

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I ask for 
this moment to celebrate the life of Keith Clark. Keith was a model 
citizen and a highly respected educator in Grand Junction, Colorado. 
Keith left an indelible impression upon many he came in contact with 
and he will be deeply missed.
  Keith grew up during the Great Depression where hard work wasn't an 
option, it was part of everyday life. Keith took these values to heart, 
serving his country with distinction in World War II as a B-52 pilot. 
After returning States side, Keith finished his formal education, an 
education that would ultimately lead to a career that would have an 
immense impact upon thousands of Colorado's youth.
  After receiving his education from Mesa State College, and his 
teaching certificate from the University of Northern Colorado, Keith 
began his illustrious teaching career. For nearly 30 years, he ensured 
that Grand Junction's youth understood the importance of knowledge and 
learning. His techniques and style were at times considered 
unconventional, but for many students, Keith's unorthodox approach 
sparked an intellectual curiosity that would remain with them for the 
rest of their life.
  Larry Beckner summed up the incredible impact that Mr. Clark had upon 
his life in an article by Rachel Sauer in The Grand Junction Daily 
Sentinel: ``He instilled in me the belief that whatever is out there, I 
can do it. That was the attitude that he had and the attitude I picked 
up from him.'' Keith taught students to realize the importance of life 
and how to appreciate it. He also helped young people to learn the 
value of being a student. Beckner also had this to say: ``He turned me 
around from being just a person in school to being a student. He opened 
my eyes to community involvement, to political issues and he made me a 
student.''
  Keith Clark exemplified the ideals of what it means to be an 
American. He fought to protect this country's highest ideals during 
World War II and he worked tirelessly to promote the importance of a 
good education to his students. Both at home and abroad, Keith was a 
genuine American hero.
  Mr. Speaker, at this time I would like to extend my condolences on 
behalf of the State of Colorado and the U.S. Congress to the family of 
a true American patriot, Keith Clark. Keith touched the lives of 
thousands of people. Though he is gone, his proud legacy will live on 
in the family, friends and students who were blessed to know him.

                          ____________________