James Risch

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, sons can learn so much from their fathers. Whether it is changing a tire, throwing a football, or loving a family, the lessons derived from our fathers can have a profound impact on our lives. In 1969, 24-year old Dale Newberry agreed to join his father Jack in a family business selling cutting tools to local machine shops. What began 44 years ago as a two-machine operation based out of a carport of a southern California home is now a $15 million-a- year business based in Meridian, ID, that employs 110 Idahoans and sells from a catalog of 12,000 carbide cutting tools to more than 600 U.S. distributors and others in 40 countries. Micro 100 specializes in manufacturing both industry standard and custom carbide tools which are used to manufacture items essential to modern life, including airplane wings, watch parts, telephone receivers, car-door handles, and household appliance components. The strength of these tools makes them virtually unbreakable. Micro 100 utilizes a proprietary process that increases the toughness of micrograin carbide material without diminishing its hardness. Carbide is 90 percent tungsten--one of the hardest metals on the planet--but Micro 100 uses machines whose grinding wheels are coated in industrial diamond, the only substance known that will cut tungsten. As a result, carbide tools produced by Micro 100 stay sharp for 10 or 20 times longer than steel. For years, Micro 100 products have achieved a 99.9 percent customer satisfaction rate from clients engaged in a wide range of metalworking fields, including mold and die making, high-speed cutting, high- precision cutting, high-performance milling of aluminum, plastics, and nonferrous materials, and hard milling. Therefore, it is only fitting that we celebrate this firm's growth and successes, as they have simultaneously helped create jobs in Idaho and enhanced the reputation of American manufacturing in the global community. I am proud to extend my congratulations to Dale Newberry and everyone at Micro 100 for their tremendous efforts and offer my best wishes for their continued success.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, sustaining the longevity of American small businesses should be a primary focus of today's lawmakers. When we find a company that has managed to endure through difficult economic times, we should honor their commitments to the American dream and learn from them so that others can follow in their footsteps. The Whiteman Lumber Company, from the Silver Valley in northern Idaho, is a prime example of this. It is a small family business that has survived recessions and fires but continues to thrive and enhance the lumber industry. In 1928, Harry H. Whiteman started what has now become the oldest continuously operating sawmill in all of Idaho. When the neighboring Sunshine Mining Company needed a constant supply of mining timbers to operate, Mr. Whiteman saw an opportunity and financed his lumber company by becoming the mine's primary and reliable lumber source. Whiteman Lumber then expanded distribution to other surrounding mines until arduous environmental regulations caused the decline of the mineral markets in the area. Brad and Mary Corkill bought Whiteman Lumber in 1988 and maintained the strong relationship with the Sunshine Mining Company until its closure in 2001. Since then, Mr. Corkill has grown the business by focusing on both the national and local markets, selling materials to individuals, timber framers, contractors, and wholesalers, in addition to the remaining regional silver mines. Whiteman Lumber also supports the Silver Valley community by sustaining a supply of almost exclusively large logs from local mills, which are no longer capable of milling bigger trees. Moreover, they add a distinctive rustic look to their product by using circular saw technology and offer customized kiln drying to achieve specific levels of lumber moisture content for their clients. Whiteman Lumber Company continues to be an essential part of the Silver Valley thanks to fortitude and their longstanding relationships with buyers. In 2009, the middle of the recession, a fire burned down the lumber mill, but Mr. Corkill quickly rebuilt into a more efficient layout and had their employees back to work within the year, several of whom are still related to Harry Whiteman. The family-run business of the Whiteman Lumber Company is perfect representation of resiliency. They survived a devastating fire and the collapse of the mining industry by giving their clients desirable products while also giving back to their community. Mr. Corkill's business model is a vital tool that can be used by small businesses across the country striving to support the local and national economy while maintaining their own permanency.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, will the good Senator yield for a question without yielding the floor?

Mr. RISCH. I will be brief. I want to talk briefly and ask a question about the area the Senator was just talking about. My good friend Senator Rubio made reference to the story I am going to tell. My good friends on the other side of the aisle are good about bringing out pictures of people with sad faces. My only regret is I don't have a picture of somebody with a sad face, but I can assure you these people are greatly saddened by this. We had a hearing in the Small Business Committee and we brought in people from around the country, small businesses who are suffering under this terrible burden. The Senator was not here in the middle of the night when this abomination was shoved down the throat of the American people on a straight party-line vote. I can assure him that we fought it tooth and nail, but now the American people are having to live with this, and so it is good to be reminded again of what we have here. But this gentleman operated a business called Dot's Diner in Louisiana. He had, I forget whether it was six or seven diners, and this man was living the all-American dream. He had quit a very good job, cashed in his retirement, borrowed money and he and his wife opened this diner. The diner did well because they worked hard. Like the Senator did all night tonight, sometimes they worked that hard. They opened more diners and were just about to open another one when the Senate announced they were going to force ObamaCare on the American people and on the small businesses of this country. They immediately stopped their plans to open a new diner and then looked at what ObamaCare was going to cost them. The cost of ObamaCare was substantially higher than the profits they were making in the business every year. So what they did, they went and got counsel and said: How can we get around ObamaCare? What they were told is, if you have 49 employees, you are outside of ObamaCare. So given that, what they did is they closed the diners and got down to 49 employees and that is where they are. Will the Senator tell me, because I would like to hear his thoughts on that and whether he believes the American government that our Founding Fathers fought for and died for should be visiting this on the American people, particularly on small businessmen who are the backbone of this economy?

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. I thank the Chair. (The remarks of Mr. Risch pertaining to the introduction of S. 1430 are located in today's Record under ``Statements on Introduced Bills and Joint Resolutions.'')

