[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 134 (Wednesday, October 2, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1417-E1418]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                CONGRATULATING HAROLD ``HB'' BRANCH III

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. KYRSTEN SINEMA

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, October 2, 2013

  Ms. SINEMA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask that my colleagues join 
me in congratulating Harold ``HB'' Branch III on receiving the 
inaugural Universal Learning Centre Courage in Learning Award. This 
honor is given to an individual who has overcome adversity through the 
utilization of education.
  For Mr. Branch, this honor is well deserved. Overcoming childhood 
tragedy, abandonment, and poverty, he rose to receive national and 
international recognition for his written poetry and performance. He 
has also achieved notable success in public speaking and business 
training. Today, he serves at-risk youth of Arizona through his 
organization, HomeBase Poetry. This foundation gives youth a creative 
outlet to develop academically, socially, and professionally. I admire 
the efforts of Mr. Branch to help our youth grow and succeed. In doing 
so, he has helped lift up our communities and cultivate artistic 
talent.

[[Page E1418]]

  Mr. Branch is a true inspiration and a model of excellence in 
service. It is my privilege to represent him in Congress. I ask my 
colleagues to join me in recognizing Harold ``HB'' Branch III on 
winning the 2013 Courage in Learning Award, and on the remarkable life 
achievements this award represents.

                          ____________________