Congressman Denny Rehberg

November 25, 2002

HELENA – Montana’s Congressman, U.S. Representative Denny Rehberg (R), today presented “Spirit of Discovery” awards to a pair of Helena, Montana, high school students who have led inspirational lives, overcoming great personal challenges. Rehberg today visited Capitol High School, presenting the award to Brian Talseth, and Helena High School, presenting the award to Cecelia Whitney.

“Brian and Cecelia truly exemplify what the Spirit of Discovery Award is all about,” said Rehberg, who created the award.

Brian Talseth is a senior at Capital High School. When he was in kindergarten, doctors diagnosed Brian with muscular dystrophy. By the time he was in fifth grade, he was in a wheelchair. Since that time, Brian has continued to suffer the increasing physical limitations of the disease. In spite of these limitations, he has maintained exceptionally good grades, and has enhanced the lives of others through his positive attitude.

Cecelia Whitney is a junior at Helena High School. Born with cystic fibrosis, Cecelia has maintained a 4.0 GPA, has completed numerous honors classes, and is involved in sports and extracurricular activities. She has a marvelously positive attitude - and with her oxygen tank always present, Cecelia shows others how to live life courageously.

Rehberg created the Spirit of Discovery Award as a way of recognizing outstanding Montana students and as a means of as a means of honoring the commitment to courage and discovery found in Lewis and Clark’s “Corps of Discovery.” Each year Rehberg asks school instructors, counselors, or administrators to nominate students for displaying courage and commitment, together with a spirit of service, surmounting obstacles, or stretching or developing skills.

“It is this spirit of discovery, this unconquerable spirit of courage and perseverance that is indeed the greatness of Montana and the heart and soul of America,” Rehberg said.

Remarks by U.S. Congressman Denny Rehberg:

Spirit of Discovery Award

BRIAN TALSETH

Capital High School, Helena, November 25, 2002

IT IS AN HONOR FOR ME TO BE AT CAPITAL HIGH SCHOOL today to present a special award. I think it is appropriate that we gather from time to time to honor those among us whose lives reflect the very best that all of us reach for.

As you know, in Montana we are beginning a bicentennial commemoration of Lewis and Clark and the Corps of Discovery, who boldly embarked on their historic venture carrying medals of peace. In keeping with the spirit of the Corps of Discovery, I wish to recognize and honor out-of-the-ordinary high school students with a Spirit of Discovery medal.

In the past two years as your congressman, I have presented a number of Spirit of Discovery medals to outstanding Montana students who display courage and commitment, together with a spirit of discovery in service, scholarship, surmounting obstacles, or stretching or developing skills. This award is meant for the student who stands out in ways not easily measurable - and not often acknowledged.

DURING THIS THANKSGIVING WEEK, I can’t think of a better way to spend some of my time than by honoring a determined, courageous young man. Daily he faces and surmounts obstacles and difficulties unlike anything most of us will ever have to endure - and he does it with incredible bravery, dignity, and unfailing optimism.

As I talk about Capital High School’s Spirit of Discovery Award recipient, it won’t take you long to realize who he is, for you know him, you have watched his trials and triumphs - and you have made a place for him in your school, your community, and your hearts.

When he was in kindergarten, this young man was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy. By the time he was in fifth grade, he was in a wheelchair. Since that time, he has continued to suffer the increasing physical limitations of the disease. In spite of these limitations, he has maintained exceptionally good grades, and has enhanced the lives of others through his example.

A debilitating physical condition like muscular dystrophy has the tendency to isolate a young person from others, but he has refused to let it do so. He has done everything possible for himself and others. He joins groups, goes to dances, attends muscular dystrophy conferences and camp, and does all his required schoolwork - without exception. Though his body suffers the effects of a cruel disease, his mind soars.

The most difficult part of having MD, according to this 12th grader, is not being able to drive a car and go where he wants. He says it is also hard to have to have others help him dress or assist him with other tasks most people take for granted. The easy part, he says, is that he always has a place to sit!

