Sam Graves

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, I do not have to tell you about the epidemic abuse of methamphetamine that has swept this country. It has devastated States such as mine. Missouri has one of the worst meth problems in the country. From 1995 to 2002, Missouri reported a 97.4 percent increase in methamphetamine-related admissions to emergency rooms. In 2003, Missouri had the highest number of meth lab seizures in the country. Missouri is not alone. Meth abuse impacts every community; there is no State where meth cannot be found. In 2005 alone, approximately 5,000 meth labs were seized by law enforcement officials. This serious epidemic requires a serious response, and I believe we have to ensure that all agencies are vigorously fighting the meth epidemic. This includes agencies such as Department of Health and Human Services. HHS sponsored and participated in a conference promoting the ideology of reducing the negative impact of drugs, or the safe use of drugs, rather than stopping the use of illegal drugs. We need to take seriously the meth epidemic sweeping our Nation. Now is not the time to be lax on drug enforcement. We need to take a hard approach to fight this menace and ensure that the administration and agencies are taking the meth epidemic seriously and supporting efforts to prevent drug abuse, not the safe use. My amendment is very simple. My amendment will demand that the Office of National Drug Control Policy conduct a report to explain how it happened that the Department of Health and Human Services sponsored this pro-meth conference and what management and reporting systems the Office of National Drug Control Policy will change to ensure that the Department of Health and Human Services is anti-meth and supportive of efforts fighting the meth epidemic. I ask all Members to support this amendment. This is a serious issue in combating a very dangerous drug, and obviously the meth epidemic. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4473, the reauthorization of the Commodity Futures Exchange Act, and I want to thank the chairman for the opportunity to speak on this very important issue. Last week we passed an amendment out of the Committee on Agriculture markup by a voice vote that addressed prices and market manipulation in the natural gas markets. I am glad to report that the measure had very broad bipartisan support, and I want to thank the chairman for working with me on this very important issue. The amendment that the chairman and I introduced, along with other members of the committee, addresses volatility in the natural gas market. This amendment seeks to ensure that market manipulation is not creating some of the price spikes that we are seeing today in that natural gas market. Through increased transparency, penalties and oversight, this goal is going to be achieved. Energy prices right now are at a high. Most solutions being discussed are in the long term. Today's bill includes a provision that can provide some short-term relief by ensuring Americans, consumers, that market manipulation is not going to continue and will not be a contributing factor in the price of natural gas. It is the farmers, it is the senior citizens, manufacturers, and consumers that I had in mind when I introduced this measure last spring. The price of natural gas is almost double what it was when I first brought this issue to my colleagues' attention. It is my hope that H.R. 4473 will bring some stability to the natural gas market and limit losses associated with extreme natural gas prices and price spikes. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support this important measure and pass it on the floor.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in support of House Resolution 302. This resolution recognizes and commends employers of members of the National Guard and other reserve components who have been mobilized during the global war on terrorism. This resolution, if passed, would urge the Department of Defense to continue to develop long-term strategies to maintain a high level of support between these conscientious employers and to thank these employers for going above and beyond what is required by law. I would like to commend the Chairman for bringing this outstanding resolution to the floor today. I am a co-sponsor of this resolution and H.R. 838, The Hope at Home Act. I strongly believe that men and women who choose to serve their country should not be punished for their service by having to leave their current job without financial support. That is why I have co-sponsored legislation that would give tax credits of 50 percent of an employee's compensation to businesses that continue to pay a guardsman or reservist who gets called up to active duty. In particular, I would like to extend a special thanks to those patriotic employers in America that eliminate this pay gap for their workers by continuing to pay them the difference between their civilian salary and their military pay when mobilized. Nearly \1/3\ of reservists have this benefit from their employer. We should only ask so much sacrifice from those who are so willing to give up their lives to serve the cause of American freedom. Financial ruin should not be one of those sacrifices. I will continue to work on behalf of the National Guard and Reserves for better and more equitable treatment.