Zero Sum Game for Neutrons

Retired JLab Director Christoph Leemann and his wife, Traute, in Newport News City Council chambers, where Newport News Mayor Joe Frank and City Council members presented Leemann with a "resolution of recognition” on Nov. 6.

Standing before a crowded room and members of City Council on Nov. 6, Newport News Mayor Joe Frank publicly praised former Jefferson Lab Director Christoph Leemann for his work and his career, and wished him well in retirement. The city also presented Leemann with a "resolution of recognition."

"It was a unique experience," Leemann told the public gathering of his 23 years at Jefferson Lab. "We overcame many obstacles to bring this facility about.

"It would have been fun to finish it," he said, referring to the 12 GeV Upgrade, "but it would have been too much for me at this time." The lab, he noted, is poised for great things under new and very capable leadership.

Leemann thanked the mayor and the city for "giving us extra strength and clout" when dealing with the many complex issues related to building and operating a world-class research facility. He said the city and the lab have an "exemplary relationship," and that the lab and its employees are now "deeply imbedded in the community."

"Looking back and recalling what the city was 23 years ago and seeing what it looks like today, the mayor has done a fantastic job. The city can be very proud of what it has accomplished," added Leemann, who attended the event with his wife, son and daughter-in-law.

In his closing remarks, the mayor noted that the lab not only brings well-educated workers and leading scientists to the area, it also contributes to the education of the city's school children and the training of their teachers.

"It's not just what the lab has done in the universe of science," the mayor said, "the lab also has been engaged in the city under the leadership of Christoph."