Photo Archive: U.S. Congressman Zach Wamp : 3rd District Of Tennessee

Congressman Zach Wamp, Third District of Tennessee

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	July 31 - “Every time freedom has been handed down from one generation to the next, it has been by men and women in uniform . We honor them today , ” Congressman Wamp said at the dedication of the Korean War Memorial which honors the Marines who fought in the Chosin Reservoir battle. Zach continued by quoting John Stuart Mills saying, "War is an ugly thing, but not the ugliest of things. The decayed and degraded state of moral and patriotic feeling, which thinks that nothing is worth war, is much worse.” Afterwards Marines retold their stories, expressed their feelings of gratitude, and shared with each other rememberances of their brothers in arms who did not return from the war. Throughout the event, Zach continued to point to the “incredible sacrifice and commitment of these Korean War soldiers.”
	July 25 - Congressman Wamp spoke to a group of East Tennessee college students about the escalating violence between Hezbollah and Israel. "The attacks launched on Israel validate our fears as Hezbollah remains committed to the destruction of Israel and maintains its status as a top-tier terrorist organization." Zach went on to address America's role in the Middle East conflict and commented that "it is more important than ever to clearly communicate the facts to the American people; and it is great to see young East Tennesseans engaged on this matter." These young people from Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee Temple University in Chattanooga and Carson Newman College in Jefferson City visited Washington with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.
	July 25 - “Unfairly traded imports from China, India and Indonesia have flooded the U.S. market in the past few years and that threatens jobs in my district and across America,” Congressman Wamp said. Because of the paper industry in the Third District, Zach was invited to testify before the International Trade Commission Tuesday at hearing on whether action should be taken against those three countries . Each country heavily subsidize its paper industries with government money and then dump s their products at an unreasonably high volume and low price in an effort to unfairly corner the market. “As long as there is a level playing field and the rules are the same for all the players and countries involved, I am confident that American workers and companies can compete with producers anywhere in the world,” Congressman Wamp said.
	July 20 - “I thought $2 per gallon for gasoline would be the critical mass to get people pushing for fuel cell technology, but even at $3 per gallon our economy is so strong that we have yet to see significant demand. The need for this technology, however, is crucial.” Congressman Wamp informed a crowd at the Congressional Fuel Cell Expo with what Congress is doing to make this technology a viable solution for the country’s everyday energy needs. Alongside Undersecretary of Energy, David Garman, Zach listens to one of the many firms expanding this technology for domestic use. Fuel cells work by combining hydrogen and oxygen in a process to produce electricity, with water and heat as its only by-products. This clean, quiet, and highly efficient process will be the key to American energy independence.
	July 17 - “We hear you when you say, ‘We are only doing what we have been training to do’, but I want you to know that all of us at home recognize that each time freedom has been handed down from one generation to the next it has been done by brave men like you.” At the National Guard Armory in Chattanooga Zach greeted members of the 196th Field Artillery Brigade Armory that have returned home from a year-long deployment to Afghanistan. Commanding Officer Col. Joe Geren said the 196th was primarily responsible for training soldiers of the new Afghan army, but was also tasked to complete various infrastructure projects throughout Afghanistan...at times in areas dangerously high with insurgent activity. Joined by the Tennessee Army National Guard Adjutant General Gus Hargett and Col. Geren, Zach shook hands with Christopher Fisher, son of SFC Harry Fisher, and told him he should be very proud of his brave father.
	July 15 - Congressman Wamp joined city and state officials Saturday to celebrate Boeing’s 25th anniversary. “We are grateful Boeing chose to locate in East Tennessee and grow here. The world is changing by the hour. Boeing is here to face those challenges with its robust manufacturing base. Without U.S. manufacturing, our economy will sink, said Zach. Boeing is located in Oak Ridge and employees over 450 East Tennessee residents. During a tour of the manufacturing facility, Congressman Wamp examined the high quality products that can only be produced by American workers and which the future of our strong aerospace industry depends.
	July 14 - These are very troubling times as the terrorists who comprise Hezbollah are now in a huge military conflict with Israel and using Lebanon as their battleground,” Congressman Wamp said at a press conference in his Chattanooga office. Zach explained to reporters that the rapid escalation of violence that is edging towards all out war in the Middle East has a central connection and that means America has to be steadfast in its defense of freedom. “We need nations that have the guts to stand with us because the United Nations Security Council has proven it is impotent and incapable of handling peace and security in the World,” Zach said. "The real battle here is with Islamofascism – Islamic jihadists who embrace the radical elements of Islam – and so we now have challenges on every front and to get through this we’re going to have to step up and be very tough."
	July 13 - Since its formation in 2005, the Tennessee Alliance for Early Education has already garnered awards for its work in pre-kindergarten learning programs. Congressman Wamp presented the Alliance with the "Pre-K Champion" Award for its success in raising funds to expand early childhood education programs throughout the state of Tennessee. "The expansion of such opportunities is important to getting our children off to a good start and with the skills they will need," Zach stated. The Alliance was established as part of Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen's plan to increase pre-kindergarten learning across the state and consists of a broad coalition of individuals and groups dedicated to that purpose.
	July 13 - As Congressional Fitness Caucus co-chairman, Zach and Rep. Mark Udall of Colorado, kicked off Blue Cross & Blue Shield's WalkingWorks competition in front of the Capitol. WalkingWorks is a national campaign to encourage more Americans to get outside and exercise. Another goal of the program is to highlight the importance of taking care of our health by scheduling short, convenient walks such as during lunch or after work. House and Senate staffers are competing against one another to see who can walk the longest total distance. Congressman Wamp is a strong advocate of fitness, both to improve quality of life and reduce the drain that health care costs take on personal finances. “The most effective and practical way to combat rising healthcare costs is for people to get healthy, and walking is a great start," commented the Congressman.
	June 30 - A former boy scout himself, Congressman Wamp recalls some of his memories about the Capitol building to the young Oak Ridge men of Troop 129. “Where you are standing right now today is where our most distinguished and inspirational national leaders lay at rest. This is where the nation paid our final respects to Rosa Parks last year and President Reagan the year before.” The Capitol building not only houses the legislature, but its many artistic features memorialize and give testimony to our nation’s history. The two large oil paintings behind Rep. Wamp depict scenes of early New World contact between Native Americans and colonial Europeans.
	June 29 - Sporting a University of Tennessee baseball jersey and displaying a steady glove and keen hitter's eye, Congressman Wamp contributed to a sixth straight Republican victory in the annual Congressional Baseball Game. Zach topped his flawless performance at third by reaching base three times and effectively put the game out of reach by adeptly sliding home in the third inning. Receipts are still coming in from the game and it is too early to determine just how much money Members raised for local causes, such as the Washington Literacy Council, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington, and the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, but organizers predict it will be substantially more than the $130,000 raised last year. Zach commented "I enjoy getting out and playing, but doing so for charity makes what’s really just a game so much more worthwhile." Zach was 1 for 2 with a double and a run scored. The Republicans won, 12-1.
	June 22 - Rising obesity rates caused in part by sedentary lifestyles are raising the portion of families’ incomes spent on healthcare and in turn limiting other opportunities for Americans. Congressman Wamp believes this is a growing problem for Americans and the nation’s economy and discussed it with the Tennessee Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation & Dance. To nip this worrisome trend in the bud, Zach presented his goal to make all fourth graders more aware of the nutritional and lifestyle decisions they make day-to-day through education, and is seeking funds for in-school programs. As a founder and Co-Chairman of the Congressional Fitness Caucus, Congressman Wamp believes "we need a culture of personal responsibility to combat this epidemic and can do a better job of instilling responsibility in our children. Youngsters need more encouragement to get off of the sofa, get outside, and get active."
	June 21 - Oak Ridge holds a special place in the history of the United States. The Secret City was formed around America’s atomic bomb work during World War II, what we now know today as the Manhattan Project. While efforts to build the bomb and maintain a nuclear deterrent throughout the Cold War have been key to the growth of Oak Ridge, another project is equally important today: cleaning up the dangerous wastes that era left behind. Congressman Wamp recently discussed clean-up plans with board members from the Energy, Technology, and Environmental Businesses Association. ETEBA represents more than 130 businesses offering ecological and support services to federal agencies. A majority are located in Oak Ridge. Congressman Wamp noted, "This large clean-up effort will make the Oak Ridge area safer for our children and families, create jobs, and build sustaining expertise at both Y-12 and ORNL.”
	June 21 - Strength and courage are attributes not often evidenced in young children. Emily Ransom, of Hixson, Tennessee, was not a typical child. Diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a form of cancer that occurs in infants and young children, she battled and never gave up. In the same courageous spirit, Emily’s family has created a foundation in her memory, Emily's Power for a Cure for Neuroblastoma. They hope to raise awareness and funds for neuroblastoma research. A number of families in the Chattanooga area are afflicted with this terrible disease and Congressman Wamp spoke with Emily’s family about Congress' role in the fight, "We must do everything we can to prevent, find, and cure this awful disease. No child should have to endure it and we must do more to enable substantive hope in the families and loved ones of the stricken."
	June 20 - “This isn’t just about being green, it’s about greenbacks!” Congressman Wamp hosted the showcase of clean energy technologies at opening of the 9th Annual Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Expo on Capitol Hill. He explained how we balanced the budget in the last decade because of economic boom created by the leadership American entrepreneurs showed in information technology. America is again set for huge economic advances as our companies are making great strides in the areas of solar and wind energy, bio-fuels and fuel cell technology - sectors of American industry often called “Entech.” Congress can help get these innovations from testing labs to the production lines and spur additional economic growth by extending the soon-to-expire tax incentives that hastened their development. “The Energy Policy Act is good legislation,” Congressman Wamp said, “but we need to keep pushing because the fiscal benefit will be 100 times what we put into it.”
