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

Congressman Zach Wamp, Third District of Tennessee

See Where I've Been Lately | 2005

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	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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