[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 28 (Wednesday, February 11, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S2124]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        RETIREMENT OF GUY ROCHA

  Mr. REID. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Guy Rocha, who 
retired from his post as Nevada State archivist on February 2 exactly 
28 years to the day from the time he assumed this position. He began as 
the youngest State archivist in the Nation. At this time, only the New 
Hampshire and Maryland State archivists have served longer than him. 
His exceptional archival and research abilities have earned him an 
impressive reputation and have made him an invaluable asset to the 
State of Nevada.
  Guy Louis Rocha was born on September 23, 1951. He grew up in Las 
Vegas and later moved to Reno. His first job with the State was with 
the Nevada Historical Society in Reno in 1976. He was appointed to be 
the State archivist in 1981. As the State archivist, Guy was 
responsible for managing Nevada's historically valuable records dating 
all the way back to 1851. For his longtime service, he received the 
Award of Merit for Leadership in History from the American Association 
for State and Local History.
  Above all, Guy is known for his love of truth. He commonly corrects 
the inaccuracies of reporters and journalists. For 12 years he has 
written the ``Historical Myth a Month'' column for Sierra Sage, and 
since 2000 he has written a biweekly column in Reno Gazette-Journal. 
For his work in debunking popular Nevada myths he has come to be known 
as the ``myth-buster.''
  His research expertise and impartiality have even been called upon to 
provide historical evidence in settling legal disputes. In addition to 
his archival duties, he has authored two books and many articles and 
book reviews and he has served as a rotating host for Reno's National 
Public Radio show ``High Desert Forum.'' Guy also owns a production 
company that produces historical documentaries.
  Guy Rocha has been rightly called a ``State treasure.'' His 
contributions as the State archivist, as an historian, and as a writer 
form an impressive legacy to be honored by current and future 
generations. All Nevadans have reason to be proud of Guy Rocha, and I 
know I join them in congratulating him on a well-earned retirement from 
his duties as Nevada State archivist.

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