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	November 5 – “Big government is not the solution, big government is the problem,” said Congressman Zach Wamp before thousands of Americans who traveled to Washington to speak against a government takeover of their health care. “What most people don’t realize is that this bill increases Medicaid without the money to pay for it. That’s why yesterday seven democratic governors spoke loudly against this bill, including my governor, Phil Bredesen, who called this ‘the mother of all unfunded mandates.’”
	November 4 – Expansive cap-and-trade regulations would raise energy costs for everyone and hamstring family farmers who are already struggling to compete with large corporate farms. Congressman Zach Wamp met with representatives of the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation who came to Washington to share their concerns about possible legislation that would stifle the agriculture industry in Tennessee.
	November 4 – “We’re at a real crossroads in terms of health care reform. The Republican health care alternative is a more simple, incremental approach to improving our health care system,” said Congressman Wamp during talk radio interviews. He spoke about the Republican’s 219-page health care alternative that has no net cost, which is in sharp contrast to the Pelosi-bill’s 1,990 pages and estimated trillion dollar cost.
	October 29 – The National Park Service recently awarded a design contract for the Moccasin Bend Interpretive Center, which is necessary for construction to begin in 2012. Congressman Wamp received an update from Friends of Moccasin Bend Executive Director Shelley Andrews on the Interpretive Center, which will allow visitors to interactively learn the ways earlier civilizations lived and create a living memorial to the area’s rich heritage. Moccasin Bend has a varied cultural history with evidence of human occupation dating back to some of the earliest human cultures in North America.
	October 26 – “This project was a long time coming, and is a testament to the 134th that it is becoming a reality. It is an important investment in our service members to build the facilities needed to complete their missions,” said Congressman Wamp at the McGhee Tyson base. The Tennessee Air National Guard broke ground on a new squadron operations building at the home of the 134th Air Refueling Wing that is expected to be completed in June 2011.
	October 24 – “There is a spirit here that you find in few places, calling us to treat people as we want to be treated,” Congressman Wamp said at the new White Pine Boys and Girls Clubs dedication. Providing children with educational and recreational programs offers them a chance to learn and grow while establishing positive relationships to prepare them for the future. Zach joined dozens of Jefferson County community leaders in marking the Boys & Girls Clubs opening, where 174 children are enrolled.
	October 20 – At the Tennessee River Valley Association’s 43rd Annual Meeting in Gatlinburg, Congressman Wamp received the Janice L. Jones Friend of the Valley Award. Zach was honored for his commitment to the region’s waterway transportation infrastructure, including his efforts to replace the deteriorating Chickamauga Lock.
	October 19 – "This is the best part of public service, to help those that need help. These people in need will have a place to live, giving them as much a sense of normalcy in their lives as absolutely possible,” said Congressman Wamp at a groundbreaking for two new homes that Bradley/Cleveland Services (BCS) will use to serve the intellectually disabled community. BCS currently employs more than 430 people in the local community, and the expansion will result in up to 40 new jobs in Bradley County.
	October 14 – The Chattanooga Heart Institute is our region’s only diagnostic, treatment, research and rehabilitation center dedicated solely to cardiovascular care. The Institute’s Chief Executive Officer Paul Farmer and Congressman Wamp discussed preventing possible physician reimbursement rate cuts that would leave Medicare patients with limited access to medical care and the potential effects current health care legislation could have on the care that cardiologists provide their patients.
	October 13 – "My 15-year record is all about advocating for health care providers and preventive care. We need better health care, but if you think it is expensive now, wait until it’s ‘free.’ The government option is the wrong way to go,” Congressman Wamp said before a record crowd at a Chattanooga Area Dental Society meeting. “We should be working on areas where we agree, like pre-existing conditions, full portability, preventive care and better use of technology and medical records. Any ‘reform’ that does not include medical liability reform is not complete.”
	October 8 – Ever year, 13 million babies are born too soon worldwide. The March of Dimes works to prevent birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. Several Tennessee March of Dimes board members and supporters met with Congressman Wamp to advocate for national public health policies and programs that affect women of childbearing-age, infants and children.
	October 7 – Fort Campbell is one of the U.S. Army’s premier training bases and supports the third largest military population in the Army. Major General John Campbell, the new commanding general of Fort Campbell and the historic “Screaming Eagles,” briefed Rep. Wamp on the changing needs of the service members and families stationed there. As the lead Republican on the committee responsible for our military installations around the world, Zach has visited the base several times to thank these soldiers for their service to our country.