	June 15 - Standing with Tennessee National Guardsmen at the base of the sculpture of famous Tennessee statesman John Sevier in the U.S. Capitol’s Statutory Hall, Congressman Wamp recounts General Sevier’s Revolutionary War call for Tennesseans to join and fight the Redcoats. The General’s call was heeded, and the British were met and routed at King’s Mountain in South Carolina. Those Tennessee men set the example that is Tennessee’s enduring legacy: volunteer spirit, courage, independence, and teamwork. The Congressman added, "That volunteer spirit has been a cause of pride for generations of Tennesseans. The same spirit exists today in people such as yourselves, as you continue to serve our communities, our state, and our nation.”
	June 8 – America's leading taxpayer advocacy organization, Americans for Tax Reform (ATR), presented Congressman Wamp with the "Hero of the Taxpayer" award. ATR rewards those members who most consistently vote in the interest of taxpayers and not those of special interest. “I am committed to lowering taxes and creating a fairer and simpler tax code for all Americans,” said Congressman Wamp. Grover Norquist commended the Congressman for being “squarely on the side of taxpayers.”
	June 5 - As a member of the appropriations subcommittees funding the rebuilding of Southern Louisiana, Congressman Wamp arranged a follow-up tour of the areas damaged by Hurricane Katrina with the Department of Homeland Security, the Army Corps of Engineers and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Zach was particularly concerned that when he visited with a Congressional Delegation in March, storm debris was not being removed from private property where the bulk of it lay. “I was very encouraged by the progress I saw this time,” Zach said. “But people will not return until we have a plan to relocate them to areas safe from storm surge. This is where local governments in Louisiana must step up to the plate and work with the feds and with a new hurricane season already upon us they need to do it now.”
	June 1 – The donation of TVA’s electric vehicle test track will make Chattanooga a living laboratory for alternative fuels and transportation. Congressman Wamp joined TVA Chairman Bill Baxter and UTC Chancellor Roger Brown to announce a new partnership between TVA, Advanced Transportation and Technology Institute and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. This important venture was announced during the Tennessee Valley Corridor Summit. “This facility can be a feeder for the technology and breakthroughs of all types of next generation vehicles. When the day comes when we land advance transportation manufacturing in this city, this will be an important part of the equation,” Congressman Wamp said. “We have all types of opportunities for this compound, a 52-acre facility and 1-mile test tract.”
	May 30 – Economic development took a big step forward in East Tennessee with an opportunity for technology companies to locate on the campus of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Congressman Zach Wamp told participants at a kick off ceremony that the Technology Park, to be located in the center of the lab, will provide new opportunities to transfer technological discoveries at ORNL into viable consumer products. Lab officials thanked Zach for his help in making this innovative concept a reality. The first of its kind in the nation, the new tech park will have Pro-2-Serve, an Oak Ridge company, as its anchor tenant. A $15 million construction project will begin soon. Lab officials hope the park will speed the removal of old, unused buildings at the lab and continue the cleanup of the central lab campus.
	May 30 - “Warren Beavers has lived a life shaped and formed by his dedication to serving God, family, and country and is a true testament of public service.” Zach presented the Purple Heart medal to Master Sergeant Warren G. Beavers for wounds he received in combat during the battle of Tulagi. After the war, MSGT Beavers returned home where he earned his GED and enrolled in Lee College. He went on to earn a Bachelors Degree and a Masters in Theology which prepared him for his next phase of public service as a Minister of the Gospel. During the medal presentation MSGT Beavers noted that, “Nothing means more to me than to have my family present with me at this special time.”
	May 23 - “I am involved in several things that are much bigger than my career or my life, and I have to tell you that we could not be engaged in a more important enterprise than trying to secure our energy future as a nation,” Zach said. As an author of the Energy Efficiency Cornerstone Act and speaking at the third annual Great Energy Efficiency Debate, Zach said it is important that legislation in the coming fiscal year strongly supports renewable energy and energy efficiency programs as well as President Bush’s Advanced Hydrogen Fuel Initiative and solar energy. And more needs to be done. “One of our problems with energy is that some people don’t think there is a problem,” Zach said. “I had always thought that $2.50 per gallon was that magic number that would get people and politicians out of their chairs and active at the grassroots level, but that is obviously not that case.”
	May 17- Immigration and Border Security are top priorities on the minds of American citizens, including Congressman Zach Wamp. An initiative to enhance security was presented in a meeting today by the director of US-VISIT program, Jim Williams. “I encourage you to stay on the job and work toward your goals,” Zach said, “I want this program to be a success story to convey to the public what has been done and what is being implemented to control and protect our borders.” By using 21st Century technology called biometrics, US-VISIT will build an identity management system to manage the enforcement of our immigration laws. Bio Visas will collect digital photos and fingerprints from foreign visitors and keep a record of each individual entering and leaving through US airports, seaports and land borders.
	May 22 - “Dedicating your life to serving our country is one of the greatest sacrifices an individual can make”, Zach said as he congratulated the Military Academy appointees from Rhea, Bradley, and Hamilton County. The Congressman announced the remaining 5 appointees from the southern portion of his district. The appointments included Dan Hall, Will Brant III, Drake Carter to U.S. Military Academy, Jeffrey Garrett to the U.S. Air Force, and Ian Meredith to the U.S. Naval Academy. The Congressman went on to stress the value of these appointees by saying, “This is a tremendous honor to have these young men willing to make such a sacrifice when our nation is at war. It is certainly an honor for me to have them represent the 3rd district and our great country”.
	May 22 – “We’ve got to have the necessary workforce to compete in today’s global economy. This workforce must be fundamentally sound in manufacturing and construction, which are at the heart of a strong economy,” Congressman Wamp said. He joined Chattanooga State Community College and the local building and construction industry to open the Building and Construction Institute of the Southeast (BCIS). BCIS is a partnership with the University and a multitude of construction industry representatives to create a qualified workforce to meet the needs of the Chattanooga region. The BCIS will provide a central location for educational programs where workers can develop and hone the advanced skills necessary in today’s building and construction industry. The Congressman was thanked for his support by Elliot Davenport with Stein Wood Products.
	May 17 - “The Workforce Health Improvement Program (WHIP) Act is legislation designed to encourage people to exercise and lead healthier lifestyles by offering financial incentives to do so,” Zach said. “It makes economic sense because Medicare costs would go down, Medicaid costs would go down and workplace productivity would increase.” Congressman Wamp was honored for his advocacy of fitness and healthy living with the “Champion of the Year” award at the annual meeting of the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association. Zach said there is now a good chance the WHIP Act could become law by year’s end and he encouraged elementary school students to get away from their computer screens once in a while. "The technological age that we live in disconnects us from playing and moving about,” Zach said. “A sedentary lifestyle is a recipe for failing. You’ve got to be physically active to experience all the joys of life."
	May 17- Matters of insurance weigh heavily on minds of members of the Tennessee Association of Realtors. The group joined Congressman Wamp in his Washington office to discuss health and also homeowner insurance related issues. “These things are really important and I want to help,” Zach explained to the group. Members from the association hope that legislation will soon pass to allow state realtor associations the opportunity to offer all members affordable and uniform health care coverage. The Tennessee Association of Realtors also hopes to improve flood and natural disaster insurance for homeowners. Members told the Congressman that these types of insurances should be made more affordable as well as available to homeowners who live in flood or disaster prone areas.
	May 15 - “All of you at the Chattanooga Food Bank have proven time and again to be exceptional stewards of your limited resources as you continue to be the bridge between America’s food bounty and those who cannot provide for themselves.” Zach dropped off a bag of canned goods at the CFB’s new collection facility during the National Association of Letter Carriers Annual Food Drive. This drive will collect an estimated 80-90,000 pounds of groceries to support the CFB’s Emergency Food Box Program. According to Executive Director Claire Sawyer, over 700,000lbs of groceries were distributed last year and based on current receipt they anticipate an even better year to come. Zach greeted Rick Willhoite of the National Association of Letter Carriers, along with Carl Pendergrass of the U.S. Postal Service and Post-Master General Jack Boran.
	May 10- The first of four oil paintings John Trumbell completed for the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol depicts the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This is just one of many interesting historical features Congressman Wamp pointed out while teaching school groups the history of our nation’s capitol. “Truly great leaders usually are not always the most popular,” Zach explained, “If you do the right thing, you have the potential to be great.” Zach enjoys sharing personal stories, along with traditions and history to Tennessee visitors. The State of Tennessee has had very influential representatives over the years and is the only state to have two Senate majority leaders, Senators Bill Frist and Howard Baker.
	May 10 - “I clearly wrote in my report to the full Appropriations Committee when I returned from the Katrina CODEL that FEMA needs to be a stand-alone agency,” Congressman Wamp said. “This isn’t about jurisdiction, it is about accountability.” Zach spoke at a bipartisan press conference with Reps. Don Young, Tom Davis, Bill Shuster and Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton where he was an original co-sponsor of H.R.5316, legislation to remove the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) from control of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and make it an independent Cabinet-level agency under the control of the White House. Zach became convinced of the need for this after visiting the Katrina-ravaged Gulf Coast with congressional leaders in March to review the recovery and rebuilding efforts there. ”DHS is about prevention and keeping us safe, but FEMA is about responding to disasters and helping people,” Zach said. “That is why this legislation is the right approach."
	May 4 - "Our nation’s nuclear workers and their families deserve fair and timely compensation for work-related illnesses," Congressman Zach Wamp said in testimony before a house committee reviewing the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act. "While EEOICPA has been a tremendous success in many ways, it is clear that not everyone Congress intended to be compensated by this program has been helped. Many former workers say the entire process still takes too long. My offices report that difficult cases often take several years to complete. And some claimants feel they can’t get adequate updates from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. While parts of EEOICPA have been slow to evolve, it is my personal hope that the program will become an accurate and efficient tool to compensate workers for their illnesses.
	May 1- “One of the greatest privileges I have as a Member of Congress is to not just nominate young men and women to our service academies but to actually appoint them,” Zach said. “It is a great encouragement to see the challenges that our country faces around the world and then see you all dedicate yourself to this cause. Because this is not about going to college, this is about serving your country.” Congressman Zach Wamp announced today the appointments of Brennan Roorda of Oak Ridge to the U.S. Military Academy and Steven Cody Stiles of New Market to the U.S. Naval Academy. “I just want to thank you for your willingness to serve our country and congratulate you on your appointment and acceptance to the academies. You represent the best and brightest. I am incredibly proud of both of you,” Zach told the appointees.
