[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 18] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 23812] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]TRIBUTE TO THE FELIX FAMILY ______ HON. RON KIND of wisconsin in the house of representatives Friday, December 8, 2006 Mr. KIND. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Felix Family of Viroqua, Wisconsin. On December 16, 2006, after 100 years and three generations, Felix's Men's and Women's Clothing will be closing. This store has been a pillar of Viroqua's downtown business district and an integral part of the community. Thanks to Felix's and other small businesses, Viroqua continues to have a vibrant downtown. Steve Felix has owned and operated Ted Felix's since the early 1970s. Steve is a good friend who is not shy in imparting his advice on me during my frequent visits to Felix's. Steve told me once that back when Senator Proxmire served the people of Wisconsin, he would often stop at Felix's and shake Steve's hand. On one of these occasions, Steve scolded the Senator and told him that he needed to start dressing better in order to look like a United States Senator. Senator Proxmire bought a suit from Steve that very day, and during every occasion when he saw Steve he would ask Steve how he looked to ensure his dress was appropriate. As my wife Tawni can attest, Steve has continued this tradition by selling me suits so I am more appropriately dressed. Small businesses like Felix's are vital to the well-being of rural America because of the unique spirit, personal service, and character they impart on small towns. They are what make shopping on our main streets an enjoyable and personal experience. Steve's leadership and dedication, along with his wife Betty and their two children Randy and Erica, has made Viroqua and Vernon County a better place to live, work, and raise a family. I commend Steve, the Felix family, and all of the other small businesses that continue to serve America and drive our economy. I wish them well and Godspeed in their future ventures. ____________________