Sam Graves

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Andrew Fisher, 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. Andrew has been very active with his troop, participating in such scout activities as Camp Bartle and Philmont. Over the five years he has been involved in scouting, he has earned 32 merit badges. Additionally, Andrew has held numerous leadership positions in his troop, serving as Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader and Quartermaster. Andrew also has been honored for his numerous scouting achievements with such awards as the Foxman in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, Brave in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, Warrior in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, Firebuilder in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, Tom-Tom Beater in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, the World Conservation Award, and the 50 Miller Award. For his Eagle Scout project, Andrew prepared a landscaping and renovation project for a memorial to a fallen firefighter in Weston, Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Andrew 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 Charles Michael Pedersen, 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 218, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Charles has been very active with his troop, participating in such scout activities as the 2001 National Scout Jamboree, Camp Geiger, Camp Geiger Staff in 2000, 2001, and 2002, and junior leadership training in 2002. Over the 11 years he has been involved in scouting, he has earned 29 merit badges. Additionally, Charles has held numerous leadership positions, serving as senior patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader, troop guide, troop instructor, troop historian, and assistant patrol leader. Charles also has been honored for his numerous scouting achievements with such awards as the Arrow of Light Award, Camp Geiger Staffman of the week in 2001, Lone Bear Council in the tribe of Mic-O- Say and Tom-Tom Beater in the tribe of Mic-O-Say.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize the Sullivan County Memorial Hospital in Milan, Missouri on its 50th anniversary of service to the residents of North Missouri. The hospital established a reputation founded on excellent patient care. The Sullivan County Memorial Hospital was built in 1953 as a 48-bed facility that was greatly needed for this rural community. In 1984, the hospital expansion encompassed an addition of private rooms, and expanded emergency department and enlarged ancillary service areas. In 1996, the hospital's physician's clinic opened to provide primary care to patients of all ages including treatment and diagnosis of medical illness and injuries, annual physicals, well-patient visits, employment exams, school and sports physicals, immunizations and pain management. To this day, the hospital continues to operate as the only fully staffed medical facility in Sullivan County and provides 24-hour emergency care. The mission of the Sullivan County Memorial Hospital is to provide a broad range of high quality primary medical services and long-term care, and to coordinate the availability of other medical services to area residents. Residents in the area are certainly appreciative of this level of care. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending the 50th anniversary of the Sullivan County Memorial Hospital in Milan, Missouri. Their dedication to the medical profession and excellence in patient care has served the residents of North Missouri well.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to proudly recognize Erin Collins, a very dedicated and enthusiastic member of my Washington, D.C., congressional staff. Erin has served my office and other congressional offices for nearly 5 years as an intern, legislative correspondent, legislative assistant, scheduler and office manager. She has established a passion for working on the Hill. Erin holds dear the people she has worked with in her many roles as a Hill member. I, and others, greatly appreciate Erin's hard work and commitment. Constituents have grown to know her attention to detail, her knowledge of so many issues and her personal touch that should not go unrecognized. It is unfortunate for many that Erin will be leaving the Hill because she has left her unique stamp on so many people. However, her ultimate dedication to her soon-to-be husband and his duty of serving our country show great devotion and courage. We wish both of them nothing but the best. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask my colleagues to join me in commending Erin Collins for many important contributions to myself, my staff and those she has worked with and those she has served. She will be missed by many.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Matthew Norman Bowers, 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 444, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Matt has been very active with his troop, participating in such scout activities as the Packarad and Sea Base High Adventure Camps. Additionally, Matt earned 29 merit badges for different activities and projects. Over the eleven years he has been involved in scouting, he has held numerous leadership positions with his troop, serving as den chief, troop guide, quartermaster, assistant patrol leader, patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader and senior patrol leader. For his Eagle Scout project, Matt remodeled a nursery for the Parkville Presbyterian Church. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Matthew Norman Bowers 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 Gregory Hawkins, 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 66, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Gregory has been very active with his troop, participating in such Scout activities as Camp Geiger, Camp Bartle, and 45 nights of camping with his troop. Additionally, Gregory has earned 33 merit badges for activities and projects he has participated in. During his time with Troop 66, he has been involved in over 112 hours of community service that the troop has performed. For his Eagle Scout project, Gregory landscaped an area next to Clinton County Middle School. He moved a tree and constructed and installed five benches for the middle school students to use. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Gregory Hawkins 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 Charlotte Edmundson, vice-president and head of customer service for the Chillicothe State Bank in Chillicothe, Missouri. Charlotte has exemplified the finest qualities of leadership and service and is being honored for her 47 year commitment to the bank and the citizens of Chillicothe. Charlotte is well known among staff and patrons of the bank for going above and beyond customer service standards, when dealing with both banking and non-banking issues. She interacts on many levels with everyone she comes in contact with and maintains the highest degree of professionalism and honesty. She prides herself on getting her job done right and getting it done on time. During her years with the bank, Charlotte attained knowledge of the customer service department and the bank's operations that made her an exemplary employee heavily relied upon by management and fellow bank staff. Her coworkers have described her as honest, reliable, helpful, trustworthy and professional. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending the career of Charlotte Edmundson, who exemplifies the qualities of dedication and service as both an employee and citizen of Chillicothe, MIssouri.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Joseph Michael Myers, 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. Joseph has been very active with his troop, participating in such scout activities as the H. Roe Bartle Summer Camp for 8 years, H. Roe Bartle Summer Camp Staff Member, Seabase High Adventure and Snaws. Over the 13 years he has been involved in scouting, Joseph has earned 30 merit badges. Additionally, he has held numerous leadership positions, serving as Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Librarian, Historian, Instructor and Quartermaster. Joseph also has been honored for his numerous scouting achievements with such awards as the Member of the Order of The Arrow, The Parvuli Dei Catholic Religious Award, the Ad Altare Dei Catholic Religious Medal, and the Tom-Tom Beater in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say Award. For his Eagle Scout project, Joseph imbedded water bars and spread gravel over a section of trail at the Parkville Nature Sanctuary in Parkville, Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Joseph Michael Myers 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 Robert Petcoff, 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. Matthew has been very active with his troop, participating in such scout activities as the H. Roe Bartle Summer Camp for six years, the Philmont High Adventure and Troop Camping. Over the 12 years he has been involved in scouting, Matthew has earned 36 merit badges. Additionally, he has held numerous leadership positions, serving as troop scribe, chaplain's aide, assistant patrol leader, troop guide, and troop trainer. Matthew also has been honored for his numerous scouting achievements with such awards as the Parvuli Dei Catholic Religious Award, the Ad Altare Dei Catholic Religious Medal, and the Warrior in the tribe of Mic-O-Say Award. For his eagle scout project, Matthew created a landscaped flagpole area with a cement walkway for the Hills of Walden Neighborhood Clubhouse in Kansas City, Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Matthew Robert Petcoff 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 Robert Kennaley, 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. Christopher has been very active with his troop, participating in such scout activities as the H. Roe Bartle Summer Camp for 7 years, the Philmont High Adventure and the Packard High Adventure. Over the nine years he has been involved in scouting, Christopher has earned 33 merit badges. Additionally, he has held numerous leadership positions, serving as three time patrol leader and assistant senior patrol leader. Christopher also has been honored for his numerous scouting achievements with such awards as the member of the Order of the Arrow, the Parvuli Dei Catholic Religious Award, the Ad Altars Dei Catholic Religious Medal, the Firebuilder in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say Award and the World Conservation Award. For his eagle scout project, Christopher designed and constructed a fence on the side of a storage shed at St. Therese Catholic Church in Parkville, MO. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Christopher Robert Kennaley 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 Dustin John Wright, 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. Dustin has been very active with his troop, participating in such scout activities as the H. Roe Bartle Summer Camp for five years, and the BSA snorkeling and ranger programs. Over the 10 years he has been involved in scouting, Dustin has earned 35 merit badges. Additionally, he has held numerous leadership positions, serving as patrol leader, assistant patrol leader, and troop's chaplain aide. Dustin also has been honored for his numerous scouting achievements with such awards as the Parvuli Dei Catholic Religious Award, the Ad Altare Dei Catholic Religious Medal, the Arrow of Light Award, the World Conservation Award, and the Warrior in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say Award. For his Eagle Scout project, Dustin constructed and installed a handrail for a bridge, and improved 150 feet of trail with gravel at the Heartland Presbyterian Center in Parkville, MO. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Dustin John Wright 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 Phillip George Shinn, 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. Phillip has been very active with his troop, participating in such scout activities as the H. Roe Bartle Summer Camp for three years, and the Brownsea Junior leadership training in July of 2003. Over the seven years he has been involved in scouting, Phillip has earned 37 merit badges. Additionally, he has held numerous leadership positions, serving as two-time patrol leader, den chief, scribe, instructor, and librarian. Phillip also has been honored for his numerous scouting achievements with such awards as the Member of the Order of the Arrow, The Light of Christ Award, the Parvuli Dei Catholic religious award, the Ad Altare Dei Catholic religious medal, and the Deutsch (a German interpreter). For his Eagle Scout project, Phillip constructed and installed 30 road signs at Heartland Presbyterian Center in Parkville, Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Phillip George Shinn 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 Guthery, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership. He has been honored with the Award of Distinction as winner of the Cotillion for Achievement scholarship program. The Cotillion for Achievement award was established in 1986 and is presented annually. Two winners, one male, one female, are selected from public and private school seniors attending school in Andrew and Buchanan County, Missouri. Students are evaluated on four criteria; scholastic achievement, extracurricular activities, community involvement and an essay written by the student. This prestigious award has been extended to Jason. Jason has established himself as a well-rounded student. He is involved in numerous activities, including Student Council president, yearbook editor, newspaper editor, Spirit team, baseball captain, football captain, LaFayette overnight experience, Peers Always Listen, blood mobile, Youth Forum facilitator, Lindbergh Christmas volunteer, Young Life junior leader, and a junior counselor of the Missouri Association of Student Councils. Additionally, he has been honored for his achievements with such awards and distinctions as the Students Owning Academic Responsibility academic pin winner and academic letter winner. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Jason Guthery for his many achievements and in wishing him the best of luck in his future.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, last night, the United States continued its march against those who threaten the security of the United States. As the United States leads a coalition of nations willing to combat terror and evil, I offer my prayers to our heroic men and women who have been called on to defend our freedom. These brave soldiers are the latest of a long and proud history of courageous Americans dedicated to protecting the citizens of the United States. For 12 long years, Iraq has failed to disarm and live up to the agreements it promised to uphold. By choosing not to disarm or to surrender power peacefully, Saddam Hussein has left us with no other option but to disarm him by force. This is a critical moment in American history. We could either choose the path of appeasement or choose the path of forceful disarmament. History has shown that appeasement has never prevented war; it only postponed war. America must not wait for Saddam Hussein to build an arsenal strong enough and deadly enough to blackmail the Free World. The time for action is now. May God Bless America.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Clark Mershon, a very special educator who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership. He has been honored as the Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals 2003 Middle School Principal of the Year. Clark began his teaching career in 1982 at Lebanon Junior High School, as both a teacher and coach and advanced to Principal in 1992. He currently serves as Principal of New Mark Middle School in North Kansas City, Missouri, where he has been since 1997. Clark was given this distinction because of the impact he makes on both staff and students. The staff of New Mark Middle School commend Clark for his strong leadership shown to teachers, students and community members. His humanity, humility, and sound instructional and organizational skills illustrate the importance of his impact on his school and community. The student body acknowledges Mr. Clark for his welcoming personality that instills pride, honor and school spirit at New Mark. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Clark Mershon as the MASSP's Middle School Principal of the Year. Clark exemplifies the qualities of exceptional leader and Principal and we are proud to have him as an educator in the 6th District of Missouri.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Devin Goodlet, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership. He has been honored with the award of distinction as winner of the Cotillion for Achievement Scholarship Program. The Cotillion for Achievement Award was established in 1986 and is presented annually. Two winners, one male, one female, are selected from public and private school seniors attending school in Andrew and Buchanan County, Missouri. Students are evaluated on four criteria: scholastic achievement, extracurricular activities, community involvement and an essay written by the student. This prestigious award has been extended to Devin. Devin has established himself as a well-rounded student. He is involved in numerous activities, including varsity tennis, student government, UMKC leadership seminar, Forum Club, Spanish Club, JCCC Mathcount, Math Olympiad, National Forensics League, Heartland Health Systems, Food Can Drive, Habitat for Humanity, Harvest Food Bank, Multiple Sclerosis Walk for the Cure, United Way penny drive, Missouri State Senate youth forum, 2000 election campaign, doctors day, royal family kids camp, and the Diwali Celebration. Additionally, he has been honored for his achievements with such awards and distinctions as the National Honor Society Award, the National Merit Commendation Award, the Academic Excellence Award, Bright Flight Scholar, the Missouri Math League Award, the ASME Math Competition Award, Duke University Tip Scholar while qualifying for the State tennis competition. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Devin Goodlet for his many achievements and in wishing him the best of luck in his future.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Veronica Nigh, a very special young woman who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership. She has been honored with the Award of Distinction as winner of the Cotillion for Achievement Scholarship Program. The Cotillion for Achievement Award was established in 1986 and is presented annually. Two winners, one male, one female are selected from public and private school seniors attending school in Andrew and Buchanan County, Missouri. Students are evaluated on four criteria, scholastic achievement, extracurricular activities, community involvement and an essay written by the student. This prestigious award has been extended to Veronica. Veronica has established herself as a well-rounded student. She is involved in numerous activities, including Student Council, FFA, FCCLA, Social Studies Club, National Honors Society, class officer, volleyball, county fair play, the county museum, the County Fair Board, Student Tutors and the District Health Board as a student ambassador. Additionally, she has been honored for her achievements with such awards and distinctions as The National Honor Society Award, Missouri Girls State Minority House Leader, who's who among American high school students, student of the quarter, 1st place on the State Agriculture Literacy Team, 3rd place on the state FFA Agriculture Sales Team, the Washington Leadership Conference, FFA Chapter Star Greenhand, State FFA Creed Speaker, High Honor Roll, Honor Letter and The Missouri FFA Public Speaking Academy First Place Novice Division. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Veronica Nigh for her many achievements and in wishing her the best of luck in her future.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Steve Cox, an exceptional gentleman who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership in his work as the sheriff of Livingston County, Missouri, and with the Elks Lodge 656 of Chillicothe. This year, Steve is being honored with the Outstanding Achievements Award as the Elk's citizen of the year. Steve is truly an asset to crime fighting in Northwest Missouri. Under his leadership, his department has received the Missouri State Deputy Sheriff of the Year Award two years in a row. When Steve is not working relentlessly as the sheriff, he spends his spare time in internet chat rooms searching for sexual predators. To date, he has brought over a dozen to justice. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Steve Cox for his many important contributions to Northwest Missouri Officers, the Elks Lodge 656 of Chillicothe, his community and the 6th District of Missouri.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize James Francis Homan, 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 312, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. James has been very active with his troop, participating in such Scout activities as the Roe Bartle Scout Reservation. Over the 11 years he has been involved in Scouting, he has held numerous leadership positions, serving as Camp Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader, Quartermaster, and Instructor. James also has been honored for his numerous Scouting achievements with the award of the Firebuilder in the tribe of Mic-O-Say award. Additionally, he has earned 34 merit badges during his years in Scouting. For his Eagle Scout project, James converted and old pastor's study/ storage room into a prayer chapel at Ascension Lutheran Church. He enlisted the services of families, fellow Scouts and members of his congregation to clean the windows, paint and refurbish the room. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending James Francis Homan 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 Sean A. Wood, 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 67, and in earning the most prestigious Award of Eagle Scout. Sean has been very active with his troop, participating in such scout activities as Camp Geiger. Over the five years he has been involved in scouting, he has held numerous leadership positions, serving as Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader, Troop Guide, and Den Chief. Sean also has been honored for his numerous scouting achievements with such awards as Warrior in the Tribe of Mic- O-Say, Brave in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say and Fire Builder in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. Additionally, Sean has earned 31 Merit Badges. For his Eagle Scout project, Sean removed an existing concrete sidewalk outside of the Gallatin Fire Station and replaced it with a concrete ramp, two handicap parking spaces, a steel ramp for the railing, a new door and two handicapped signs. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Sean A. Wood 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 William Pierce, 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 67, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Daniel has been very active with his troop. Over the five years, he has been involved in scouting, he has held numerous leadership positions, serving as patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader, senior patrol leader, troop quartermaster, troop historian and troop guide. Daniel also has been honored for his numerous scouting achievements with such awards as the Tribe of Mic-0-Say Award. Additionally, Daniel has earned 39 merit badges. For his Eagle Scout project, Daniel organized and designed a circle driveway through a park and also put wood posts around the drive and poured 3 concrete pads for picnic tables. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Daniel William Pierce 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 Jacob Austin Gardner, 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 67, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Jake has been very active with his troop, participating in such Scout activities as Camp Geiger. Over the 8 years he has been involved in Scouting, he has held numerous leadership positions, serving as Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader, Quartermaster, and Junior Scout Master. Jake also has been honored for his numerous Scouting achievements with such awards as Warrior in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, Brave in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say and Fire Builder in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. Additionally, Jake has earned 32 merit badges. For his Eagle Scout project, Jake cleaned up and built a new fence around Mitchell Cemetery, which is one of the oldest cemeteries. The cemetery dates back to 1840 and contains the graves of slaves, Abraham Lincoln's aunt and more than 30 Civil War veterans, both Union and Confederate. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Jacob Austin Gardner 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 Laura DeLong, a very special young woman who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Girl Scouts of America, Troop 1381, and in earning the most prestigious honor of the Gold Award. The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest achievement attainable in Girl Scouting. To earn the Gold Award, a Scout must complete five requirements, all of which promote community service, personal and spiritual growth, positive values, and leadership skills. The requirements include: 1. Earning four interest project patches, each of which requires seven activities that center on skill building, technology, service projects, and career exploration; 2. Earning the career exploration pin, which involves researching careers, writing resumes, and planning a career fair or trip; 3. Earning the Senior Girl Scout Leadership Award, which requires a minimum of 30 hours of work using leadership skills; 4. Designing a self-development plan that requires assessment of ability to interact with others and prioritize values, participation for a minimum of 15 hours in a community service project, and development of a plan to promote Girl Scouting; and 5. Spending a minimum of 50 hours planning and implementing a Girl Scout Gold Award Project that has a positive lasting impact on the community. For her Gold Award Project, Laura created a music clinic for elementary school children. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Laura DeLong for her accomplishments with the Girl Scouts of America and for her efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of the Gold Award.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Billy D. Cole on this, his 50th year in local banking. Mr. Cole began his banking career on his 18th birthday, March 2, 1953. He found his first job at the former Empire Trust Company where he worked for Fairleigh Enright as a teller-trainee. Since then, he has served as an officer or director of over 40 banks and ten bank holding companies throughout Missouri and Kansas. Today, Mr. Cole serves as the vice-chairman of the board of Nodaway Valley Bank in Missouri. Mr. Cole truly has worked hard during his years of service and ultimately has become one of the regions well-known and most respected bankers. Mr. Speaker, today I proudly ask you to join me in commending Billy D. Cole for his accomplishments and dedication on the anniversary of his 50th year in banking.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Kayla Cress, a very special young woman who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Girl Scouts of America, Troop 5091, and in earning the most prestigious honor of the Gold Award. The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest achievement attainable in Girl Scouting. To earn the Gold Award, a Scout must complete five requirements, all of which promote community service, personal and spiritual growth, positive values, and leadership skills. The requirements include: 1. Earning four interest project patches, each of which requires seven activities that center on skill building, technology, service projects, and career exploration; 2. Earning the Career Exploration pin, which involves researching careers, writing resumes, and planning a career fair or trip; 3. Earning the Senior Girl Scout Leadership Award, which requires a minimum of 30 hours of work using leadership skills; 4. Designing a self-development plan that requires assessment of ability to interact with others and prioritize values, participation for a minimum of 15 hours in a community service project, and development of a plan to promote Girl Scouting; and 5. Spending a minimum of 50 hours planning and implementing a Girl Scout Gold Award project that has a positive lasting impact on the community. For her Gold Award project, Kayla did refurbishment work at the Burr Oaks Conservation Center. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Kayla Cress for her accomplishments with the Girl Scouts of America and for her efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of the Gold Award.