[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 9] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 12299] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]HONORING RETIRING EDUCATOR LARRY MYHRA ______ HON. RON KIND of wisconsin in the house of representatives Wednesday, June 11, 2008 Mr. KIND. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding individual, and an excellent public servant: La Crosse educator, Larry Myhra. The end of every school year brings the retirement of many terrific school leaders, teachers and staff members who provide a quality education for our children and replacing their professionalism and dedication is an annual challenge. One such individual this year is Larry Myhra, who is retiring as principal of Lincoln Middle School after a distinguished 35-year career as principal, science teacher, and football coach in the La Crosse School District. In 1973, Larry graduated from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and began his teaching career in the science department at old Logan High School. Throughout his 31 years at Logan High School, Larry served as the head football and track coach, assistant basketball coach, athletic director, activities director, dean of students, and associate principal. While serving as athletic director, Larry helped to broaden the program by adding various sports, including hockey and soccer, but later decided to become the activities director in order to better serve the entire student body. Larry was also an advocate for the creation of the La Crossroads charter school, which helps students that are in danger of dropping out of school stay in school and graduate. This program has helped many students improve both their attendance and their grades. When I was in high school, I had the pleasure of playing for Coach Myhra for 3 years at Logan. He instilled in his players and students a desire for dedication and determination both in and out of the classroom. I owe much of who I became in life to Coach Myhra and the educational system that was provided to me in La Crosse. In 2004 Larry took up the position of principal at Lincoln Middle School, where he remained until now. It has been said that great teachers and coaches enjoy a special immortality because their influence never stops radiating. That is certainly true for Larry Myhra. I wish him and our retiring educators a well-deserved and happy retirement. ____________________