[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 185 (Wednesday, December 5, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2493]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO BEN AND MARTHA BIDEWELL

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                          HON. JO ANN EMERSON

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 5, 2007

  Mrs. EMERSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ben and 
Martha Bidewell for receiving the 2007 Missouri Community College 
Association Award of Distinction. Their vision and commitment to 
education has had an enduring impact on their community, State and 
Nation.
  Three Rivers Community College (TRCC) has played a critical role in 
helping people of all ages develop the skills necessary to begin and 
sustain a productive career. For four decades, the Bidewells have 
generously contributed their time, efforts and financial resources to 
the betterment of TRCC, ensuring a brighter future for our State and 
Nation.
  Mr. and Mrs. Bidewell both possess a deep sense of community and true 
desire to improve the lives of their neighbors. Their friendliness and 
optimism have positively impacted countless people both in and out of 
the college. Their leadership, dedication and generosity serve as an 
example to all, particularly young students enrolled at TRCC. Poplar 
Bluff and the entire southern Missouri region owe a debt of gratitude 
to Mr. and Mrs. Bidewell for their significant contributions to higher 
education and their community.
  Madam Speaker, it is a great privilege to honor Ben and Martha 
Bidewell on winning this prestigious award. I ask that you join me 
along with the people of southern Missouri to congratulate Mr. and Mrs. 
Bidewell on this wonderful achievement and to wish them a happy and 
productive future.

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