	May 1- “John and Peter are the kind of Americans others can look to for examples of how one person can make a huge difference in this world,” Congressman Wamp said. “Mr. Leach is alive today because they took the time to learn First Aid skills for the sole purpose of helping others and set an example the rest of us should follow.” Zach presented Oak Ridge National Laboratories employees John Turner and Peter Chiaro each with the Red Cross Certificate of Merit personally signed by President Bush for saving the life of fellow employee Robert Leach. Turner and Chiaro responded quickly to cries for help, found Leach on his office floor in a lifeless state and instantly began CPR. The Certificate of Merit is the highest award given by the Red Cross for saving a life or sustaining life using the skills acquired in an American Red Cross Health and Safety Services course.
	April 27- Continuing his initiative for alternative fuel development, Congressman Wamp and Congressman Lee Terry met to discuss hydrogen research funding. “We have got to have a process and measurable goals for the hydrogen fuel cell initiative.” Zach advised Rep. Terry about a new solid-oxide fuel cell unit in place at UTC. The system heats and cools your home and water, but it also makes hydrogen for your car. “The money allocated in the President’s FY07 budget for the hydrogen fuel cell initiative needs to be fully funded by Congress to accelerate this process,” said Zach. Congressman Terry expressed his optimism after he met with Department of Energy staff last week. Under Secretary Garman has set solid goals within a timetable for 2012 or 2013 to get the hydrogen initiative underway.
	April 26 - East Tennessee Environmental Business Association has a new executive director. Alice Quillen Murphy was recently named to lead the non-profit organization. Congressman Wamp congratulated Ms. Murphy on her new position when she visited his Washington office. Ms. Murphy will represent ETEBA in its mission to act as East Tennessee’s voice on issues related to environmental management and government contracting. ETEBA represents more than 130 local and national businesses providing environmental and support services to federal agencies. A large majority of these businesses are located in Oak Ridge. They give DOE Oak Ridge Operations the support needed to complete safe and cost effective environmental cleanup, promoting modernization and expanding the horizon for new missions.
	April 21- “Iran is the most serious threat our country faces today. What was once a five to 10 year threat is now closer to a one to two year threat,” said Congressman Wamp. Zach told the Chattanooga Civitan Club on Friday that Iran is developing nuclear weapons and that we should be concerned by their intentions. Also, the Congressman spoke about the state of the U.S. economy, the need for preventative healthcare, and a strong transition to alternative energy sources. Civitan member Larson Mick thanked the Congressman for attending their monthly meeting. The Chattanooga Civitan Club is the third oldest chapter in the world. Since 1920, the Chattanooga Club has been serving the community through dedicated leadership and active programs.
	April 21 - “The best way to honor the price of freedom and encourage future generations is to recognize the bravery, heroism, and sacrificial service of the men of the Greatest Generation.” 85 year old Grady Butler, Veteran of World War II, finally received the service medals he earned from his service that included storming the beaches of Normandy and the Liberation of Europe. His military service records were destroyed on July 12, 1973 when a fire at the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis burned 80% of the records for Army personnel. With his granddaughters Sherry Groves and Cindy Madherly present, Mr. Butler candidly shared several of his most memorable experiences from the war which included the ambush on his tanker at the Rhine River that earned him the Purple Heart.
	April 19 - "The spiritual heritage of our great nation is undeniable, and Southeast Tennessee is particularly rich with a religious heritage that needs to be made a permanent part of American history." Zach, joined by Beth Jones and Hale Booth of the SE TN Development District, praised the cooperative efforts of the U.S. Economic Development Administration and the Appalachian Regional Commission for their coordination with local government in the establishment of the "On the Glory Land Road" Religious Heritage Trail. This Trail documents the diversity of religion in the area enabling visitors to understand the region's strong religious beliefs while giving residents another reason to be proud of their heritage. This Trail was dedicated at the historic Rhea County Courthouse in Dayton, TN site of the 1925 Scopes Monkey Trial.
	April 13 - “Aerisyn is strongly contributing to the successful high-tech industry in the Tennessee Valley and its ability to lead the country in developing and manufacturing energy-efficient products and technologies”, said Zach. The Congressman joined Walter “Wally” Thompson, director of marketing, and William Stone, CEO and Director of Business Development on a tour of the downtown Chattanooga facilities. Aerisyn opened its doors in January 2005 with just a dozen employees and is now one of the leading manufacturers of wind towers in the United States, providing towers to all 50 states and a wide variety of clients from Europe and Asia and employing 120 people. Wind turbines provide a clean and renewable source of electric power and constitute the world’s fastest growing energy sources.
	April 12 – Congressman Wamp joined county leaders for a tour of the new Claiborne County Jail and Justice Center, where nearly 50 prisoners are scheduled to move on May 1. Claiborne officials are very proud of the new facility, which was a tremendous undertaking with construction lasting 2 years. After the tour, Zach held a public meeting and citizens were very concerned about the course of the immigration reform debate going on in Washington. “We must first secure our borders before we consider reforming our immigration laws,” Zach said. “But, any reforms cannot contain amnesty because rewarding lawbreakers with citizenship dishonors all those who came here legally and is unfair to those who are obeying our laws and patiently waiting to become citizens the right way.”
	April 11 – “Grainger County has tremendous growth potential. I’ve seen the organization and today it is moving another step forward.” Congressman Wamp said. During a Chamber Luncheon at Shine’s Country Cookin’, Zach joined Mary “Ruth” Tackett, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development state director, in the presentation of a $31,000 grant and a $94,000 guaranteed low-interest loan to build a 4.5 mile water main that will connect Joppa School with a modern water treatment plant. As the only Tennessean on the Appropriations Committee, Congressman Zach Wamp included language in fiscal year 2003 appropriations bill that directed USDA to assist in the completion of this project -- not only to ensure students have a supply of safe water, but also to begin the building of modern infrastructure in rural areas.
	April 10 - “It is an honor for me to even be in your presence, and I hope you know how much we appreciate your sacrificial service and your life.” Congressman Wamp had the privilege of presenting First Lt. George William Guinn, Jr. with the medals he earned in the Korean War. Among the many medals earned, First Lt. Gunn earned The Bronze Star with Double Oak Leaf Cluster denoting the equivalency of 3 Bronze Stars and the Letter V Device for exemplary valor. Upon returning from the war, many members of the “Greatest Generation” were more concerned about going back to work to support their families than obtaining service medals or citations. Joined by 3 generations of First Lt. Guinn’s family, Congressman Wamp read the 21 July 1953 Department of the Army Citation noting First Lt. Guinn’s exemplary conduct, unquestionable moral standards, and tireless devotion. This humble hero had one remark, “I just got lucky.”
	April 6- Safely transporting 4,844 cylinders to Portsmouth is one major priority Bechtel Jacobs has included in Oak Ridge’s Accelerated Cleanup Project. When introducing Gerald Boyd at the Nuclear Cleanup Caucus meeting, Zach said, “We are part of an accelerated project that is going well and meeting our milestones, I just want to thank our workers for what they do for our county.” Mike Hughes, president of Bechtel Jacobs, the company managing the cleanup, said only 1,108 cylinders remain to be shipped and Congressman Wamp will be in Oak Ridge to watch the last shipment depart. Steve McCracken, Department of Energy’s environmental manager at Oak Ridge also briefed caucus members on major actions and safety improvements that have been made in demolishing the site’s old, contaminated buildings and opening the new haul road to remove truck traffic from public highways. The haul road has already been used to transport 156 tons of waste for disposal.
	April 6- Fire sprinklers will make a difference in the quality of life in any community by decreasing the number of fire related deaths. This is the message Chattanooga Firefighters brought to Washington when they came to thank Congressman Wamp for his support in helping Fire Team USA secure a grant in the amount of $592,510 from the Department of Homeland Security. "I am so honored that you all are here. I truly admire and appreciate your service to our community," Congressman Wamp said. Fire Team USA will use funds from the grant to develop a workshop series designed to bring policy makers, fire chiefs, building officials, water purveyors, and fire marshals together to learn about fire sprinklers and how they can be an effective planning tool and resource for their communities.
	April 5- Increasing physical activity and understanding the barriers to physical activity that older adults face is a challenge the National Blueprint for Active Seniors Program is more than willing to take on. "My heart is in promoting physical fitness", Zach told Dr. Wojtek Chodzko-Zajko when they joined to discuss past accomplishments and the future goals of the program. Since its development in 2001, the National Blueprint has implemented a mini-grant program that is currently funding 20 community coalitions that are helping to increase physical activity among older adults at the local level. In addition, the National Blueprint is dedicated to building a strong commitment within the aging network and also developing a public policy agenda to help get seniors on the move!
	March 29 – “This issue and these industries are at the heart of this nation’s ability to assure its security into the future, but we have a long way to go and short time to get there,” Zach said as he Congressman Mark Udall convened a working breakfast between the Congressional Renewable Energy and Efficiency Caucus and industry leaders in renewable energy technologies. Advocates, developers and manufacturers of wind, solar and hydro power and batteries for hybrid vehicles told Zach, Rep. Udall and other Congressmen present that short-term tax incentives are one of the main obstacles to fully developing renewable energy technologies and getting them accepted by the public. Randall Swisher of the American Wind Energy Association said the return of investment of providing certainty in the renewable energy tax code would be huge. “If we had a five year extension of the Energy Efficiency Tax Incentives you would see billions of dollars flow into the U.S. economy,” Swisher said.
	March 28 - Maximizing quality healthcare to the uninsured, poor and minority individuals living in Tennessee by uniting federal health centers with other care providers is the fundamental goal of the Tennessee Primary Care Association. Congressman Wamp talked with members from the association about the importance of reauthorizing the federal health centers program which is due to expire in September. “I admire what you folks are doing and I am going to help you out any way that I can,” Zach said. Association Members also want to make sure that health centers get the strong support they need. Federal health centers help to form the backbone of America's health care safety net and have already helped over 15 million Americans receive quality healthcare.
