Clay County Times-Democrat: Local News: Berry recognized for efforts (09/08/10)

Congressman Marion Berry and his wife Carolyn (center) receive a plaque from Rector, presented by Danny Ford (left) and Rector Mayor Ron Kemp at Monday's Labor Day Picnic celebration, in appreciation for Congressman Berry's service to Rector and all of Northeast Arkansas. Berry, who chose not to seek re-election for another term, has served Arkansas' First Congressional District since 1996. The plaque reads, "A truly dedicated public servant, outstanding leader and friend of Rector, Clay County and Northeast Arkansas. Your friends salute you for all you have done to make our community a better place to live." The Berrys, who have attended the Rector picnic for years, also received a beautiful gift basket.

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As First Congressional District Congressman, Marion Berry has been one of the most influential political leaders to form a bond with the Rector community. As longtime friends of Rector residents Richard and Shirley Simmons and Danny and Gail Ford, Berry and wife, Carolyn, have long been familiar with the Rector community and how important the small town is to those who make it their home.

When Congressman Berry announced he would not seek re-election, many in the community were saddened by the news.

"He's the best friend we've ever had for our area in Washington," Danny Ford said. "He's always been committed to our area and helping us any way he could. He did a lot for our area. He really enjoyed coming to Rector and would make visits here year-round if he was able. He's the hardest worker and one of the most committed people I've ever been around. We appreciate him. We're going to miss him."

During Monday's Labor Day Picnic, Berry was once more onstage addressing the Rector crowd as he has on numerous occasions in the past.

"It has been the greatest privilege and compliment to serve you in Congress," Berry told the audience. "The people of Rector have always made me feel at home. For that, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. It's been a wonderful thing to be part of the community and Carolyn and I are both extremely grateful of that opportunity."

Mayor Ron Kemp personally thanked Berry for his efforts. Kemp presented Berry with a plaque recognizing his contributions to the community, as well as a large gift basket in appreciation for his many years of service.

Berry made his first major political impact in 1986 when he was appointed to the Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission by then-Governor Bill Clinton. He served on the Commission until 1994. After Clinton was elected President, Berry was appointed to the White House Domestic Policy Council in 1993, serving until 1996. During that time, Berry also was named Special Assistant to the President for Agricultural Trade and Food Assistance.

Berry returned to Arkansas in 1996 with the intention of running for the First Congressional seat, which was being vacated by Blanche Lincoln, who ran for and was elected to the U.S. Senate.

While a member of Congress, Berry was very active, using his background as a pharmacist to co-found the Democrats' Prescription Drug Task Force and to add incite into examinations in health care. He was a member of the House-Senate committee which examined the Medicare prescription drug bill in 2003, voicing many complaints regarding the policies then in place.

His background as a farmer and pharmacist gave him a unique perspective. He co-chaired caucuses for the House Affordable Medicine Task Force and the Congressional Soybean Caucus.

Berry also was a member of the Committee on Appropriations, serving in subcommittees on Energy and Water Development; Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies.

Berry's work in Washington was felt in Northeast Arkansas, as he voiced many of the concerns existing in Clay County and the surrounding area. His work in agriculture and transportation are of particular note, due to the strong farming background of the region and the interest in improving roadways as a factor in bringing new jobs to the area.

Over the years, Berry has worked closely with many local leaders, forming not only strong working relationships, but also friendships. He regularly appeared at the Rector Labor Day and Piggott Fourth of July Picnics, updating residents on the tasks he currently was undertaking. Berry is well-known for his sense of humor and "country boy" attitude, making him a popular speaker in the area.