[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 135 (Friday, December 8, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2162]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  FLORIDA DELEGATION FAREWELL TRIBUTE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 7, 2006

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to specially 
recognize 4 of my colleagues who have so honorably served the residents 
of Florida and the citizens of the United States over the past 4 to 26 
years.
  I applaud my friends, Clay Shaw, Mike Bilirakis, Jim Davis, and 
Katherine Harris for their admirable service. Over the years, each has 
made numerous invaluable contributions bettering the lives of their 
constituents and all Americans.
  I've seen first hand how effective and committed these individuals 
are in serving their constituents. Our longest serving member with 26 
years, Clay Shaw has been one of seniors' and Social Security's 
greatest advocates. His expertise in Social Security, trade, and 
welfare issues will be sorely missed. Serving 24 years, Mike Bilirakis 
has been one of Congress' primary supporters for veterans' issues. It 
has truly been my pleasure serving with Mike on the VA Committee for 
the past 5 years. Over the past 10 years, Jim Davis has been one of the 
leading sponsors in trying to protect Florida's pristine coastlines and 
U.S. military missions from offshore drilling. His leadership and 
passion are lauded and will not be forgotten. Katherine Harris has left 
her mark as a strong leader in helping Florida toward its future as an 
international leader in economic and foreign affairs.
  Mr. Speaker, Florida and the Nation have benefited from their 
leadership, and each will be truly missed. I would like to thank each 
for their service to our country and extend my best wishes for their 
continued success.

                          ____________________