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize two outstanding citizens of Missouri. Burl and Jurline Barker of Mount Vernon, MO celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on June 10, 2005. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in congratulating Mr. and Mrs. Barker. Burl and Jurline have set an outstanding example for all of us to follow. Their marriage of 60 years truly exemplifies the qualities of commitment and dedication.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Dane K. Hagen, son of Susan and Mike Hagen, of Kearney, Missouri. Dane is 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 397, and by earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Dane has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the 8 years Dane has been involved with Scouting, he has earned 39 merit badges and held several leadership positions. Dane has served his troop as Patrol Leader, Quartermaster, Troop Bugler, and Senior Patrol Leader. Dane is a brave in the Tribe of Mic-o-Say, where he has taken the name ``Mighty Wolf Stalking Prey,'' and is also a brotherhood member in the Order of the Arrow. In addition, Dane has earned the God and Church Award, World Conservation Award, Eagle Bronze Palm, and H. Roe Bartle Heritage Award. For his Eagle Scout project, Dane constructed a fence around the City of Kearney's water tower and variform pump house, and planted evergreens and shrubbery around the new fence. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Dane K. Hagen 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 B. Hearne, son of Sue and Jerry Hearne, of Kearney, MO. Chris is 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 397, and by earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Chris has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the 8 years Chris has been involved with scouting, he has earned 36 merit badges and held several leadership positions. Chris has served his troop as patrol leader, librarian, chaplain's aide, and den chief. Chris is a brave in the tribe of Mic-o- Say, where he has taken the name ``Last Son of Silent Snow Goose.'' In addition, Chris has earned the World Conservation Award, H. Roe Bartle Heritage Award, and Mile Swim Award. For his Eagle Scout project, Chris removed litter and rubbish from the half-mile entry road into Kearney's Mack Porter Park. He also constructed ``No Littering'' signs along the road. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Christopher B. Hearne 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, on Thursday, October 27, 2005 I was unavoidably detained and thus missed rollcall vote No. 553. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall vote No. 553, the Lawsuit Abuse Reduction Act of 2005.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Reid M. Mason of Kansas City, MO, 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 301, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Reid has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities and earning numerous merit badges. Reid began scouting as a Tiger Cub, advanced to Bobcat, Wolf, Bear, and Webelo before joining the Boy Scouts in 2002, where he advanced to Scout, Tenderfoot, 2nd class, 1st class, Star, Life, and finally, Eagle Scout. For his Eagle Scout project, Reid turned a series of small rooms and closets at First Baptist Church in North Kansas City, MO into a large, functional youth area. Outside of scouting, Reid is a sophomore at North Kansas City High School, where he is active in the marching band, symphonic band, theater, swing choir, basketball, baseball, and the International Baccalaureate program. Reid is also active in his youth group at First Baptist Church and plays guitar in the youth worship band. Somehow he also finds time to play summer baseball, work toward his black belt in Hapkido, and take piano lessons. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Reid M. Mason 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 ask you to join me in recognizing Genevieve Roskey of Saint Joseph, MO. Genevieve celebrated her 90th birthday on August 4 of this month, and it is my privilege to offer her my warmest regards on achieving this important milestone. Genevieve is a fine citizen of Missouri and the St. Joseph community. It is an honor to represent Genevieve in the United States Congress, and I wish her all the best on this birthday and many more in the future.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize two outstanding citizens of Missouri's Sixth Congressional District: Rev. and Mrs. Thomas W. Boyce of Blue Springs, MO. Thomas and Doris will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on August 21, 2005. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in congratulating Reverend and Mrs. Boyce. Thomas and Doris Boyce have set an outstanding example for all of us to follow. Their marriage of 50 years truly exemplifies the qualities of commitment and dedication, and I am honored to represent them in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Brian Kidwell, son of Douglas and Teresa Kidwell. Brian will receive his Eagle Award on August 7, 2005 at a Court of Honor in Saint Joseph, MO. Brian began his scouting career in 1995 as a Tiger Cub. In 1996, he joined Pack 218 and proceeded through the ranks of Bobcat, Wolf, Bear, and Webelo. While a Webelo, Brian earned all the activity badges and the Arrow of Light. He also received a Service Star for five years of active scouting and the God and me award. Brian became a member of Troop 218 