	March 27 - “Your willingness to stand in the gap between the threat and our civilian population is an inspiration to all of us, and now your son intends to follow your footsteps.” Jim Poston, along with his wife Sharon, and children Michael and Elizabeth, met with Congressman Wamp in his Chattanooga District Office to thank him for his service to the country and his support for all of our troops. Jim has been mobilized for active duty service with the United States Navy in Iraq and will be departing 04/03/06. Zach spoke with Michael about the Service Academy nomination process, and congratulated him on the pending announcement of his achievement of Scouting’s highest honor, the Eagle Scout Award.
	March 17- Head Start programs and the Child Care and Development Block grant together provide child care assistance and educational services to many hard working parents in Tennessee. "I will advocate Head Start to anyone I can because I have seen what the program can do," Congressman Wamp explained to Phil Acord of the Tennessee Association for the Education of Young Children. Head Start and Early Head Start programs strive to make sure that every child, regardless of income, can succeed. Appropriations for early childhood programs have been stable for five years. Acord was advocating for an increase in federal funding so more eligible families can qualify for assistance.
	March 15 - “The United States and Ireland share a very special relationship,” said Congressman Wamp. “The ancestors of millions of Americans came to these shores from Ireland to escape war and famine, often with nothing but the clothes on their back and a willingness to work in their new home.” Today, Ireland is flourishing economically as a member of the European Union. Zach celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern, Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist and President Bush at a Capitol luncheon held in honor of Ahern’s visit to Washington. Ahern noted that as Ireland continues to work out the religious differences that have caused decades of violence in Northern Ireland, his country will continue to look to the U.S. for support. “The United States has been a great friend in this quest,” Ahern said. “As we seek to conclude the last elements in our peace process, your continuing support will be of enormous importance and greatly appreciated.”
	March 15 - “The votes I cast in Congress on behalf of the citizens of the Third District of Tennessee bolster the American ideals of self-sufficiency, individual achievement and smaller government,” said Congressman Wamp in receiving the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s 2005 Spirit of Enterprise Award. The Chamber awards the Spirit of Enterprise based on rankings it gives Members of Congress for key votes outlined in its annual publication. Zach's high score shows his dedication to helping create jobs and economic opportunities for East Tennessee. “Zach is a leader who has fought for legislation to spur job creation, increase productivity and keep our economy growing.” said Chamber President Thomas J. Donohue. “We’re proud to present him with this award on behalf of America’s businesses, both large and small.”
	March 11 - “If we don’t give honor to our veterans and thank every single man and woman in uniform in our armed forces, our way of life will not be passed from one generation to the next, “ Zach said to the supporters and families who joined to welcome home the 278th regimental combat team. The troop was deployed 17 months ago from Camp Shelby where Zach had honor of seeing many of them before they left. “You are true American heroes! The Army is proud of you, our state is proud of you our nation is proud of you. Thank you for sacrificing and serving above and beyond the call of duty. God bless you, “ Zach told the troop.
	March 6 – “Anyone who comes to Sequoyah is seeking a better future. Sequoyah is preparing a workforce that will attract industries and better wages for our region”, said Congressman Wamp. Zach joined members from the education field, elected leadership, and the business community at a dinner hosted by Sequoyah High School. The 2005-2006 academic school year is the first that Sequoyah has been a full fledged High School. In previous years Sequoyah offered classes for students from all over Hamilton County but these students would graduate from their own high schools. Now, Sequoyah is a comprehensive high school preparing students to be successful in career fields directly after graduation. The Congressman thanked Health Science Teacher Shannon Mentgen, and her father Jerry White for the commitment they have shown to making Sequoyah a great place for young people.
	March 1— The Warrior Rehabilitation and Fitness Center and Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Facility at Fort Campbell in Clarksville, Tennessee are in dire need of repair. Citizens for Fort Campbell visited with Congressman Wamp in Washington to discuss the integral role these facilities play in providing support to soldiers, civilians, and families as Fort Campbell continues to adjust to support an army at war. The Warrior Rehabilitation and Fitness Center provides facilities for the physical fitness of troops and rehabilitation therapy for troops who have been wounded. “The special operations units which mobilize out of Fort Campbell at a moment's notice make it a key national security resource in the Global War on Terror,” Zach said. “The brave men and women who volunteer for our Armed Services deserve every advantage against our enemies that we can give them, and there is no more basic need than physical fitness.”
	March 1— In a meeting with the Tennessee Valley Credit Union League, Congressman Zach Wamp discussed two new pieces of legislation introduced in the summer of 2005. Many of the provisions under consideration in both the Credit Union Regulatory Improvements Act and the Regulatory Relief Act would help eliminate some micromanagement that have placed constraints on the ability of credit unions and their boards to function efficiently and in the best interest of their members. Zach asked them to make a list of four or five ways Community Banks and Credit Unions can work together, “I feel that with more cooperation and motivation, this will help the Credit Unions try to solve some of their problems and also help the community banks stay competitive,” he said.
	February 23 - "Use technology to leapfrog the challenges we need to overcome." That was one of the solutions to solving the energy crisis Congressman Wamp presented to FuelCellSouth partners at Tech 2020 in Oak Ridge. “Cling to manufacturing but make it cleaner, leaner and greener,” Wamp said. FuelCellSouth is a partnership with a mission to bring hydrogen fuel cells to the marketplace as quickly as possible. The one day conference brought together scientists, business leaders and government officials.
	February 23 – “This is a very special part of the renaissance of Clinton because the history that took place here has not been properly archived for future generations,” Zach said at the groundbreaking of the Green McAdoo Cultural Center. The Center will house a museum and library memorializing the City of Clinton’s leading role in desegregation. At the event Zach had the honor of meeting Alfred Williams, one of the original Clinton 12 who braved the racial hatred and boldly walked to their new integrated school. Zach said the project takes on even more importance with the recent deaths of civil rights icons Rosa Parks and Correta Scott King. “If the giants die and we do nothing, we will have failed to honor their memories.”
	February 17 – “A solid oxide fuel cell system will someday be able to make electricity and also use that electricity to heat and cool a home and make hydrogen for your car without the need for transmission lines coming into your home,” Zach said as he helped others at the SimCenter unveil the second such unit in existence. The fuel cell being developed by the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga engineering school, Silicon Valley-based Ion America and the Department of Energy could help realize the goals of energy independence outlined by President Bush in his State of the Union Address. Zach, Senator Bill Frist and former Chattanooga Mayor Bob Corker were instrumental in bringing the DOE and Ion America fuel cell pilot to UTC.
	January 27 – Zach joined Hamilton County Mayor Claude Ramsey and UTC Chancellor Dr. Roger Brown for a ribbon cutting to mark the opening of the Hamilton County High-Tech Incubator at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. The Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce, Hamilton County, and UTC formed a partnership to create a new High-Tech Incubator, which will focus on creating and developing high tech companies. Zach made a strong pitch for the need for America to remain technology driven by saying “The vision is to bring academia, economic development, and technology growth all together so we can remain competitive in the world economy.” The Incubator will operate under the Center for Entrepreneurial Growth which now will be able to bring entrepreneurs into a close working relationship with faculty and University resources.
	January 18 – Agriculture, energy and border security were the main topics at Zach’s public meetings in Grainger and Jefferson counties. Grainger County farmers asked the Congressman to assist them in getting the state and federal bureaucracies to pay more attention to their needs. Jefferson County residents at the Wagon Wheel Restaurant in Dandridge were concerned about high energy costs and illegal immigration. “We will call the Department of Agriculture to make sure you are getting what you need from them,” Zach said. “We also need to end reliance our on foreign oil and a fuel cell being tested at the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga could do just that.” The solid oxide fuel cell recently delivered from Silicon Valley would run on ethanol made from America’s corn crop, produce enough electricity to power a single family home and generate hydrogen for use in a hydrogen fuel vehicle.
	January 17 – “This county is so rich in history and heritage and we need to figure out how to capture it and determine if we should be part of the Daniel Boone Trail,” Zach said. Economic development was very much on residents’ minds during Zach’s public meeting in New Tazewell at the Do Drop In. Betsy Maples of Claiborne County Economic and Community Development, Lincoln Memorial University Tourism Director Carol Campbell and Vola Noah of the Claiborne County Tourism Commission told Zach that Claiborne County’s frontier connections would make an ideal inclusion in the Daniel Boone Trail. The trail was blazed by Boone in 1775 from what is now Kingston, Tennessee, through the Cumberland Gap of Virginia and into Kentucky. It became the route for hundreds of thousands of settlers of the western frontier.
	January 17 – “We were put on this earth to love God and love each other,” Zach said as he was reading books to the children of the Clinch-Powell Educational Cooperative Head Start program. “The more you learn to read, the smarter you will become and the more successful you will be and that will allow you to better help others.” During his tour of the Head Start learning center teacher Marcy Williams said that she tries to give her students what they are missing at home – “a warm, safe place to learn and teach them their ABC’s.” The program also offers social skills lessons for the children’s parents. Located in Tazewell, Clinch-Powell Head Start has almost 60 children enrolled and serves Claiborne, Campbell, Hancock and Scott counties.
	January 16 – “Dr. King’s strong hope for change was focused on a nonviolent movement to counteract racial discrimination. We must continue honor the life of a great American hero that gave his life to fight inequality. Dr. King’s contributions to society will allow his legacy to forever live on in American History”, said Zach. The Congressman participated in the Unity Group’s 37th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration which included an entire weekend of events. The Monday evening program was lead by Rev. Samuel Billy Kyles from Monumental Baptist Church in Memphis, TN. Zach joined several hundred participants along with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. member Martin Brooks in a march down M.L. King Boulevard to the Tivoli Theatre. Dr. King is the most prominent member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, which is currently raising funds to construct a memorial in Washington D.C.
