Sam Graves

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Carlene Makawski of Saint Joseph, Missouri. Carlene is active in the community and has been chosen to receive the YWCA Women of Excellence Lifetime Achievement Award. Carlene is described as an enthusiastic and inspirational volunteer whose commitment and enthusiasm never waiver. Carlene has provided a lifetime of service and contributions to a great variety of organizations and initiatives throughout her life. Carlene is a Life Member and Board Vice President for the Girl Scouts. She has over 50 years of service to the PEO Sisterhood. Over the course of 20 years she has served as both Treasurer and President for the Heartland Health Auxiliary. Carlene served as a two term President of the YWCA, overseeing construction of the Aquatic Center. She has worked with United Way, the American Red Cross and March of Dimes. She has dedicated over two decades volunteering at the Open Door Food Kitchen where she has done everything from scrubbing pots and pans to serving on its board of directors. One Carlene's most beloved volunteer position comes from the many roles that she fills at the Pony Express National Museum where she has once again done everything from tour guide to serving as the Great Pumpkin. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Carlene Makawski. She has made an amazing impact on countless individuals and remains as a blessing to everyone in the St. Joseph community. I am honored to represent her in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Dr. Melody Smith of Saint Joseph, Missouri. Melody is active in the community and has been chosen to receive the YWCA Women of Excellence Woman in the Workplace Award. Melody has been the Superintendent of the Saint Joseph School District since 2006. Under Melody's leadership the Saint Joseph School District has earned the Missouri Distinction in Performance rating six times. Melody is also credited with bringing State recognition to Saint Joseph for excellence in Early Childhood Education. As Superintendent, Melody has been a true leader and mentor encouraging teachers to pursue national board certification and to work toward postgraduate degrees. During her tenure in that position she developed the PACT program to give the people of the school district a voice in guiding the educational future of the community. Thanks to those efforts, Saint Joseph will be enjoying two new schools in the very near future. If asked she will simply say that she has viewed the job of Superintendent as an opportunity to serve. With all of these accomplishments, one distinction will always remain for Melody; that she was the first woman to serve as Superintendent for the Saint Joseph School District. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Dr. Melody Smith. She has made an amazing impact on countless individuals in the St. Joseph community. I am honored to represent her in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, on June 19, 2013, on rollcall vote #260, Blumenauer amendment 8, I voted ``yea.'' I intended to vote ``nay'' on the amendment.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I want to also welcome Mr. Smith to the U.S. House of Representatives. Lacy said that he is a fourth-generation farmer, but he is actually a seventh-generation Missourian, and he has been living on the same farm that his great-grandfather once lived on. He graduated from my alma mater, the University of Missouri, and he has been involved in agriculture and practicing law. As a farmer, I don't think we can ever have enough farmers in this body. Mr. Speaker, Missouri is known as the ``Show-Me'' State, and last night, Jason Smith won a special election with over 67 percent of the vote, and I think that shows that he is truly the Representative of the Eighth District of the State of Missouri. So it gives me a great deal of pleasure to yield to the gentleman from the Eighth District of Missouri, Jason Smith.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Parker Wrigley. Parker 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 1394, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Parker has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Parker has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned 34 merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Parker has contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Parker raised funds for the purchase and installation of a monument sign for Hobby Hill Park in Gladstone, Missouri, in addition to providing landscaping and painting improvements to the park. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Parker Wrigley 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Alex Westhues. Alex 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 376, and 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. Most notably, Alex has contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Alex Westhues 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Ben Laughlin. Ben 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 376, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Ben has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Ben has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Ben has contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Ben Laughlin 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Sean Baker. Sean 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 376, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Sean has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Sean has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Sean has contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Sean Baker 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Christopher Brizendine. Christopher 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 214, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Christopher has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Christopher has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned 34 merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Christopher has contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Christopher researched and reconstructed sheep feeders at Watkins Mill State Park in Lawson, Missouri, to be used during historical reenactments at the historic site. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Christopher Brizendine 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Will Ording. Will 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 376, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Will has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Will has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Will has contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Will Ording 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating the Platte County Fair for celebrating 150 years of providing entertainment and excitement to its attendees. The very first Platte County Fair was held in 1858. However, the fair did not become an annual event until 1863. The first fair in 1858 was planned on Oct. 6 and took place only a short time later from Oct. 21- 23, with 400 people in attendance. The fair was a great success and continued until 1860, when the Civil War prevented the fair from taking place during the years of 1861 and 1862. The fair was praised as ``an honor to the soil and people'' and ``a glorious reunion of a prosperous and happy people.'' On December 16, 1861, Platte City was ravaged by a Civil War raid. However, not even the devastation of Platte City was enough to keep its resilient citizens down. Just 22 months later, proud Platte Countians filled the fairgrounds for the First Annual Platte County Fair, which was held October 21-23, 1863. The fair has been held annually since 1863, establishing itself as the oldest continuously running county fair west of the Mississippi River. The entire event is privately held and sponsored by a not-for- profit organization run by volunteers. The fair now spans four days, featuring many great events such as the demolition derby, a truck and tractor pull, the Queen contest, and more. The Platte County Fair is also home to many great sources of entertainment including a floral hall, a carnival, a fiddle contest, and the Dirty Shame Saloon, to name a few. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me in applauding the Platte County Fair for celebrating their 150th anniversary and providing a great source of pride and excitement to Platte County. I wish them 150 more years of greatness to come.