in 2000, where he earned the ranks of Tenderfoot, 2nd Class, 1st Class, Star, Life, and now Eagle. Brian received 27 merit badges, and served in numerous leadership positions including Librarian, Patrol Leader, Chaplain Aide, Troop Guide, and Junior Assistant Scout Master. He is also a Fire Builder in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. In June of 2003, Brian and his father Douglas went to Philmont Scout Ranch, where they earned the 50 Miler Award. Aside from scouting, Brian is a lifetime resident of Country Club Village. He attended John Glenn Elementary School then Savannah Middle School. He is currently a junior at Savannah High School and has been involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and FFA. He has been on High Honor Roll since 4th grade. Brian is a member of Faith United Church, Hope Youth Group, and the Sons of the American Legion, which he joined through his late grandfather, Darryle Bartlett. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Brian Kidwell 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 Cody Wayne Bates, son of Carol and Terry Bates, of Holt, Missouri. Cody is 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 397, and by earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Cody has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the 8 years Cody has been involved with Scouting, he has earned 35 merit badges and held several leadership positions. Cody has served his troop as Assistant Patrol Leader, Chaplain's Aide, Librarian, and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. Cody is a brave in the Tribe of Mic-o-Say, where he has taken the name ``Red Eye Owl,'' and is also a brotherhood member in the Order of the Arrow. In addition, Cody has earned the World Conservation Award. For his Eagle Scout project, Cody constructed a fence around 6 air conditioning units at First United Methodist Church to protect the units from damage. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Cody Wayne Bates 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, on rollcall No. 553 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act. Over the last few years, trial lawyers have filed suit against firearms manufacturers across the country in the hopes of bankrupting the industry. These frivolous lawsuits are often based on the dubious premise that gun manufacturers should be held liable for the actions of others who use their products in a criminal or unlawful manner. This abuse of the legal process demands strong Congressional action, and we are responding with this legislation. This bill will protect the firearms industry from lawsuits based on the criminal or unlawful third-party misuse of their products. This law is necessary to prevent a few state courts from undermining our Second Amendment rights guaranteed by the Constitution. Contrary to many rumors, this bill will not prevent legitimate victims from having their day in court for cases involving defective firearms, breaches of contract, criminal behavior by a gun maker or dealer, or the negligent entrustment of a firearm to an irresponsible person. Mr. Speaker, while I have serious concerns about the trigger lock language added to this bill in the Senate, the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act is an important step in the right direction. The reality is that we need a bill to be signed into law, and this is our greatest opportunity to accomplish meaningful reform which benefits all lawful gun owners and enthusiasts. These irresponsible lawsuits seriously threaten the supply of guns and ammunition available for hunting, self-defense, collecting, competitive or recreational shooting, and other lawful activities, and it is time to put a stop to them.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, on Friday, October 7, 2005, I was unavoidably detained and thus missed rollcall vote No. 520. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall vote No. 520, H. Con. Res. 248, honoring the life and work of Simon Wiesenthal and reaffirming the commitment of Congress to the fight against anti- Semitism and intolerance in all forms, in all forums, and in all nations.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Chairman, I thank the chairman for yielding me this time to speak on an issue that is very important to me and my constituents. The Endangered Species Act plays a prominent role in my State of Missouri with over 25 endangered and threatened species located within the borders and nine in my district. Mr. Chairman, the ESA is broken and needs to be fixed. Over the last 30 years, less than 1 percent of all listed species have been removed, and most of them have been removed because of poor data. I thought the intent of the ESA was to recover species and not leave them on the list indefinitely. Also, landowners seem to be getting cheated when species are identified on their property resulting in lower property values, less production and limited use. These unintended adverse impacts have resulted in a law that is hurting landowners while not recovering any species. This is why I introduced H.R. 3300, the Endangered Species Recovery Act. I want to thank the chairman and staff for working with me to develop and incorporate this bill into the overall ESA bill. The language in section 10 of the bill creates ``species recovery agreements.'' Basically, it is an all-inclusive incentive program that will compensate landowners for their