[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 195 (Wednesday, December 19, 2007)]
[Senate]
[Page S15997]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 IN HONOR OF G. RAYMOND ``RAY'' EMPSON

 Mr. LIEBERMAN. Mr. President, it is with great respect that I 
recognize G. Raymond ``Ray'' Empson, who for the past 11 years has 
served as president of the national nonprofit organization, Keep 
America Beautiful, Inc., and has announced his well-deserved retirement 
effective December 31 of this year.
  Keep America Beautiful, the organization that many remember as the 
originator of the famous ``Crying Indian'' public service advertisement 
in 1971, has been an important part of the fabric of American 
communities since 1953. Rooted in a nonpartisan and ``hands-on'' 
approach to improving communities and the environment, KAB forms 
public-private partnerships that engage everyone in improving not just 
the physical beauty of their hometowns, but their economic vitality and 
civic engagement, as well. I am proud that the state of Connecticut is 
home to the organization's national headquarters in Stamford.
  During Ray Empson's tenure, Keep America Beautiful has grown to over 
570 local affiliate organizations in communities from coast to coast. 
Through his leadership, and expansion of the signature event, The Great 
American Cleanup, KAB and its affiliates have removed millions of tons 
of litter from the American landscape; planted millions of trees that 
improve our communities; conserved our natural resources by recycling 
tons of raw material; improved hiking, biking and nature trails; and 
most importantly, educated millions of Americans of all ages in 
sustainable behaviors that prevent litter and reduce waste.
  Given all these accomplishments, I can't help but think of Ray 
Empson's retirement in bittersweet terms. While I am certainly happy 
for him and wish him all the best, I can't help but think what a loss 
it will be for the country when he steps down. I am certain, however, 
that his commitment to the environment and his dedication to improving 
the quality of life in America's communities will serve as a strong 
example to all those who know him and have worked with him and will 
guide the future leadership of KAB.
  Thank you G. Raymond Empson. America is a better place because of 
you.

                          ____________________