[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 62 (Monday, May 6, 2013)]
[Senate]
[Page S3088]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO SYLVIA MEDINA

 Mr. CRAPO. Mr. President, my colleague Senator Jim Risch joins 
me today in recognizing the significant accomplishments of Sylvia 
Medina, who is retiring as president & chief executive officer of North 
Wind, Inc.
  Sylvia is influential locally, regionally, nationally and 
internationally. She founded North Wind, headquartered in Idaho Falls, 
which provides engineering, construction and environmental services to 
Federal and State agencies and private industry. Through her hard work 
and innovation, she grew North Wind into a leading business employing 
more than 300 scientific, engineering, construction and professional 
personnel in 21 offices throughout the country. In 2009, Sylvia sold 
North Wind to Cook Inlet Regional, Inc., CIRI, but remained on as 
president and chief executive officer.
  Sylvia steps in to address community needs, and she has a strong 
commitment to community service. She has supported youth and education 
programs, the arts and environmental conservation efforts. She was also 
instrumental in raising money for the construction of an animal shelter 
and dog park. In addition, Sylvia has served in leadership roles for 
several local and national organizations that include the Idaho State 
University Foundation, Holy Rosary School, Women Impacting Public 
Policy, Green Kids Inc., Grow Idaho Falls, Idaho Falls Symphony, the 
Snake River Animal Shelter, LLC and the Institute for Economic 
Empowerment of Women.
  Sylvia's strong leadership and dedication have been recognized 
through awards and her selection to assist with important initiatives. 
For example, she was appointed by Governor Butch Otter to the 
Leadership in Nuclear Energy Commission. Among her numerous honors, the 
U.S. Small Business Administration recognized Sylvia as a Small 
Business Person of the Year in 2008. In 2009, she received the Latina 
Women Entrepreneur of the Year Award from the Anna Maria Aras Memorial 
Business Fund and a Torch Award from the Better Business Bureau.
  Sylvia leads by example and demonstrates a constant commitment to 
integrity and bettering the community. It has been great to work with 
Sylvia. Sylvia, your expertise and insight on small business issues 
have been valuable and greatly appreciated, and we look forward to 
continuing to work with you on future joint efforts. We hope that your 
retirement from North Wind provides you deserved time with your family, 
including your husband and three children, and your many friends. Thank 
you, Sylvia, for your hard work and exemplary service.

                          ____________________