The year he started high school, his mother - his primary caregiver and support - died of breast cancer. Since then, he, his older sister, and his dad have handled the disease. He says that because of his mother, he now has the courage to move on and dream about his future.

He is a grateful person. He generously acknowledges all those who help him. He is personable and humble. He’s eager to learn and says there are many lessons left for him to learn.

In an English assignment, he wrote, “Some say I am an inspiration. I only hope to learn all I can, and to do so with integrity.” Besides complete honesty, the word integrity implies wholeness. This good man has an inspirational wholeness in heart and spirit.

It is this spirit of discovery, this unconquerable spirit of courage and perseverance that is indeed the greatness of Montana and the heart and soul of America.

This Spirit of Discovery medal is for a young man with a big heart, one who loves to learn and to give. He inspires us by his full participation in life. He shows us that our own difficulties are small by comparison. He is a hero to his family, his teachers, his peers - and to me.

FOR COURAGE AND DIGNITY IN THE FACE OF CHALLENGES, for enduring bitterness without becoming bitter, and for his awe-inspiring spirit of discovery in learning and in living, it is my honor to present the Spirit of Discovery Award to BRIAN TALSETH

Spirit of Discovery Award

CECELIA WHITNEY

Helena High School, November 25, 2002

IT IS AN HONOR FOR ME TO BE HERE AT HELENA HIGH SCHOOL today to present a special award. I think it is appropriate that we gather from time to time to honor those among us whose lives reflect the very best that all of us reach for.

As you know, in Montana we are beginning a bicentennial commemoration of Lewis and Clark and the Corps of Discovery, who boldly embarked on their historic venture carrying medals of peace. In keeping with the spirit of the Corps of Discovery, I wish to recognize and honor out-of-the-ordinary high school students with a Spirit of Discovery medal.

During the past two years as your congressman, I have presented a number of Spirit of Discovery medals to outstanding Montana students who display courage and commitment, together with a spirit of discovery in service, scholarship, surmounting obstacles, or stretching or developing skills. This award is meant for the student who stands out in ways not easily measurable - and not often acknowledged.

THIS THANKSGIVING WEEK, I can’t think of a better way to spend some of my time than by honoring a very courageous young lady for her commitment to achieving her goals and her enthusiasm for life - in spite of serious challenges.

Today as I talk about Helena High School’s Spirit of Discovery Award recipient, it won’t take you long to recognize who she is, for you know her well.

This young lady was born with cystic fibrosis. It affects her life every hour of every day. Yet in spite of the physical challenges of this disease, she makes the necessary extra effort that enables her to excel in all she does.

This high school junior has maintained a 4.0 grade point average while enrolled in numerous honors classes. She was on the JV Tennis Team her freshman year. She works for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks in the summer. She doesn’t allow herself to be defined by what she cannot do, but prefers to be known for what she can do.

This young lady’s teachers marvel at her infectious enthusiasm for life and learning. She is planning to go to college and on to law school. She refuses to let her situation color the future anything but bright.

Even with an oxygen tank as her constant companion, she prefers to reach out and help, rather than be helped. She never gives up. She loves a challenge. She is extremely positive.

Her teachers note that they have learned much from their student. Her battle with cystic fibrosis has taught them that what seems to be difficult usually isn’t - with just a little more effort. From her, they have learned that when situations appear impossible, there is usually a positive solution.

More than anything else, she has set the example for others to follow about having the courage to set high standards and the commitment to reach them.

Though she doesn’t like to have a fuss made over her, those whose lives connect with hers daily recognize her greatness. They affirm that this outstanding person is a true hero in this community.

It is this spirit of discovery, this unconquerable spirit of courage and perseverance that is indeed the greatness of Montana and the heart and soul of America.

This Spirit of Discovery medal is for an exceptional human being who has chosen to do what it takes to rise above serious challenges - and inspire all of us in the process.

FOR ENTHUSIASTICALLY EXPANDING THE REACH OF POSSIBILITIES in her life, rather than allowing a problem to set boundaries, it is my honor to present the Spirit of Discovery Award to CECELIA WHITNEY.

