Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service of a valued staff member of the Committee on Science and Technology, my Chief of Staff, Louis Finkel. While Louis still has decisions to make about his future, I've already made my choice. He may remain with the Committee or with the House, but after next week, I no longer will and I wanted to take this opportunity to thank him for his service.

Louis worked for me in my personal office from 1996 to 2001 in several positions, including Legislative Director. He also worked in the office of former Representative Peter Deutsch (D-FL) and in the private sector, representing the interests of educational institutions, non-profits, and technology and energy companies.

Louis was one of the first hires I made when we took over the majority. I have always said I wanted this to be the Committee of ``good ideas and consensus;'' and Louis was key to implementing that pledge, with his balance of Hill and private sector experience. He was responsible for steering our committee agenda and organizing our efforts to reach out to folks interested in the business of the committee. He performed that exceedingly well, and when my long-time Chief of Staff retired, there was no one but Louis I could think of to fill the role. He was able to provide a seamless transition and we didn't miss a beat. It helped that he came into the Chief of Staff role with a deep knowledge of the Committee's work, as well as the respect of Members, staff, and the outside community.

The Chief of Staff is a challenging job: you need to not only be able to see the big picture, but also the details. Louis has the ability to row but also to steer. He has mastered the policy, politics and management aspects of the job.

Louis has said that there may be people that are smarter than his is, but there are few that are willing to work harder than he is. That drive and preparation has paid off, and I have been the beneficiary.

When he's not overachieving at work, he may be doing it in the kitchen, where he loves to impress family and friends with his command of the culinary arts.

Louis, I thank you for all your counsel and tireless efforts, and I thank Stacey, Max, and Caleb for their support. I will certainly miss working with you day to day.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service of a valued staff member of the Committee on Science and Technology, Leigh Ann Brown. She can best be described as my 'right hand' and she has been with me almost as long.

Leigh Ann has literally worked with me from the beginning of my political career. We share the same hometown of Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Her work with me actually started as the fortunate result of my mother telling me that ``My good friend's daughter is interested in politics.'' So in 1984, as a high school senior, she worked on my first campaign; and every summer of college she either worked on my campaign or as an intern in my office.

After graduating from Vanderbilt University, she immediately joined my Washington, DC

staff. And following a period where she lived in Missouri, she returned to DC to work on the staff of the Committee on Science and Technology.

I have long been proud of the bipartisan nature of this Committee. Leigh Ann exemplifies this even in her home as she is happily married to John Cuaderes, the Republican Deputy Staff Director for the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. Outside of work, Leigh Ann is a dog-lover, a DC restaurant connoisseur, and she enjoys traveling.

Leigh Ann is known among staff as the person who gets things done. Throughout her career, staff have consistently relied on her sound judgment and thoughtful consideration on a countless number of projects. Beginning in 2007, the offices of the Committee on Science and Technology were renovated as the first House office space in the ``Green the Capitol Initiative.'' Leigh Ann managed and oversaw this vast project. She also coordinated the transition of our committee to the Majority in 2006.

Leigh Ann has long been a dedicated, loyal, and hard working member of my staff I want to thank her from the bottom of my heart for everything from volunteering as a teenager on my first campaign to her expertise in managing the office for the Committee on Science and Technology.

Leigh Ann, I cannot imagine my time in Congress without your steadfast service. I know that all the staff of the Committee on Science and Technology wish you well in the next phase of your life. We will miss you and cannot replace you.

Mr. Speaker, pursuant to House Resolution 1781, I call up the bill (H.R. 5116) to invest in innovation through research and development, to improve the competitiveness of the United States, and for other purposes, with the Senate amendment thereto, and I have a motion at the desk.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the bill, H.R. 5116.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

On October 12, 2005, in response to a bipartisan request by the Science and Technology Committee and some of our colleagues in the Senate, Lamar Alexander and Jeff Bingaman, the National Academies released their report, ``Rising Above the Gathering Storm.'' The distinguished panel painted a very scary picture. The report made it clear that, without action, the future was bleak for our children and grandchildren. This report was, without question, a call to arms.

September of this year, Norm Augustine released, ``Rising Above the Gathering Storm, Revisited: Rapidly Approaching Category 5.'' The updated report highlights progress that has been made in the past 5 years, including enactment of the original America COMPETES Act, but he underscores that America's competitive position in the world now faces greater challenges and that research investments are even more critical today.

The message from the report is clear: We need to double-down on our investments in science and technology. The worst thing we could do would be to downshift while the rest of the world kicks it into high gear.

