[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 60 (Thursday, April 23, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E953-E954]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 IN MEMORY OF ROBERT E. ``BOB'' WHEELER

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. MIKE ROSS

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 23, 2009

  Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Robert 
E. ``Bob'' Wheeler of Hot Springs, who passed away on April 16, 2009, 
at the age of 72. Affectionately called ``Mister Hot Springs,'' Bob 
dedicated his life's work to Hot Springs, the city he loved and the 
city he called home.
  Bob was a hard worker and an inspiring leader, and it was his vision 
that helped make Hot Springs the vibrant center of tourism, commerce 
and history that it is today. In response to the city's struggling 
economy in the 1980s, Bob was instrumental in passing bond issues that 
renovated and expanded the former Hot Springs Convention Auditorium 
into the Hot Springs Convention Center, a state-of-the-art conference 
facility that now hosts groups from across the country. He was also key 
in reopening the Magic Springs & Crystal Falls amusement park, as well 
as envisioning and seeing to completion Summit Arena, which now hosts 
major concerts and athletic events.
  In an official capacity, Bob served as the City Director from 1986 
until 2004, when he declined to run for re-election. He also served on 
the Hot Springs Advertising and Promotion Commission for 15 years, 
being named the commission's only ``Commissioner Emeritus'' upon his 
retirement.
  Bob was a successful businessman heading Wheeler Printing, and he was 
the motivation for making Hot Springs the permanent home of the Miss 
Arkansas Pageant, where he served more than 40 years as the state 
pageant's Executive Director.
  Realizing the city's important contributions to Arkansas over the 
years, Bob's vision included a city that recognizes and honors its past 
and traditions while embracing change and economic development. Today, 
as a direct result of Bob's efforts, Hot Springs is a year-round 
destination for conventions and tourists and a thriving community in 
which to raise a family.

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  Most importantly. Bob inspired a new generation of leaders in Hot 
Springs all of whom embraced his vision and shared his infectious 
energy and passion that will carry the city well into the 21st century.
  Unfortunately. Bob lost his long battle with Alzheimer's disease last 
week. Though he is no longer with us and will be deeply missed, Bob's 
legacy will live on as Hot Springs and its leaders continue to meet the 
expectations, dreams and goals outlined by the city's biggest champion.

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