November 21, 2002

WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Congressman Denny Rehberg (R-Montana) today announced the U.S. Fire Administration has released more than $485,770 in Firefighter Grant Program awards to six fire departments in Montana.

“Montana’s fire departments often face funding hardships, and I’m committed to helping secure the resources they need to keep our communities safe. These important grants represent a significant investment in the people who daily risk their lives for the safety of others,” Rehberg said.

In February, Rehberg helped to arrange special workshops in 10 Montana cities to assist local fire departments in applying for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Fire Grants, which are awarded in six specific categories: training, wellness/fitness programs, vehicles, firefighting equipment, personal protective equipment, and fire prevention programs.

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The City of Bozeman Fire Department will receive a $20,250 grant for improvements to fire operations and firefighter safety.

The Butte-Silver Bow Fire Department will receive a $184,410 grant for improvements to fire operations and firefighter safety.

The Kalispell Fire Department will receive a $101,432 grant for improvements to fire operations and firefighter safety.

The Joliet Volunteer Fire Department will receive a $76,979 grant for improvements to fire operations and firefighter safety.

The Fort Benton Rural Fire District will receive a $31,824 grant for improvements to fire operations and firefighter safety.

The Beaver Creek/Cottonwood Rural Fire District will receive a $70,875 grant toward the purchase of a firefighting vehicle.

http://www.usfa.fema.gov/

November 20, 2002

WASHINGTON, DC - Montana’s Congressman, U.S. Representative Denny Rehberg (R), celebrated Senate passage this afternoon of a bill that includes his legislation (HR 1946) to create a regional water project in north-central Montana.

“The Senate came through on a project that is extremely critical for the people of north-central Montana,” Rehberg said. “These communities deserve nothing less than the goal of this project - a safe and dependable drinking water supply.”

Approved unanimously in the Senate today as part of the Indian Financing Act, Rehberg’s “Rocky Boy’s/North Central Montana Regional Water System Act of 2001″ will provide 7.3 percent of Montana’s land base with a cost-effective, high-quality water source. Once completed, the water system will serve over 30,000 people on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation and in north-central Montana.

Under the bill, the Secretary of the Interior - acting through the Bureau of Reclamation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs - is authorized to design and construct a regional system that will transport water from the Tiber Reservoir (also known as Lake Elwell) to the Rocky Boy’s Reservation through a core pipeline. The system will also serve residents in portions of six counties: Hill, Chouteau, Teton, Toole, Liberty and Pondera and numerous towns, cities and water districts. Presently, many communities in this part of Montana have a difficult time complying with new federal Safe Drinking Water Act regulations.

The project would bring three participating water systems — currently listed on the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) significant non-compliance list for violating the Surface Water Treatment Rule — into compliance and allow others to upgrade and remain compliant.

“The North Central water project is important not only for the residents of the Rocky Boy’s Reservation, but also to their neighbors in a number of surrounding counties,” Rehberg said.

WASHINGTON, DC - Montana’s Congressman, U.S. Representative Denny Rehberg (R), today praised House passage this morning of a bill that includes his legislation (HR 1946) to create a regional water project in north-central Montana.

“This is a huge boost for the people of north-central Montana,” Rehberg said. “It’s important that these communities have a safe, dependable drinking water supply.”

Approved unanimously today as part of the Indian Financing Act, Rehberg’s “Rocky Boy’s/North Central Montana Regional Water System Act of 2001” will provide 7.3 percent of Montana’s land base with a cost-effective, high-quality water source. nbsp;Once completed, the water system will serve over 30,000 people on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation and in north-central Montana.

Under the bill, the Secretary of the Interior – acting through the Bureau of Reclamation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs – is authorized to design and construct a regional system that will transport water from the Tiber Reservoir (also known as Lake Elwell) to the Rocky Boy’s Reservation through a core pipeline. The system will also serve residents in portions of six counties: Hill, Chouteau, Teton, Toole, Liberty and Pondera and numerous towns, cities and water districts. Presently, many communities in this part of Montana have a difficult time complying with new federal Safe Drinking Water Act regulations.