	January 13 - The Meigs County Emergency Operations Center received $96,900 in funding through the DHS Assistance to Firefighter Grant Program. "Since 9-11 the Congress has committed to supporting our nation's first responders, and the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is an excellent example of the federal government putting funds directly into the hands of local fire departments enhancing their ability to fight fires while protecting the health and safety of the public.” County Mayor Ken Jones and Emergency Management Director Tony Finnell thanked Zach for his continued support of first responders in Meigs County. Tony pointed out to Zach that once they meet the local cost share the grant funds will enable them to replace over 20 outdated Self-Contained Breath Apparatus for the cost of 4 units.
	January 13 - The Congressman joined State Representative Bo Watson, Physical Therapist, along with a tremendous panel to discuss government issues affecting the industry and its’ patients. “We have to spend more time on preventive healthcare to decrease individual and government expenses later. This means encouraging our generation to adopt nutritional eating habits in addition to a strong physical routine” said Zach. As the founder and current co-chairman of the Congressional Fitness Caucus, Zach is leading by example as he promotes healthier lifestyles for all citizens. For example, in 2004 Zach helped to launch “Tennessee on the Move”, a statewide program to encourage a better lifestyle. The Congressman is thanked by physical therapy students from Chattanooga State Community College and UT-Chattanooga for his continued support on preventative healthcare issues.
	January 12 - “Veterans embody all that is good in America, and should be held up as a model because for us all because of their sacrifice, courage, and commitment to serving others and making our Nation the model of a free society.” In the Rhea County Courthouse Zach met with a large group of local veterans ranging in ages from World War II era to Operation Enduring Freedom. Among those in attendance were Dayton Vice-Mayor Jim Barnes and City Councilman John Heath. Vice-Mayor Barnes was accompanied by his son 1SG William Barnes of D-Battery Company 1278^th who just returned from a one-year tour in Iraq.
	January 11 - "The delivery of healthcare for veterans has taken a significant step forward with the addition of this state of the art imaging center that will enable the VA to provide the quality of service offered through a private healthcare facility," Congressman Wamp said at the grand opening of the 10,000 square-foot Department of Veterans Affairs Chattanooga Outpatient Imaging Center. Many veterans have been forced to travel 2 hours to the VA facilities in Nashville and Murfreesboro because the local facility has been unable to meet growing demands. The opening of this new imaging center means area veterans will no longer have to travel long distances to receive basic imaging services.
	December 17 - Congressman Wamp gave the commencement speech at Lincoln Memorial University’s winter graduation ceremony, urging graduates to give of themselves and keep their promises; principles that have guided him through life as a public servant. “Be bold and ambitious,” Zach said, “but don’t lose touch with your fellow man. Dedicate your life to giving. Happiness will come to you if you give your life away,” He also told graduates that a big part of understanding how to enjoy life is accepting that things don’t always work out the way you planned. “When things don’t go the way you thought they would, don’t whine,” he said, “play it the way it lies.” Awarding 1016 associate, baccalaureate and master degrees, this was the largest graduating class since the University was founded in 1897.
	December 15 - The University of Tennessee-Battelle partnership has been a key factor in enhancing the Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s leadership in scientific research, technological development and laboratory operations for over five years. Zach met with Battelle CEO Carl Kohrt and company Vice President Jack Bagley for a discussion on new appointments to the contractor’s management team and a review of the partnership’s operations. Zach had great things to say about the company: “Battelle is one of the best contractor in America and your performance has given the people of Oak Ridge reason to be proud of what is happening at the Lab.” During the term of UT-Battelle’s contact with the Department of Energy it has contributed to a 56 percent growth in national lab’s research program and the near completion of the $1.4 billion Spallation Neutron Source.
	December 13 - As home heating costs are expected to rise by an average of 25 percent this winter groups like the Alliance to Save Energy are considering ways to help consumers lower their energy bills. Zach joined Under Secretary of Energy David Garman in marking the launch of the Alliance’s most recent energy efficiency program, The Power is in Your Hands. The Congressman stressed the importance of simple and practical steps individuals can take to conserve energy in his address to the gathering. “One or two degrees on the thermostat is going to make a big difference on the bottom line and everyone needs to understand that it’s just a little slight change and we will save energy.” The Power is in Your Hands program will deliver energy saving tips to consumers though an integrated TV, radio, and print media campaign.
	December 8 - The threat of International terrorism has highlighted the need to detect nuclear or radiological materials before they reach the United States. Zach met with representatives from the newly established Domestic Nuclear Detection Office (DNDO) to discuss how Tennessee can aid in their mission to prevent nuclear or radiological material intended for illicit use from entering the United States. The group exchanged ideas on the technological support Tennessee companies might offer as well as ways to streamline a coordinated emergency response between the state and federal government. “You are charged with an important job and I will assist you in any way I can to secure all of us from these grave threats,” Rep. Wamp said. The DNDO resides within the Department of Homeland Security and works closely with the Department of Defense, The Department of State, and the FBI.
	December 7 - Rising to the foreign policy challenges of the 21st century will require closer cooperation at home and abroad according to Ambassador David Abshire. The former Ambassador to NATO, current President of the Center for the Study of the Presidency, and Chattanooga native meet with Zach to discuss his approach improving America’s homeland security. The Ambassador’s “layered defense” concept would involve a greater number of federal agencies and European allies in the Department of Homeland Security’s counter terrorism planning. “I admire your desire to move beyond the political name calling to doing serious thinking about the challenges our nation faces in the coming years,” Zach said after the briefing. The pair concluded the meeting by exchanging ideas on how to generate funding for a Center for Leadership Studies at the Baylor School in Chattanooga.
	December 2 – "One of the biggest challenges our country faces is a growing trend of developing countries attempting to get ahead in math, science, and technology education. We must commend the Challenger Learning Center for inspiring young people to seek and achieve success in these crucial areas," Zach said. The Congressman joined the community of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in celebrating 10 years of service and a groundbreaking of the Center's planned expansion. An international, not-for-profit education organization that was founded the by the families of the astronauts who perished in the Challenger Space Shuttle mission 51-L, the Learning Center has enhanced the education of more than 85,000 elementary and middle school students throughout this region. In 2000, Congressman Wamp supported a grant through the Department of Education that allowed the Center to continue to operate while it raised money from the private sector for the expansion.
	December 2 - “An issue like preventing crime must be handled through community activism and partnerships, and deterrence programs,” said Zach as he addressed members from the Chattanooga Eastside Taskforce during their monthly meeting. The Taskforce has united neighborhood leaders from Avondale, Bushtown, Churchville, East Chattanooga, and Glenwood areas to collectively fight crime in these communities. The Taskforce has a clear mission: to lower crime rates and to positively impact the lives of those living in these neighborhoods through early intervention and community activism. Studies show typical criminal patterns can be broken through basic community-based programs such as youth development, job creation, and drug prevention. After the Congressman’s keynote address, Zach met with Eastside Taskforce members and Chattanooga City officials from the Office of Faith Based and Community Partnerships to hear their concerns and learn more about their outreach efforts.
	December 1-Research shows that providing children with safe recreation after school is an important compliment to the work they do in the classroom. Zach joined dozens of Anderson County community leaders in marking the opening of the Boys & Girls Club at Lake City Elementary School. The Congressman acknowledged the value of this community based organization in his address and stressed the importance of combating childhood obesity. “Kids should be in the gym playing games instead of in front of a video screen playing games,” Zach said. "We need to integrate PE back into public schools to increase the overall quality of life for children." The Lake City Boys and Girls Club has 90 participants with 30 regular daily attendees.
	December 1-The Muddy Boot Award, an East Tennessee tradition for more than three decades, was born from the muddy boots of the Manhattan Project workers who built the Oak Ridge plants and helped win World War II. Congressman Wamp, a previous muddy boot recipient, presented this prestigious award to the local DOE Manager, Gerald Boyd, at the East Tennessee Economic Council annual meeting. "I am very grateful for Gerald's leadership. He is beloved by this community and everyone has great confidence in him. Gerald has lived up to the task and pulled us all together." Zach said the best part is that the work is just beginning and Gerald is nowhere near retirement so the Oak Ridge community can continue to benefit from his leadership for years to come. The keynote speaker for the meeting was David Garman, DOE Under Secretary for Energy, Science and Environment, who also has roots in East Tennessee and is a strong supporter of the Oak Ridge missions.
	November 9—The recent spike in crude oil prices will lead to a 21 percent increase in home heating costs this winter according to projections by the Department of Energy. Zach hosted representatives from the federal government, Congress, and Washington area policy groups for a roundtable policy discussion on cost of home heating organized by his Energy and Technology Subcommittee. “Heating is becoming such a burden for both hardworking individuals and the national economy that the issue deserves serious consideration from as many different perspectives as we can summon,” the Congressman stated in his opening remarks. The group exchanged ideas on methods to increase greater energy production, future alternatives to traditional sources of home heating, as well as ways to develop market incentives towards long term energy conservation.
	November 3— By the year 2025 the amount of foreign oil America will need to meet her energy needs is projected to increase from 55 percent to over 75 percent unless we are able to develop more fuel efficient technologies. Zach test drove General Motors’ latest model providing the market with an automobile powered entirely by alternative energy sources. The HydroGen 3 runs on an electric fuel cell which consumes a mixture of renewable hydrogen and oxygen from the air. General Motors hopes this prototype will eventually lead to the mass production of a car that is virtually pollution free and roughly twice as efficient as traditional gasoline internal combustion engines vehicles. Finding innovative ways to reduce America’s dependence on imported oil is an important part of Zach’s work on the Energy and Water Committee.
	November 2—Oak Ridge is approaching another milestone in an overall plan to transform a historic cornerstone of regional development and national security according to Mayor David Bradshaw. He briefed Zach on the city’s effort to assume the federal government’s role in providing utility services to the K-25 site and Y-12 plant. The Mayor explained that new lines will enable the city to pump water to Y-12, and that plans to privatize all K-25 utilities are nearing completion. The two also discussed construction projects at the American Museum of Science and Energy, work on the redevelopment of the mall beside the Staples center, as well as the city’s retail and tax revenue. The Congressman expressed enthusiasm for the recent improvements in the city’s infrastructure: “You are a hero for producing this amount of synergy in Oak Ridge.”