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I yield the floor.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, family-owned small businesses are a crucial part of America's landscape. They supply a demand in locations all across the United States, and are built on the sweat and dedication of their owners and employees. It is for this reason that today I wish to rise to honor Quale's Electronics, its founder Mel Quale, and all those who now manage and work for this longstanding family business. In 1966, Mr. Quale opened Quale's Electronics, located in Twin Falls, ID. Quale's Electronics began humbly as a television repair shop, but after only a year in business Mr. Quale expanded his business to include retail television and home electronics sales. Small businesses often have trouble obtaining deals to outlet products from top brands, but Mr. Quale's persistence in the late 1960s through early 1970s paid off with several high-level brands in the electronics industry signing them on as a local dealer. Sales quickly took off. Quale's Electronics expanded to a new and larger location in 1976. Always striving to stay ahead of the curve, Mr. Quale sought out and procured deals to sell many of the exciting new electronics that debuted in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. Quale Electronics to this day remains a family business. Today, Helen Quale, and Mr. Quale's sons, Bruce and Steve, spearhead the ownership and management responsibilities. In addition to running a successful small business, Mr. Quale also takes a keen interest in his community, offering his time and funding to important local causes and projects. Mr. Quale has previously served as a member of the Bureau of Land Management Resource Advisory Council for 9 years, public lands advisor for the Magic Valley Trail Machine, and 20 years as a precinct committeeman for the Twin Falls Republican Party. Additionally, Mr. Quale is an active member of the Twin Falls Rotary Club. The success Mr. Quale has found in his business and the work he has done for his community is a testament to the important economic and civic good that is created by self-employed entrepreneurs all across the U.S. and a prime example of the spirit of Idaho's entrepreneurs. It is inspirational to see a family-owned business with decades-old roots spanning more than one generation continue to grow and succeed. Such businesses are vital not only to the local and national economy, but also to their home communities, and will always have a prominent place in the fabric of the United States.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce a bill called the Idaho Wilderness Water Facilities Act. This bill is identical to the House version, H.R. 876, which was introduced and carried through the House by my colleague from Idaho, Representative Mike Simpson, who did yeoman's work on pursuing this and putting it together and shepherding it through. It passed unanimously in the House. I thank him on behalf of all Idahoans for his work on this issue. The need for this legislation is simple. The Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, which was designated by Congress in 1980, abuts the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness area, which was designated by Congress in 1964. These areas contain some of the largest and most rugged remote tracts of land in the lower 48 States. It is magnificent in its beauty--substantially better, in my opinion, than the Alps. There are a number of water diversions within the Idaho wilderness areas that have existed since the time of this legislation--since the time these wilderness areas were established. Although the diversions continue to exist, the owners currently lack authority to maintain and repair the facilities. Predating the existence of these two wilderness areas, private landowners had received permits to maintain and repair water diversions that existed on National Forest System lands. The water is used for a combination of many things, including, but not limited to, drinking water for private cabins and ranches and also for generating electricity in some places on a very small scale. Many of the permits have since expired, leaving those who own the water diversions without any options for mechanically maintaining their water systems. In some cases, this lack of management threatens the environment and the watersheds in which they exist. The Idaho Wilderness Water Facilities Act will give the Secretary of Agriculture the authority to reissue and issue special use authorizations to the owners of these diversion facilities within the Frank Church and the Selway Wilderness areas for the continued maintenance of their water facilities. The permits would only be issued if the owner could prove the facility existed prior to those lands being designated as wilderness, the facility has been used to deliver water to the owner's land since the designation, and the owner had a valid water right and it would not be practical to move the facility outside of the wilderness area. Undoubtedly, in exercising the discretion, the Secretary would ensure that in no way would it denigrate these wilderness areas. There are several different individuals or businesses that have water diversions in these wilderness areas that meet the description I have given. Earlier this week the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources held a hearing on H.R. 876. The U.S. Forest Service appeared at that hearing and testified in support of this bill. I look forward to working with Chairman Wyden and Ranking Member Murkowski to pass this bill quickly so as to allow for the maintenance of this water infrastructure.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce a bill called the Idaho Wilderness Water Facilities Act. This bill is identical to the House version, H.R. 876, which was introduced and carried through the House by my colleague from Idaho, Representative Mike Simpson, who did yeoman's work on pursuing this and putting it together and shepherding it through. It passed unanimously in the House. I thank him on behalf of all Idahoans for his work on this issue. The need for this legislation is simple. The Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, which was designated by Congress in 1980, abuts the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness area, which was designated by Congress in 1964. These areas contain some of the largest and most rugged remote tracts of land in the lower 48 States. It is magnificent in its beauty--substantially better, in my opinion, than the Alps. There are a number of water diversions within the Idaho wilderness areas that have existed since the time of this legislation--since the time these wilderness areas were established. Although the diversions continue to exist, the owners currently lack authority to maintain and repair the facilities. Predating the existence of these two wilderness areas, private landowners had received permits to maintain and repair water diversions that existed on National Forest System lands. The water is used for a combination of many things, including, but not limited to, drinking water for private cabins and ranches and also for generating electricity in some places on a very small scale. Many of the permits have since expired, leaving those who own the water diversions without any options for mechanically maintaining their water systems. In some cases, this lack of management threatens the environment and the watersheds in which they exist. The Idaho Wilderness Water Facilities Act will give the Secretary of Agriculture the authority to reissue and issue special use authorizations to the owners of these diversion facilities within the Frank Church and the Selway Wilderness areas for the continued maintenance of their water facilities. The permits would only be issued if the owner could prove the facility existed prior to those lands being designated as wilderness, the facility has been used to deliver water to the owner's land since the designation, and the owner had a valid water right and it would not be practical to move the facility outside of the wilderness area. Undoubtedly, in exercising the discretion, the Secretary would ensure that in no way would it denigrate these wilderness areas. There are several different individuals or businesses that have water diversions in these wilderness areas that meet the description I have given. Earlier this week the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources held a hearing on H.R. 876. The U.S. Forest Service appeared at that hearing and testified in support of this bill. I look forward to working with Chairman Wyden and Ranking Member Murkowski to pass this bill quickly so as to allow for the maintenance of this water infrastructure.