	October 4 – Congressman Wamp joined the German delegation, including Lower Saxony’s Prime Minister Christian Wulff, and local elected and business leaders on a tour of the VW construction site at Enterprise South. Project engineer Thilo Brockhaus gave an overview of the progress of the paint shop, body shop and assembly halls that will be completed by the end of the year. The Volkswagen plant is on schedule to begin production in 2011 of a specially-developed model for the North American market.
	September 30 – Ernie Banks loves baseball for the game’s ability to bring people together and teach common sense life lessons. As part of the Library of Congress “Take Me Out to the Library” celebration recognizing the contributions of baseball to American culture and history, Congressman Wamp asked ‘Mr. Cub’ to reflect upon his Hall of Fame career as one of the first African-American players in the Major Leagues. The Library honored Mr. Banks with the Living Legends Award for his professional accomplishments and contributions to our nation.
	September 24 – “I would like to see the Obama Administration be more fully behind the nuclear industry. But international partnerships, such as the one between the United States and Japan, will play a role in advancing nuclear power and building new reactors in the next 20 years,” said Congressman Wamp at the Howard Baker Forum’s U.S.-Japan Roundtable Series.
	September 23 – A dynamic transportation agenda would build the infrastructure needed to foster economic development and put people back to work. Congressman Wamp and members of the Tennessee Road Builders Association discussed ways to improve our nation’s transportation system and stabilize the Highway Trust Fund shortfall. “Roads and bridges are the bread and butter of our transportation system, and we must properly maintain this important infrastructure,” Zach said.
	September 18 – After a Tennessee Methamphetamine Task Force board meeting, Congressman Wamp and State Task Force Director Tommy Farmer examine a mobile meth unit response truck. These vehicles are equipped with the gear law enforcement officers need to investigate and help clean up meth labs in rural counties. Zach helped establish and provide the resources for the nation’s premier statewide task force to rid our communities of illegal drugs.
	September 18 – “Infrastructure was the second responsibility that our founders established the federal government for, after defense,” said Congressman Wamp at the 86th annual Transportation Clubs International Conference. “If we want to be competitive as a nation, it is important that we make long-term investments in infrastructure.” Zach touted the recent federal investment to bring true high-speed rail, with maglev technology, to connect Atlanta’s Hartsville International to Chattanooga and Nashville, creating a more intermodal mass transportation system in the United States.”
	September 15 – Providing Veterans Affairs with resources one year ahead of schedule would help stabilize budgeting processes so our veterans receive quality medical care in a more timely manner. “This would be a paradigm shift and it is time we do it,” said Congressman Zach Wamp while discussing issues affecting the nearly 3 million members of the American Legion with new national commander, Clarence Hill.
	September 9 – With better training and equipment, our armed forces are able to more effectively weed out potential terrorists who are looking to enter the United States through Central and South America. Commander of the U.S. Southern Command, General Douglas Fraser, briefed Congressman Wamp on the ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-narcotics missions to keep our southern border secure.
	September 3 – Federal support for the United States Enrichment Corporation through loan guarantees is about high-precision manufacturing, skilled workers, our country’s competitiveness and most importantly our national security,” said Congressman Wamp. Zach received an update from USEC officials and members of the workforce on the pending loan guarantee application with the U.S. Department of Energy. “While the DOE review of the loan guarantee application decision is delayed, I am going to vigorously support moving our nuclear industry forward and maintaining a workforce of highly-skilled Americans, like those here in Oak Ridge."
	September 1 – After 50 years at the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, the Tennessee Air National Guard broke ground on a new, state-of-the-art complex for the 241st Engineering Installation Squadron off Bonny Oaks Drive in Chattanooga. “We needed to do this for a long time, but frankly with the way the priorities work, sometimes the Guard gets left behind,” said Rep. Wamp. The 241st has been located at the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport for the past 50 years and the new facilities are expected to be completed in fall 2010.
	August 31 – "We are a grateful nation and offer heartfelt thanks to the members of the 591st and your families, who faithfully carried the burden while your citizen soldiers were deployed," said Congressman Wamp. Zach addressed the men and women of the U.S. Army Reserve 591st Transportation Detachment and their families at a welcome home ceremony following a second year-long deployment. The 591st was responsible for coordinating cargo movements in and out of Southern Iraq.
	Roane County residents gathered at the county courthouse for a town hall meeting with Congressman Wamp to talk about issues affecting their community. Many are worried that runaway government spending will lead to massive tax increases, further burdening families already struggling to make ends meet. Zach continues to fight excessive spending and help create quality jobs in Tennessee by reducing government regulations and spurring economic development investments.
