[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 62 (Monday, May 6, 2013)]
[Senate]
[Page S3090]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO LAUREL P. SAYER

 Mr. CRAPO. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the 
achievements of Laurel Sayer, who is retiring from congressional 
service.
  For the past 14 years, Laurel has served as the Natural Resources and 
Idaho National Laboratory policy adviser for my fellow Idaho 
congressional delegation colleague, Representative Mike Simpson. 
Throughout her career, Laurel has served as a trusted advisor and 
resource to many. She has worked hard to develop partnerships and 
advocate for the interests of Idahoans.
  Prior to working for Representative Simpson, Laurel served as an 
integral member of my staff for 6 years when I served in the U.S. House 
of Representatives. Among her responsibilities, she enhanced outreach 
efforts and provided valuable input on natural resources issues. Laurel 
joined my House staff with a wealth of community experience, which 
quickly translated into a great base for advocating for Idahoans in 
eastern Idaho. The years that she spent doing volunteer efforts in the 
community paid off for Idahoans as she transitioned into one of the 
most effective congressional staffers in the State.
  She has been very involved throughout eastern Idaho and developed 
valuable relationships with local, State, regional, and Federal 
Government agencies and numerous organizations and individuals. For 
example, she has served in leadership roles for the Yellowstone 
Business Partnership, the Idaho Commission on the Arts, the Idaho Falls 
Arts Council, the Idaho Community Foundation, and the Education 
Foundation. Laurel has contributed significantly to the arts in Idaho, 
including promoting related projects, arts councils, and arts groups.
  Laurel has served the community, State, and Nation with distinction, 
and I thank her for her hard work on behalf of Idahoans. I have enjoyed 
my years of friendship with Laurel and appreciated her kind demeanor, 
hard work, and tremendous will. Laurel, you have much to be proud of 
for your many years of dedication and committed service. I congratulate 
you on your retirement, wish you all the best, and thank you for all 
you have done for Idahoans.

                          ____________________