[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 142 (Saturday, October 10, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S12348]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                        TRIBUTE TO INDIANA STAFF

 Mr. COATS. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to a 
group of people that have been of tremendous service to me during my 
tenure as a United States Senator. That group is my Indiana staff.
  As I have so often said, whatever success I have achieved during my 
service as a Senator is greatly attributable to the tireless work of my 
staff. Their hours are long, and they toil in relative obscurity. 
However, they do so for the same reason that we as Senator make the 
sacrifice. They work so hard because they believe in this great nation 
we serve, and the ideals that are woven into the very fiber of our 
existence as Americans.
  So much of our work here in the Senate focuses on legislative 
activity. For that is the stuff of headlines and news stories. However, 
it is hardly a reflection of one of the most fundamental 
responsibilities of a United States Senator, and that is providing 
caring and responsive service to the citizens of our state, the people 
who's trust we are charged with protecting and serving. And, Mr. 
President, it is those people serving in my State and regional offices 
that work so hard to insure that the needs and requests of my Indiana 
constituents are met with friendly and effective service. They are the 
front line, they are my eyes and ears in Indiana, and without their 
hard work, it would be impossible for me to serve effectively.
  As the distinguished senior Senator from Indiana pointed out 
yesterday, we have a rather unique operation back in Indiana. The 
senior Senator and I share a combined staff. They have served the state 
well. I would like to take a moment now to acknowledge my Indiana 
staff. Kathy Blane, Susan Brouillette, Sarah Dorste, Mark Doude, James 
Garrett, Amy Gaston, Michelle Mayer, Kevin Paicely, Lane Ralph, Karen 
Seacat, Libby Sims, Cory Shaffer, Angela Weston, Mike Duckworth, 
Barbara Keerl, David Graham, Pat McClain, Phil Shaull, Amy Hany, Tim 
Sanders, and Barb Franz. I believe I have included everyone. If I have 
not, let them know my appreciation.
  As I have said, the distinguished senior Senator and I have shared 
staff, and so many will continue to work for the citizens of Indiana. 
Though some will go on to other endeavors, that same sense of 
responsibility and public service that has motivated them to date, I am 
sure will drive them to continue to play a positive role in the lives 
of Hoosiers for years to come.
  I thank them and salute them.

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