Member of Congress

Sam Graves

Role
Current Representative
State
MO
Party
Republican

Speeches

FEDERAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE COORDINATION ACT2023-01-25

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, in closing, H.R. 255 is just good government legislation that is going to help streamline disaster recovery efforts by improving the coordination efficiency of Federal agencies involved in disaster assistance. Mr. Speaker, I urge support of the bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers.

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NOTAM IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 20232023-01-25

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 346) to establish a task force on improvements for notices to air missions, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material in the Record on H.R. 346, as amended.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, in closing, H.R. 346, as amended, takes a very important step in ensuring that America's National Airspace System is going to remain intact, remain operational, and remain safe for the American people. Again, I thank Mr. Stauber and Mr. DeSaulnier for their work on this legislation. It is a good bill, and I urge all Members to support it. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION REAL ESTATE LEASING AUTHORITY REVOCATION ACT2023-01-25

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time to close. H.R. 388 ensures that the SEC is going to work with the GSA on leasing to improve oversight, reduce costs, protect taxpayers against wasteful spending, and minimize Anti-Deficiency Act violations in the future. Mr. Speaker, I urge support of this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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POST-DISASTER ASSISTANCE ONLINE ACCOUNTABILITY ACT2023-01-25

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 259) to provide for an online repository for certain reporting requirements for recipients of Federal disaster assistance, and for other purposes.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from Puerto Rico (Mrs. Gonzalez-Colon).

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, in closing, this commonsense accountability measure is going to enable taxpayers to get a greater sense of where their money is going and allow agencies to see where they can coordinate post-disaster recovery efforts. Mr. Speaker, I urge support of this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and insert extraneous material into the Record on H.R. 259.

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RECOGNIZING MARILYN AND C.L. FORDYCE UPON THEIR 70TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY2022-12-21

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Marilyn and C.L. Fordyce upon their 70th Wedding Anniversary. They are wonderful people that, through thick and thin, have stood by each other's side. Christmas Day in 1952, days before C.L. Fordyce left for Army basic training, he had the good fortune of marrying Marilyn Sanders in the home of her aunt and uncle. For 2 years, C.L. served in the First Armored Division and Marilyn worked for MFA Agri-Service and managed to wreck ``only'' 1 car. Upon C.L.'s return the couple moved into the home that he and his wife continue to share today. The marriage they share has seen nearly any and everything that a person could see. Good times, bad times, victory, loss, children, grandchildren, all of the ingredients of a full life. With all of that, they continue to be a rock for their community, friends and, most importantly, their family. We should all be so blessed. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Marilyn and C.L. Fordyce for their Seventieth Wedding Anniversary. They are incredible people who set a sterling example of what marriage should be. I am extremely proud to represent them in the United States House of Representatives.

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HONORING COOPER WERNER LOWE2022-09-21

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Cooper Werner Lowe. Cooper 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 410, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Cooper has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Cooper has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned 23 merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Cooper has served 2 terms as Patrol Leader and also served as Troop Chaplain. Cooper has also contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Cooper coordinated and led the construction of a 12 x 16 storage shed behind a church that the Lowes attended. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Cooper Werner Lowe for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

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HONORING HENRY CHAPMAN2022-07-26

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Henry Chapman. Henry 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 120, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Henry has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities, such as camping for a total of 58 nights, hiking more than 24 miles, and serving 35 hours of community service. Over the many years Henry has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned 59 merit badges and 7 Eagle Palms, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Henry has achieved much as a scout, having achieved the ranks of Quartermaster, Troop Guide, and Den Chief. He also earned his Totin' Chip, Den Chief Service Award, Emergency Preparedness BSA Award, and the National Achievement Award for Camping. Henry has also contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Henry's project saw him build an outdoor deposit box that allows the public to honorably retire flags that are a symbol to our country. There is also a donation bin on the box where people can donate to a veteran's charity. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Henry Chapman for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America, and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

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HONORING LUKE MALLON2022-07-26

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Luke Mallon. Luke 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 1214, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Luke has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities, such as the Mile Swim. Over the many years Luke has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned 29 merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Luke has achieved much as a scout, having achieved the ranks of Patrol Leader, and Den Chief. Luke has also contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Luke's project saw him build and install birdhouses and a bird feeder at a local bird sanctuary. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Luke Mallon for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America, and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

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HONORING EVAN SPIWAK2022-07-26

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Evan Spiwak. Evan 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 1214, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Evan has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Evan has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned 31 merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Evan has achieved much as a scout, having achieved the ranks of Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. Evan has also contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Evan's project saw him repaint fire hydrants throughout his city, performing a needed service to the community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Evan Spiwak for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America, and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

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HONORING COLTON HARRIS2022-07-26

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Colton Harris. Colton 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 1376, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Colton has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Colton has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned 33 merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Colton has achieved much as a scout, having achieved the ranks of Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Troop Guide, Quartermaster, and Librarian. Colton has also contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Colton's project entailed 200 hours of extensive landscaping to enhance the area in which he worked. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Colton Harris for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America, and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

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HONORING TANNER HRENCHIR2022-07-12

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Tanner Hrenchir. Tanner recently competed in the U.S. Special Olympics placing 1st in the deadlift competition, 2nd in the squat competition, 3rd in the bench, and 2nd overall. Tanner has been engaged in sports for essentially his entire life, competing in flag football, basketball, and power lifting. He is a dedicated athlete, having clinched a spot in the national games on 3 different occasions. Tanner hasn't let Down syndrome prevent him from following his passions and succeeding. Tanner's parents, and everyone else, are blessed to have such a fine young man in their lives. His story is an inspiration of will and determination that sets an incredibly high bar for those who have the privilege of knowing him. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in thanking Tanner for his accomplishments and dedication that proudly represent the people of the Sixth Congressional District. I am proud to represent Tanner Hrenchir in the United States House of Representatives.

