[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 91 (Thursday, June 17, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1137]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  COMMENDING MAYOR RICHARD ROY MICHEL

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. RODNEY ALEXANDER

                              of louisiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 17, 2010

  Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise 
today to commend Mayor Richard Roy Michel, who has devoted over 28 
years to serving Marksville, La.
  Michel was Marksville High School's valedictorian in 1950. He 
received his B.S. degree in 1953 from Louisiana State University (LSU) 
of Baton Rouge, and continued his education at LSU Medical School in 
New Orleans graduating in 1957.
  After marrying the former Margaret Bennett in 1956, Michel served his 
country in the U.S. Air Force from 1958 to 1960. He was a captain and 
head of the OB GYN medical division at Robins Air Force Base in 
Georgia. He also worked as the Assistant Hospital Administrator.
  In 1960, Michel returned to his hometown to practice medicine at 
Marksville Hospital where he continues to work today.
  For nearly three decades, Michel has been a businessman, politician, 
cattleman, and the Marksville Mayor. He is credited with turning 
Marksville from a town to a city by his notable undertakings. He was 
instrumental in encouraging the expansion of the Super Wal-Mart and 
assisting the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe in establishing the Paragon Casino. 
In addition, the Marksville City Hall, Police Station, Fire Station, 
City Courtroom and Marksville Water System buildings were constructed 
under his leadership as mayor.
  Among his impressive list of endeavors, Michel served as a charter 
member of the American Academy of Family Practice, board member of the 
Council on Aging, Cottonport Bank, Airport Authority and Marksville 
Chamber of Commerce. In addition, he was the first president of the 
Avoyelles Mayor's Association and the first chief of staff at Avoyelles 
Hospital.
  Beyond his professional career, Michel and his wife have two 
daughters, Margaret Suzone Alfred and Donna Renee Lemoine, two 
granddaughters, one grandson and one great-granddaughter.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mayor 
Richard Roy Michel. His unwavering commitment and compassionate service 
to the Marksville community deserve our gratitude.

                          ____________________