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I rise today on behalf of myself and Senator Crapo to give recognition to U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge, the longest serving jurist in the great State of Idaho. This month, Judge Lodge marked 50 years on the bench in combined State and Federal service. His long and notable career on the bench began in 1963 when he was selected probate judge in Canyon County. Judge Lodge was then appointed by Governor Robert Smylie just 2 years later to serve on the Idaho State District Court. He was the youngest person to be appointed a district judge. After 23 years there, his name was put forth by U.S. Senator James McClure for a seat on the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho. President George H.W. Bush appointed him in 1989 and shortly thereafter, his nomination was confirmed in the U.S. Senate by unanimous consent. Judge Lodge has earned the respect of his colleagues as a jurist who, no matter the pressure or how big the case, works to ensure a trial is fair. Throughout the years, he has consistently received high ratings from the Idaho State Bar. Though it may say more about my State than I would like, Judge Lodge is believed to have presided over more murder cases than any other judge in Idaho. And, in fact, he may just be the only judge who presided over two such cases simultaneously. These cases and the many others upon which he has presided distinguish Judge Lodge as a lifelong student of the law and as someone wholly dedicated to serving the people in judicial matters. A native of Caldwell, ID, Judge Lodge earned a bachelor's degree from the College of Idaho in nearby Nampa, where he graduated cum laude. He then went north to the University of Idaho in Moscow to earn his juris doctorate. Many may not know that throughout his education--from high school through university--he was an outstanding athlete. He was named three times an All-American in football at Caldwell High School, Boise Junior College and the College of Idaho. In addition, he was a Golden Gloves champion and successfully participated in track-and-field. These accomplishments landed him a place in the Boise State Athletic Hall of Fame and the College of Idaho Hall of Fame. Judge Lodge is married to long serving Idaho State Senator Patti Anne Lodge. They have three grown children: Mary-Jeanne, Edward and Anne- Marie. Idaho is proud to call Judge Lodge a native son.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, independence and self-sufficiency are two characteristics of adulthood that many of us simply take for granted. However, as we age, oftentimes we need a helping hand to accomplish daily tasks or deal with medical ailments. Teresa Nelson, owner of Home Helpers of Eastern Idaho and a certified senior adviser, recognizes the value of independent living and, through her hard work, has greatly contributed to the rich and full life of many Idahoans. I rise today to honor Home Helpers of Eastern Idaho located in Pocatello, ID. Home Helpers of Eastern Idaho specializes in the at-home nonmedical care of our senior citizens and facilitates independent living. However, Home Helpers doesn't stop there. The over 50 employees and caregivers at Home Helpers also are available to assist new and expectant mothers, working parents, and individuals who are in need of recuperative home care with flexible schedules and cheerful attendants. The personal touch that accompanies each care plan makes each experience unique and maximizes the level of comfort and care available to those in need. Conscious of the individual needs and distinct situation of each and every client, Teresa Nelson and her team at Home Helpers strive to deliver a custom-tailored plan for each circumstance. From treatment needs to payment plans, the caregivers at Home Helpers use their flexibility and expertise to increase the quality of life of all that they work with. For over 3\1/2\ years, Home Helpers has assisted many families and individuals through challenging times. Therefore, it is only fitting that we celebrate this firm's growth and successes, as they have simultaneously helped support our loved ones and create health care jobs in Idaho. I am proud to extend my congratulations to Teresa Nelson and everyone at Home Helpers of Eastern Idaho for their tremendous efforts and offer my best wishes for their continued success.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. I ask for the yeas and nays.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, as National Small Business Week comes to a close I would like to rise today to recognize Nightforce Optics of Orofino, ID, an inspirational small business that has grown and expanded in spite of the economic challenges of the last half decade. Founder Dr. Ray Dennis is an avid hunter and shooter from Australia who had a dream of manufacturing and selling riflescopes of unmatched quality in the United States. His dream led him on a search for a location to help make this vision a reality. Dr. Dennis was ultimately drawn to the beautiful city of Orofino in my home State. A friendly business climate, an enthusiastic labor base, and close proximity to major shipping centers made Orofino, ID the perfect place to establish Nightforce Optics. In 1999, Nightforce Optics started with four employees occupying a small manufacturing facility. Today, Nightforce Optics employs over 100 people and has expanded their Orofino headquarters to a 35,187 square foot facility. Nightforce is committed to hiring a local workforce, as well as attracting specialized craftsmen and women to Idaho. Throughout this time, the company has delivered the utmost quality, performance, and craftsmanship of their products to customers. This dedication became self-evident as hunters, marksmen, police, and military users have come to revere Nightforce Optics as a top-tier brand in the industry. Companies like Nightforce represent a critical part of the economy and even national security for the United States. Nightforce riflescopes produced in Orofino, ID have been used by U.S. servicemen in operations all around the globe. It is my opinion that the U.S. military should always have available the best in quality and technology, and it is in small businesses like Nightforce Optics that we often find the innovative ideas and determination that can make these products available. By 2011, Nightforce underwent a $1 million expansion, resulting in improved manufacturing and research and development capabilities. This investment has directly led to the company's recent introduction of new, innovative products that otherwise might never have been developed. Although we hear over and over again that the national climate for promoting small business needs to improve, it is refreshing to hear that a sportsman from Australia with an idea and motivation relocated to Idaho to build his dream. Every year, thousands and thousands of products come from Orofino, ID with a label reading ``Made in USA.'' I commend Dr. Ray Dennis for investing in American entrepreneurship and to Nightforce Optics for representing a small business with ingenuity and local ties that I am proud to honor as Idaho's Small Business of the Day.