	August 25 – New Tazewell residents thanked Congressman Wamp for his principled stand against a government takeover of health care and for fighting excessive government spending. Zach stopped by the Do Drop In restaurant in Claiborne County to talk with local citizens about how important national issues are impacting them. Many are afraid cap-and-trade regulations will cause their electricity bills to drastically increase and that a government run health care system will limit their ability to make their own health care decisions.
	August 21 – “The Tennessee Valley Corridor has been successful in attracting major economic development investments to East Tennessee,” said Congressman Wamp. Zach discussed jobs and healthcare on the Chattanooga radio station WGOW. During the interview Zach said, “Work remains difficult to find for many, and we must continue using our regional assets to create jobs in energy, transportation and next-generation manufacturing.”
	August 17 – Small businesses are the backbone of our country, providing vital goods and services and creating quality jobs. Congressman Zach Wamp met with representatives of the Dillard Smith Construction Company to discuss workforce development initiatives and ways that high schools and technology centers can work together to strengthen our workforce. Zach has consistently supported small businesses in Congress and has repeatedly been given the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Spirit of Enterprise Award for helping create jobs and spur economic development.
	August 14 – The Vanderbilt Medical Center is one of the best health care institutions in the country, providing advanced medical treatments and care to thousands of patients each day. The new Chancellor for Health Affairs and Dean of the School of Medicine, Dr. Jeff Balser, gave Congressman Zach Wamp an update on the innovative research being conducted at the hospital. The School of Medicine is helping develop next-generation medical treatments for many of our common illnesses as a leading recipient of grant funding from the National Institute of Health.
	August 10 – Representatives of one of our nation’s leading cement manufacturing companies briefed Congressman Wamp on how cement and concrete products could benefit the environment. Zach uses the August district work period to meet with local business leaders about economic development initiatives and hear from Tennesseans how proposed legislation would affect our region.
	August 4 – Thousands of college students and young professionals descend upon Capitol Hill each year to gain invaluable career-building experience through internships. Congressman Wamp thanked MJ Henshaw and Bret Ploucha for devoting their summer to helping research legislation, write reports and draft media releases. “You are the best of the best and will achieve exceptional success. Thank you for helping serve the people in the 3rd Congressional District of Tennessee,” Zach said.
	July 30 – Congressman Wamp greeted a trio of Tennessee students arriving in Washington, D.C., after walking a grueling 800 miles from Tennessee to raise awareness of the forgotten children in war-torn Uganda. The students thanked Zach for cosponsoring a resolution condemning the ongoing attacks that resulted in the abduction of more than 20,000 children. Zach encouraged the students to continue fighting for their cause, quoting U.S. anthropologist Margaret Mead: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
	July 28 – Oak Ridge Associated Universities has doubled its missions during Congressman Wamp’s years of service to Tennessee’s 3rd District. Interim President Homer Fisher introduced the new president, Andy Page, the former director of ORAU’s national security and emergency management programs and a longtime Marine Corps veteran. They presented ORAU’s goals of expanding science education, medical screenings and environmental cleanup programs.
	July 23 – Nothing would do more for our economy and create quality jobs than to expand our nation’s ability to safely generate clean nuclear power. Congressman Wamp continues to push for a bold nuclear agenda that includes constructing 100 nuclear reactors in the next 20 years. Tennessee members of the Women in Nuclear network discussed with Zach ways to enhance our nation’s nuclear technology and the positive influences of women in the nuclear industry.
	July 23 – “Abraham Lincoln was not motivated by fame, power or money, but impact,” said Congressman Wamp at the sealing of a time capsule honoring our 16th president. “He often spoke about how he wanted to use his brief moment in time, his life, to impact others at the very highest potential.” Zach placed these practical lessons from Lincoln into a capsule compiled by the Capitol Historical Society that will be opened in 50 years.
	July 22 – Congressman Zach Wamp discussed the military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and the future needs of our Armed Services with Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Army Chief of Staff Gen. George Casey. Zach is a member of the House Army Caucus and the lead Republican on the committee that funds our military installations around the world and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
	July 16 – “Reading is the gateway to success and is the first step to improving education,” said Congressman Wamp. Zach discussed ways to advance education with representatives of the Tennessee Principals Association and thanked the educators for their dedicated service. “Educators are valuable public servants and often go above and beyond the call of duty to make sure students reach their highest potential,” Zach said.
	July 14 – Washington, D.C., offers many exciting places to visit, including Arlington National Cemetery, the White House, Smithsonian Museums and the U.S. Capitol. Congressman Zach Wamp shares the role of slave labor in the construction of the Capitol building with David and Bridget Davis of Ooltewah, Tenn., on the step of the U.S. House of Representatives. More than 16 million people visit the nation’s capitol each year to explore historical sites and pay respect at the memorials honoring our founding fathers and those who wore the uniform of our Armed Services in defense of freedom.
