Thank you for coming. I am glad for the opportunity to recognize the two outstanding individuals with us today.

Many of you may already recognize Chuck Leavell and his wife Rose Lane. Fans of the Rolling Stones will recognize Chuck as the man behind the keyboard, not to mention the youngest-looking member of the band.

Those not so musically inclined will recognize Chuck as a face of forestry and voice of conservation. Chuck and Rose Lane have been recognized many times for their outstanding works of conservation on Charlane Plantation - a forestland and hunting preserve that they own and manage.

Chuck talks regularly about conservation and even testifies about it on Capitol Hill. Just yesterday, he spoke at the National Press Club on the challenges that Katrina created for family-owned forests. He then joined the Stones on stage at the MCI Center for their concert last night.

Chuck has also written a book about conservation. "Forever Green: The History and Hope of the American Forest," is now in its second printing.

Chuck has gone out of his way for us. This past August, instead of doing a video shoot with the Rolling Stones, Chuck chose to be with us at the White House Conference on Cooperative Conservation.

Chuck, thank you again for your inspiring presentation. It was very much in tune with what we are trying to accomplish. The Four C's are based on my experiences with farmers and ranchers. You express that perspective so well.

Thank you for joining us today too. You and Rose Lane have set a high standard of stewardship. You have spoken well on conservation. You have performed even better. The two of you have created a masterpiece of words and works.

So I am delighted to present this small token in recognition of both your words and your works of citizen stewardship.