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, some of the most successful small businesses in America originate with an entrepreneur who takes a leap of faith to try something new. Dale Wilson and Brett Hatfield, the owners of Western Idaho Cabinets, had no prior experience working in a cabinet shop. Brett has a degree in production, while Dale has a degree in information studies. Despite their initial inexperience, Western Idaho Cabinets, since its founding in 1993, has grown to be the largest cabinet manufacturer in Idaho. This remarkable story is why I wish to honor Western Idaho Cabinets in Boise, ID as the Idaho Small Business of the Day as part of National Small Business Week. Western Idaho Cabinets is a great example of job creation and expansion, starting as a two-man shop in Dale's garage to a company whose annual sales will reach nearly $15 million this year. This is the American dream. Currently, Western Idaho Cabinets is the premier kitchen cabinet supplier in the State, housed in a state of the art facility and boasting 170 employees. Last year, the company took first place in four out of seven categories at the 2012 Parade of Homes. In addition to delivering quality products, Western Idaho Cabinets works hard to streamline the process of manufacturing, optimize usage, and eliminate waste--perhaps Western Idaho Cabinets should teach the Federal Government a thing or two about this. Co-owners Dale and Brett traveled internationally to learn from different countries' manufacturing processes in order to develop the most efficient methods. In doing so, the company was able to cut waste by 60 percent, meaning they could make twice the amount of product with the same amount of labor. They continue to invest in equipment that will automate the production process and help to save money and allow them to meet their customers' demands. This lean production model has led to Western Idaho Cabinets' reputation as the local expert on the manufacturing process and the company is frequently approached by others who want to learn their methods. Western Idaho Cabinets enjoys great success that seemed an improbable feat from the early days of constructing cabinets out of a two-car garage. With the willpower to achieve success and the commitment to perfecting their business model, Western Idaho Cabinets proves that a small business can start from a basic idea and evolve to be at the top of their industry. Small businesses around the country and globally could stand to learn much from Western Idaho Cabinets and I am proud to honor them today as a part of National Small Business Week.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, as a part of National Small Business Week it is important for us to recognize companies who have a history of continually pushing the bounds of improvement and expansion. America depends on small businesses to propel the country into future innovation and that is why I would like to honor Dome Technology from Idaho Falls, ID as the Idaho Small Business of the Week. Dome Technology builds thin shell monolithic domes which can be used for industrial bulk storage or for practical architectural facilities such as churches or gymnasiums. Though dome architecture has been used in the past, the specific technique used by Dome Technology was patented in Idaho in 1977 by three brothers, Barry, David, and Randy South. They began experimenting with dome technology in 1975 by spraying foam and concrete to the inside of a pressurized, dome-shaped fabric air form. Dome Technology has built some 500 monolithic domes in the past 30- plus years all over the United States, Canada, Latvia, Estonia, Russia, Argentina, Germany, Jordan, Lithuania and multiple other countries. In addition to providing durable and multi-purpose structures, Dome Technology continues to work to create domes which can withstand environmental extremes such as hurricanes and earthquakes. In 2007, Dome Technology built the largest monolithic dome in the world. Currently, 75 percent of all concrete domes worldwide have been built by Dome Technology. But things haven't always been easy for this Idaho company. Dome Technology is an example of how a small business can overcome difficulty and rebound from economic hurdles. Prior to 2002, Dome Technology had been building on average 20 domes per year and employed 135 people. But after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, the company shrunk to 35 employees while demand and prices decreased. Dome Technology then borrowed around $1 million and diversified their products. Pivoting from large scale storage, the company began focusing on marketing their domes for architectural purposes such as churches, gymnasiums and community centers. Dome Technology has seen growth in the demand for schools built with dome technology and in 2007 built the first indoor water park in a dome. In addition to expanding the uses of architectural domes, Dome Technology began focusing on exporting their product internationally to countries such as Canada, Poland, Latvia, Morocco, Romania and Bulgaria. The company has now rebounded back to 120 employees and demand is steadily growing. Through experimentation and a devotion to quality, Dome Technology has proven itself to be a company which delivers a unique, quality product year after year. What strikes me the most about Dome Technology is their ability, as a specialized company with a niche product, to make the most of what could have been a depressed period of business and to use that as an impetus for improving their business model. Idaho is proud of small businesses like Dome Technology and I am especially proud to recognize them today in honor of National Small Business Week.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, during Small Business Week it is important to recognize the ingenuity of small business owners who take a leap of faith and invest in an idea in order to make their dream of being an entrepreneur a reality. I rise today to honor The Nehemian of Buhl, ID, a small business that has shown over the course of 25 years in business that they can take chances and survive in this economic climate. Over 26 years ago, Nancy Tyrrell and her husband, Ed, opened The Nehemian, a shop that sold antiques and offered custom picture framing. But after years of being in business, the Tyrrells wanted to expand their services and increase their sales. Tyrrell began designing custom key fobs which depict Idaho points of pride, including the Boise State Broncos and the University of Idaho Vandals. As a result of this risk to produce and market new product, The Nehemian found great success in the sale of these local treasures. Tyrrell has faced her share of entrepreneurial challenges. After a $25,000 loss on a project, Tyrrell considered going back to teaching instead of continuing as a small business owner. But her love for the creative opportunities her business provided convinced her that she wouldn't be happy doing anything else. Instead of giving up, Tyrrell rededicated herself to her store and sought to expand into an untapped market. Her custom key fobs are manufactured by Silver Creek Mint, another local business located in Buhl and where her son is employed. Tyrrell licensed both the Boise State Bronco and University of Idaho Vandal key fob with Collegiate Licensing Co. in order to sell to a market in which she recognized a demand for her product. After only 6 weeks of selling her custom key fobs, Tyrrell had recouped two thirds of her investment. Currently, The Nehemian sells 12 different variations of key fobs. There is even a Great Seal of Idaho key fob which is sold at the Idaho State Capitol gift shop. Tyrrell also offers key fob design services to large companies to commemorate special milestones. Though The Nehemian is a small company, they have learned to manage their resources well and expand their products. Nancy Tyrrell's business has achieved a reputation of quality, as well as that of a unique Idaho gem. I would like to recognize The Nehemian as an Idaho Small Business of the Day based on their resiliency through hard times, their willingness to take a risk and their creative spirit.