	July 10 – “This bill is about those who have volunteered in the service of our country and their willingness to extend freedom from this generation to the next, joining the thousands of others that have preserved our freedoms and protected our way of life,” said Congressman Wamp on the floor of the U.S. House Representatives. Zach led his Republican colleagues during debate of legislation to provide the necessary resources for the VA and improve military quality of life.
	July 7 – Congressman Zach Wamp and Chattanooga native William Gray discuss their time as students at the McCallie School. William is a 2003 graduate and is now studying journalism at Harvard University. Between semesters, he is gaining hands-on, real-life experience interning for C-SPAN in Washington, D.C.
	July 2 – Congressman Zach Wamp joined citizens of Lake City to celebrate the city’s 100th birthday. Originally named Coal Creek, the town was an 1860’s boom town that quickly grew with the expanding coal mining industry and was incorporated in 1909. After the construction of the nearby Norris Dam in 1936, Coal Creek was renamed and Lake City has been home for many families for multiple generations.
	June 29 – “The Better Business Bureau’s focus on trust and ethics makes our community a better place to live and conduct business,” said Congressman Wamp during a keynote address in Chattanooga at the organization’s annual luncheon. The Better Business Bureau strives to promote the highest ethical relationships between businesses and the community to develop a marketplace where buyers and sellers trust each other. Zach visited with elected officials, local law-enforcement officers, health care providers and business owners before addressing hundreds of community leaders.
	June 25 – Congressman Wamp’s years of hard work of leveraging the science, technology, education and business assets of our region are paying off big with new high-paying jobs for Tennesseans. Zach discussed Volkswagen and Wacker Chemie AG, two German-based companies making billion-dollar investments in the heart of the Tennessee Valley Corridor, with Minister-President Roland Koch of the German state of Hessen. Both companies are building next generation manufacturing plants that will potentially create thousands of high-tech jobs in East Tennessee.
	June 23 – Congressman Wamp spoke to representatives of the UTC Center for Energy, Transportation and the Environment, graduate students and a team of international researchers on the importance of finding alternative energy sources. The group is developing a more efficient and convenient way to power electric vehicles called an inductive power transfer system. “We set goals years ago to advance research in transportation and energy manufacturing to create new jobs in our region,” Zach said after touring the Advanced Vehicle Test Facility.
	June 17 – Congressman Zach Wamp extended his record-breaking hitting streak to 13 consecutive games and sported Tennessee orange in the 48th Annual Congressional Baseball Game. The bipartisan charity-game at Nationals Park raised thousands of dollars to benefit the Washington Literacy Council and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington. Democrats defeated Republicans for the first time since 2000, winning 15-10.
	June 16 – Congressman Wamp holds an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and learns how the high-tech surveillance device is giving our troops a military advantage in Iraq and Afghanistan. The remote-controlled miniature UAV is saving lives by giving troops on the ground an eagle’s eye view of the enemy’s position. Zach joined Army Secretary Pete Geren and Army Chief of Staff Gen. George Casey at a ceremony celebrating the 234th birthday of the U.S. Army.
	June 14 – “Excellent partnerships between elected leaders at the local, state and federal level and the private sector have led to three major economic development announcements in Tennessee during a recession,” Congressman Wamp said. Zach gave the keynote address in Chattanooga to the annual gathering of the Tennessee Municipal League. Afterwards, Zach heard from elected officials from across the state on the challenges facing local governments.
	June 12 – Legislation to enhance boarder security and immigration enforcement passed in committee with Congressman Zach Wamp’s support and now goes to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration. The bill provides resources that enable first responders to better serve their communities and improves the E-Verify program, an initiative that allows American employers to check the citizenship eligibility of employees.
	June 10 – Tennessee Department of Safety Commissioner Dave Mitchell briefed Congressman Zach Wamp on the agencies work to crack down on the production and use of methamphetamine. Zach helped establish and provide the resources for the nation’s premier statewide task force to rid our communities of illegal drugs and passed bipartisan legislation to protect innocent children taken from meth homes. Last year, 815 meth labs were seized in Tennessee.
	June 3 – Pursuing a college degree is one of the most important investments a student can make. Congressman Zach Wamp discussed ways to expand learning opportunities and the challenges facing higher education with the new Chancellor of the University of Tennessee at Knoxville Dr. Jimmy Cheek. Zach’s son is a recent graduate of UT Knoxville and his daughter is currently a junior. UT is one of the nation’s top public research and teaching universities linking Tennesseans to the nation and world.
