[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 144 (Thursday, September 11, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1763]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING THE LIFE AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF LES WHITT

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. RODNEY ALEXANDER

                              of louisiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 11, 2008

  Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and 
accomplishments of the late Robert Leslie ``Les'' Whitt. He will be 
remembered as a man with a deep love for people, music, and the 
Alexandria Zoo.
  Mr. Whitt, of Alexandria, LA, died recently from heart complications 
after living 14 years with a transplanted heart. Whitt was a strong 
advocate for organ donation and loved speaking for the Louisiana Organ 
Procurement Agency whenever possible.
  Moreover, Mr. Whitt was passionate about his service to the citizens 
and administration of the city of Alexandria. He served as the director 
of the Alexandria Zoo for 34 years, and received the Dunbar Award for 
Civil Service in 1993. Mr. Whitt was also recognized for his 
progressive and inventive zoo exhibit designs. At the age of 16, he 
joined the American Zoo and Aquarium Association as a professional 
fellow member and has subsequently served the organization in many 
capacities including Accreditation Inspection Team Leader. Mr. Whitt 
served selflessly on numerous committees representing the Alexandria 
Zoo in worldwide conservation efforts for endangered species.
  In addition, Mr. Whitt's talent as a musician, particularly a Hammond 
B-3 player, was celebrated. He played with many local and regional 
musicians, as well as with greats like B.B. King and B.B. Major. He was 
altruistically involved with the youth and was a mentor to young zoo 
professionals, teen volunteers, Boy Scouts, and musicians.
  Thousands of families will never overcome this loss of a true son of 
Alexandria. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring 
Mr. Les Whitt for his exceptional contributions to central Louisiana 
and unparalleled influence on those of us who were blessed to know him.

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