As chairman of the Gathering Storm Committee and former chairman and CEO of Lockheed Martin, Norm Augustine said, in all the years he was an aircraft engineer and dealing with the common dilemma of trying to make an overweight aircraft fly, the solution was never to lop off an engine. Science funding is the engine of a knowledge-based economy. If we remove it, our economy will crash and burn.

More than half of our economic growth since World War II can be attributed to development and adoption of new technologies. These investments are the path towards sustained economic recovery and growth and the path toward prosperity for the next 50 years. There is an undeniable relationship between investment in R&D and the creation of jobs, the creation of companies, and economic growth.

The Science Coalition, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization of the Nation's leading research universities, released a report entitled, ``Sparking Economic Growth: How Federally Funded University Research Creates Innovation, New Companies and Jobs.'' This report tells the stories of 100 companies, including Google, Cisco, SAS, Genentech, Orbital Sciences, Sun Power, Medtronic, Hewlett Packard, and many others, that were all created based on research funded with Federal dollars.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Business Roundtable, the National Association of Manufacturers, the Council on Competitiveness, and the Task Force on American Innovation all understand the benefits to U.S. companies of making a sustained commitment to research and STEM education. We have a huge opportunity before us to make progress toward that goal.

While there have been concessions made in light of the economic environment, this bill preserves the intent of the ``Rising Above the Gathering Storm'' report and the original COMPETES. It keeps our basic research agencies on a doubling path. It continues to invest in high- risk, high-reward energy technology development. It will help improve STEM education, and it will help unleash the American spirit of innovation. COMPETES is, and will continue to be, a bipartisan, bicameral effort about which every Member can feel proud.

I applaud all of the people who have worked on this bill, including all the members of the Science and Technology Committee and my dear friend, Ralph Hall. This has been a team effort, across the aisle and across the Capitol.

I also want to take a moment to extend a sincere and heartfelt thank you to the staff of the Committee on Science and Technology, both minority and majority. Their tireless efforts in crafting the House version of this legislation, working through the tough spots, and shepherding it to final passage today deserves special acknowledgment. Without them, this reauthorization of COMPETES would not have been possible.

We are all familiar with the legions of smart, talented professionals who grace the corridors of this institution, and I am sure each of us is impressed on a regular basis with the knowledge and expertise of the staff we work with most closely. However, I am always amazed by the wealth of knowledge lodged with the staff of the Science and Technology Committee. I simply can't say enough about the staff's talent, insight, and institutional knowledge. Their hard work has made the Science Committee more productive, and it has made me a better chairman.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud that, in the two terms that I have had the privilege to lead the Science and Technology Committee, the committee has had 151 bills and resolutions pass the House, all with bipartisan support. But there is nothing that I am more proud of than the America COMPETES Act. There is nothing that we have done that will have deeper, longer lasting, and more positive impacts on our Nation than this bill.

I cannot think of anything I would rather be doing, on what is likely my final act on this House floor after 26 years of service, than sending this bill to the President's desk. It's important to me personally because I have a 9-year-old daughter, and if we do not want our children and grandchildren to inherit a national standard of living less than their parents, a reversal of the American Dream, we need to support research, foster innovation, and improve education.

The business community has urged us to pass this bill to support research, foster innovation, and improve education. The academic community has urged us to pass this bill to support research, foster innovation, and improve education. The scientific community has urged us to pass this bill to support research, foster innovation, and improve education. And every one of our colleagues in the Senate has agreed that this bill needs to be sent to the President's desk so the U.S. can support research, foster innovation, and improve education and create 21st century jobs.

I urge my colleagues to stand with the business community, the academic community, the scientific community, and to send a strong message that the U.S. must maintain its scientific and economic leadership.

With that, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Lipinski), the chairman of the Subcommittee on Research and Science Education.

Mr. Speaker, let me first congratulate Dr. Ehlers on a stellar congressional career. His contribution to the Science Committee was enormous, and he will be missed. And having spent as much time as I have on the Science Committee, you develop affection for the committee, for the people, for the Members, and for the staff.

So it is with, really, gratitude that I know that the gentlelady from Texas (Ms. Eddie Bernice Johnson) is going to be the ranking member in the coming 112th Congress, and I yield to her 5 minutes.

Mr. Speaker, for the purposes of a unanimous consent request, I yield to a very important contributor to this bill, the gentleman from California (Mr. Miller), chairman of the Education and Labor Committee.

(Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Wu), the subcommittee chairman on Technology and Innovation, someone who made a great contribution to this bill.

I yield the gentleman an additional 30 seconds.

Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to our resident authority on nuclear energy, the gentleman from California (Mr. Garamendi).

