[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 1] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 328] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]IN MEMORY OF TEXAS TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION CHAIRMAN RICHARD ``RIC'' WILLIAMSON ______ HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, January 16, 2008 Mr. BURGESS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember The Honorable Ric Williamson, former Chairman of the Texas Transportation Commission and a dear friend of mine. Ric began his 23-year tenure in faithful public service to the state of Texas in 1984, when he was elected as a State Representative. In 2001, he was appointed by Texas Governor Rick Perry to serve on the Texas Transportation Commission, and was named chairman in 2004. Ric served on several boards, including the Southern Regional Education Board, Legislative Budget Board, Department of Information Resources Board, Uniform Statewide Accounting System Committee, and the Southern Legislative Conference, to name a few. As Chairman of the Texas Transportation Commission, Ric's visions always aimed at improving the state of transportation and the quality of infrastructure in Texas. Many times his initiatives were deemed controversial or difficult, but his resolve and determination persevered and many of his harshest critics have come to respect and support his innovative transportation concepts. Ric will always be remembered by his friends and associates as a true champion for all things Texan. Unafraid to challenge the status quo, he was a highly regarded leader bringing innovative ideas to provide safe, economic and reliable transportation to improve the daily lives of Texans. On a personal level Ric remained a patient mentor and a steadfast friend. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Mary Ann and his family. Ric will be greatly missed. ____________________