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating North Kansas City Schools for celebrating 100 years of providing exceptional education to our youth. The North Kansas City School District 74 was founded on March 14, 1913. During the district's inaugural year, it employed a principal, an assistant, and taught 32 students in grades one through nine. By 1917, the school district was home to grades 1-12. As enrollment increased, the district voted to build a high school building that was dedicated on January 24, 1926. After World War II, the district passed bond issues for long-range building programs. The enrollment swelled to 17,273 in 1963 due to the arrival of the baby boomers. Currently, the North Kansas City School District is home to 21 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, and 4 high schools. The newest of these is Staley High School, which was added in 2008. North Kansas City Schools is a state and nationally accredited school district, and they are known for innovation and excellence. For example, they were the first local school district to provide laptops to their students and offer Apple technology-powered classrooms. They offer outstanding educational programs that no other area school district provides, including the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me in applauding North Kansas City Schools for celebrating their 100th anniversary of providing extraordinary educational experiences to students in Clay County, Missouri. North Kansas City Schools is a true community partner, and I wish them 100 more years of greatness to come.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Jacob Shipley. Jacob 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 320, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Jacob has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Jacob has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Jacob contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Jacob researched and led a restoration of destroyed quail habitat on federal wetlands in northern Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Jacob Shipley 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize William W. McClannahan. William 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 393, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. William has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years William has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, William contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending William W. McClannahan 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Tyler Tilton-Lagermann. Tyler 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 393, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Tyler has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Tyler has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Tyler contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Tyler Tilton-Lagermann 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize James Douglas Hooten. James 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 374, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. James has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years James has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, James has earned the rank of Warrior in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say and the Four Star Religious Award. James has also contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. James designed and planted landscaping for an outdoor classroom at Davidson Elementary School in Kansas City, Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending James Douglas Hooten 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Mikala Johoku John Jefferson Zuber. Mikala 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 374, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Mikala has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Mikala has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Mikala has earned the rank of Warrior in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say and the Four Star Religious Award. Mikala has also contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Mikala constructed book shelves for Gracemor Elementary School in Kansas City, Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Mikala Johoku John Jefferson Zuber 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Andrew Gotzon. 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 1260, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Andrew has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Andrew has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Andrew contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Andrew cleaned and renovated 13 playgrounds, sanding off the old paint, applying a fresh coat of paint and cleaning up the playground area. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Andrew Gotzon 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Hagen R. Kimsey. Hagen 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 10, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Hagen has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Hagen has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned 41 merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Hagen contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Hagen painted the physical therapy room at the United Cerebral Palsy of Northwest Missouri facility in St. Joseph, Missouri. Hagen's work allowed the facility to maintain its license and provide children with developmental disabilities an opportunity for physical activity. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Hagen R. Kimsey 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize a special member of my staff. After more than six years of service, Angela Kreps will be leaving her post in my Kansas City District Office. Angela began working in my campaign office, then joined the District staff in 2005. She has filled many roles in the office including caseworker, staff assistant, and field representative. Most recently serving as a caseworker, Angela is known for her patience and kindness in dealing with constituents. Whether it is listening to a veteran's retelling of war stories, helping a bride-to- be get her passport renewed, or assisting a single-mother in dealing with the IRS, Angela's experience and listening ear can put constituents at ease. I have received many letters of thanks for the outstanding constituent service Angela has provided. Her professionalism and dedication to serving my constituents was a great example of how government should work. While I am losing a valuable member of my team, I am excited for Angela to begin the next chapter of her career. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in thanking Angela Kreps for her many years of service to the people of the Sixth Congressional District. I know Angela's colleagues, family and friends join with me in thanking her for her commitment to others and wishing her best of luck in all her endeavors and many years of success to come.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, on Monday, May 6 I missed three rollcall votes. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on No. 129, No. 130, and No. 131.

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Christopher Seward. Christopher 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 376, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Christopher has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Christopher has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Christopher has contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Christopher Seward 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Charles Roberts. Charles 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 376, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Charles has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Charles has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Charles has contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Charles Roberts 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Skyler Evan Thomas. Skyler 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 81, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Skyler has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Skyler has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Skyler has contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Skyler did painting and remodeling work at Macon Diversified Industries, the home of the local sheltered workshop for those with developmental disabilities, in Macon, Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Skyler Evan Thomas 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 of Missouri

Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Aaron Joel Laughlin. Aaron 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 81, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Aaron has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Aaron has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Aaron has contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Aaron organized, procured funding for and oversaw the construction of a sidewalk between the Macon Senior Citizen Housing and the Wal-Mart and C&R Supermarket in Macon, Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Aaron Joel Laughlin for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.