Madam Speaker, may I inquire as to the amount of time that is remaining.

Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlelady from Maryland (Ms. Edwards), who has been a very active and articulate member of our committee.

Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to another active member of our committee from Michigan (Mr. Peters), who has been very active particularly in advanced vehicle technology.

Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Tonko), who has brought his energy expertise to our committee.

Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to an alumnus of our committee, the gentlelady from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee).

(Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Madam Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to our example of the benefits of STEM education, the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Holt).

Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to our great majority leader and my great friend, Steny Hoyer.

Madam Speaker, we sometimes throw the term ``friend'' around here a lot. I do thank very much the majority leader for his friendship.

I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the cochair of the New Dems, who are our leaders in innovation policy, the gentleman from Wisconsin, Mr. Ron Kind.

(Mr. KIND asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Madam Speaker, may I inquire how much time I have remaining.

Madam Speaker, on many occasions I have

heard speaker Nancy Pelosi talk about the future of our Nation. And when she talks about the future of our Nation, she says there's three things we need to do: science, science, science. She believes it. She has led us in that direction.

I yield 1 minute to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi.

Madam Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Hinojosa).

Madam Speaker, in closing, let me just once again thank the members and staff on a bicameral, bipartisan basis who have done so much to bring this excellent piece of legislation to the floor.

I doubt there has ever been a piece of legislation that has had as much outward support for the business community, the academic community, the scientific community. It is a good bill. It is going to help move our country forward.

I yield back the balance of my time.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize James Kent Syler for his contributions to the Sixth Congressional District of Tennessee. As any member of Congress knows, our legislative achievements and successful constituent services programs would not be possible without a cadre of great staff working behind the scenes. Throughout my time in Congress, I have been fortunate to have many bright, able staff members with an interest in serving their country by working in this body. Today, I'd like to single out someone who has accomplished an amazing feat that deserves recognition, applause, and perhaps, a test of his sanity; incredibly, Kent Syler has been a part of my staff for all of my 26 years in Congress.

Kent and I both attended Middle Tennessee State University, where we both served as student body president. Kent then came to work for the Tennessee State Democratic Party, where I served as chairman. As my district Chief of Staff, he has managed an outstanding staff in Tennessee, represented me at events when Congress' voting schedule has prevented me from being home, and provided me with advice and counsel on some of the toughest challenges facing our nation.

So many of my legislative accomplishments would never have been possible without Kent's invaluable contributions and hard work. In the early 1990s, Kent traveled with me to Romania to visit orphanages and talk with Romanian policymakers about the country's adoption policies. His hard work helped lead to the easing of Romania's cumbersome adoption restrictions, allowing hundreds of Romanian children to find loving homes in the United States. Kent also inspired the first regulations on the 1-800 and 1-900 number industry, prompted by a late night TV session when he was on bottle-feeding duty with his then-baby daughter Liala. The Telephone Disclosure and Dispute Resolution Act is now law, and Liala is now a student at MTSU.

Kent and I have done our best to stay true to our principles over the years, and we have never lost faith in MTSU's Blue Raiders. Kent has always had his finger on the pulse of the community, a valuable attribute that has made him a trusted advisor.

Kent is an institution in Rutherford County, which has seen enormous development and nearly tripled in population since he and I first began working together three decades ago. Together, we have worked to improve the quality of life in our community through the expansion to Stones River National Battlefield, the development of the Greenway system and improvements to MTSU.

Kent is one of three men who have stood by me from the very beginning, through victories and disasters--through hell and, literally, high water in the aftermath of tornadoes and severe flooding. Along with Jimmy Stubblefield and Billy G. Smith, Kent has been there every step of the way.

Kent has dedicated his entire adult life to me and to our community. I can't ask for much more than that. He was best man at my wedding. He met his wife Lynell while working for me, and I've watched their daughters Liala and Emily grow up to be bright, accomplished young women.

Madam Speaker, any success I've had is Kent's success. He is a dedicated public servant, a respected leader in his community and a trusted friend. Kent, thank you for all your help and dedication over these many years. I wish you, Lynell, Liala and Emily all the best.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Billy G. Smith for his contributions to the Sixth Congressional District of Tennessee. As any member of Congress knows, our legislative achievements and successful constituent services programs would not be possible without a cadre of great staff working behind the scenes. Throughout my time in Congress, I have been fortunate to have many bright, able staff members with an interest in serving their country by working in this body. Today, I'd like to single out someone who has accomplished an amazing feat that deserves recognition, applause, and perhaps, a test of his sanity; incredibly, Billy G. has been a part of my staff for all of my 26 years in Congress.

