[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 178 (Monday, December 16, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1888]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  TRIBUTE TO NACARSIA ``NIKKI'' MAYES

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. STEVE ISRAEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, December 16, 2013

  Mr. ISRAEL. Mr. Speaker, today I'd like to bring your attention to a 
very special person, someone I respect and whose friendship I value. 
I'm referring to Nicarsia ``Nikki'' Mayes who after 36 years of 
dedicated public service, will be retiring this December.
  Nikki started work here in 1977 as an elevator operator and it was 
not long before her professional and cheerful manner caught the eye of 
her superiors. In 1980, she became the first African American woman 
ever hired by the Office of the Doorkeeper. It was a tremendous 
achievement then and it remains an exceptional moment in both her 
personal history and the history of this body.
  As her career progressed she joined the Office of the Sergeant at 
Arms and served as a member of the Chamber Security Division. Her 
career is a testament to what dedication, hard work and a positive 
attitude can accomplish.
  Mr. Speaker, I don't need to remind you that our work here can be 
difficult and stressful. But that's what makes Nikki such a treasure. 
Even when there was tension inside the House Chamber, there was 
friendship and kindness waiting at the door.
  Nikki, I wish you the best of luck as you embark on this next part of 
your life. You will be greatly missed by me and every one of my 
colleagues.

                          ____________________