[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 64 (Thursday, May 1, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E824]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         WARREN HIGH SCHOOL'S CONTINUED TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE

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                             HON. MIKE ROSS

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 30, 2003

  Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, it was only two years ago that I was 
congratulating the Warren High School Lumberjacks, and their head 
coach, Bo Hembree, for winning the Arkansas AAA Boys High School State 
Football Championship, and here we are again. It is an impressive feat 
just to win one state title, but winning two in three years is a real 
testament to preparation, character, and purpose. I think it also 
demonstrates the spirit of determination and hard work that has always 
distinguished Arkansans.
  As a concerned parent, I understand even more that paramount among my 
duties as a U.S. Congressman is to provide the necessary resources to 
our students, teachers, and schools that will enable our young men and 
women to excel and succeed in all their endeavors. Educating the next 
generation is an important issue not only in the classroom, and the 
halls of Congress, but also around our kitchen tables at home.
  I have long been an advocate of athletics and extracurricular 
activities as a supplement to academic excellence for their ability to 
instill leadership, character, and perseverance. Activity outside the 
classroom instills a habit of serving the community, preparing them to 
take leadership roles and eventually shape the larger world around 
them.
  Championships are won in the heart as much as on the field. The will 
to overcome adversity, the daily drive to succeed, and the mental 
toughness to perform under pressure carried the young men during their 
championship season, and will provide them with a well to draw from 
throughout their entire lives.
  That is why it brings me so much pleasure to again congratulate the 
Warren High School football program on winning the AAA Boys High School 
Football Championship: It is evidence of a culture of excellence and 
hard work among the student body, coaching staff, Warren High School 
faculty, and the community. We can all take great pride in the 
accomplishments of this team, and how they achieved their goals. I am 
proud of you. It is an honor for me to salute the coaches, parents, and 
players who stayed the course, and met adversity and challenge to 
become champions.

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