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HONORING LEAH SHOEMAKER2022-07-12

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Leah Shoemaker. Leah recently competed in the U.S. Special Olympics and won gold in the long jump and mini javelin competitions, while also placing 5th in the 100-meter dash. Leah is a St. Joseph native and while she has been involved in athletic competition for 17 years, 2022 was her first U.S.A. National Games. While she has certainly put in the hard work and discipline to make herself into a champion, her first inspiration was her mother, Jean Ann Davis. Jean Ann encouraged her to participate and remains Leah's greatest supporter and cheerleader. To excel in even one of these events is impressive, to excel and win against the best athletes in multiple sports is awe inspiring. Her example of hard work, dedication and excellence is deserving of being honored and commended. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in thanking Leah for her accomplishments and dedication that proudly represent the people of the Sixth Congressional District. I am proud to represent Leah Shoemaker in the United States House of Representatives.

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HONORING JANE FRICK2022-06-24

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Jane Frick. Jane is an exceptional woman who won the award for Lifetime Achievement from the YWCA St. Joseph Awards Program. Jane Frick served as an English professor, department head, and Writing Project director at Missouri Western State University from 1972 to 2012. She published in state and national English and educational journals and made numerous state, regional, and national presentations at English and National Writing Project conferences. She also served as the Chair of the Missouri Humanities Council and President of the Missouri Folklore Association while at MWSU. Throughout the years, Jane has served this community in multiple ways on the St. Joseph School Board, 1984 to 1996; at First Christian Church (1971 to present; former Church Moderator and Elder); as a long-time member of the St. Joseph's Women's Press Club (former president); as a volunteer for Helen Washington's after-school program at the Bartlett Center, 2013 to 2014); and as a volunteer reader for the United Way. Her service in her community and dedication to education are worthy of this award and further commendation. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in thanking and congratulating Jane Frick for winning the Lifetime Achievement award as well as her hard work and service to the people of the Sixth Congressional District. I am proud to represent Jane Frick in the United States House of Representatives.

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HONORING CAROLYN SAMPSON-WINGER2022-06-24

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Carolyn Sampson-Winger. Carolyn won the award for Entrepreneur of Excellence from the YWCA St. Joseph Women of Excellence Awards program for her financial and community successes. After going into business as an independent insurance agent in 2000, she became recognized as an ``All-American Agent''. As an employer with a two-person staff, she has consistently been a leader in excellent customer service, business ethics, faith, strong work ethic, and community service. She has served in various leadership positions in the community, including on her church board, Southside Rotary, South St. Joseph Progressive Association, and Southside Business Women. She has also served on the City Planning & Zoning Commission and on the Board of Directors for the Robidoux Resident Theater and lnterServ. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in thanking and congratulating Carolyn Sampson-Winger for winning the Entrepreneur of Excellence award as well as her excellence in finance and service to the people of the Sixth Congressional District. I am proud to represent Carolyn Sampson-Winger in the United States House of Representatives.

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HONORING ASHLIN McCAMY2022-06-24

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Ashlin McCamy. Ashlin won the award for Future Leader from the YWCA St. Joseph Women of Excellence Awards program for her demonstration of leadership and ethics. Ashlin is an accomplished athlete who has participated in volleyball, basketball, soccer, and track, all the while serving in student government. She is the president and founder of the Women Empowerment Club, dedicated to the empowerment of women. She has demonstrated time and time again her ethical leadership, and in fact has won multiple awards while doing so. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in thanking and congratulating Ashlin McCamy for winning the Future Leader award as well as her excellence in leadership and service to the people of the Sixth Congressional District. I am proud to represent Ashlin McCamy in the United States House of Representatives.

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HONORING BUTCHART FLOWERS AND GIFTS2022-06-24

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Butchart Flowers and Gifts. Butchart Flower and Gifts won the award for Employer of Excellence from the YWCA St. Joseph Women of Excellence Awards program for its honorable business practices. Butchart Flowers and Gifts was purchased three years ago by John and Michelle Leimbach and has expanded to include a second location. To compensate for the added growth and responsibilities, the business increased employee wages and instituted a quarterly bonus system to encourage employees to take a personal role in ensuring the business's success. The business recognizes their important role in helping people celebrate the seasons of life and their employees take that responsibility seriously. In addition to meeting the floral needs of their customers, the business regularly gives back to the community through donations and partners with the nonprofit, Sisters of Solace. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in thanking and congratulating Butchart Flower and Gifts for winning the Employer of Excellence award as well as their excellence in serving the people of the Sixth Congressional District. I am proud to represent Butchart Flowers and Gifts in the United States House of Representatives.

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HONORING PHYLLIS MYERS2022-06-24

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Phyllis Myers. Phyllis won the award for Woman in Volunteerism from the YWCA St. Joseph Women of Excellence Awards program for her service in her community. In 1970, Phyllis co-founded the New Generation Singers with her husband, the pastor of Wyatt Park Christian Church. Over the last 52 years, she has served as a leader, mentor, and chaperone, attended countless rehearsals and performances, and accompanied the group on 2- week tours across the United States and Canada. She's developed fond connections with thousands of young people, over the years, and has served as a substitute mother and grandmother to many. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in thanking and congratulating Phyllis Myers for winning the Woman in Volunteerism award as well as service to the people of the Sixth Congressional District. I am proud to represent Phyllis Myers in the United States House of Representatives.

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