[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 135 (Friday, December 8, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2190-E2191]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO THE FELIX FAMILY

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RON KIND

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, December 8, 2006

  Mr. KIND. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Felix 
Family of Viroqua, Wisconsin. On December 16, 2006, after 100 years and 
three generations, Felix's Men's and Women's Clothing will be closing. 
This store has been a pillar of Viroqua's downtown business district 
and an integral part of the community. Thanks to Felix's and other 
small businesses, Viroqua continues to have a vibrant downtown.
  Steve Felix has owned and operated Ted Felix's since the early 1970s. 
Steve is a good friend who is not shy in imparting his advice on me 
during my frequent visits to Felix's. Steve told me once that back when 
Senator Proxmire served the people of Wisconsin, he would often stop at 
Felix's and shake Steve's hand. On one of these occasions, Steve 
scolded the Senator and told him that he needed to start dressing 
better in order to look like a United States Senator. Senator Proxmire 
bought a suit from Steve that very day, and during every occasion when 
he saw Steve he would ask Steve how he looked to ensure his dress was 
appropriate. As my wife Tawni can attest, Steve has continued this 
tradition by selling me suits so I am more appropriately dressed.
  Small businesses like Felix's are vital to the well-being of rural 
America because of the unique spirit, personal service, and character 
they impart on small towns. They are what make shopping on our main 
streets an enjoyable and personal experience.
  Steve's leadership and dedication, along with his wife Betty and 
their two children Randy and Erica, has made Viroqua and Vernon County 
a better place to live, work, and raise a family. I commend Steve, the 
Felix

[[Page E2191]]

family, and all of the other small businesses that continue to serve 
America and drive our economy. I wish them well and Godspeed in their 
future ventures.

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