Sam Graves

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize John L. Jermain of Conception Junction, Missouri. John celebrated his 80th birthday on July 12, 2005 and it is my privilege to offer him my warmest regards on achieving this important milestone. In addition to being a fine grandfather, Mr. Jermain is a respected farmer and dedicated community member in Conception Junction. He fought for the United States of America with honor in Korea, and I am grateful for Mr. Jermain's patriotism and service to our nation. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing John L. Jermain. It is an honor to represent him in the United States Congress, and I wish him all the best for many more birthdays in the future.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to speak in support of the Children's Safety Act of 2005. This legislation, if passed, will close the loopholes in the current system that allow sexual predators to evade law enforcement. It will enhance the current sex offender registration and community notification law. It will create a comprehensive national system for sex offender registration, improve information exchange between States when sex offenders move from State to State, and increase penalties for failing to comply with the registration law. I would like to commend the Chairman for bringing this outstanding package to the floor today. I am very grateful that the Chairman has included several provisions from a bill that I introduced entitled the Sexual Predator Sentencing Act of 2005. These provisions would toughen several existing sentencing guidelines and keep sex offenders off the street. Provisions incorporated from my bill will increase the criminal penalties and establish mandatory minimums for those that harm our children whether it is over the Internet or in person. Strong laws that hold the criminal accountable are a vital component in the effort to protect children. Those who abduct children are often serial offenders who have already been convicted of similar offenses. Strong sentencing is an essential component in any effort to fight crimes against children. This legislation contains many vital provisions in protecting our children from these violent predators. Our children must be protected against repeat sexual offenders. The Children's Safety Act of 2005 should be passed to keep sexual predators behind bars and our children safe.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Shawn Patrick Burt 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 395, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Shawn will receive his Eagle at a Court of Honor on September 18 at Pine Ridge Presbyterian Church. Shawn has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the years Shawn has been involved with scouting he has earned numerous merit badges and has served in leadership positions within his troop. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Shawn Patrick Burt for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout. It is an honor to represent Eagle Scout Burt in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Brent Traugott Saving 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 395, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Brent will receive his Eagle at a Court of Honor on September 18 at Pine Ridge Presbyterian Church. Brent has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the years Brent has been involved with scouting he has earned numerous merit badges and has served in leadership positions within his troop. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Brent Traugott Saving for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout. It is an honor to represent Eagle Scout Saving in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Jeremy Christopher Wood 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 395, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Jeremy will receive his Eagle at a Court of Honor on September 18 at Pine Ridge Presbyterian Church. Jeremy has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the years Jeremy has been involved with scouting he has earned numerous merit badges and has served in leadership positions within his troop. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Jeremy Christopher Wood for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout. It is an honor to represent Eagle Scout Wood in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Gregory Allan Politte 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 395, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Gregory will receive his Eagle at a Court of Honor on September 18 at Pine Ridge Presbyterian Church. Gregory has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the years Gregory has been involved with scouting he has earned numerous merit badges and has served in leadership positions within his troop. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Gregory Allan Politte for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout. It is an honor to represent Eagle Scout Politte in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Brandon James Mynatt 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 395, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Brandon will receive his Eagle at a Court of Honor on September 18 at Pine Ridge Presbyterian Church. Brandon has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the years Brandon has been involved with scouting he has earned numerous merit badges and has served in leadership positions within his troop. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Brandon James Mynatt for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout. It is an honor to represent Eagle Scout Mynatt in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize John Robert Mohr, 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 214, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. John has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years John has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. For his Eagle Project, John designed and built a wheeled oak cabinet for storing toys and a matching oak table custom built for small children for the daycare center at his local church, Saint James Catholic Church. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending John Robert Mohr 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 Alex Q. Newmaster, 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. Alex has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Alex 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 Alex Q. Newmaster 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 two outstanding constituents of Missouri's Sixth Congressional District: Helen and Harry Danks of Grundy County, Missouri. Helen and Harry will celebrate their 60th Wedding Anniversary on December 23, 2005. Helen and Harry Danks were married on December 23, 1945 in Memphis, Tennessee. At the time, Harry was serving our country at Millington Naval Air Station in Millington, Tennessee and Helen was working at the Oak Ridge Bomb Plant in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Incidentally, Helen worked at Oak Ridge Bomb Plant at the same time that Fat Man and Little Boy were made. Helen and Harry Danks have been outstanding citizens of Grundy County and Northwest Missouri. They have operated the family farm for over 50 years, and are dedicated and active members of their church and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Helen and Harry Danks. Their marriage of 60 years is inspirational, and I am honored to represent them in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Ian Lewis Henderson 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 395, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Ian will receive his Eagle at a Court of Honor on September 18 at Pine Ridge Presbyterian Church. Ian has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the years Ian has been involved with scouting, he has earned numerous merit badges and has served in leadership positions within his troop. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Ian Lewis Henderson for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout. It is an honor to represent Eagle Scout Henderson in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Nicholas William Windhorst 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 395, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Nicholas will receive his Eagle at a Court of Honor on September 18 at Pine Ridge Presbyterian Church. Nicholas has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the years Nicholas has been involved with scouting he has earned numerous merit badges and has served in leadership positions within his troop. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Nicholas William Windhorst for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout. It is an honor to represent Eagle Scout Windhorst in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I pause today to congratulate Alan E. Michelson, principal of Cordill-Mason Elementary School in Blue Springs, Missouri on his recent election as President of the National Association of Elementary School Principals. Mr. Michelson has served the students, families and community of Blue Springs for a great number of years. He is a graduate of Tarkio College and received a Masters Degree from Central Missouri State University. During his 27 years of service in the field of education, Mr. Michelson has been granted numerous awards in recognition of his outstanding skills and dedication as an educator. He was named one of the Heritage Who's Who in 2005. He received the Blue Springs School District Award for Leadership, Professionalism and Dedication in 2001. In 1993 he was awarded an Honorary Life Membership in the Parent Teacher Association. Rounding out his list of distinctions, he was named one of 10 Outstanding Missourians in 1982. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing the accomplishments of Mr. Michelson. I personally look forward to a continued relationship with him as both Principal of Cordill-Mason Elementary School and as President of the National Association of Elementary and Secondary School Principals.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, on Friday June 17, 2005 I was unavoidably delayed and thus missed rollcall votes Nos. 282, 281, 280, 279, 278, 277, 276, 275, 274. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on Nos. 282, 280, 279, 278, 277, 276, 275, 274 and ``nay''' on No. 281.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Joshua Fisher of Weston, 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 249, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Joshua achieved the rank of Eagle Scout on October 14, 2004. Joshua has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years that Joshua has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. For his Eagle Scout project, Joshua organized the creation of a new welcome sign, the pouring of concrete slabs for picnic tables, and the installation of a new flag pole with lighting around t, all at Bless Park in Weston. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Joshua Fisher 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 Jeanne Daffron Ph.D. Dr. Daffron is Assistant Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs at Missouri Western State College in Saint Joseph, Missouri and in a few days will receive the Saint Joseph YWCA Women of Excellence Award for Women in the Workplace. Dr. Daffron received her undergraduate degree and doctorate in nursing from Texas Woman's University. For nineteen years she served as a faculty member in the nursing department at Missouri Western, and later served as chair of the department and Dean of Professional Studies for seven years. Recently, Dr. Daffron was appointed Assistant Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs. She is a member of the International Honor Society of Nursing, as well as the Missouri Nurse Association. In 1999, she was recognized by her alma mater as one of its ``Distinguished Alumna.'' In 2004, Dr. Daffron was selected by students as the ``Outstanding Honors Program Faculty Member.'' In addition to her career at Missouri Western, Dr. Daffron has served in a number of leadership positions throughout the greater Saint Joseph community. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Heartland Regional Medical Center Foundation, Leadership Northwest Missouri, and Junior Achievement, and served as only the second female chair of the Saint Joseph Area Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Daffron is also Co-Chair of the Higher Education Division for the United Way, and is a member of the Saint Joseph Community Plan Board. She was appointed by Governor Blunt to a three-year term on the State of Missouri Life Science Research Board as well. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Jeanne Daffron, Ph.D. Her commitment to Saint Joseph exemplifies the qualities of service and dedication. I am honored to represent her in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Commerce Bank. In a few days, Commerce Bank will receive the Saint Joseph YWCA Women of Excellence Award for Employer of Excellence. Commerce Bank has worked to make banking an outstanding career choice for women. Since 1986, the business has continually provided opportunities for Saint Joseph women. High achievement is encouraged by Commerce through educational assistance, career training opportunities, and scheduling flexibility. While maintaining their regular work schedules, several female officers and employees have obtained or are currently working toward college degrees. Currently 61 percent of Commerce Bank's employees are women. From Secretary to Senior Vice President, women are entrusted to fill critical positions. Commerce has also been widely recognized for its commitment to community volunteerism. In the 10-year history of the Commerce Commendation Award, Commerce Bank of Saint Joseph has won the award nine times; five of those awards have gone to female employees. Commerce's female employees are engaged in a wide range of community activities including the Partners in Education program, tutoring school children, and even taking part in the Red Cross Hurricane Relief effort. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Commerce Bank, an exceptional employer in Missouri's Sixth Congressional District that has made banking an outstanding career choice for women. Commerce Bank's commitment to excellence is inspiring, and I am honored to represent so many of its fine employees and officers in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Arthur H. Schnuck of Cooper County, Missouri. Mr. Schnuck will soon celebrate his 97th birthday. Arthur H. Schnuck was born on June 22, 1908 on the Schnuck Century Farm known as the ``Walnut Range Stock Farm'' to Henry E. Schnuck and Ida Vieth Schnuck. The Walnut Range Stock Farm is located in Cooper County, just east of Boonville in Saline Township. Mr. Schnuck's early schooling took place at a one room school house at Highland. He attended Boonville High School, and after graduating in 1928, he went on to the University of Missouri. While at Mizzou, Mr. Schnuck competed on several judging teams. His main interests were grain farming and cattle. In 1952, Mr. Schnuck won a corn growing contest sponsored by a radio station in Kansas City; he won with 152 bushels of corn on a single acre in the senior division. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Arthur H. Schnuck of Cooper County, Missouri. Mr. Schnuck's livelong dedication to agriculture and his community is remarkable, and his accomplishments are commendable. It is an honor to represent him in the United States Congress. I offer him my warmest regards on this important milestone, and my best wishes for many more birthdays in the future.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Jared Hill of Weston, 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 249, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Jared achieved the rank of Eagle Scout on February 10, 2005. Jared has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years that Jared has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. For his Eagle Scout project, Jared organized the placement of park benches, tables, parking, and landscaping at Weston Bend State Park. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Jared Hill 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 Paul J. Wilmes of Nodaway County, Missouri. Paul will soon retire from a 28 year career of distinguished service to the rural residents and communities of 22 counties in northwest Missouri. Although we wish that Paul could stay on at USDA, he has certainly given back to his community, his state, and his Nation, and well deserved retirement awaits him, though given Paul's reputation for being an active citizen in his community, I doubt this is the last we will hear from Paul Wilmes. Paul was born on April 22nd, 1953 to Francis and Clara Wilmes of Nodaway County; a county I have been fortunate enough to represent since 1992 at the state and now federal level. Paul grew up in a devout Catholic farm home, and attended St. Gregory's Catholic elementary school, followed by Maryville High School where he was active with football and wrestling. Upon his graduation from Maryville High School, Paul enrolled in Northwest Missouri State University, where he was a member of the Phi Sigma Epsilon Fraternity. He graduated from Northwest with a Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science. On July 10, 