	June 3 – Secretary of Energy Steven Chu agreed to consider a pension increase during his current review of the underfunded retirement system for Department of Energy retirees who haven’t received a cost of living increase in years. Rep. Zach Wamp pressed two other points during an Energy and Water hearing: the importance of nuclear energy and nuclear weapons. Zach highlighted inadequate funding in the DOE budget for the Oak Ridge Uranium Processing Facility, known as UPF, and asked the committee to increase the funding level above the administration’s request.
	May 30 – Home schooling is the fastest growing educational movement in the United States. Zach personally greeted more than 70 graduates before speaking to an overflow crowd in Hixson of the Chattanooga Chapter of the Tennessee Home Education Association. Graduates and parents gave Zach a standing ovation for his support of families who chose an alternative learning environment and more individualized education for their children.
	May 27 – Hundreds of top leaders throughout the Tennessee Valley Corridor convened at the 21st National Leadership Regional Cooperation Summit in Oak Ridge, where it first began 15 years ago. “Regionalism is a trend, not a fad and is here to stay,” said Congressman Zach Wamp. The five-state technology summit brings the region’s public and private sectors together around a shared economic plan targeting energy, transportation and advanced manufacturing opportunities.
	May 25 – Rep. Wamp addressed the crowd of more than 1,500 gathered at the Chattanooga National Cemetery to honor our nation’s greatest heroes on Memorial Day. “This is a time for us to reflect and pay tribute to so many brave Americans who have stood between the threat and our civilian population,” said Zach. On Memorial Day we remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of freedom and whose contributions to our country are everlasting.
	May 21 – A Uranium Processing Facility at Y-12 is essential for supporting weapons dismantlement and nuclear nonproliferation activities. Congressman Zach Wamp made the case for Y-12’s unique capabilities during a House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee hearing with National Nuclear Security Administration Administrator Thomas D'Agostino. As a Uranium Center of Excellence, Y-12 leads the world in safe handling of nuclear material.
	May 19 – “The most effective government is the one closest to the people. In any state, in any community, what you do is incredibly important,” said Congressman Zach Wamp during his opening remarks at the Tennessee County Trustee’s Association Spring Meeting. Approximately 175 trustees are expected to attend the four day convention at the Chattanooga Choo Choo.
	May 14 – More than 200 elementary and middle school students from East Tennessee filled the steps of the U.S. Capitol to listen to Rep. Wamp share the history of the building that houses the legislative branch of the federal government. During their tour, the students visited Emancipation Hall in the new Capitol Visitor Center. Zach wrote the bill to name the room “Emancipation Hall” to honor the slaves that helped build the Capitol.
	May 13 – "Sweeping change is in order to modernize the VA so our nation’s heroes receive the best health care possible in a timely manner," said Congressman Zach Wamp while questioning Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki at a House Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee hearing. Shinseki testified that new medical technologies, like electronic record keeping, can improve the quality of veteran care by helping reduce the inaccuracies often found in paper records.
	May 11 – Rep. Wamp toured St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis where cutting-edge cancer research is improving the way doctors treat children with catastrophic diseases. St. Jude is also a World Health Organization collaborating center that focuses on the ecology of influenza in animals. Zach visited a lab where approximately 50 scientists are working to develop an effective vaccine for H1N1, also known as the swine flu.
	May 6 – General George Casey, Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army, updated Congressman Wamp and the House Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee on the condition and needs of the Army. He said the force is being restructured to help soldiers and their families have a more predictable and stable training and deployment schedule.
	May 5 – "Education spans from conception to the grave," said Rep. Zach Wamp while discussing ways to expand adult education in Tennessee with Grammy award-winning singer Gretchen Wilson. Adult education provides a second chance to earn a high school diploma and makes people better qualified for the work force, raising their family’s income and improving their standard of living.
	April 29 – “We are at a pivotal moment. If we are going to truly address our energy needs, nuclear has to be part of the mix in responsible legislation that keeps our country competitive,” said Zach, co-chair of the Nuclear Issues Working Group at a bipartisan briefing on important issues surrounding our nation’s energy portfolio. The room overflowed with Members and experts from a wide cross-section of the nuclear industry, including business, labor and environmental stakeholders.
	April 27 – “Be bold,” was the message from Congressman Zach Wamp to a large group of community leaders kicking off the Halcyon Commercialization Center in Oak Ridge. For the first time, private businesses have located on the grounds of the Oak Ridge National Lab allowing them direct access to scientists and research to develop cutting-edge products. One nanotechnology business has already moved in and others are scheduled.