Billy and I have worked together since my first campaign for Congress in 1984. In the Upper Cumberland, Billy emerged as a man who could get things done. After the election, he became my field representative for the area, and he has served my constituents there ever since. My younger staff members fondly say that Billy is old school, and, Madam Speaker, that's just fine by me. Billy is an old soul of the Upper Cumberland -- a man who knows his neighbors, memorizes the best fishing holes, and earns his community's trust.

To say Billy has deep roots in the Upper Cumberland would be an understatement. As a boy, Billy helped his father work the farm with mules instead of a tractor. He served as Putnam County Sherriff in the 1970s and has worked as a police officer, a factory foreman, managed food and beverages for a hotel, opened a restaurant called Billy G's, and rented out a building complex. He knows everyone there is to know and is an institution unto himself.

In his 26 years as my field representative, Billy has helped thousands of constituents who have come to my office on the courthouse square in Cookeville. He has warmly received individuals, families and business owners looking for assistance with a federal agency. He has ensured countless people received the Social Security and veterans benefits they deserve. He has heard the concerns and touched the lives of many families in need of help, and he has always kept me informed of the needs of my constituents in Clay, Jackson, Putnam, Overton and Smith counties. Just this year, he found himself trying to help constituents who had lost property in the wake of damaging floods. He could easily sympathize; his own childhood home also was severely damaged in the storm, but Billy was still in the office ready to help anyone he could.

In all his time working for me and the residents of the Upper Cumberland, Billy has never taken a full vacation, so it may come as no shock to many that Billy has made plans to go into business for himself once again. Most folks who had such accomplished careers would already be well into retirement, but Billy

will be continuing on with his work as a small business owner.

A constituent once knitted a sign that hung above Billy's desk that read, ``I am just a nobody, trying to help somebody.'' Billy was fond of telling this to folks who came to my office for assistance. It reassured them that he was there to help, and it let them know their concerns were important to him, and to me. Madam Speaker, it is that generosity and humility that have made him a friend to so many and such a valuable colleague to me. Billy has been a dedicated public servant, a trusted friend and an unstoppable force of nature.

Billy, thank you for all of your help over the years. I wish you all the best in the future.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Caroline Diaz-Barriga for her contributions to the Sixth Congressional District of Tennessee. As any member of Congress knows, our legislative achievements and successful constituent services programs would not be possible without a cadre of great staff working behind the scenes. Throughout my time in Congress, I have been fortunate to have many bright, able staff members with an interest in serving their country by working in this body. Today, I'd like to single out those who are serving my constituents as my tenure comes to a close.

Caroline has served as my field representative for Sumner and Robertson counties since joining my office in 2002. She had previously worked for my colleague Congressman Bob Clement when Robertson County was a part of his district. After he left the House to pursue other endeavors and Robertson County was added to my district, Caroline was a natural choice to run my new offices in Gallatin and Springfield. Her presence there has allowed me to better serve my constituents in the northwestern part of my district over these last nine years. She is an integral player in both counties, attending city council sessions, civic club meetings, and Chamber of Commerce lunches.

In her many years in public service, Caroline has helped countless constituents who have come to my office for assistance. She has warmly received individuals, families and business owners looking for assistance with a federal agency. She has ensured hundreds of residents received the Social Security and veterans benefits they deserve. She has heard the concerns and touched the lives of many families in need of help, and she has always kept me informed of the needs of my constituents. At times, she has found herself playing unusual roles, especially during the too-frequent tornado outbreaks that have occurred in Middle Tennessee. When a tornado struck Gallatin in 2006, Caroline's office in the basement of the Sumner County Courthouse became a place of refuge as residents huddled together to comfort each other and share cell phones to check on loved ones' safety.

Madam Speaker, working with Caroline these past eight years has been a pleasure. No matter what challenges are thrown her way, she always manages to maintain a cheerful, positive attitude. She is a dedicated public servant, a great help to me and a pillar of the community.

Caroline, thank you for all of your help over the years. I wish you, David and your family all the best.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Julie Eubank for her contributions to the Sixth Congressional District of Tennessee. As any member of Congress knows, our legislative achievements and successful constituent services programs would not be possible without a cadre of great staff working behind the scenes. Throughout my time in Congress, I have been fortunate to have many bright, able staff members with an interest in serving their country by working in this body. Today I would like to single out Julie Eubank, my Chief of Staff in Washington.

