On the recordDecember 18, 2012
I thank my colleague for organizing this Special Order and rise just to say a word of thanks and appreciation to Jay Pierson for his 33-plus years of service to this institution and for what he represents. Members of Congress stand in the well of the House, and I don't know how many people watch C-SPAN on national TV, but, in fact, this institution is sustained by dozens of individuals who work very quietly and for many years behind the scene both in the Speaker's office, the minority leader's office, the Parliamentarian's office, the Clerk's office, and so on, people who really dedicate their life to helping to make this great democratic institution function. I'm reminded of something that Lyndon Johnson said years ago. He said when he came to Washington, he discovered that the definition of an expert on Social Security--which was a big issue, and still is--was someone who knew Wilbur Cohen's telephone number, because Wilbur Cohen was the guy who actually understood the program and could answer any question about it. {time} 1940 And I think the definition of an expert on behavior on the floor of the House of Representatives and how to handle debate and amendments and all that is someone who knows Jay Pierson's telephone number or where he is or can reach him. He's helped me on numerous occasions managing various amendments and bills, and that's true of every Member of this House. Jay, I appreciate you and your service, and I wish you very many years of success to come.
