[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 83 (Thursday, June 9, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1063]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CONGRATULATING TINE VALENCIC, WINNER OF THE 2011 NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC 
                                  BEE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. KENNY MARCHANT

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 9, 2011

  Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and pleasure that I 
rise today to recognize and congratulate Tine Valencic for winning the 
2011 National Geographic Bee. Tine's remarkable achievement is a 
testament to his discipline, perseverance, and extraordinary knowledge 
of the world's geography. I am proud to represent Tine, who attends 7th 
Grade at Colleyville Middle School and founded the Geography Club at 
the school.
  This year, 5 million students, ranging from fourth to eighth grade, 
studied and perfected their geographic skills as they competed in 
nationwide geographic bees. Students like Tine spent many months 
preparing by studying landscapes, and physical features around the 
globe.
  As the 13th place finisher in the 2010 National Geographic Bee, Tine 
prepared for this year's competition by studying 24-page spreadsheets 
filled with facts and information about geographic areas and cultures. 
Competing against 53 semi-finalists, Tine flawlessly answered 119 
questions, including five final tiebreakers. Tine was awarded a 
scholarship for his hard work.
  Mr. Speaker, I am honored to congratulate Tine on this significant 
accomplishment. I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in 
commending Tine Valencic, winner of the 2011 National Geographic Bee.