1976 he married Robin Lamb. Today, Paul and Robin have two children, Meredith and Kyle, and they remain active in their local community in Nodaway County. Paul has served as a Trustee for the endowment for St. Gregory's School, Advisor to the Area Vocation Technical School, Committee Advisor for the Parents as Teacher Program, a Bantam League football coach, as well as many other church committees and the Finance Board at St. Gregory Barbarigo. Paul began his career with USDA on April 18, 1977 working for the Farmers Home Administration. He was promoted to the position of County Supervisor in Nodaway County, and later advanced to the position of District Farm Loan Specialist within the Farmers Home Administration. Paul was selected as the District Director of that agency, and on April 30, 1995, Paul began his tenure supervising 22 rural counties in Northwest Missouri. Over the years, the agency has changed its name and refocused its mission, but Paul has remained constant as the leader and director of what is now known as Area 1 of USDA Rural Development. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Paul J. Wilmes, a remarkable citizen who exemplifies the qualities of dedication and service. While rural Missouri will miss his leadership, experience, and knowledge, I will still have the great honor of representing Paul in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Alexander J. McCurn 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 261, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Alexander has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Alexander 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 Alexander J. McCurn 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 Amanda Gumm. In a few days, Ms. Gumm will receive the Saint Joseph YWCA Women of Excellence Award for Future Leaders. Amanda is currently a student at Benton High School and has served as Student Body President. As Student Body President, Amanda was responsible for reading the daily announcements to all of Benton High School; I've been told that one faculty member cited Amanda as quite possibly the best public speaker Benton has seen in years. She is also widely recognized for her positive attitude and dynamic personality, and motivates her peers to excel. Amanda aspires to be the Governor of Missouri, and recently received the 2005 Missouri Award for Outstanding Achievement in Citizenship. Amanda will soon join the other recipients of the award and their families for a luncheon at the Governor's Mansion in Jefferson City. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Amanda Gumm. Her commitment to excellence exemplifies the qualities of service and dedication. I am honored to represent her in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Sue Wagner of Saint Joseph, Missouri. Ms. Wagner is a retired teacher of the Saint Joseph School District and in a few days will receive the Saint Joseph YWCA Women of Excellence Award for Women in Community Service and Volunteerism. Although she retired from teaching, Ms. Wagner is still extremely active in the community. She regularly reaches out to and positively impacts students throughout the Saint Joseph area. Ms. Wagner currently serves as a student mentor, a Cotillion for Achievement committee member, and a volunteer docent for the Albrecht-Kemper Art Museum. Through her hard work, Ms. Wagner has touched the lives of over 500 students this year. Ms. Wagner also serves as an affiliate director for Missouri Future Problem Solving, directing a competition program for the State of Missouri. She serves on multiple committees and organizations ranging from Community LINK, to SAGE, to Trails West, to the Landmarks Commission. In addition to all of these commitments, Ms. Wagner still finds time to serve as president of her local neighborhood association. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in congratulating Sue Wagner. Her commitment to the Saint Joseph community exemplifies the qualities of service and dedication. I am honored to represent her in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Jesse West of Weston, 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 249, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Jesse achieved the rank of Eagle Scout on August 4, 2004. Jesse has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years that Jesse has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. For his Eagle Scout project, Jesse designed and landscaped a ``Welcome to Weston'' sign at the edge of the school property. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Jesse West 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. Chairman, I would like to commend the gentleman from Washington on this amendment. It is important to evaluate and understand the financial difficulties that citizen-soldiers face when called to serve their country. Over 400,000 citizen-soldiers have been mobilized since September 11, 2001. This is the largest activation of National Guard and Reserve members since World War II and will likely continue for the immediate future. About half of our total military are National Guard and Reserve forces. Recent government studies show that 40 percent of them make less money while mobilized than they earn in their civilian jobs. To solve this pay problem, I have introduced H.R. 838, which would offer employers a tax credit to help make up some of the pay gap. Military Reservists and Guardsmen unselfishly answer the call to serve and protect their country at a moment's notice, many times at a personal and financial cost. In turn, we need to show appreciation and support for their patriotic efforts. We ask a lot of those who serve the cause of American freedom. Financial ruin should not be one of those sacrifices. I commend the gentleman for his work on behalf of our Guard and Reservists and urge passage of this amendment.