	April 24 – “You are the premier soldier of our generation and a great American patriot,” Rep. Zach Wamp told General David Petraeus during a House Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee hearing. General Petraeus, head of the U.S. Central Command overseeing operations in the Middle East and South Asia, testified on rebalancing the force from Iraq to Afghanistan and how it will be accomplished.
	April 22 – At a House Friends of Jordan Caucus event, Congressman Wamp discussed Middle East peace with Jordan’s King Abdullah II and what the next steps should be in starting negotiations. Jordan is a key U.S. ally and plays an important role in advancing peace between Israel and the Palestinians. The Friends of Jordan Caucus supports a strong relationship between the United State and Jordan and facilitates an exchange of ideas between members of Congress and Jordanian officials.
	April 17 – The Tennessee Preservation Trust’s Statewide Preservation Conference in Murfreesboro focused on "Preserving Our Shared Cultural Heritage" and brought together heritage supporters from around the state. Rep. Wamp was chosen as the Preservation Leadership Speaker because of his commitment to preservation issues over the years, including work on the Trail of Tears, Moccasin Bend, Green McAdoo, Cherokee Memorial Park at Blythe Ferry and Lookout Mountain Battlefield.
	April 17 – Congressman Wamp joined the owners and employees of Restoration Services Inc to celebrate the company’s selection by Outdoor Magazine as one on the top 30 places to work in the United States. “I have never seen a cultural mindset that has done what it takes to lower costs and be more efficient and productive with such a good spirit,” said Zach. RSI, which ranked 21st on the list, is a woman-owned small business headquartered in Oak Ridge with more than 100 employees.
	April 16 – Congressman Zach Wamp, Cherokee Nation Chief Chad Smith and Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Chief Michell Hicks planted a tree representing their heritage at the joint meeting of the Tribal Councils in Red Clay. Zach said, “I’ve chosen the Tulip Poplar, Tennessee’s state tree. I want to welcome you with open arms, as one of the family myself. It is great to have the Cherokee at home here in East Tennessee this weekend.” The joint meeting commemorates the Red Clay Reunion of 1984.
	April 15 – “This flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in honor of the Cherokee Memorial Park at Blythe Ferry will serve to educate our nation for generations to come of the significant impact the Trail of Tears had in American history. We must ensure the grave mistakes of our nation's past are never made again,” Congressman Wamp said as he presented an American flag at the Cherokee United We Stand celebration. Before the ceremony, Zach visited with Eastern Band of Cherokee Chief Michell Hicks and Meigs County Mayor Ken Jones.
	April 9 – Before boarding the Tennessee River Gorge Explorer, Congressman Wamp chats with Senator Alexander, Park Superintendent Shawn Benge and historian Jim Ogden about the Moccasin Bend National Archaeological District. “Today’s tour is a reminder of the historical value of Moccasin Bend and why we need to educate people about its cultural meaning and preserve it for future generations,” said Zach. Congressman Wamp and Senator Alexander heard updates on riverbank stabilization and an Interpretive Center to promote preservation and awareness of the archeological district.
	April 2 – The U.S. Navy honored Congressman Wamp with its Distinguished Public Service Award, the highest form of civilian public service bestowed by the Department of the Navy. According to the citation, Zach was selected for his “courageous leadership, vision and loyalty to the men and women of the Department of the Navy,” which “greatly contributed to their quality of life and helped create the most modern and highly trained fighting force in history.”
	April 2 – Grammy Award winning singers and songwriters Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman stopped in Washington, D.C., to share inspiring stories from the road with Congressman Wamp and other Members of Congress. Michael and Steven are sharing the stage on a cross-country tour and are connecting more than 2,000 orphaned children from around the world with sponsors in the United States.
	March 31 – Congressman Zach Wamp and other key leaders of Congress met with new DOE Secretary Steven Chu on matters of energy policy, the future of nuclear power, nuclear weapons stockpile and stewardship, environmental management and next-generation electricity production. Secretary Chu agreed that nuclear energy must be part of the equation if we are serious about meeting our country’s future energy demands and reducing carbon emissions.
	March 25 – "Our veterans deserve the most efficient and effective health care system possible to deliver the best medical care when they need it," said Congressman Wamp during a House Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee hearing. Zach questioned Veterans Affairs and Defense Department witnesses on the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) testing and treatment referral process for military members returning from deployment.
	March 17 – Zach joined VW executives and Governor Bredesen at the announcement of a five year commitment of $5.28 million to the Hamilton County Public Schools, 5 state Universities and the Oak Ridge National Lab. “Partners in Education” will support teachers and students across the state; focus on sustainable mobility research and education initiatives. “ We appreciate Volkswagen’s generosity through the Partners in Education program to enrich educational opportunities for our students, and for the company’s willingness to get involved and partner with our academic institutions,” said Zach.
