Political Quotes

“Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Derrick Clark, who has made Arkansas proud with his resilience and his determination. For years, Derrick wrestled with drug abuse and homelessness on the streets in Little Rock, looking somehow for a fresh start. He spent time at Jericho Way, our Little Rock shelter, where he was able to meet people who saw his potential. Madam Speaker, Mr. Clark made that slow march to sobriety and self- sufficiency by working minimum-wage jobs until he landed a position with a trucking company. Armed with a commercial driver's license and gainful employment under his belt, Derrick established the Paul Philia Scholarship to give others the opportunity to attend trucking school. Mr. Clark put up the first $1,000 of his own money to launch the scholarship, and the fund was quickly put with the Arkansas Community Foundation. The J.C. Thompson Trust has agreed to match every dollar donated up to $10,000. Mr. Clark is now enrolled in college classes and dreams of writing a book. Madam Speaker, I commend Mr. Clark and wish him the best of luck in his journey, that journey of the pursuit of happiness. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. ____________________”