Sam Graves

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Brady Miller, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 249, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Brady has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. For his Eagle Scout project, he constructed a 114 foot walking trail off the main trail at Platte Ridge Park for the Platte County Parks and Recreation Department. Over the many years Brady has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Brady Miller for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Cole S. Klawuhn, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 94, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Cole has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Cole has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Cole S. Klawuhn for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Benjamin F. Sanderson, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 180, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Benjamin has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Benjamin has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Benjamin F. Sanderson for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise to recognize Kristin Venzian of Parkville, Missouri. Kristin will be honored with the Billy Mitchell Award and Second Lieutenant Bars as a member of the Platte Valley Civil Air Patrol. As a member of the Civil Air Patrol, she has been moving swiftly through the ranks and is a member of the first string color guard, participating in various local events as a member of the team that won the Missouri State Color Guard Championship this year. Kristin is a very active member of her school and the community. She received the President's Volunteer Service Award in 2005 and founded Kids Celebrate Soldiers, a foundation that sends thank you cards from children around the United States to American soldiers overseas. In school she is a member of the National Honor Society, the South Boulevard Singers, French Club, Teenage Republican Club, and a Captain on the Girls Cross Country squad. After graduating from Park Hill South High School, Kristin hopes to enter the Air Force Academy and pursue a degree in Aeronautical Engineering with a specialty in engines. For many years she remains focused on becoming a pilot and serving in the Air Force throughout her career. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Kristin Venzian, an outstanding student from Parkville, Missouri. Her commitment to the community and desire to serve her country should be commended. I would like to express my gratitude to her for her achievements and I am honored to represent her in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise to recognize Jared Goede of Kansas City, Missouri. Jared will be honored with the Billy Mitchell Award and Second Lieutenant Bars as a member of the Platte Valley Civil Air Patrol. He has been a member of the Civil Air Patrol since 2004 and has been involved in the color guard since 2005. As a member of the community, Jared has been active in 4-H, the North Kansas City High School Scholar Bowl Team, the American Heartland Theatre, and his church. Additionally, he has pursued many academic activities outside of his regular schoolwork. He has studied at Truman State University's Joseph Baldwin Academy for Eminent Young Scholars, studied hydrodynamics at a Westminster College summer camp, and participated in the Students in Academically Gifted Education program through the North Kansas City School District. Jared has already enlisted into the United States Army Reserves as a Civil Affairs Specialist. Upon graduating from North Kansas City High School in May of 2006, Jared will enter boot camp in June of 2006 and then defer his active duty status until he completes his college studies. He has been accepted to Missouri Western State University and plans to major in History and participate in the Reserve Officer Training Corps program. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Jared Goede, an outstanding student from Kansas City, Missouri. His commitment to the community and desire to serve his country should be commended. I would like to express my gratitude to him for his achievements and I am honored to represent him in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker I proudly pause to recognize Nicholas A. Serroque, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Nicholas has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the many years Nicholas has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Nicholas A. Serroque for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Ammon Sarver of Liberty, MO. He has spent many hours of study and preparation as a member of the Liberty High School Science Bowl Team. After numerous competitions and a victory in the regional competition, the Liberty High School Science Bowl Team earned a spot to compete in the 2006 National Science Bowl Competition in Washington, DC. As one of America's best and brightest, Ammon has been an accomplished student. As an active member of his church and in scouting, Ammon is very involved in the community. In school, he is a member of the National Honor Society and enjoys mathematics, physics, and chemistry. He plans on going on a mission for his church after graduation and then attending college to study in math or science. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Ammon Sarver, an outstanding student from Liberty, MO. As a top student who is committed to science and mathematics, Ammon will certainly have a bright and fulfilling future. I commend him for his achievements and I am honored to represent him in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize John Ahlfield of Liberty, Missouri. He has spent many hours of study and preparation as a member of the Liberty High School Science Bowl Team. After numerous competitions and a victory in the regional competition, the Liberty High School Science Bowl Team earned a spot to compete in the 2006 National Science Bowl Competition in Washington, D.C. As one of America's best and brightest, John has been an accomplished student. He is a member of Serteens and the National Honor Society. He joined the Liberty Scholar Bowl Team as a sophomore, then became a Varsity member and captain his junior year. Among his favorite subjects are science and mathematics and he hopes to pursue a degree in chemical engineering after graduating from Liberty High School. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing John Ahlfield, an outstanding student from Liberty, Missouri. As a top student who is committed to science and mathematics, John will certainly have a bright and fulfilling future. I commend him for his achievements and I am honored to represent him in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Ryan Stander of Liberty, Missouri. He has spent many hours of study and preparation as a member of the Liberty High School Science Bowl Team. After numerous competitions and a victory in the regional competition, the Liberty High School Science Bowl Team earned a spot to compete in the 2006 National Science Bowl Competition in Washington, D.C. As one of America's best and brightest, Ryan has been an accomplished student. This years entry in the National Science Bowl was his second entry in the national tournament. Ryan is very involved as a member of the Liberty Scholar Bowl team, Science Knowledge Bowl, National Honor Society, Young Democrats, and Serteens. After graduation, Ryan will attend Truman State University in the fall to major in history and political science. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Ryan Stander, an outstanding student from Liberty, Missouri. As a top student who is committed to science and mathematics, Ryan will certainly have a bright and fulfilling future. I commend him for his achievements and I am honored to represent him in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Stephanie Hull of Liberty, Missouri. She has spent many hours of study and preparation as a member of the Liberty High School Science Bowl Team. After numerous competitions and a victory in the regional competition, the Liberty High School Science Bowl Team earned a spot to compete in the 2006 National Science Bowl Competition in Washington, D.C. As one of America's best and brightest, Stephanie has been an accomplished student. A very active student, she participates in Scholar Bowl, Orchestra, National Honor society, Model UN, Debate, the National Forensic League, her church youth group, and the Senior Girl Scouts. Stephanie would like to become a doctor and is interested in attending UMKC or the University of Chicago. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Stephanie Hull, an outstanding student from Liberty, Missouri. As a top student who is committed to science and mathematics, Stephanie will certainly have a bright and fulfilling future. I commend her for her achievements and I am honored to represent her in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Shane Daniel of Liberty, Missouri. He has spent many hours of study and preparation as a member of the Liberty High School Science Bowl Team. After numerous competitions and a victory in the regional competition, the Liberty High School Science Bowl Team earned a spot to compete in the 2006 National Science Bowl Competition in Washington, DC. As one of America's best and brightest, Shane has been an accomplished student. As a student who loves competition, Shane is a member of the Varsity Scholar Bowl team, Future Business Leaders of America, and the cross-country team. He enjoys studying physics, chemistry, and mathematics, hoping to attend the University of Chicago to study in the sciences. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Shane Daniel, an outstanding student from Liberty, Missouri. As a top student who is committed to science and mathematics, Shane will certainly have a bright and fulfilling future. I commend him for his achievements and I am honored to represent him in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Samuel A. Brandt, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 357, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Samuel has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Samuel has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Samuel A. Brandt for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Daniel Edward Eshnaur, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 357, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Daniel has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Daniel has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Daniel Edward Eshnaur for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Joel R. Herndon, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 357, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Joel has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Joel has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Joel R. Herndon for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Matthew Schanuel, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 288, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Matthew has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Matthew has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Matthew Schanuel for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Christopher K. Williams, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 288, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Christopher has been very active with his Troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the many years Christopher has been involved with Scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Christopher K. Williams for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Jonathan M. Nelson, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 288, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Jonathan has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Jonathan has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Jonathan M. Nelson for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Elisha T. Woods, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 460, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Elisha has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Elisha has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Elisha T. Woods for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize the city of Carrollton, Missouri. The city of Carrollton was chosen as the recipient of the 2005 All-America City Award administered by the National Civic League. Carrollton is the county seat of Carroll County and the home to 4,122 outstanding citizens. The city of Carrollton was chosen to receive this award as a result of their commitment to civic excellence in which the citizens, government, businesses, and nonprofit organizations of Carrollton have demonstrated successful resolution of critical community issues. This community cooperation is credited with the creation of a new library, development of downtown business district management, renovation of an historic trolley car, and the construction of a skatepark. This is an important milestone not only for Carrollton, but also for northern Missouri as a whole. This remarkable achievement by the city of Carrollton proves to me that our belief in our small towns and Missouri values grows stronger by the day. Faith, family, friends, and hard work are the values that draw us together, and I am pleased to see that those values are embodied by the citizens of Carrollton, the community and business leaders, and Mayor Sharon Metz. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing the achievement of the city of Carrollton in obtaining the All-America City Award. I wish to extend my warmest regards and congratulations on this momentous occasion. It is an honor and a privilege to represent such a fine community in the U.S. Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, this amendment is very simple. It is not going to take much. It will just ask that the National Office on Drug Control Policy explain to us their participation in this conference and show us that they are serious about the fight on drugs, they are serious about fighting this epidemic. It gives a report to Congress. That is all it does. I would like an explanation for this action. I would like an explanation for what took place. Again, it is a very simple amendment, and I do not think it is asking too much.

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. That is exactly what we are trying to do, Mr. Chairman, is just ask that taxpayer dollars be used responsibly and not for conferences such as this. We need to fight drugs, not show people that they can be used in a safe manner. I think that is ridiculous.

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Chairman, I want to thank the gentleman from Montana (Mr. Rehberg) for working with me on this issue. Meth abuse is prevalent in all the States and imposes a high cost on society, Mr. Chairman. Meth is highly addictive and its effects are severe and longlasting. Recent studies have demonstrated meth causes more damage to the brain than heroine, alcohol, or cocaine. Its abuse impacts not only the users but also the user's family and the general public. Thousands of children across the country have been taken away from their meth-abusing parents, placed with relatives, or shifted into the already overcrowded foster care system. It is our duty in Congress to ensure that the public is informed and educated about the dangerous effects of this drug, and that is why I helped introduce this amendment. This amendment is an important tool to fight the meth epidemic. It will require that at least 10 percent of the media budget for the Office of National Drug Control Policy be spent on advertising fighting meth abuse. With this minimum percentage we can ensure that the public is educated about the dangers and risks of this deadly drug and help prevent its further abuse.

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Souder).