	October 31 – With rising Prescription drug cost, Dr. Mark Heinsohn and Michael Davis of the Intelliscript Company, joined together to create computer software known as Point of Prescribing Interactive Formulary (PPIF). The PPIF software enables physicians and a patient to access and consider drug cost before a prescription is written. A physician is able to view the price of generic drugs and compare them to name brands. The software allows for a bar coded prescription to be printed rather than written. “I did not support the Prescription Drug Legislation,” Zach said as he discussed ways to make prescription drugs as inexpensive as possible. State Senator David Fowler, John Riddell of the Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce, and Dr. Ron Bailey of UTC College Engineering joined the Congressman on this new high tech presentation.
	October 26 — The Trail of Tears has been a national landmark linking Eastern Tennessee to its rich Native American heritage for over a decade. Congressman Zach Wamp discussed plans to include newly documented sections to the 1987 National Trails System Act when he met with Fran Mainella, Bruce Sheaffer, and Jeff Vick of the National Park Service. “All the documentation has been done to verify and expand the original trail route and now we have hard evidence to put this documentation into legislation to put in additional routes in Tennessee”, Rep. Wamp said. Zach is hopeful of getting this completed by the end of August 2006. It might be a challenge to push the bill through the House and Senate so quickly, but he is optimistic it can be done.
	October 26- Over eighty percent of the millions of Americans afflicted with cancer receive treatment at medical clinics near their homes. Zach discussed the upcoming Medicare Prescription Drug Plan and his efforts to increase federal funds for Medicare patients seeking cancer care services in their communities during his address to members of the Community Oncology Alliance. “Organizations like yours advocate vital, long-term, and cost effective healthcare programs to those in our society who need it most,” Zach told the gathering. The Congressman has recently added his support to legislation designed to help preserve funding for access to community cancer care.
	October 18 - “After the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, Americans want to know if the country can be better prepared to handle the next natural disaster that may come their way,” Rep. Wamp said. Congressman Wamp met in his D.C. office with Vivian Baylor of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory who briefed him on the progress being made on the lab’s Protective Security Analysis Center, which will use information about the thousands of manufacturing plants, monuments, bridges, schools and other structures and facilities in our country to help Department of Homeland Security officials assess the risk that any of them will be destroyed or damaged by either natural or man-made hazards. Wamp strongly supports the analysis center because not only does it help keep the homeland safe and secure but the information in the center will also be used to help government officials and rescuers to proactively respond to and recover from catastrophic events.
	October 18 - The United States is closing in on breakthrough technologies that would allow consumers to produce and sell power using photovoltaic cells according to Department of Energy Under Secretary Dave Garman. He told Rep. Zach Wamp in a meeting on Capitol Hill that we are amazingly close to the development of appliances that would allow homeowners to connect to the nation's power grid and electronically negotiate power prices. Garmon said hydrogen vehicle and fuel cell researchers have made great strides. Hydrogen fuel storage research has not produced any breakthroughs but is on track. Garmon also talked about DOE Secretary Sam Bodman's efforts to make the Department of Energy run more like a business by emphasizing quality, project management and safety.
	October 11 - "To achieve success in politics you must have the audacity to make yourself available for service and the tenacity to fight the good fight," said Congressman Wamp. At the Cleveland-Bradley Chamber of Commerce Zach received many encouraging remarks in response to his recent announcement that he is more committed than ever to running and serving in the post of Majority Whip. With over 100 members of the Cleveland-Bradley Chamber present for Zach’s visit, CBC Executive Director Jerry Bohannon thanked Congressman Wamp for boosting attendance. Zach is speaking with Joe Day-Westwood Baptist Church, Rick Lawson-Cleveland Utilities, Jay Elliott-Miller and Martin, and Joseph McCoin.
	September 28 -- To promote alternative energy sources, Rep. Zach Wamp joined Guy Rini, Director of Advanced Propulsion Systems at Mack Truck, to attend a display of the newly developed Hybrid Electric Aviation Refueler Vehicle. “If American ingenuity can devise a heavy truck hybrid that is easier on the environment and reduces our dependence on foreign oil, the development of hybrid vehicles that are affordable to all and can truly be called family cars are within our reach,” Wamp said. The military truck shown in the picture is a prototype developed for the Air Force which uses an electric motor to assist its main diesel engine in accelerating and is recharged with electricity generated during braking. Besides improved fuel economy, the technology offers reduced emissions and noise, longer brake system service intervals and lower overall operating costs. Mack Truck set up the display to show members of Congress and the public that tax dollars are a good investment in America’s future.
	September 20— Congressman Wamp recognizes the critical role credit unions will play in revitalizing the areas afflicted by hurricane Katrina. Zach met with representatives from the Tennessee Credit Union League to exchange ideas on the upcoming legislation expected to address the regulation of financial institutions. The Credit Union Regulatory Improvements Act (CURIA) would ease the minimum holdings individual credit unions would need to maintain in order to remain in operation. “Credit Unions do a great job in reaching out to people—I understand that every union in the area afflicted by Katrina is still running--so I am more than willing to help provide the necessary relief for you to continue your service.” Zach predicted that Katrina disaster relief would delay Congressional action on CURIA until next year.
	September 20— Malpractice lawsuits and ballooning federal deficits have driven lawmakers and medical professionals to seek innovative ways to curb government spending on health care. Vicky Gregg and Calvin Anderson led a delegation of representatives from the BlueCross-BlueShield of Tennessee to brief Zach her organization’s effort to digitalize all medical records in next ten years and on progress in one of the Congressman’s favorite public health programs, WalkingWorks. “I truly admire your role in Tennessee as an employer and for the critical services you provide,” Wamp told the group. They also discussed the impact post-Katrina disaster relief spending may have on congressional support for the Medicare Prescription Drug plan.
	September 15 - Congressman Wamp joined his Congressional colleagues for a briefing from Colombian President Alvaro Urile Velez on future challenges and opportunities critical to US-Colombian relations. The President addressed efforts to stop the narcotics trade, Colombia’s progress in increasing energy production, and the recent CAFTA agreement. He also discussed the impact higher oil prices are having in South America. The President hopes that the CAFTA agreement will help preserve the alliance and relationship between Columbia and the United States.
	September 13 - Tennessee representatives from the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors met with Congressman Wamp to discuss ways to help drive down the price of long term health care. Zach told the group that he favored legislation to encourage preventive care, physical activity, and tax incentives to help businesses provide long term care. “We’ve got to get to the root of the problem—if people don’t take better care of themselves people will pass their habits to the next generation and costs will skyrocket,” the Congressman said. Zach promised to support sensible legislation expand insurance coverage by slowing the growth of health care costs.
	September 9 - “Hamilton County is an excellent example of how local governments in the three state region affected by Hurricane Katrina should be deploying its resources to meet the needs of all those who have been displaced by this tragic event.” Zach was joined by former Virginia Governor and Chairman of the Gilmore Commission James Gilmore for a first hand look at the Hamilton County Emergency Operations Center and the efforts underway to meet the needs of the many evacuees that have arrived in Chattanooga from New Orleans. The Gilmore Commission is an advisory panel chartered to assess the capabilities of our Nation’s emergency preparedness and report its findings to the President and Congress. EMA Director Bill Tittle briefed Chairman Gilmore and Zach on the technologies and processes in place that have enhanced the County’s ability to respond to catastrophic events in this region.
	September 9 - “We’ve heard of the violent crimes that have taken place in many of the shelters housing Katrina evacuees, but I am so encouraged to see how efficient and effective the City of Chattanooga has operated in providing safe shelter for the victims of Katrina.” Zach met with evacuees and volunteers as he toured the South Chattanooga Recreation Center in St. Elmo that has been converted into a temporary housing facility providing shelter for 110 evacuees from New Orleans. Parks and Playgrounds Administrator Rob Healy briefs Congressman Wamp on the task of operating the shelter as one evacuee takes an inventory of everything he has to his name. Healy shared with Zach that local Social Security, VA, and other government service representatives are meeting routinely with evacuees to assist in meeting their needs.
	September 6 - "It is incredible to know that right here in Cleveland you are having such a tremendous impact on the lives of thousands of families affected by Hurricane Katrina," Congressman Wamp said as he toured Eaton Hydraulics facilities. Since 1977, Eaton Hydraulics has been a leading manufacturer of power and motion control hydraulic equipment with 145 locations nationwide, including 8 in Tennessee. Days after the cleanup began FEMA placed an order with Eaton for 1,000 electrical safety switches that will be used in all the temporary housing facilities. Zach is receiving an overview of the manufacturing process of these Safety Switches from Eaton Paint Technician Rodney Carden.
	August 29 - "The measurement for success in life is not based on how many things you can accumulate, but rather how much of your life you can give away in service to others," said Congressman Wamp before the student body of Hamilton Heights Christian Academy. Located in Chattanooga, Hamilton Heights Christian Academy is affiliated with the Church of God and offers a private education for grades 9-12. Zach spoke to the students about the powerful force that servant leadership will have on all their relationships when they place the needs of others before their own. He challenged them to give more than they take as he quoted a saying from the famous golfer Chi Chi Rodriguez, "Takers eat well, but givers sleep well."
	August 29 - "Good government comes from active citizens, and many times the best ideas come out of mainstream America and not Washington, D.C." Following his address to students, faculty and administration during convocation at Covenant College, Zach responded to students wanting to know if the letters he receives from his constituents have an impact. Speaking to Freshmen Peter Griffis and Charles Dickson, Zach shared that his office receives hundreds of letters and e-mails per week and the input he receives from individuals has a tremendous impact. He encouraged them to stay informed so they can discern the truth in the vast supply of misinformation often perpetuated through the internet and talk radio.