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, a cornerstone of the American dream has always been the belief that those individuals with a good idea and a strong work ethic can become successful. In these tough economic times, it is inspiring to hear the stories of small businesses that have risen above the challenges they have faced and are making their dreams come true. That is why during National Small Business Week, I rise today to honor Quest Aircraft located in Sandpoint, ID Quest Aircraft was founded in 2001 by Tom Hamilton and David Voetmann. These men saw the need for development of a plane that could be used for humanitarian work in remote areas of the world. Tom and David brought on Bruce R. Kennedy to chair Quest's board of trustees. Bruce was a man who had a noteworthy aviation career, holding the positions of chairman, chief executive officer, and president of Alaska Airlines. Bruce helped bring Tom Hamilton's and David Voetmann's vision to fruition, chairing Quest's board of trustees until his tragic death in 2007. That same year, Quest started its first production run of the KODIAK airplane. The KODIAK airplane is a rugged short takeoff and landing, STOL, turboprop aircraft that requires only 1,000 feet of runway, making it ideally suited for the demanding nature of global humanitarian work. The KODIAK is currently in use around the world. While principally marketed for humanitarian missions, purchasers of the KODIAK include the U.S. Park Service, foreign governments, and private citizens. Despite the impact the global recession has had on the airplane industry, Quest Aircraft has persevered and expanded their company in recent years. Quest Aircraft has expanded from a staff of 14 in 2001 to currently employing nearly 200 people. Shortly after the first year of business, Quest Aircraft moved into its 27,000-square-foot facility at the Sandpoint, ID, Municipal Airport. By May 2007, the KODIAK received FAA type certification and began global deliveries that year. Keeping in line with the mission put forward by the founders of Quest Aircraft, approximately every 10th plane produced is subsidized by the profits the company brings in. This aircraft is then donated to a participating not-for-profit humanitarian organization. This is testament to the good that can be spread from a success story such as this, and serves as an inspiration to many who wish to find the successful intersection of humanitarian work and financial success. Small businesses like Quest Aircraft are on the cutting edge of technology and innovation. These businesses are often at the forefront of groundbreaking advances that provide much-needed solutions to the marketplace. Small businesses are the economic engines of our economy and critical to the national economic recovery. I have faith in the many small businesses that spring up in Idaho and around the United States today, and success stories such as Quest Aircraft should serve as inspiration for the future generation of innovators and entrepreneurs.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, my colleague, Senator Mike Crapo joins me today in recognizing the extraordinary life of Robert Earl Holding. Idaho has lost a great visionary with his recent passing. As an entrepreneur, he saw potential in many businesses, including the Idaho resort Sun Valley. Earl Holding came from modest means. It is well-documented how he started his business empire with the purchase of a motel called Little America in Green River, WY. He expanded the chain and added gas and oil businesses that operate in the western United States. Earl purchased the Sun Valley Resort in 1977 and he had a long-term vision for the resort that was business as well as a labor of love. Restoring Sun Valley Resort to its glory days took great attention to detail and substantial investment. He built ski lodges with stunning views, added high-speed quad lifts and state-of-the-art snowmaking equipment. Earl worked to create a superb skiing experience that brought Idahoans and out of staters to its slopes to an extent that wasn't possible in the past. His focus on excellence resulted in Sun Valley being regularly ranked as a top snow skiing destination. His transformation of Sun Valley, coupled with his involvement in the 2002 Winter Olympics and the hosting of the 2009 International Special Olympics at the Sun Valley Nordic Center, led to his induction into the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame in 2011. Earl renovated the Sun Valley Lodge more than once and upgraded the resort's golf course. He made Sun Valley into a year-round resort that allowed area businesses to expand and create new jobs. Local governments and residents have greatly appreciated his vision and long- term commitment to the resort. Sun Valley is a special place to my wife, Vicki, and me. Our whole family has spent numerous nights in the Sun Valley Lodge--a tradition we continue to this day. It was always a pleasure to run into Earl and his wife, Carol and sit and talk in such a beautiful place. They were very gracious and it was always an enjoyable time with them. We cannot forget in every step of the way, he had a wonderful partner in Carol. They were a great team and for every story of Earl waiting tables, there is a story of Carol cleaning rooms. For 64 years, they were partners in every sense of the word. Our thoughts and prayers are with Carol and their three children during this time. Earl Holding was a devoted husband and father and an accomplished businessman. He had integrity in his business dealings and was loyal to his employees. He valued his customers and he was generous in many ways. Idaho and America has had a great man pass from our midst, but we are all better off because of his presence.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, my colleague Senator Mike Crapo joins me today in recognizing Madison County's 100-year anniversary. Established on February 18, 1913, by the Idaho legislature and named after our Nation's fourth President, James Madison, Madison County has distinguished itself in its contributions to the success of our State. Five people with connections to Madison County went on to become Governors in the States of Idaho, Michigan, Kansas, and Massachusetts. Two people from the county served in Congress, representing Idaho and Utah. And one man went on to serve as Idaho's Lieutenant Governor, my good friend, Mark Ricks, who served with me during my time as Governor. The people of this county distinguished themselves for helping their neighbors and strangers when the Teton Dam collapsed on June 5, 1976. The ensuing flood spread throughout the valley, uprooting farms and homes. Due to the resiliency of the residents and people helping one another, they quickly overcame the disaster and carried on with their lives. Madison County has a rich agricultural history, with the first irrigation system in the State built in this county. It is home to 21 different century farms; places that have been continuously farmed by the same family for 100 or more years. The rich, fertile soil and abundant water has made the county the eighth largest potato growing area in the Nation, along with an abundance of grain, livestock, and other commodities. In the county seat of Rexburg, you will find Idaho's second largest university, Brigham Young University-Idaho, formerly known as Ricks College. Citizens of the county, and throughout the region, for that matter, are very proud of this university and the tremendous growth it has experienced. They are also proud of the 95 percent graduation rate in their local high schools and at the university. Rexburg and BYU-Idaho is also home to the Idaho International Dance Festival. For 27 years, the festival has brought hundreds of dancers and musicians from around the world to share their native music, songs, dance, and dress. Madison County residents strongly support the festival and are proud of the rich history of this event. Madison County also has an abundance of natural features, including the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, the Cartier Slough and Deer Park wildlife management areas, and the twin Menan Buttes. Senator Crapo and I are proud to recognize this landmark anniversary. We congratulate Madison County residents for this centennial and we wish them all and their communities many more years of success.