[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 145 (Thursday, October 8, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2490]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


         HONORING THE SERVICE AND DEDICATION OF MARK W. LIBELL

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BART GORDON

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 8, 2009

  Mr. GORDON of Tennessee. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
service and dedication of Mark William Libell, a member of my staff who 
is leaving my office to pursue the next phase in his career.
  Mark grew up in Alabama and received his bachelor's degree in History 
from Maryville College in East Tennessee. After getting his start on 
the Senate side of the Hill, Mark returned to school to pursue a J.D. 
at the University of Alabama, which he completed in 2 years.
  Mark was drawn to the pace and promise of Washington at a young age. 
With a love of American history, Mark grew up reading the stories of 
our Nation's leaders. In fact, I think he has the record in my office 
for the number of books he requested from the Library of Congress. His 
commitment to public service is evident in his work and has earned the 
respect of his colleagues.
  As the Senior Legislative Assistant in my office, Mark was a valuable 
resource to me and my staff. His broad knowledge of policy, his 
appreciation for the rules of the House, and his enthusiasm for the job 
helped me to advance my legislative priorities and better serve my 
constituents.
  While Mark's work-related contributions have been greatly valued, his 
sheer presence in the office will be sorely missed. Mark was always one 
of the first in the office to grab lunch, usually around 11:30 a.m. His 
choice of food was always a topic of discussion in the office as the 
aroma filled the air, whether fish from the cafeteria or Chinese food.
  Madam Speaker, there is no question that Mark's character of 
thoughtfulness, dry humor, and fun spirit is strong and will be missed 
by all.
  Mark, I thank you for your service and wish you the best of luck in 
the future and in your new position.

                          ____________________