	August 25 – “When we passed No Child Left Behind, our intent was to add national standards and make schools accountable,” said Congressman Wamp as he joined U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings in honoring the achievements of Orchard Knob Middle School. The school was one of eleven in Hamilton County that was identified as needing improvement in academic performance. Over the past two years, Orchard Knob has established itself as a school in “good standing” by meeting the No Child Left Behind standards of Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP). Congressman Wamp called Orchard Knob a “powerful testimony” to the success of No Child Left Behind as he spoke with Secretary Spellings and Orchard Knob Principal Rueben Justice. Before addressing the assembly of students and faculty of Orchard Knob, Congressman Wamp visited two classrooms where he was able to observe first-hand the accomplishments the school has made. Secretary Spellings discussed with the Congressman how No Child Lef
	August 25 – University Greenway, an eight-foot wide concrete sidewalk connecting the Martin Luther King neighborhood to the Riverwalk by way of Tommie Brown Academy and the campus of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, celebrated its official opening to the public. Congressman Wamp was joined by Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield, Hamilton County Mayor Claude Ramsey, Chancellor Roger Brown, Anita Polk-Conely, Bobby Davenport, and Brown Academy fourth-graders Shanna Love and Colton Luke for a ribbon-cutting ceremony. “We are connecting the community in a unique way and creating an alternative form of transportation in a section of town that needs to be connected to give people access to these public places that we enjoy,”said Congressman Wamp.The Congressman emphasized the need for exercise in the community and how the Greenway will provide an avenue for all residents of the area to take advantage of this lighted and landscaped trail.
	August 23 - Congressman Wamp traveled to Union County where he talked to the residents about how he helped appropriate $2 million through the Transportation Equity Act which will accelerate the widening of heavily traveled Highway 33 from Knoxville north through Union County. Zach said "This project will widen existing lanes, improve road safety and ease travel for many Union and Claiborne County residents commuting to work in Knox County." The meeting attracted several Union County residents including Grace Moore who is a young 97 year old. The Congressman talked to the young people who joined the group about her fine example of good living, hard work, and a personal commitment to education and public service which appears to be keeping Grace very young!
	August 23 - Historic Cumberland Gap is at the very northern tip of the Third District in Claiborne County and Zach announced that $250,000 in funding to improve the community's aging wastewater treatment and sewer collection systems. The Congressman was joined by several county leaders where he told them, "Cumberland Gap is a very special, quaint place and it is very rewarding to be able to help with this needed infrastructure. In some places, $250,000 is not a lot of money, but in Cumberland Gap it is. It keeps a huge burden off the taxpayers." Zach praised the town's leadership who worked with the local development district on this project which will serve 50 families and promote economic development for the town. Congressman Wamp also congratulated Volunteer Fire Chief John Adams on the recent grant of $26,600, which will be used to purchase radio repeaters and an interoperability box that will benefit all of Claiborne County.
	August 22- "That must be Whirlpool calling," Congressman Wamp joked as Maytag Senior VP Steve Parke's cell phone rang during Zach's announcement of funding he secured to relieve flooding in the Cleveland Business District. As Cleveland's largest employer, Maytag received the support of local goverment to help resolve the flooding issues that have cost Maytag approximately $2 million in lost revenues over the last 3 years. Joined by Mayor Gary Davis, Steve Parke, and State Rep. Dewayne Bunch, Zach announced, "I have earmarked $550,000 in the FY06 Interior Appropriation bill to aid in the construction of Regional Detention Ponds that will relieve flooding not only at Maytag, but also the many other business and residential occupants in the Cleveland Business District."
	August 22- "I am pleased to join Senator Lamar Alexander to announce we have secured $5.17M in the Highway and Transit Reauthorization bill to improve safety and be a stimulus for economic development at the Gateway to the Cherokee National Forest," said Congressman Wamp at the Museum Center in Cleveland. For years Cleveland and Bradley County officials have asked TDOT for additional access to the Cleveland bypass which is considered one of the most under utilized interchanges in Bradley County. TDOT Chief Engineer Paul Degges brought word from Commisioner Nicely that TDOT is working with the community and is excited to be a partner in this endeavor. Zach discusses TDOT's conceptual drawing for a new interchange with Senator Alexander and Cleveland resident/business owner Gene Thomas.
	August 22- "We are laying the groundwork for over 100 households in the Isabella community and along Kimsey Dairy Road to soon have access to the basic necessity of safe drinking water." At Ducktown City Hall Congressman Wamp brought word that in the FY06 Interior Appropriations bill he earmarked $150,000 for the project to extend waterlines into these areas that have some of the most highly contaminated wells in the state. Hale Booth, Executive Director of the SE TN Development District who is preparing the funding package, noted that this project could not progress without this special appropriation. Zach was joined by Copperhill Mayor Herb Hood, Ducktown Mayor Carmel Gibson, Polk County Commissioner Fred Wilcoxon, and Hale Booth.
	August 22 - Congressman Wamp visited the New Market Utility District in Jefferson County to announce that $300,000 had been appropriated for construction of three new water lines in the community. "It's an important day in New Market and I'm proud to announce $300,000 for the New Market Utility District." Zach also told the County Mayor, Gary Holiway, and members of the utility district board that "it's a labor of love to represent Jefferson County and I try to use my position on the appropriations committee to help as much as possible. I'll continue to listen to local requests and do my best to respond."
	August 22 - "The harder I work, the more fortunate I get. Jefferson City was organized and showed me what was needed. I see the need and I believe there is a federal role, but the credit goes to the local government," Zach said. Following his guidance, the leadership in Jefferson City worked together to address needed upgrades for the water treatment plant that provides quality drinking water for 32,000 county residents. "When a county is well organized you can successfully handle extreme growth and that is what is happening here today." Zach's position on the Appropriations Committee and Interior Subcommittee was very helpful to the Third District in 2005.
	August 12 – Zach was very pleased to bring good news to the City of Oak Ridge and Roane County in the form of a $1 million appropriation for water lines and wastewater sewer line extensions. These infrastructure improvements will be a boost to this area as the western side of Oak Ridge is experiencing significant housing growth with the Rarity Ridge development and economic development at the East Tennessee Technology Park. The Congressman said “The $1 million Federal appropriation is very important to the area’s economic development. Thanks to Mayor Bradshaw and the City Council, who are doing the right things for the City of Oak Ridge.” Zach was joined Oak Ridge Mayor Bradshaw, Anderson Co. Mayor Rex Lynch, Roane County Mayor Ken Yager, and several Oak Ridge City Council Members. The event was planned to celebrate this significant federal investment for industrial, commercial and residential economic development that will positively impact the future of this region’s families.
	August 12 – The East Tennessee Economic Council is well known throughout the region as one of the premiere organizations of “movers and shakers” and Zach broke their attendance record early Friday morning with a standing room only crowd. The Congressman told the distinguished group “You are amazing” after he personally greeted nearly everyone in the room. Zach then talked about many of the federal programs that are on track and moving full speed ahead that were initially championed by this very group. Leadership is the key to success and Oak Ridge has utilized the strengths of many key leaders including Gerald Boyd, Jeff Wadsworth, Ron Townsend, Denny Ruddy and Susana Navarro, who owns a small Hispanic business that is thriving by winning federal contracts throughout the country. The Congressman also provided an update from Washington on important legislation like the Energy Policy and CAFTA.
	August 12 – Congressman Wamp is a strong supporter of the "reindustrialization" program of Manhattan era facilities at the former K-25 Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Oak Ridge, now known as the East Tennessee Technology Park (ETTP). Zach helped celebrate a major milestone for the program as DOE turned over four large buildings to the Community Reuse Organization of East Tennessee (CROET) who will lease the buildings to Bechtel Jacobs, the contractor responsible for accelerated cleanup at ETTP. Zach praised the strategic and economic efforts by DOE and CROET to reuse these buildings and said "They're turning these office buildings back into productive use…This is another step in the right direction.'' The contractor will pay nearly $5 million in lease payments through 2008 which will be directed back into upgrades for the buildings to make them more attractive for future private-sector tenants. DOE estimates that the transfer will save the taxpayers more than $6.4 million in demolition costs.
	August 11 - The Meigs County Sheriff's Department has done an exceptional job of keeping pace with rapidly changing technologies that are making law enforcement more effective and efficient for small rural communities. Congressman Wamp told Sheriff Walter Hickman, "In this post 9-11 world we live in and recognizing your close proximity to the Watts Bar Nuclear facility, it is impressive to see the Meigs County Sheriff's Office is equipped to protect the community it serves." Joined by E-911 Director Kelly Breedwell and Sheriff Hickman, Communications Director Chris Smith gives Zach an overview of how this new technology has guided the County from Basic 911 to an Enhanced 911 Response System and into the wireless era.
	August 11 - “For 78 years you, the employees of Robinson Manufacturing, have taken a great deal of pride in your jobs and made this company a national success story in the apparel manufacturing industry.” CEO Jack Robinson and employees were amused by Congressman Wamp as he shared his experience about meeting with President Bush to “brief him on boxer shorts.” Robinson is an industry leader in the production of men’s boxer shorts, and Zach’s support to gain approval of the Short Supply Petition modifying "rules of origin" for fabric used in this process will greatly help Robinson Manufacturing and save hundreds of jobs.
	August 11 - "I am pleased to return for the second consecutive year to announce I have secured funds for the town of Spring City for much needed sewer infrastructure improvements." In the FY05 Interior appropriations bill Zach earmarked $250,000 to extend the city's sewer outfall line. When this funding is combined with the $500,000 CDBG grant secured by the SE TN Development District, Spring City will be able to finally eliminate pollutants in the Watts Bar Reservoir and will be another step closer towards getting the state to release Spring City from a sewer moratorium. Officials present for the announcement included former Spring City Mayor Mary Sue Garrison and Mayor-elect Kelly Reed.
	August 11 - "With passage of the Energy Bill and Transportation Bill, we have completed one the most successful legislative weeks in the Congress since the Contract with America." Zach spoke to a standing room only crowd at the Meigs-Decatur Chamber of Commerce which included Richard McCallister, Meigs GOP Chairman Pat May, Assessor of Property Tim Proffit, and Marcella May. Included in the Transportation Bill was the highly anticipated funding for completion of the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park at Blythes Ferry. Congressman Wamp thanked those who have worked for many years on this project when he announced his original request for $1,000,000 had received the support of Senate Majority Leader Frist and Senator Lamar Alexander was increased to $1,300,000 to ensure completion of this vital project.
