David Thomas: “I have asked to speak out of order for 1 minute because there is a situation here on the floor that may not recur again.…”

“I have asked to speak out of order for 1 minute because there is a situation here on the floor that may not recur again. There are many new Members here who are beginning to learn that this institution could not run without the staffs that sometimes are never acknowledged or recognized but go about their work very quietly and efficiently. Unfortunately, someone who had been of great assistance to our side of the aisle for more than 42 years decided to leave just as quietly and efficiently as he had carried out his job over the years. I am not able to deal with the efficiency of his leaving, but I do think we can deal with the quietness. Somewhere back there is the gentleman by the name of Ron Lasch. I would ask Ron Lasch to come to the floor. Mr. Speaker, as usual, Ron Lasch is not to be found. But for 42 years, he provided this House with good counsel and assistance in doing our jobs. There are a number of people who make our jobs possible who do not get the desired or needed or worthy recognition. I just thought it would be nice, since he may not be able to be here again or he will not be here again after this particular occasion, to say to one of our long-time employees, thank you very much, Ron Lasch.”