[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 65 (Thursday, April 30, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1030]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE CANYON DEL ORO HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC DECATHLON TEAM

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                        HON. GABRIELLE GIFFORDS

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 30, 2009

  Ms. GIFFORDS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Canyon Del 
Oro High School Academic Decathlon Team who recently won first place in 
the Arizona state competition and placed fourth in the United States 
Academic Decathlon.
  These smart, industrious young men and women have set a wonderful 
example for every public school student in our country. Their 
achievements remind us that excellence is the direct result of 
determination, hard work and clearly defined goals. The nine-member 
team includes: Taylor Cleland, Marie Clymer, Benjamin Ferell, Melinda 
Fraser, Jordan Kurker-Mraz, Rush Moore, Dylan Ousley, Danielle 
``Ellie'' Strasser, and Jennifer Wendel.
  Guiding these talented young people was their able coach and teacher, 
Mr. Chris Yetman.
  Before traveling to Memphis, Tennessee for the national competition, 
the Canyon Del Oro High School Academic Decathlon Team participated in 
the state competition in Phoenix. There, they took written exams, gave 
prepared and impromptu speeches and were interviewed on a diverse range 
of subjects. They were tested on their knowledge of mathematics, music, 
literature, economics, art history and social sciences. To be 
successful, each team must include students who have mastery in each of 
these subject areas.
  It was a great source of pride for all Southern Arizonans when the 
Canyon Del Oro High School Academic Decathlon Team defeated their 
closest competitor by 3,000 points in the state competition. This 
victory paved their way to Memphis, Tennessee and their prestigious 
fourth place finish nationally.
  Students on the team also won individual awards. Taylor Cleland 
finished with the bronze medal in art, the bronze in math and the 
silver in social science. Melinda Fraser finished with the silver in 
art. Benjamin Ferell finished with the top score on the team and was 
awarded the bronze in art, the bronze in literature, the gold in math 
and the bronze in ten events. Jordan Kurker-Mraz finished with the gold 
in art, the gold in essay, the silver in social science, the silver in 
the super quiz, and the bronze in ten events. Rush Moore finished with 
the silver in social science, and Jennifer Wendel finished with the 
gold medal in interview. Additionally, Benjamin Ferell received $1,000 
in scholarships and Jordan Kurker-Mraz received $3,000 in scholarships.
  I commend the Canyon Del Oro High School Academic Decathlon Team for 
their outstanding accomplishments. Their journey to these academic 
heights has brought local, state and national recognition to each of 
them and their school. Their achievements are an inspiration to us all.

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