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Congress for passing an important piece of legislation--the Sergei Magnitsky Rule of Law and Accountability Act incorporated into the Russia and Moldova Jackson-Vanik Repeal Act of 2012. As a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, I must note it is one of the most important pieces of foreign policy legislation dealing with human rights we have taken up in recent years. In particular, I want to commend my colleague, Senator Cardin, for his work on the Magnitsky Act. Bringing Russia into the World Trade Organization, WTO, is a good thing. The WTO is a rules- based organization that will create a level playing field for U.S. companies that want to export their products to Russia. As committed as we are to strengthening trade links between the United States and Russia, we must be even more dedicated to promoting the rule of law and protecting the brave Russian individuals and organizations fighting for democracy and human rights. This is why the Magnitsky Act is so important. In the year following Mr. Putin's return to the Presidency, he has built on his repressive record by instituting laws that crack down on freedom of expression, assembly, and association. A new law makes it easier for the state to accuse a person of treason and members of a female rock band have been jailed for criticizing Mr. Putin. These measures are designed to strike back at a rapidly increasing segment of Russian society demanding an end to corruption, oppression, and calling for genuine democratic governance, human rights, and the rule of law. The Sergei Magnitsky Rule of Law and Accountability Act is named after a man who witnessed the deep-seated rot that is a major part of Russia's governance today and decided to expose it to the public. For those who might be unfamiliar with the case, Mr. Magnitsky was an accountant with Hermitage Capitol Management, which had publicly disclosed several instances of alleged Russian Government and corporate corruption related to state-run industries. The company's founder, Bill Browder, was expelled from Russia by government bureaucrats who viewed him as a threat. In 2007, Russian authorities raided Hermitage's offices and subsequently accused the firm of tax evasion and owing hundreds of millions of dollars in back taxes. Mr. Magnitsky investigated these charges and discovered that it was the police who had provided seized tax records to Russian criminal elements who then falsified documents and received a $230 million rebate from the Russian treasury--the largest in Russian history. What is shocking is that when Mr. Magnitsky went to the Russian Government with the evidence he uncovered in 2008, he was the one arrested and jailed. He was held 11 months without trial, became sick, and was denied medical treatment and visits by his family. Mr. Magnitsky was held in horrible conditions. According to his diary, Russian authorities reputedly pressured him to recant his accusations and instead accuse Hermitage of financial crimes. On November 16, 2009, Mr. Magnitsky died in Russian custody. According to the head of the Moscow Helsinki Group, Ludmila Alekseeva, Magnitsky had died from beatings and torture carried out by several officers of Russia's Ministry of Interior. Some people also point to the deliberate denial of medical care for his illnesses as a contributing factor to his death. In standing up for truth, justice, and the rule of law, Mr. Magnitsky gave the Russian people his life. To date, not one senior government official has been held responsible for his death. Instead, in a gesture of mockery, last February the Russian police resubmitted a criminal case against Mr. Magnitsky, making him the first Russian citizen to be tried after his death. The Magnitsky Act takes a measured and targeted approach to identifying and dealing with those who are responsible for egregious human rights and antidemocratic activities throughout Russia. This bill allows the Secretary of State to identify and compile a list of people responsible for the death of Magnitsky, engaged in its coverup, or having financially benefited from his death. The bill offers significant sanctions on those identified by the State Department. They are to be denied visas to the United States, have any assets in U.S. jurisdiction frozen, and prevented from using the U.S. banking system. For the record, as a cosponsor of this bill, I want to be absolutely crystal clear on one particular point. While the death of Mr. Magnitsky is tragic, this bill is not reserved just for those complicit in his death. This legislation not only applies to those involved in the death of Mr. Magnitsky, but it also applies to those involved in, as the bill states, ``extrajudicial killings, torture, or other gross violations of human rights committed against individuals seeking to expose illegal activity carried out by officials of the Government of the Russian Federation; or to obtain, exercise, defend, or promote internationally recognized human rights and freedoms, such as the freedoms of religion, expression, association, and assembly and the rights to a fair trial and democratic elections, anywhere in the world.'' Further, anyone assisting those involved in the abuses described in the legislation can, and should, be targeted. During Senate debate my colleagues, Senator McCain and Senator Wicker, spoke eloquently about the ability to hold human rights abusers accountable and in particular cited the cases of Mikhail Khodorkovsky and Planton Lebedev--other recognized political prisoners. To quote my friend from Arizona discussing the situation in Russia today: This culture of impunity in Russia has been growing worse and worse over many years. It has been deepened by the increased surveillance and harassment of members of opposition and civil society groups . . . by the continued violent attacks on brave journalists who dare to publish the truth about official corruption and other state crimes in Russia today . . . and of course, by the continued detention of numerous political prisoners, not least Mikhail Khodorkovsky and his associate Platon Lebedev, who remain locked away but not forgotten. The cases of Mr. Khodorkovsky and Mr. Lebedev, both jailed because of Mr. Putin's sanctioned theft and destruction of the oil company, Yukos Oil, headed by Mr. Khodorkovsky, falls squarely within the parameters of this legislation. Mr. Khodorkovsky, a businessman, was falsely accused of tax evasion and jailed in 2003 after engaging in politics and forcing a discussion of corruption in Russia. His close friend and business partner, Planton Lebedev, was also jailed as part of the theft of Yukos Oil. Both are widely considered political prisoners--in 2011 Amnesty International declared them political prisoners--and there have been numerous House and Senate resolutions that have highlighted