[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 12] [Senate] [Pages 16235-16236] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]COMMENDING JANIS LAZDA Mr. BAUCUS. Mr. President, today I recognize one of the most dedicated members of my staff, Janis Lazda. Janis joined the Senate Finance Committee in 2005 to work on international trade matters, and today he leaves us to become senior policy adviser to the Deputy U.S. Trade Representative. USTR's gain truly is our loss. For the past 5 years, Janis has demonstrated a quiet intelligence, unquestionable loyalty, and an unwavering commitment to the great State of Montana and this great country. He has worked hard to keep U.S. relations with Asia strong during these challenging economic times, and focused on improving America's competitiveness around the globe. He has spearheaded [[Page 16236]] policies to increase U.S. exports to the world, and brainstormed ways to make international institutions more meaningful. He has performed all of these tasks diligently and with careful thought. And he has put the needs of Montanans and the American people first. Janis has witnessed the majestic mountains of Missoula, the bucolic beauty of the Big Hole Valley, and the memorable music of Molt. He met with hard-working people in all of these areas, and across Montana, to hear their thoughts and understand their needs. And he used these experiences to ensure that the policies crafted in Washington are meaningful for folks across America. Janis has been a sound and knowledgeable adviser. His experience and analysis have been critical to many of the trade policies formulated by the Finance Committee. I thank Janis for his hard work, and wish him well as he takes the next step to what I am sure will be a brilliant future. ____________________