Julie attended high school in Smyrna and attended my alma mater, Middle Tennessee State University. She graduated with a degree

in Elementary Education, but one fateful internship with my Murfreesboro office changed her course forever. She was drawn into politics and, with few interruptions, Julie has been a member of my team ever since. She has worn many hats in her time with my office. She began as an intern in 2002 and since then has served as my scheduler and executive assistant, communications director, and as the member services coordinator for the Committee on Science and Technology. Undoubtedly, her training as a teacher of small children helped her in each task too, whether it was coordinating events, working with reporters or herding cats on the Committee. Her Tennessee roots have helped kept her grounded and her respect and dedication to her community has been apparent throughout.

In October 2009, Julie became Chief of Staff to my Washington office. It's a position that requires enormous responsibility and trust, and Julie took to the job easily.

Madam Speaker, Julie is exactly the kind of lieutenant you'd want to have in your foxhole. She can take a tough assignment, turn on a dime and put it into action. She is a natural as a manager and mentor and has the absolute devotion of my staff. She has good political instincts, which have always been appreciated. Under pressure, she keeps up a great presence of mind and sense of humor. And apparently, quick reflexes. (As The Tennessean was proud to report after a false- alarm lockdown in Rayburn House Office Building, Julie Eubank ``doesn't mess around.'')

All of her qualities have been put to the test during her time as my Chief of Staff. She has helped the office shift gears from preparing for a reelection fight to transitioning into retirement. She has been there through difficult floor fights and popped champagne after hard- won victories.

Madam Speaker, I have been honored that Julie has dedicated so much of her professional career--so far--to me and my constituents. My colleagues in Tennessee and I are all extremely proud of her accomplishments. I look forward to following her next endeavors.

Julie, I can't thank you enough for your loyalty through the years. I wish you all the best.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Michael Terry for his contributions to the Sixth Congressional District of Tennessee. As any member of Congress knows, our legislative achievements and successful constituent services programs would not be possible without a cadre of great staff working behind the scenes. Throughout my time in Congress, I have been fortunate to have many bright, able staff members with an interest in serving their country by working in this body. Today, I'd like to single out Mike Terry, my field representative and political advisor and a dedicated public servant.

Mike joined my staff in 1993 after serving as a clerk for the Tennessee State Senate. He brought to the position good political acumen, a keen understanding of Middle Tennessee's values, and a strong network of good relationships across the state. More and more, he has become a true heavyweight in the state's political scene.

He has worked with the business community to ensure my office does all it can to nurture economic growth and facilitate job creation. He has been my liaison with local governments and Chambers of Commerce. He has worked hard, logged miles with me in every corner of the Sixth Congressional District, and led major meetings and events in all 15 counties. He knows what's happening on the ground in every community, and he has been my eyes and ears to let me know how folks at home feel about what's going on in Washington.

Mike is loyal, talented and possesses excellent judgment. I have been extremely lucky to keep him on the team for the better part of two decades, and I have appreciated his dedication and friendship over the years. My staff and I have enjoyed hearing about his scuba diving adventures, his love of virtually every comedy made in the 1980s, and the trials and triumphs of his beloved Tennessee Vols.

Madam Speaker, I could not have accomplished half of what I did without Mike's hard work. Mike, thank you for all your help and loyalty over these many years. I wish you and Lisa all the best.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize Sean Gilliland for his contributions to Tennessee's Sixth Congressional District. As any member of Congress knows, our legislative achievements and successful constituent services programs would not be possible without a cadre of great staff working behind the scenes. They work long hours--often for little pay or recognition--and their service is simply invaluable to those of us who serve in this esteemed chamber. Throughout my 26 years in Congress, I have been fortunate to have many bright, able staff members with an interest in serving their country by working in this body. Today, I'd like to single out those who are serving my constituents as my tenure comes to a close.

For more than 15 years, Sean Gilliland has been a dedicated and loyal field representative in my Murfreesboro office. He has spent countless hours traveling the district with me and attending parades, open meetings and events in every corner of the district. Sean works tirelessly on behalf of Middle Tennessee's veterans and their families, ensuring they receive the benefits and assistance they deserve, and helping them obtain the medals they earned during their service to our country. Over the years, Sean has helped me send the best and brightest young men and women to our nation's military service academies, filled in for me when my duties in Washington prevented me from attending an event or meeting, and enabled me to better represent the needs and interests of the people of the Sixth District.

Sean's career has been one of service, whether at my office or in the community. He serves on the Board of Directors of Main Street, Leadership Rutherford, the Murfreesboro Youth Orchestra, the Rutherford County Adult Activity Center, and others. He has also donated his time to many other civic committees, and is deeply involved in his church. It is fitting that Sean will leave government service to enter a new kind of public service in the administration of the Primary Care and Hope Clinic, a faith-based non-profit that provides health care to the uninsured.