The project would bring three participating water systems — currently listed on the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) significant non-compliance list for violating the Surface Water Treatment Rule — into compliance and allow others to upgrade and remain compliant.

“Three of the communities this water system will serve are currently not in compliance with safe drinking water standards. The EPA had threatened to closed these systems down, leaving people without their drinking water,” Rehberg stated. “This legislation will not only bring these systems into EPA compliance but will also provide the entire region with a clean, reliable source of drinking water.”

November 14, 2002

WASHINGTON, DC - Montana’s Congressman, U.S. Representative Denny Rehberg (R), today praised House passage of the Homeland Security bill, saying it “will give our nation the tools needed to monitor those who would harm Americans, track potential acts of terror, and prevent a repeat of September 11, 2001.”
“As late as this week our intelligence officials warned that terrorist groups may be planning a new round of attacks on Western targets – a very stark reminder that we need to secure our homeland,” Rehberg said. “It is against this backdrop that the House passed with my support the bill that will begin that process the moment President Bush signs it into law.”

The bill, approved by the House last night, consolidates 22 separate agencies into a new Department of Homeland Security, charged with using intelligence information to protect America and its infrastructure.

“I’m pleased the bill also allows commercial airline pilots to carry firearms in cockpits, language that was added by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,” Rehberg, a member of the Committee, said.

November 13, 2002

WASHINGTON - Montana’s Congressman, U.S. Representative Denny Rehberg (R), today announced the U.S. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is set to release $882,000 in Emergency Relief funds to the Montana Department of Transportation for repair and reconstruction of highways caused by the flooding of June 2002.
“I’m delighted to see these much-needed highway funds released by the FHWA on behalf of Montana,” Rehberg said. “Our rural communities depend on adequate highways, clearly in need of immediate attention after this year’s devastating floods.”

November 12, 2002

WASHINGTON, DC - The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) has presented Montana’s Congressman, U.S. Representative Denny Rehberg with its “Friend of the Farm Bureau” award.
“In the House, Congressman Rehberg consistently voted for policies that support Montana’s farmers and ranchers,” Montana Farm Bureau President Dave McClure said. “He has listened to the concerns of our members and responded accordingly. We appreciate how accessible he is to his electorate. Rehberg is truly a friend of Montana’s hard-working farmers and ranchers.”

The award recognizes those members of Congress who support the policies that help farmers and ranchers obtain profitability with less regulatory interference, and increase demand for U.S. farm products through new uses and enhanced trade opportunities.

“I’m honored to receive this important recognition,” Rehberg said. “Preserving the rights and well-being of Montana’s farmers and ranchers has always been among my highest priorities in Congress.”

Since the 104th Congress, AFBF has presented the award once every two years to lawmakers who have been advocates of agriculture during the last Congress. The honor is given to members of Congress who have met the requirement for their voting records and been approved by the AFBF board of directors. The voting records are based on AFBF priority issues.

November 1, 2002

WASHINGTON, DC - Montana’s Congressman, U.S. Representative Denny Rehberg (R-MT), will tour the Helena Regional Airport, Sunday, November 3, at 4:00 pm and discuss the Airport Improvement Project, currently under construction.
The project could involve the development of a new regional jet terminal and possibly serve as a prototype for small airports throughout the country in regards to meeting the nation’s new security standards.

Rehberg, a member of the House Aviation subcommittee, was able to place the facility on the Airport Priority List in the House Transportation bill, and is requesting $5 million for the airport. Helena Airport Director, Ron Mercer, will accompany Rehberg on the tour.

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Who: Denny Rehberg, U.S. Representative (R-MT)

Ron Mercer, Director, Helena Regional Airport

What: Helena Regional Airport Tour and Project Discussion

Where: Helena Regional Airport Authority

2850 Skyway Drive

Helena, MT / Phone: 406-442-2821

When: 4:00 pm, Sunday, November 3, 2002