[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 151 (Thursday, November 18, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1977]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO FRANCIS B. GIBBS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. CONNIE MACK

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 18, 2010

  Mr. MACK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor one of my most trusted 
advisors and closest friends, Francis B. Gibbs, who is moving on to new 
opportunities in the private sector.
  Many staffers come and go on Capitol Hill, as many Members can 
attest, but I've been fortunate to have Francis at my side for over 
five years. He has been a dedicated public servant and a terrific 
sounding board for me, and he has been an incredible advocate and 
mentor for my staff.
  Before serving as my Legislative Director and then my Chief of Staff, 
Francis worked for Congressman Ander Crenshaw as his Legislative 
Counsel. A native Floridian, Francis understands the values and 
attributes of our great State.
  More importantly, Francis shares a strong passion for the ideals of 
freedom and free markets. He is deeply committed to the Constitution 
and the principles of federalism, and his work reflects his commitment 
to limiting the size and scope of an ever-intrusive federal government. 
A famous man once said, ``No man is entitled to the blessings of 
freedom unless he be vigilant in its preservation.'' Francis has been, 
and always will be, a true patriot and defender of freedom.
  While I am happy for Francis to begin this next phase of his 
professional career, make no mistake about it, he will be greatly 
missed. He has been a valuable member and an irreplaceable part of my 
team, but I know I can continue to count on his advice and friendship 
in the years ahead.
  Madam Speaker, I would not be where I am today were it not for 
Francis' dedication, service and hard work. On behalf of the people of 
Florida's Fourteenth Congressional District, I want to thank Francis 
for his nearly ten years of service to the people of Florida and the 
Nation. He is my friend, he is a true public servant in every sense of 
the word, and I wish him all the best as he begins this new and 
exciting chapter of his life with his family.

                          ____________________