	March 17 – During a House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee hearing, Congressman Zach Wamp questioned National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) officials about the need to replace deteriorating buildings at the Y-12 National Security Complex with a Uranium Processing Facility (UPF). NNSA Administrator Thomas D'Agostino testified that UPF capabilities are needed and that Y-12’s unique capabilities will be vital for the future.
	March 16 – “We have a booming economy in the middle of an economic downturn coming out of Oak Ridge,” said Congressman Wamp at the Science Applications International Corporation’s (SAIC) dedication of the new shared service center. The human resources, finance, corporate purchasing and information technology services that will be performed in the new shared services center will bring nearly 150 jobs to the city. “There are challenges, but because of our high-tech focus this SAIC announcement says we are going in the right direction,” said Zach.
	March 16 – Congressman Wamp visits with Cherokee Forest Supervisor Tom Speaks before the Annual Ocoee Stakeholder’s meeting in Polk County. This year’s agenda included reports on the Cherokee National Forest, sustainable tourism initiatives, airport improvements and the status of the Corridor K road project. Zach welcomed the crowd and said, “I always like to walk out on the swinging bridge over the Ocoee when I come here to take in the beauty of this place. This is real Americana.”
	March 12 – Congressman Wamp listens to Assistant Secretaries of the Armed Forces testify before the House Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee on the issue of military housing. Making sure our troops and their families have the best possible living quarters, both at home and abroad, is vital to troop morale. Each branch of the military has implemented housing improvement plans in recent years, giving military families more choices and flexibility.
	March 12 – Three Chattanooga-area Youth Ambassadors came to brief Congressman Wamp after participating in legislative meetings with the Tourette Syndrome Association. They gave the Congressman an update on their mission to educate groups of all ages about living with Tourette Syndrome. Zach congratulated them for their dedication to promoting awareness of the disorder and efforts to make sure those with Tourette Syndrome have the same educational and job opportunities as others.
	March 11 – “By supporting military families at home, we are supporting the mission of our soldiers,” said Congressman Wamp while discussing military quality of life issues with representatives of Citizens for Fort Campbell. “Taking care of our military families is important to fielding the best force possible and meeting the military’s retention goals.” Fort Campbell is home to the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division, housing more than 30,000 officers and enlisted members.
	March 11 – The Chickamauga Lock replacement continues to be a top priority for Congressman Wamp, and he met with Lt. Col. Bernard Lindstrom and others from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for an update on the Corps’ progress. Once the coffer dam is completed, construction on the expanded lock can begin. A major thoroughfare for commerce in the South, Chickamauga Lock was completed in 1940 and remains one of the oldest locks on the Tennessee River.
	March 5 – Congressman Wamp stands to recognize the first female four-star general in the U.S. Armed Forces, General Ann Dunwoody, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Material Command. Zach joined Army Secretary Pete Geren and Army Chief of Staff Gen. George Casey at a luncheon honoring the achievements of women in our military. More than 300,000 women serve our country in the active duty and reserve forces.
	March 4 – At the Great Energy Efficiency Day event, Congressman Wamp presented the Alliance to Save Energy’s Unsung Heroes Award to David Greene for his work in advancing the cause of energy efficiency. David, who is a corporate fellow of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, was honored for his more than 30 years of research in transportation energy and policy issues in addition to his modeling and simulation efforts at ORNL that have the potential to improve transportation efficiency.
	March 3 – “There is a bipartisan commitment in the U.S. House of Representatives to ratchet-up veterans benefits,” said Congressman Wamp. Zach and representatives from the Tennessee Department of the American Legion explored new ways of giving veterans more choice when it comes to meeting their medical needs. “Serving as the lead Republican on the House committee that funds the VA is the highest honor of my 14-years in public service,” said Zach.
	February 27 – “If every community and institution in the country would do what we are doing here today we would be so much better off,” Congressman Wamp said at the America’s Veterans to Tennessee Engineers program kickoff. This Oak Ridge initiative is a partnership with educational institutions and corporations to provide employment and educational opportunities for returning veterans who complete an engineering degree in Tennessee. “What could be better than to give our veterans, who are coming back from serving in harm’s way, the right tools and education to make them the engineers of the future,” said Zach.
	February 25 – “The best thing we can do for the southeast United States and our national economy is invest in nuclear power,” said Congressman Wamp while discussing the cost of electricity with representatives from regional electric power boards. “Forward thinking and innovative ideas will help our region lead the way toward meeting our 21st century energy needs.”
