Honoring Arthur Brown of Hecla Mining
HONORING ARTHUR BROWN OF HECLA MINING
· Mr. CRAPO. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Arthur Brown, who has been a long-time resident of Idaho and a great contributor to our State and its economy.
Art Brown came to Idaho from South Africa 36 years ago to begin a new career in the mountains of Idaho's Silver Valley. Art, his wife Tiia, and their children began a journey that would support not only them but a company and our community.
As an engineer down in the mines, Art pursued the American Dream. After years of hard work and commitment, he rose to become the chairman and chief executive officer of Hecla Mining Company, which was the top performer on the New York Stock Exchange in 1979 and again in 2002.
Throughout his journey, Art never lost sight of his family and community. He served his local community as the mayor of Pinehurst. He led youth golf and ski programs. Art even gained a reputation as a head cheerleader of sorts, running the sidelines at his daughter's basketball games. Most notable is the culture of community service he fostered at Hecla, first by his example and then by encouragement to his employees to do the same thing. Giving back to the community became a way of life for a Hecla employee under Art's direction.
Hecla Mining has been a part of the fabric of Idaho for over 112 years. And so have people like Art Brown, who contribute to their community, their State, and so much more. This year Art will be retiring from his service at the helm of Hecla. However, he will not be retiring away from Idaho. True to form, Art will remain rooted in his community and family of Idaho.
I am proud of Art Brown, for the example he has set for business in the State of Idaho, for his contributions to his community, and for his family who has supported him in his endeavors over the years. On behalf of myself and so many others in the great State of Idaho, I wish him the best in his future endeavors and thank him for his service to Idaho.·