[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 72 (Thursday, June 8, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1060]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            TRIBUTE TO TARA ELIZABETH CONNER, MISS USA 2006

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. HAROLD ROGERS

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 7, 2006

  Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Tara 
Elizabeth Connor, a native of Russell Springs, Kentucky, who was 
recently crowned Miss USA 2006.
  The entire Bluegrass State celebrated on April 21, when Tara not only 
captured the Miss USA title but also became the first Kentuckian in the 
pageant's 54-year history to do so. Although she is only 20 years old, 
Tara showed remarkable composure during the week-long Miss USA 
competition, which culminated in the nationally televised pageant on 
NBC.
  A 2004 graduate of Russell County High School, Tara was able to 
realize her dream of becoming Miss USA through the tried and true 
formula of hard work, determination and pure talent that has marked 
generations of accomplished Kentuckians. As the reigning Miss USA, Tara 
intends to use her celebrity platform to raise awareness about breast 
cancer. I have no doubt that she will perform her newfound 
responsibilities with the same mix of energy and enthusiasm that she 
used to capture the Miss USA title.
  While millions of Americans now know her as a ``beauty'' queen, those 
that know Tara best see her for what she really is--a down-to-earth 
Kentucky girl who is dedicated to her family and friends.
  Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Tara Connor on her honor as Miss 
USA 2006. Tara has made all of Kentucky proud, and I wish her the very 
best as she pursues her bright future.

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