Mr. Khodorkovsky's and Mr. Lebedev's cases. But they are not the only ones. Mr. Khodorkovsky and Mr. Lebedev remain jailed but at least are still alive. One of the most horrific stories in the entire Yukos affair is the case of Vasily Alexanyan. While the Kremlin's dismantling of Yukos was well underway after Mr. Khodorkovsky's arrest in 2003, Mr. Alexanyan, a Harvard Law School graduate and former Yukos general counsel, stepped up in March 2006 to assume the position of executive vice president of Yukos. At the time the company was being forced through a state-orchestrated bankruptcy process. Alexanyan's attempts to protect the company's rights in this process ran up against the hostility of government authorities. Mr. Alexanyan was jailed on April 6, 2006. He was held in horrible conditions during his pretrial detention in a freezing cell and subjected to torture. The authorities knew he had HIV and a compromised immune system. They attempted to make him give testimony against Mr. Khodorkovsky and Mr. Lebedev and others at Yukos in exchange for better treatment and medicine. He refused. The European Court of Human Rights repeatedly issued interim measures to the Russian authorities requesting medical care be provided to Alexanyan. The authorities did not comply, leaving Alexanyan without antiretroviral treatment for almost 2 years. Because of this state-sponsored torture, he died when he was just 39 years old. More than 50 criminal cases against Yukos executives, employees, and others associated with Khodorkovsky or Yukos have been filed by Russian authorities. The strategy of Russian investigators has involved investigating or prosecuting business partners, juniors, or even bystanders to obtain statements or court rulings that would produce ``evidence'' and establish the ``facts'' they needed for their trumped up charges against Mr. Khodorkovsky and others connected with Yukos. There is no question the continuing incarceration of Mr. Khodorkovsky and Mr. Lebedev is a human rights abuse. The European Court for Human Rights ruled that violations of Mr. Khodorkovsky's fundamental human rights did occur in connection with his arrest and detention between 2003 and 2005--including degrading prison conditions, inhuman and degrading conditions in the courtroom throughout his first trial, detention unjustified by compelling reasons outweighing the presumption of liberty, and unfair hearings reviewing his detention. The court has raised similar concerns with Mr. Lebedev. Other cases are also clear cut, such as Anna Politkovskaya, the renowned journalist and Kremlin critic, who was shot dead while entering her apartment building on October 7, 2006. Ms. Politkovskaya rose to prominence for her in-depth coverage of the war in Chechnya, exposing incidents of state-sponsored torture, mass executions, kidnappings, and war crimes. Four individuals initially accused of killing Ms. Politkovskaya were found not guilty, and no light has been shed on the true architect of her murder. Her case would be captured by this legislation if those responsible can be identified. Let's not forget that we are demanding Russia abide by the international agreements that it has ratified and live up to the expectations of the organizations it has joined. The Russian Federation is a member of the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, and the Council of Europe. It is also a party to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the UN Convention against Corruption, and the European Convention on Human Rights. This legislation is narrowly targeted to hold accountable specific persons for the most heinous of crimes and represents a core U.S. foreign policy value. It is also consistent with targeted sanctions the United States has imposed on other countries with major human rights concerns. This also strengthens the President's National Security Strategy announced last May, PSD-10, by ``closing gaps'' in our legal system so our country does not inadvertently become a haven for human rights violators. He enumerated grounds for denying admission to the United States, and this legislation complements his initiative by providing a statutory, legal guidelines for the administration. This bill enjoys enormous bipartisan and bicameral support with a 365 to 43 vote in the House of Representatives and 92 votes in the Senate. In short, there is consensus for this bill and an understanding of the types of cases that fall within the Magnitsky Act's parameters. In Russia, the Magnitsky Act will serve as a deterrent to those engaged in oppression and provide a shield to millions of Russian activists determined to secure greater human rights and establish the rule of law. This bill gives hope to Russian civil society and to echo my friend from Arizona's eloquent comment to Mr. Khodorkovsky and Mr. Lebedev that ``they are not forgotten.'' Those in Russia who are oppressed, intimidated, or suffering because they are seeking democracy, truth and justice should know they are not forgotten and your spirit and determination inspire us. The fact that certain Russian Government officials have lashed out against this law speaks to the powerful tool it can be in support of democracy and human rights in Russia. It is not enough to pass this law--the United States must now publically hold those accountable for persecuting Mr. Khodorkovsky, Mr. Lebedev, and so many others in Russia. I look forward to working with my colleagues and the administration to do so.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, my colleague, Senator Mike Crapo, joins me in recognizing the opening this month of the Chobani Yogurt production facility in Twin Falls, ID. This facility, Chobani's first in Idaho, will be capable of producing 4.2 million cases of yogurt per week at full capacity. All of the milk used to produce the yogurt will come from Idaho dairy farms and at the peak of production will use millions of pounds of milk a day. The 950,000-square-foot production facility was constructed by more than 1,000 workers and will employ between 400 and 500 people next year. More than 300 new jobs have already been created in Twin Falls. It was built at a cost of $450 million and is now the largest yogurt plant in the world. From its founding in 2005, the Chobani company started with 5 employees and now has more than 1,800 employees worldwide, with more than 1,600 in the United States. Their founder and CEO, Hamdi Ulukaya, is an American success story, having immigrated to the United States from Turkey in 1994. Like many businesses in Idaho, Chobani will be involved in local charitable work. Chobani's biggest impact, however, will be in providing well-paying jobs and economic growth through manufacturing a delicious and healthy product available throughout the country. Chobani recognized the many benefits to locating in Idaho--among them the quality milk produced by our Idaho dairy families, a commonsense regulatory environment and hard-working Idahoans who will make the facility a great success. Senator Crapo and I also recognize the many entities that worked with Chobani to make their opening a reality. Elected officials from Twin Falls County and the City of Twin Falls worked tirelessly on the project, as did the Southern Idaho Economic Development Organization. The Twin Falls Chamber of Commerce and the Twin Falls Urban Renewal District also played a major role in the effort. The State of Idaho and its Department of Commerce helped in the process, and the end result is not only the direct jobs at Chobani, but also a multiplier effect of more than 3,000 additional jobs in the State. Today, we congratulate Chobani on the opening of their new plant and salute all of the partners and community leaders on a job well done. We welcome Chobani to the great State of Idaho.