	February 25 – A day after Lt. Gen. Robert Van Antwerp, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Commander, testified before the House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, Rep. Wamp met with him to advocate for Chickamauga Lock. Keeping the lock open and operational has been a top priority for Zach since he took office, and he has fought to include necessary funding for repairs while also providing funding for planning and construction of the replacement lock. Coffer dam construction is scheduled to be completed in 2009, allowing construction to begin on the expanded lock.
	February 24 – Leaders from the Cherokee Nation and the Trail of Tears Association consulted with Congressman Wamp about the Trail of Tears Documentation Act, which is expected to receive a vote in the House in the coming weeks. They thanked Zach for taking the lead on the legislation to include the Benge and Bell routes as part of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail. These routes have been documented as arteries by which the Cherokee were forced out of their ancestral homelands.
	February 11 – “A new administration provides fresh listeners to hear the case of Oak Ridge retirees. When new DOE Secretary Steven Chu comes before the House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, I will ask him about issues affecting retirees,” said Congressman Wamp to Coalition of Oak Ridge Retired Employees representatives about the need for adjustments to pension benefits. “We will continue advocating and fighting for those retirees who are struggling financially, especially during these tough economic times.”
	February 10 – The Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) presented Congressman Wamp with a Congressional Leadership Award to recognize his sustained commitment to championing the cause of community-based substance abuse prevention. Zach spoke to leaders in Washington for CADCA’s national leadership forum, including local leaders from Cleveland and Chattanooga, in support of substance abuse prevention, treatment, research and recovery programs.
	February 5 – “You are standing in the center of the most recognizable building in the world,” said Congressman Zach Wamp in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol. “The dome is a beacon of freedom to all and a glimmer of hope to those who seek it.” Zach led the Tennessee delegation of the National Prayer Breakfast in a tour of the new Capitol Visitor Center and the Capitol.
	February 3 – Congressman Wamp attended the grand opening of a new VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Jackson, Tenn. "The VA is transforming its health care delivery system to adapt to the veteran population and the trends in health care. Congress has pushed the VA to broaden benefits and improve its facilities, and as Ranking Member of the subcommittee that funds our veterans’ benefits, it is encouraging to see the VA follow this congressional direction," Zach said.
	January 29 – Congressman Zach Wamp takes a first-hand look at the TVA ash spill in Kingston, Tenn., and the damage to the nearby homes. “The scope of this unfortunate disaster is massive and the cleanup will take years. We must do everything in our power to help the people affected and make sure it never happens again,” said Congressman Wamp.
	January 27 – Congressman Zach Wamp discussed concerns with the Democrat economic stimulus proposal on “CNN Newsroom.” During the interview, Zach said, “We need investment more than spending, and that’s really what the problem is. At the local and state level, we see governments cutting their budget to get through, the family budget at home is being cut to get through hard times, yet Washington is spending more money than you can even imagine.”
	January 21 – Congressman Zach Wamp welcomed fellow Tennessee Congressman Lincoln Davis to his new committee and the first House Appropriations meeting of the 111th Congress. As a senior member of the Energy and Water Subcommittee, Zach congratulated Congressman Davis on his assignment to the panel where they will work together to benefit Tennessee, “To have two members – one in the majority and one in the minority – is very important for East Tennessee and the whole state.”
	January 19 – Congressman Zach Wamp hosted a reception in his office for the hundreds of joyous Tennesseans who traveled to Washington to see Barack Obama sworn in as the next President of the United States. Zach said, “I share in the joy that this historic inauguration says to every American, regardless of social status or color, that through hard work and preparation, they can become the leader of the free world.”
	January 16 – “Today is about going out and thanking local government. It has been an honor to serve all the people who run the county functions,” Congressman Wamp said as he traveled to Grainger, Union, Claiborne and Jefferson counties in the 3rd District. Motivated by impact, Zach hopes to leave a legacy larger than his own life by helping those in need.
	January 14 – “This is a time for restraint and responsibility, not excessive spending by the federal government. Slowing the growth of government is an important issue that Congress must address in the new year,” said Congressman Wamp during an interview with Bryan College freshman Bethany Diamond. Bethany studies government and politics, and joined more than 100 college students in Washington, D.C., for the Christian Student Leadership Conference.
	January 8 – “Our top priority is clearly the health and safety of the people. Personal property can be replaced and land can be compensated for, but the well-being of the people must be ensured,” said Congressman Wamp. “We need reforms in law and regulation to make sure this never happens again, and that TVA is held to the highest account on their obligation to the people and the community. And we must change the way ash waste is stored from wet storage to dry storage all across the country.” Congressmen and Senators from Tennessee and Georgia met with some residents affected by the coal ash spill in Kingston and TVA officials for an update on the cleanup.