U.S. Congressman John Boozman 3rd District of Arkansas

House Seal Outline

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Washington, Jul 30, 2008 -

U.S. Representative John Boozman (R-AR) applauded passage of legislation expressing support for the designation of August 2008 as “National Heat Stroke Awareness Month” to raise awareness and encourage prevention of heat stroke. H. Con. Res. 296 passed the U.S. House of Representatives by voice vote.

“August is the hottest month of the year in Arkansas. It’s the same month when many athletes are training for upcoming sports seasons so many people are exposed to the heat.” Boozman said. “I understand the dangers athletes face from the years of August football practices I participated in. We need to make sure the necessary precautions to protect against heat-related illnesses are being taken.”

The legislation introduce by Boozman in February is in memory of 13-year-old Kendrick Fincher of Rogers who died on August 7, 1995 after experiencing heat stroke while at football practice. Kendrick’s parents, Mike and Rhonda Fincher established the Kendrick Fincher Memorial Foundation to help prevent heat stroke.

“I’ve appreciated the Fincher’s involvement in making this resolution a success. The Kendrick Fincher Memorial Foundation has become influential in promoting awareness about heat stroke and that’s something we can all be proud of,” Boozman said.

“I am so grateful to Congressman Boozman and the House of Representatives for taking this stand to help increase awareness of the dangers of heat stroke.  Heat stroke kills more people each year than floods, tornadoes and hurricanes combined and yet it is 100% preventable.  Through this resolution and our partnership with Gatorade's Beat the Heat campaign we will be able to provide even more opportunities to increase awareness of heat stroke to keep the public safe,” Rhonda Fincher said.

Boozman’s resolution expresses the sense of Congress that “National Heat Stroke Awareness Month provides an opportunity to educate the people of the United States about heat stroke,” and that all “Americans should applaud the Kendrick Fincher Memorial Foundation for its efforts in promoting awareness about heat stroke.”