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, today we have heard a lot about the financial condition of this country, and certainly that is foremost on the minds of everyone. It is in the forefront. But in addition, there are national security issues in the world, and, unfortunately, they have been pushed to the back page because of the condition of this country. But I wish to talk for a minute about the national security of the United States. It is something we need to focus on no matter what is happening domestically. I wish to focus on one small part of our national security. Certainly, we have issues going on in 30 different countries, and a number of those have our embassies under siege. We have had an ambassador killed in recent weeks. This is a foreign policy that is in shambles. In the Middle East, it is a foreign policy of apology, it is a foreign policy of appeasement, it is a foreign policy of dithering and looking the other way. This cannot go on. Iran continues down a course which is going to force a confrontation with Israel. Israel is the most reliable ally America has--certainly in the region and perhaps in the world. We need a President who will stand and be clear and be firm about what is going to happen if Iran keeps going down the road it is going. That is not happening. It needs to happen. We need to change foreign policy from a policy of apology to a policy of leadership.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, today I wish to congratulate and acknowledge the 100th anniversary of the founding of the city of Melba, Idaho. Starting August 17, 2012, the citizens of Melba will gather throughout the weekend to commemorate this special time in their southwestern Idaho community. Melba was founded by Clayton C. Todd, naming the yet-to-be town after his 4-year-old daughter. Stopping in Idaho on his way to Alaska to mine for gold, Mr. Todd heard about a State land sale. He purchased 160 acres of land and laid out the town site. He had done his homework and saw that this land with a siding on the railroad and expanding farms throughout the area would cut five miles off the route to the nearest town of Nampa and the mainline railroad. Melba became a small boom town in the middle of an agricultural area. Shortly after World War I, the area became famous for its sweet corn seed. Area farmers expanded their seed operations to grow carrot, onion and alfalfa seed, along with the corn. The rich, fertile soil, abundant water and the hot summer days with cool nights earned Melba the moniker ``The Seed Heart of America.'' Like many small communities in our great country, they have seen times of struggle. In 1949, Melba was hit hard by an epidemic of infantile paralysis, also known as polio. The residents not only supported one another, in 1950 they held the first Polio Auction, raising $2,000 for medical research on the disease. Now called the Melba Community Auction, area residents continue the tradition of helping one another as they raise funds for nonprofit organizations that provide services to those in and around Melba. The spirit of small town America is alive and well in Melba. They believe in helping their neighbors as well as strangers. Their schools are a source of pride and strongly supported by the community. And as to their Fourth of July celebration? Let me put it this way--no one can question their patriotism and love of America! Theirs is a grand celebration of our Nation's birthday. So, Madam President, I am very proud to recognize this landmark anniversary and congratulate the community of Melba for this centennial. Melba has much to celebrate as well as to look forward to in its next century.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. We have changed that and gotten it to where the legislature has full control. This has to change. Congress has to take back its ability to handle the law as it is imposed and the burden that is imposed on the American people. I yield the floor.

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, I come to the floor this morning to urge an affirmative vote for Senator Inhofe's resolution. With all due respect to my friend from Vermont, this is not a job-creating bill. Virtually everyone who has looked at that has said this will kill jobs; this will move jobs overseas. Everyone who has looked at this has said it will increase the cost of energy for the American taxpayer. It does two things: It kills jobs and it increases the cost of energy. Why would anyone vote for this? This is absolute foolishness. Today, Americans are concerned about jobs--they are really concerned about jobs. Everywhere I go, people ask me about jobs. They ask me about the economy. Today, we, as Senators, have the opportunity to do something about that. The failure of this resolution and the implementation of the rule the EPA has put in front of us is going to kill jobs and is going to increase the cost of energy in America. It is going to do precisely what so many Senators come to the floor and whine about; that is, run jobs overseas. If you are a job creator, if you are someone thinking of investing, if you are someone who wants to move the American economy forward, you look at every single aspect of it. When you see something like this-- and it is not just this, it is this and a parade of never-ending rules and regulations that kill jobs and increase the costs for the job creators--these are things that clearly urge job creators to create jobs in a place other than America. That is just flat wrong. That is not what I am here today to talk about primarily. What I am here today to talk about is the way we are going about it. The Founding Fathers did a good job when they set up our government. Indeed, out of the thousands of governments that have been created over the years, most of which have failed, only one has had the success our Founding Fathers had. They created a government out of fear of government. They didn't create a government that said: How can we do this? How can we do that? They were interested in keeping government away from them, keeping government away from their jobs, from their businesses, and from their investments. That is what they wanted to do, and it worked for about 200 years. For about 200 years the Federal Government left the American people and the job creators alone. Today, over the last 3\1/2\ decades or so, the Federal Government has stuck its nose into every single aspect of our lives, and here we go again. What we have here is the Federal Government using its power and its regulatory process to get its nose into places where it should not be. This is the job of Congress. It is not the job of the bureaucracy to pass these kinds of laws. This isn't a rule or a regulation as the Founding Fathers anticipated these sorts of things. The Founding Fathers set this up with three branches of government to fight with each other so they would leave the American people alone. They said the job of creating laws, the job of creating regulations, the job of creating rules was the job of the Congress. Somewhere along the line, we have lost our way. Last year the Congress passed about 2,000 pages of legislation, and that included the spending bills. Last year the bureaucracy passed about 70,000 pages of rules and regulations that have the same force and effect as law. The Congress has lost the ability to pass the laws that govern conduct in the United States. People will argue, yes, but Congress won't do it; Congress won't act. That is precisely the point. We were elected by the American people to act or not act as is appropriate. When we don't act, when we don't do something, it is just as important as when we do something. Indeed, I would argue many times more important. Well, what it has come to today is 2,000 pages versus 70,000 pages. In Idaho we had the same problem for a lot of years. In Idaho it was the same way. The bureaucracy could pass a rule or regulation that had the force and effect of law.