[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 2] [Senate] [Page 1827] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]CELEBRATING THE 2006 BILL TALLMAN MEMORIAL WOMEN IN SCIENCE CONFERENCE Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, it is with great pride that I rise to recognize the Bill Tallman Memorial Women in Science Conference, which is taking place in five communities across South Dakota from March 6th through April 28th. Since 2002, the Women in Science Conference has helped to increase interest in science and technological careers among young women in my State. This year's conference is named in honor of the event's distinguished founder, Bill Tallman, who unexpectedly passed away last October while helping with recovery efforts for victims of the devastating hurricanes that hit the gulf coast region. The cover of a recent Time magazine features a rather amusing photo of a child wearing a lab coat and oversized safety goggles, accompanied by the question, ``Is America Flunking Science?'' Though the image is meant to provoke a laugh, its associated question is anything but humorous. By a number of measures, our country is losing the competitive edge in scientific and technological fields that has for decades been a key driver of our economy. At a national level, one of the factors that undoubtedly contributes to this unfortunate trend is a failure to adequately engage young women in scientific pursuits. It is discouraging to think of how many important discoveries were never made because of our failure to cultivate young female researchers. In my view, the Women in Science Conference in South Dakota is a shining example of what we as a nation need more of to retain and enhance our superiority in science and technology. The conference provides young women in South Dakota with first-hand exposure to women who are leading important scientific work. These distinguished individuals share the rewards and challenges of their work in vivid, concrete terms, and serve as role models for young women who may not have previously considered a career in science. The Women in Science Conference is a product of a partnership between several forward-thinking entities, including the National Weather Service, and several nonprofit and private-sector sponsors. Without their contributions, this valuable event would not be possible. It is a fitting tribute to Bill Tallman that this year's event should be named in his honor. Bill not only recognized the need for an important event like this, he actually made it happen. I know it was one of his proudest achievements, and I congratulate everyone who participates in the Women in Science Conference for helping to carry on his vision. Bill began his career by engaging young minds as a high school math teacher, and then served his country during a 20-year career as a meteorologist with the U.S. Air Force. Next he joined the National Weather Service, and was eventually asked to lead its Aberdeen, SD, office. At a time of national tragedy, few were surprised at Bill's willingness to serve again by leaving home to help those who had suffered through the devastating hurricanes that hit the gulf coast in 2005. Bill Tallman's presence will be sorely missed by all the people whose lives he touched. It is my distinct pleasure to honor his life and legacy by recognizing the Bill Tallman Memorial Women in Science Conference today in the Senate. ____________________