[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 112 (Thursday, June 29, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E930]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          IN APPRECIATION OF BRUCE NEWCOMB'S SERVICE TO IDAHO

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MICHAEL K. SIMPSON

                                of idaho

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 29, 2017

  Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, Mark Twain once said, ``Few things are 
harder to put up with than a good example.'' I can tell you there is no 
finer example of a greater man than my dear friend, Bruce Newcomb. I 
have had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to be part of Bruce's 
life for over 30 years and in that time I have known him in several 
capacities, an Idaho rancher, a state legislator, a majority leader, 
and the Speaker of the Idaho House. I have seen him as a husband; 
father, grandfather, uncle and brother. But, the role I know him best 
as, is friend, and not just to me, but to all he meets.
  My friend is retiring for the second time. He retired from the Idaho 
State Legislature in 2006 where he served for 20 years, the last eight 
serving as Speaker of the Idaho House--making him the longest-serving 
speaker in state history. Bruce is the type of leader that defines 
America, a leader who has strong values and convictions, but is willing 
to listen and show compassion to all. A leader who isn't afraid to 
stand up for what is right or take the road that is more difficult, 
knowing in the end it will lead to a successful outcome.
  When Bruce retired from the Idaho Legislature he could have sought 
any job he wanted in public office or in the private sector. His 
commitment to students led him to Boise State University where he 
pursued expanding higher education opportunities in Idaho. Bruce also 
established a scholarship program for Burley High School students to 
attend college.
  Friday, June 30, 2017, my friend Bruce will retire from BSU where he 
served as the university's director of government relations. The 
University recognized Bruce earlier this year and presented him with 
the `Commitment to Idaho' Award. There is no one more deserving of this 
award than Bruce Newcomb.
  If you ask Bruce why he entered public service, he will tell you 
President John F. Kennedy inspired him with his famous quote, ``Ask not 
what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your 
country.'' But I know that Bruce always wanted to help others; it is 
simply part of his soul.
  Bruce is loyal. That's a simple statement, but a trait that's not 
easy to achieve. He puts God and family first, and friends are so close 
to that line it is hard to decipher. I am beyond fortunate to be inside 
his circle and am forever grateful.
  I congratulate Bruce, and look forward to seeing him more.

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