[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 12 (Thursday, January 28, 2010)]
[Senate]
[Page S337]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO FRANK TUMA

 Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, the Office of Rural Development 
within the U.S. Department of Agriculture will say farewell to a 
dedicated colleague and friend later this week. Frank J. Tuma, Director 
of Community Programs for the Agency in Michigan, is retiring after 37 
dedicated years of public service, and I am delighted to have an 
opportunity to recognize this significant milestone.
  Frank began his Federal career with the Peace Corp and spent 2 years 
in the Philippines. He later accepted a position with the Farmers Home 
Administration, which would become the Office of Rural Development, 
where he has served the interests of rural Michigan for 31 years as 
part of the Community Programs Division. Throughout Frank's 31 years, 
he has consistently provided invaluable guidance and leadership on 
countless issues and projects. During the past 5 years, Frank has 
served as the Director of Community Programs, where he has led efforts 
to bring critical funding to rural communities across Michigan. 
Countless communities now have safe drinking water and efficient waste 
water systems that protect the environment due to the efforts of Frank 
and his team.
  Those who have worked with Frank describe him as devoted, loyal, and 
passionate about his work and the people with which he works, qualities 
that will surely be missed by his colleagues and friends. Beyond his 
personal qualities, he has distinguished himself through a number of 
impressive accomplishments and has served as a mentor to many on his 
staff. The Rural Development National Office has turned to Frank many 
times over the years for his input and recommendations on new processes 
and systems. He was instrumental in creating, testing, and implementing 
the CPAP System, a computer program that compiles data and underwrites 
loans and grants for water and sewer projects.
  I am proud to join citizens and communities across rural Michigan in 
thanking Frank Tuma for his dedication, focus, and persistent efforts 
as a Federal employee. Frank has forged a wonderful legacy, and I know 
he and Connie are looking forward to many years together in 
retirement.

                          ____________________