Madam Speaker, Sean is a loving father, a dedicated husband and an all-around good person. I know that my busy weekend schedules in Tennessee have led him to spend some Independence Day and other holiday celebrations at official functions with me rather than with his wife, Anne, and daughter, Molly. I appreciate the sacrifices they have made over the years.

Sean, thank you for all your help and dedication over these many years. I wish you, Anne and Molly all the best.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize Joe Patterson for his contributions to Tennessee's Sixth Congressional District. As any member of Congress knows, our legislative achievements and successful constituent services programs would not be possible without a cadre of great staff working behind the scenes. They work long hours--often for little pay or recognition--and their service is simply invaluable to those of us who serve in this esteemed chamber. Throughout my 26 years in Congress, I have been fortunate to have many bright, able staff members with an interest in serving their country by working in this body. Today, I'd like to single out those who are serving my constituents as my tenure comes to a close.

Joe Patterson joined my staff in 2000. Incredibly, that makes him one of the newest members of the team in Murfreesboro. It is a joke among my staff that even with a decade of dedicated public service under his belt, Joe is still the low man on the totem pole in my hometown office.

All joking aside, Joe's depth of experience overshadows his seniority. In addition to his work as my field representative and advocate for seniors, persons with disabilities, and those in need of housing assistance, Joe also has the responsibility of helping people who urgently need passports or visas on short notice. Thousands of Sixth District residents might not have been able to attend a loved one's funeral, take a business trip or enjoy a hastily-planned honeymoon if not for his work expediting their passports. Grateful constituents have sent him best wishes from sandy beaches on six continents--he's only waiting on Antarctica.

Joe is an incredibly hard worker. He has a great rapport with the constituents he works with and has deep roots in the community. Stories of his cows getting through fences on his property and roaming all over Cannon County have been the subject of my annual Christmas letters over the years. What has never been publicly recognized until now is Joe's uncanny knowledge of trivial information. Whether the topic is cuisine or the latest hi-tech gadget, Joe can always bring some new and interesting tidbit to the conversation.

An enthusiastic student of aeronautics, Joe has worked with NASA and local school districts to enable teachers in Middle Tennessee to attend Space Shuttle launches at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The once-in- a-lifetime experience and lesson plans brought back to the classrooms have been a welcome addition to schools across my district. This worthwhile endeavor would not have been possible without Joe's passion for the subject and dedication to the project.

Madam Speaker, Joe has been an integral part of my staff and an invaluable help to the people of the Sixth District of Tennessee. I wish him, his wife, Lori, and their daughter, Kyla, all the best in the future.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize James L. Stubblefield for his contributions to the Sixth Congressional District of Tennessee. As any member of Congress knows, our legislative achievements and successful constituent services programs would not be possible without a cadre of great staff working behind the scenes. Throughout my time in Congress, I have been fortunate to have many bright, able staff members with an interest in serving their country by working in this body. Today, I'd like to single out someone who has accomplished an amazing feat that deserves recognition, applause, and perhaps, a test of his sanity; incredibly, Jimmy Stubblefield has been a part of my staff for all of my 26 years in Congress.

Jimmy graduated a few years after I did from Middle Tennessee State University and jumped right in to my first campaign for Congress. He has served as my field representative ever since that first election, criss-crossing the district with me and logging countless late nights. Jimmy has helped thousands of Middle Tennesseans resolve issues with federal agencies, straighten out immigration and passport issues and receive needed benefits. He has touched the lives of many families and helped keep my Murfreesboro office running smoothly.

Jimmy has always been known as the man who can get things done. He has worked with community leaders around the district to cut through red tape and make planned improvements a reality. He has helped spearhead the expansion of the Stones River National Battlefield, now one of the top historical destinations in the region. He saw to fruition the development of the Greenway system, which has given Rutherford County residents space to exercise and preserved our community's green spaces in the midst of incredible population growth. Jimmy knows each of these projects like the back of his hand, down to the fences and sign posts. He has ensured our alma mater MTSU has the resources and assistance it needs to accommodate the largest undergraduate student body in the state. Rutherford County has seen incredible development since Jimmy and I began working together, and Jimmy's fingerprints are all over it.

Jimmy serves as president of MTSU's Alumni Association, and he and I have cheered the Blue Raiders through many ups and downs over the years. It's a good thing he's a sports fan because his athletic daughters have kept him busy running to games and cross country meets all around the area. Jimmy met his wife Nancy through my campaign, and it has been wonderful watching Katherine and Margaret grow up.