conservation efforts. It is my hope that this provision will foster a better working relationship with landowners and the Federal Government resulting in recovery of more species. My underlying goal is to protect landowners while keeping intact the spirit of the ESA. As part of the farming community, I have heard stories of farmers afraid to report an endangered species on their land because of the implication it would have on their property and their farming operation. ``Shoot, shovel, and shut up'' was often the case when a species was identified on their property. My point is that the ESA was more of a burden on landowners, and without the cooperation of landowners, species recovery, I do not think, will ever be successful. Another reason why I chose to get involved in this debate is because of the implication this Act has on the management of the Missouri River. The Missouri River is a vital waterway for Midwest farmers, providing cheaper and more efficient transportation for their grain. The Flood Control Act of 1944 authorized the Army Corps of Engineers to maintain flood control and navigation along the river. Then came the Endangered Species Act and this all changed. The ESA seems to supersede the Flood Control Act, and now transportation along the river is unreliable. Ultimately, I would like to see the provisions in this bill fix the situation so navigation becomes more reliable. Again, I commend the chairman on his efforts and look forward to working with him on this bill and getting it passed this afternoon.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Michael David Herring, son of Mary Kay and Leon Herring of Saint Joseph, Missouri. Michael is 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 31, and by earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Michael will receive his Eagle Award on October 2, 2005 at Saint Francis Xavier Parish Center. Michael has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the 11 years Michael has been involved with Scouting, he has earned numerous merit badges, honors, and leadership positions. Michael has served his troop as Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader, Quartermaster, and Troop Guide. Michael holds the rank of Tom Tom Beater in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, and participated in Junior Leadership Training. In addition to these honors, Michael earned the Arrow of Light Award, Pope Pius XII Unit Award, and the Ad Altari Dei and Parvuli Dei religious awards. During his 11 years in the scouts, Brandon attended Camp Geiger for six summers. For his Eagle Scout project, Michael planted five red sunset maple trees at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. Once fully grown, the trees will separate the parking lot from the playground. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Michael David Herring 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 Casey M. Dupree, son of Keith and Carol Dupree of Saint Joseph, Missouri. Casey is 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 31, and by earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Casey will receive his Eagle Award on October 2, 2005 at Saint Francis Xavier Parish Center. Casey has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the six years Casey has been involved with Scouting, he has earned numerous merit badges, honors, and leadership positions. Casey has served his troop as Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader, and Troop Guide. Casey holds the rank of Tom Tom Beater in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. During his years in the Scouts, Casey spent six years at Camp Geiger, and went on both the Canoe Trip and Katy Trail 50 Mile Bike Ride for three years. For his Eagle Scout project, Casey stained flower boxes for Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Casey M. Dupree 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 Ryan E. Jones, son of Chris and Colleen Jones, of Saint Joseph, Missouri. Ryan is 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 31, and by earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Ryan will receive his Eagle Award on October 2, 2005 at Saint Francis Xavier Parish Center. Ryan has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the years Ryan has been involved with Scouting, he has earned numerous merit badges, honors, and leadership positions including Patrol Leader and Troop Guide. Ryan is a member of the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, and spent almost every summer at Philmont Boy Scout Ranch. For his Eagle Scout project, Ryan cleaned up brush and mowed at Happy Hallow Cemetery. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Ryan E. Jones 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 Brandon Michael Lambert Beck, son of Kerry and Marilyn Beck of Saint Joseph, Missouri. Brandon is 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 31, and by earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Brandon will receive his Eagle Award on October 2, 2005 at Saint Francis Xavier Parish Center. Brandon has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the twelve years Brandon has been involved with Scouting, he has earned numerous merit badges, honors, and leadership positions. Brandon has served his troop as Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader, Historian, and Troop Guide. Brandon holds the rank of Tom Tom Beater in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, and participated in Junior Leader Training. Brandon has earned awards for snorkeling and marksmanship, as well as the Ad Altari Dei and Parvuli Dei religious awards. During his twelve years in the scouts, Brandon attended Camp Geiger for seven summers. For his Eagle Scout project, Brandon constructed and installed shelves in the basement of the rectory of Saint Francis Xavier Church. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Brandon Michael Lambert Beck 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 Jason Robert Sten, son of Kathy Holmquist and Patrick Sten of Saint Joseph, Missouri. Jason is 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 31, and by earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Jason will receive his Eagle Award on October 2, 2005 at Saint Francis Xavier Parish Center. Jason has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the 8 years Jason has been involved with Scouting, he has earned numerous merit badges, honors, and leadership positions. Jason has served his troop as Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Scoutmaster, and Troop Guide. Jason holds the rank of Runner in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, and earned the Mile Swim Award. During his years in the scouts, Jason spent 8 years at Camp Geiger and was a member of the Junior Leader Training Staff. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Jason Robert Sten 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 Kemper, son of Howard and Linda Kemper of Saint Joseph, Missouri. Jonathan is 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 31, and by earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Michael will receive his Eagle Award on October 2, 2005 at Saint Francis Xavier Parish Center. Jonathan has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the eleven years Jonathan has been involved with Scouting, he has earned numerous merit badges, honors, and leadership positions. Jonathan has served his troop as Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader, Historian, and Troop Guide. Jonathan holds the rank of Runner in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, and participated in Junior Leader Training and was a member of the Junior Leader Training Staff. During his years in the scouts, Jonathan attended Camp Geiger and Philmont Scout Ranch. For his Eagle Scout project, Jonathan refinished a fence. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Jonathan Kemper 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 Dr. John R. Dixon of Brookfield, Missouri. Dr. Dixon will celebrate his 100th birthday on September 14th, and the town of Brookfield will be honoring Dr. Dixon's birthday with a parade among other festivities. It is my privilege to offer Dr. Dixon my warmest regards on achieving this important milestone. Dr. Dixon was born on September 14, 1905. In 1931, Dr. Dixon opened his first medical practice as a physician and surgeon in Linneus, Missouri, a few miles northwest of Brookfield. In 1935, Dr. Dixon joined the Missouri National Guard which began a long career of patriotic service to our national through the Armed Services. Dr. Dixon served the United States of America with honor as a flight surgeon in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. Dr. Dixon still maintains his license to practice medicine, plays golf once a week, and drives himself. He is an active, vibrant, and healthy member of the community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Dr. John R. Dixon of Brookfield, Missouri as he begins his tenth decade. It is an honor to represent him in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Andrew S. Carlisle, son of David and Susan Carlisle of Saint Joseph, MO. Andrew is 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 31, and by earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Andrew will receive his Eagle Award on October 2, 2005 at Saint Francis Xavier Parish Center. Andrew has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the 5 years Andrew has been involved with scouting, he has earned numerous merit badges, honors, and leadership positions. Andrew has served his troop as assistant patrol leader, patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader, senior patrol leader, quartermaster, and troop guide. Andrew is a member of the Tribe of Mic- O-Say and completed Junior Leader Training. During his years in the scouts, Andrew spent 5 years at summer camp, and participated in canoe trips down the Niangua River. For his Eagle Scout project, Andrew did trail work at Bluff Woods Conservation Area. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Andrew S. Carlisle 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 Blaine Evan Steck of Kansas City, Missouri, 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 314, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Blaine has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities and earning numerous merit badges. I am especially proud of Blaine's accomplishment, because he received the Citizenship in the Nation Merit Badge for his visit to my Washington office and the Communications Merit Badge after writing a letter to me about the California legislature's attempt to prevent the Boy Scouts from using public facilities. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Blaine Evan Steck for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.