	August 10 – Congressman Zach Wamp spoke with Bill Marshall of Billy T & Tom Signs before delivering the keynote address at the Hixson Council Chamber of Commerce on a litany of topics from the yearly appropriations for the Chickamauga Lock and the future of TVA to the business growth of Enterprise South. Local business leaders expressed their gratitude during a time of response, reflecting both support for the Congressman and suggesting business improvements in Tennessee’s 3^rd district. “We have an aggressive agenda to attract business, Zach said. Never before in my 47 years has Chattanooga been more active or successful at recruiting industry.” He went on to acknowledge Senate Majority Leader Frist’s and Senator Lamar Alexander's roles in achieving the $17 million appropriation for improved access roads to the new Enterprise South, saying, “Seniority, clout, and leadership does have its privileges,” as the Highway Bill provides a total of $32.45 million for six projects in the 3rd district.
	August 10 – “Today, we take another step toward ending chronic homelessness for our hardest-to-house, hardest-to-serve neighbors. One by one, we will offer a new life for those whose only life has been on the streets,” said Congressman Zach Wamp . He received a $1 million check with Mayor Ron Littlefield and Riley Anderson of SETHRA from Pamela Patenaude of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The pilot program offers financial assistance and permanent housing to 50 individuals living within Chattanooga’s city limits and services for another 50 in a 10-county area outside of Chattanooga . Chattanooga tops the list of 10 cities receiving funds, including the areas of Chicago, New York and Washington DC, as cities address a dire need of housing in America for the chronically homeless.
	August 10 - Congressman Wamp paid a visit to media legend Luther Masingill in Chattanooga’s oldest radio station, WDOD (1310 AM). Luther is a Chattanooga icon , working on the air since 1941 and inaugurating Chattanooga’s first television broadcast in 1954 with his timeless charm. Before stopping in to share stories with Luther , Zach said hello to WDOD’s morning broadcast team. Congress man Wamp thanked Luther for his long-time service and dedication to the listeners of Chattanooga.
	July 27— Congress Wamp joined Energy Secretary Samuel W. Bodman, Energy Committee Chairman Joe Barton, and Congressman John Shadegg to explain the most comprehensive energy legislation in over twenty years. The National Energy Policy Act seeks to increase domestic production of ethanol gas, hydrogen fuel, nuclear energy, and solar power. “This bill is a decisive step towards addressing one of the great national security concerns of our time, America’s dependence on foreign energy,” the Congressman said. Zach explained that as the Chairman of the Energy and Technology subcommittee, he has worked to provide greater incentives to private companies wishing to develop alternative energy sources.
	July 20 – To prevent deliberate rearrangement of congressional district boundaries solely for political reasons, Congressman Wamp stood in support of a bill that would limit the abuses of "gerrymandering." Speaking at a press conference hosted by Rep. John Tanner of Tennessee, Congressman Wamp said, "This is an issue that transcends which political party is in power of state legislatures, and this infringement must be confronted for the good of the country," Congressman Wamp joined Rep. Jim Cooper, Rep. John Tanner, Rep. Jim Morrison of Arkansas, and Rep. Alan Boyd from Florida in efforts to make sure Congress remains a true representative body. The bill has won bipartisan support in combating partisan state legislatures from carving up the political landscape for mere political purposes and threatening democracy in the United States.
	July 15 - "What better way to permantely archive these incredibly patriotic stories than through the Library of Congress," said Zach, as he received an appreciation award from WRCB Channel 3 President and General Manager Tom Tolar. Congressman Wamp partnered with WRCB Channel 3, Erlanger Hospital, and First Tennessee Bank to create the Veterans History Project in Chattanooga. More than 400 local veterans in the Chattanooga area recorded their stories to be placed in the Library of Congress for future generations to hear and appreciate. The Veterans History Project is an example of Zach's ability to partner with our community and preserve the history of our nation's veterans.
	July 13 – Cities in the TN Valley Corridor may take a lead in homeland security preparedness evaluations this September to help American urban areas' coordination during emergencies. Former Virginia Governor Jim Gilmore heads the Gilmore Commission and talked to Zach about planning a visit to Chattanooga to meet with local first responders and discuss their preparedness and response structures. “Our police forces, firefighters, and local emergency management coordinators are the people who secure our homes, our offices, our schools and make us feel safe as we go about our daily lives,” said Congressman Wamp. Chattanooga is an attractive location for such an exercise because of its size and geographic location in the TN Valley Technology Corridor between Huntsville and Oak Ridge. Zach noted, “The terror attacks in London are evidence that threats still exist in the world; for our own peace of mind, local first responders must safely and effectively coordinate with each other in emergency situations.”
	July 12 – When Zach described the U.S. Capitol's symbolic importance throughout the globe to participants of the Tennessee Valley Summit, he noted "this building is at the very center of the free world." Known for his energetic and informative tours, Congressman Wamp led the group through the Rotunda, the House and Senate Chambers, and Statutory Hall. Here, Zach explains the importance of our nation’s motto, “E Pluribus Unum,” which is painted in the Apotheosis of Washington at the top of the Rotunda.
	June 28 - "It's essential to have balance in our country's energy use, and the energy we consume needs to be utilized more efficiently." Alongside Rep. Tom Allen of Maine and Kateri Callahan, President of the Alliance to Save Energy, Zach introduced the Energy Efficiency Cornerstone Act to members and supporters of the Alliance and members of the press. Zach, a vice-chairman of the Alliance, explained that it is critical to strengthen energy efficiency provisions in the pending National Energy Bill to more closely align the country's energy demand with projected supplies and control escalating energy costs. The House and Senate are expected to meet and produce a compromise between their versions in the coming weeks and send it to the President’s desk for his signature.
	June 28 - Surrounded by hydrogen-powered motorcycles, a military truck, van and mock fueling station, Congressman Wamp said “this is the time to take action and create a revolution with alternative fuels the same way the internet did for the 1990’s.” Congressman Wamp and other members of the newly formed House Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Caucus hosted an “End Dependence Day” to diminish our nation’s use of foreign oil. The coalition was formed to promote hydrogen research and develop a secure, dependable, abundant and clean source of energy. Here, Congressman Wamp explores the capabilities of the Army’s newest and truly priceless hydrogen powered truck manufactured by General Motors.
	June 23 - "I’m glad we can put all our differences aside and enjoy some friendly competition all while making a difference in the surrounding community," said Congressman Wamp of playing in Roll Call's 44th Annual Congressional Baseball Game. Here he squares off during the second inning and hit a double. Zach went one for three with a walk, two RBI’s, and two runs in the Republican's 19-10 victory over the Democrats to sweep the best of five series 3-0. The game’s proceeds went to several Washington-area charities.
	June 22 - Congressman Zach Wamp welcomed the Prime Minister of Vietnam but urged greater religious freedom for its people at a Capitol Hill reception. This is Phan Van Khai's first visit to the United States and the U.S.-Vietnam Caucus held a reception in his honor. Vietnam has applied to join the World Trade Organization, and Wamp told the crowd that Vietnam will build a stronger economic relationship with the U.S. if it allows its people to practice their faith openly. Zach also introduced Huu Dinh, of American Technologies Inc., an Oak Ridge company. Dinh and his wife, Nancy Pham, own a number of private businesses in Oak Ridge and Vietnam.
	June 21 - "With record crude oil and natural gas prices at $59 per barrel, at no day has it been more important than this day to confront our nation’s energy needs and strengthen our economy with energy technology." Introduced as the “Gladiator for Renewable Energy,” Zach expressed his determination to reduce dependence on foreign oil by developing sustainable energy resources here in the United States with an energy technology or "Entech" economy. Congressman Wamp spoke to a crowd of about two hundred, as well as Representative Mark Udall, Senator Wayne Allard, and Secretary of Energy Samuel Bodman at the Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Expo. This is the eighth annual Exposition, which was designed to promote clean energy technologies.
	June 15 – “In order to protect hard working American jobs, we need to level the playing field on our countries’ mutual trade and commerce.” A rise in Chinese textile imports to the United States prompted Zach’s questions about China’s fixed currency called the yuan at a discussion hosted by the House Small Business Committee. Chinese products have been cheaper to the American consumer as compared to our floating currency, the U.S. dollar. Chairman of the House Small Business Committee, Don Manzullo of Illinois, hosted Chinese officials to examine discrepancies in the trade relationship between China and the U.S. Members of the Financial and Economic Affairs Committee in the Chinese National People’s Congress responded to Congressman Wamp’s questions and expressed their efforts to reduce the trade deficit by increasing the availability of American products in the emerging Chinese market.
	June 13 - "Congratulations to the brightest minds and hardest workers on securing this award and improving the local economy," said Zach to Boeing's Oak Ridge plant employees at the Oak Ridge Chamber of Commerce. The Boeing Oak Ridge plant, which employs over 400 people, was recently awarded a highly competitive contract to use innovative design for manufacuring, assembling and installing flight deck equipment on the all-new 787 Dreamliner. Business Development Manager Phil Andrews and Oak Ridge Boeing Site Director John Frazier tell Zach of the contract's incredible benefit to the Oak Ridge community. The contract is estimated to be worth appoximately $60 million based on current forecasts.
	May 26 - "After ten and a half years in Congress, I am still amazed by the Capitol building. Being able to see the dome from my office truly inspires me," said Congressman Wamp during an interview with C-SPAN. C-SPAN is airing a documentary video of the US Capitol building’s history and the American legends who have worked there over the centuries. Zach shares his favorite stories and facts of the building, such as the Capitol stairwell with bullet holes from the British invasion and events leading up to the assassination of President Lincoln. This interview will be shown on C-SPAN, national high definition television, and could potentially be enshrined in the new Capitol Visitor's Center. C-SPAN is a public service television network provide ing direct access to the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate.

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