Jimmy is one of three men who have stood by me from the very beginning, through victories and disasters--through hell and, literally, high water in the aftermath of tornadoes and severe flooding. Along with Kent Syler and Billy G. Smith, Jimmy has been there every step of the way.

Madam Speaker, I could not have accomplished half of what I did without Jimmy's dedication and friendship. Jimmy, thank you for all your help and loyalty over these many years. I wish you, Nancy, Katherine and Margaret all the best.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Lt. Wayland

Gregory Holyfield for his contributions to the Sixth District of Tennessee while serving on my Washington, DC staff. As any member of Congress knows, our legislative achievements and successful constituent services programs would not be possible without a cadre of great staff working behind the scenes. They work long hours--often for little pay or recognition--and their service is simply invaluable to those of us who serve in this esteemed chamber. Throughout my 26 years in Congress, I have been fortunate to have many bright, able staff members with an interest in serving their country by working in this body. Today, I'd like to single out those who are serving my constituents as my tenure comes to a close.

Greg is one of a distinguished group of staff members who have served a second term on my staff after leaving to pursue graduate degrees and other work. Greg first came to my office as a Legislative Correspondent in 2003, having gained Capitol Hill experience in the office of Senator Mark Pryor. His hard work soon earned him a promotion to my Legislative Assistant for foreign affairs, immigration, agriculture and other issues, Greg was a valuable resource to me and to constituents with concerns in these policy areas. Greg also lent special expertise to issues related to the music and recording industry, having grown up in a family in Nashville's songwriting business.

Public service came naturally to Greg. Prior to working in my office, he served in the Peace Corps, spending more than two years overseeing agricultural projects in Mali. In 2005 he left my office to join the inaugural class at the Clinton School of Public Service at the University of Arkansas. After graduating from the Clinton School, Greg made the decision to join the Armed Forces and serve his country in the U.S. Army Reserves. We are extremely proud of his service and honored to count him as an alumnus of the office.

When Greg decided to return to Washington, DC, to pursue his love of politics, his timing could not have been better. Greg took on the gargantuan and unenviable task of preparing my official papers to be archived at the Albert Gore Research Center at my alma mater, Middle Tennessee State University. Greg attacked this mountain of paper with impressive organization and patience. Analyzing and cataloging 26 years worth of legislative records, invitations, correspondence and press files is no small feat, and the process of closing my office would not have gone as smoothly without Greg's dedication to the project. Greg's work made it possible for me and my staff to continue at full throttle with the office's legislative work through the end of my term this year. In addition, it has helped to establish a historical record of the district and the legislative process that I hope will be valuable to MTSU students and Middle Tennesseans for generations to come.

It has been wonderful to have Greg on the team once again. Those who worked with him before welcomed the return of his dry sense of humor and natural charm, and the newer members of my staff have developed an appreciation for his passion for the Georgia Bulldogs, enthusiasm for war movies, and love of both types of music--country and western.

Madam Speaker, Greg Holyfield has done great work in the service of the Sixth District of Tennessee. He comes from a good Tennessee family, and I know they are very proud of him. Greg, thank you for your help to my office and your service to our country. I wish you all the best in the future.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize Emily Phelps for her contributions to Tennessee's Sixth Congressional District. As any member of Congress knows, our legislative achievements and successful constituent services program would not be possible without a cadre of great staff working behind the scenes. They work long hours--often for little pay or recognition--and their service is simply invaluable to those of us who serve in this esteemed chamber. Throughout my 26 years in Congress, I have been fortunate to have many bright, able staff members with an interest in serving their country by working in this body. Today, I'd like to single out those who are serving my constituents as my tenure comes to a close.

Emily Phelps has served as my communications director throughout this last year of my term. Even though I announced a year ago that I was retiring, my staff and I have not slowed down one bit since then. My legislative efforts have continued, and Emily has done a tremendous job of ensuring my constituents know how new laws will affect their families and their communities.

Emily has put in long hours and hard work to manage outreach on Congress' actions on health care reform, the controversy surrounding failing brakes in some Toyota models, and my efforts to ban imports of foreign-generated nuclear waste. After floods ravaged Tennessee this spring, Emily provided up-to-the-minute reports about disaster assistance through my website and outreach to local media. While the Science and Technology Committee's communications director was out on maternity leave, Emily split her time, assisting with hearing, managing a press conference related to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, and preparing for House consideration of the America COMPETES Act.

Madam Speaker, Emily has a bright, continued future ahead of her in communications. She is thoughtful, offers good ideas and insight, maintains ease and comfort with reporters, and, as all good staff does, advocates an alternative opinion rather than just agreeing with the status quo.

