[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 107 (Wednesday, July 31, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S7739]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 CONGRATULATIONS TO MS. MARSHA VAN HOOK

 Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today among my colleagues 
to congratulate Ms. Marsha Van Hook of Somerset, KY. On July 16th, 
Marsha Van Hook was the proud recipient of the Ted Jaskulski National 
Public Policy Award. This award is presented annually to an individual 
who has contributed to public policy efforts on behalf of people with 
developmental disabilities. Ms. Van Hook was nominated by the 26 
members of the Kentucky Developmental Disabilities Council, KDDC, for 
her advocacy efforts related to disabilities.
  In keeping with the goals and values of the KDDC, Marsha Van Hook has 
tirelessly and selflessly worked to ensure that children and young 
adults throughout the Commonwealth suffering from developmental 
disabilities have the right to an education, the opportunity to work 
and support themselves, and the access to affordable health care and 
transportation in their respective communities. Specifically, Ms. Van 
Hook's strong advocacy and involvement at the local and state level has 
brought a heightened sense of awareness to local communities across 
Kentucky concerning people with developmental disabilities and the 
dilemmas they face on a daily basis. She has been the eloquent voice of 
reason for advocacy and has also been an instrumental force in getting 
legislation passed regarding transportation needs for the disabled.
  This most recent accolade is not the first time Ms. Van Hook has been 
duly recognized for positive influence on society. Both the Kentucky 
State Senate and House as well as many disability groups throughout the 
Commonwealth have presented her with awards.
  Currently, Marsha Van Hook is employed by the Appalachian Regional 
Commission, ARC, where she is actively involved with their ``Partners 
in Advocacy'' training program. This program offers training and 
support to individuals and their families in developing and expanding 
much needed advocacy skills. She also participates in several 
commissions and committees at both the state and local level.
  I ask that my fellow members of the Senate join me in congratulating 
Ms. Marsha Van Hook for this prestigious and noteworthy award and thank 
her for all that she has done and is doing to advance the cause of 
children and adults suffering from developmental disabilities.

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