My staff and I have enjoyed getting to know Emily and having her in the office. Her easygoing nature, with a touch of endearing quirkiness, is a pleasant counter to the clamor of Congress. Emily, I thank you for helping me accomplish so much this year, and I wish you all the best.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Christopher Rackens for his contributions to the Sixth District of Tennessee while serving on my Washington, DC staff. As any member of Congress knows, our legislative achievements and successful constituent services programs would not be possible without a cadre of great staff working behind the scenes. They work long hours--often for little pay or recognition--and their service is simply invaluable to those of us who serve in this esteemed chamber. Throughout my 26 years in Congress, I have been fortunate to have many bright, able staff members with an interest in serving their country by working in this body. Today, I'd like to single out those who are serving my constituents as my tenure comes to a close.

Chris Rackens joined my office during the final week of House consideration of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, a bill that sparked public interest exceeding anything I have seen during my time in Congress. It was a week of unprecedented call volumes that sometimes crashed the House phone system. Although he had just joined us days before, Chris helped to staff the office over the weekend to provide updates to constituents in Middle Tennessee who were following the debate. It was an exciting and challenging time for even the most veteran staffers. Unfazed, Chris jumped right into his staff assistant duties with professionalism under pressure, a great attitude, and a pride in his small-town upbringing that endeared him right away to his colleagues in Washington and Tennessee.

Chris was always eager to tackle any task, which served him well as he was promoted from staff assistant to legislative aide. Chris has covered legislation in the areas of education and government reform, answering constituent concerns and assisting Tennessee universities and state entities that needed assistance working with federal agencies. In addition, he also took on the role of systems administrator for the office, an often thankless and time consuming job.

During the last months, Chris has shown real leadership in the move from our Rayburn office to transition space in preparation for closing my Washington and Tennessee offices. He has handled many of the major logistical challenges of helping the staff relocate, all while staying on top of a full load of correspondence and legislative work. Our office transition would not have been as successful without him.

Madam Speaker, Chris Rackens has done great work in the service of the Sixth District of Tennessee. He has tremendous charisma and an unfalteringly good attitude that has led him to believe no task is too big or too small to undertake. I know I will continue to hear good things from and about Chris, and I wish him all the best in the future.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dana Lichtenberg for her contributions to the Sixth District of Tennessee while serving on my Washington, DC staff. As any member of Congress knows, our legislative achievements and successful constituent services programs would not be possible without a cadre of great staff working behind the scenes. They work long hours--often for little pay or recognition--and their service is simply invaluable to those of us who serve in this esteemed chamber. Throughout my 26 years in Congress, I have been fortunate to have many bright, able staff members with an interest in serving their country by working in this body. Today, I'd like to single out those who are serving my constituents as my tenure comes to a close.

Dana joined my staff in 1999 already a seasoned Hill staffer with experience in three congressional offices. After proving herself to possess incredible policy knowledge, she became my Legislative Director in 2007. She manages my legislative staff, oversees my legislative agenda and advises me on issues before the Energy and Commerce Committee.

Many congressmen would count themselves lucky to have a Legislative Director as knowledgeable in one policy area as Dana is in ten. Although telecommunications policy has been her first love, her understanding of health care policy and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is second to none. Her work in my office has taken her deep into small business, consumer protection and intellectual property policy. She will be leaving my office with 15 bills under her belt, notably the NET 911 Improvement Act that helped modernize 911 systems for Internet-based phones and the SPARTA sports agents law that cracks down on unscrupulous sports agent activity at the college level.

In the nearly 12 years since she joined my staff, Dana has seen major changes, from the excitement surrounding three presidential elections and two power shifts in the House, to the heartbreaking and frightening period surrounding the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Throughout it all, Dana has managed a tight legislative team and mentored a number of great legislative staffers who have thrived under her tutelage and now work have successful careers elsewhere in Congress. Most importantly, Dana has never forgotten who she is working for. No matter how long her list of accomplishments grows, she is never too busy to help a Tennessean who has a concern related to federal legislation and walk them through it with patience and candor. Dana politely discusses legislation point-by-point with constituents who call with concerns, leading to many conversations ending with appreciation and understanding after beginning with angst and opposition. Dana always manages to keep herself busy both in the office and out with her gardening jobs, appreciation for good wine and trips home to her native California.

Madam Speaker, it has been wonderful to have Dana to rely on as my Legislative Director. Dana, thank you for all your help and dedication over these many years. Your hard work has helped to make me a better congressman.