Sam Graves

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Jacob Daniel Fichman, 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. 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Jacob Fichman 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Matthew J. Roberts, 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. Matthew has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Matthew has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Matthew J. 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

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Hunter Edison Stoll of Lee's Summit, Missouri. Hunter 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, Unit 1255 and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Hunter has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Hunter has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Hunter Edison Stoll 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Kyle Joseph Krug, 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. Kyle has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the many years Kyle has been involved with Scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Kyle Krug 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Sean Logan Graham, 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. 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Sean Graham 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Ben Andrew Schamel of Blue Springs, Missouri. 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, Unit 1362, 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Ben Andrew Schamel 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Terence Allen Klos, 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. Terence has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the many years Terence has been involved with Scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Terence Klos 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Christian Randall Peterson of Blue Springs, Missouri. Christian 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, Unit 1546, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Christian has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Christian has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Christian Randall Peterson 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Joseph K Johnsen of Kearney, Missouri. Joseph 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, Unit 1135, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Joseph has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Joseph has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Joseph K Johnsen 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Sara Crump, of Blue Springs, Missouri. Sara Crump is the recipient of the 2007 Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award. This prestigious award demonstrates Sara's commitment to academic excellence. She displays exemplary leadership, and continues to inspire and motivate her colleagues and students beyond the classroom. Sara's excellent work ethic and character show why she was selected for this esteemed award that is often referred to as ``the Oscar of Teaching'' according to Teacher Magazine. Sara graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia with a bachelor of arts in English, and has earned her masters degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. She now teaches advanced placement English courses at Blue Springs High School through UMKC. Recently, Sara has also received the Cornerstone of Education Award, which is the most prominent award offered to educators in the Blue Springs School District. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in honoring Sara Crump, whose dedication and service to her students and community have been truly inspirational. It is an honor to represent her in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Adam D. Hathhorn, 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. Adam has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Adam has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Adam D. Hathhorn 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Kyle M. Tanner, 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. Kyle has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Kyle has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Kyle M. Tanner 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Alexander K. Hansen, 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. 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Alexander K. Hansen 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. Madam Speaker, I would like to state for the record my position on the following votes I missed due to inclement weather in the Sixth District. On Monday December 11, 2007, I missed rollcall votes 1142, 1143, and 1144. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye'' on all votes.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to celebrate the birth of Elliana Kaye Woodward. Elliana was born on Monday, November 12, 2007, Veterans Day, to her proud parents, Ryan and Kristin Woodward of Stafford. Virginia. I find it very appropriate that Elliana was born on Veterans Day since her father is a patriot in the United States Marine Corps. Elliana entered the world at 2:21 p.m. at Mary Washington Hospital, Fredericksburg, Virginia, weighing a healthy 7 lbs. 11 oz. and 19\1/2\ inches long. Elliana also has proud grandparents, Darrell and Susan Hall, of Sidney, Nebraska, and Cheryl and Duane Farmer of Sidney, Nebraska, as well as Bruce Woodward of Maryville, Missouri, to spoil her. Elliana is also the niece of Travis and Sarah Woodward of Bowie, Maryland; Nathan Woodward of Maryville, Missouri; Sarah Hall, Zach Hall and Zane Hall of Sidney, Nebraska. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in celebrating the birth of Elliana Kaye Woodward. I see great things in Elliana's future considering her parents' great emphasis on family values, faith and patriotism. I wish Elliana the best life has to offer.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Jayce H. Berry, 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 13, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Jayce has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Jayce has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Jayce H. Berry 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize the outstanding achievement of Clint Macoubrie, and all of his numerous athletic and academic honors at Chillicothe High School in Chillicothe, MO. Clint is actively involved in his school by participating in many extracurricular activities. He has played golf, basketball and football all throughout his sophomore, junior, and senior year, and has received many awards and honors for his exemplary skills and character. He has been given the KKWK Outstanding Athletic Achievement Award and has also been named to the KMZU Dream Team with the title of Class 3/4 Football Defensive Player of the Year. Clint also holds the school record for the most rushing touchdowns at Chillicothe High School. Clint is as dedicated to his athletics as he is to his academics. He has excelled in his studies by receiving the Top 10% of Class Academic Excellence Award, the George Washington Carver Award for Excellent Academic Achievement, and the President's Education Award for Outstanding Academic Excellence. Not only is he an example and leader on the field, but also in the classroom. Also, I want to recognize the great leadership of Clint's exemplary coaches Phil Willard, Jeff Staton, and Dave Mapel who took great lengths in assuring his outstanding athletic and academic performances. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in congratulating the achievement of Clint Macoubrie for all his accomplishments in athletic and academic excellence. It is an honor to represent him in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Mack Harmon, 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 412, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Mack has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the many years Mack has been involved with Scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Mack Harmon 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Elizabeth Simone of Gladstone, Missouri. Elizabeth will be celebrating her 78th birthday on November 22nd and it is my privilege to offer her my warmest regards. Elizabeth raised three children and has eight grandchildren, including my legislative attorney Dominic Lackey. Elizabeth is a talented pianist and now spends her days retired after serving as an accomplished secretary for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to represent Elizabeth in the United States Congress, and I wish her all the best on this birthday and many more in the future.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize the outstanding achievement of the Lawson Cardinals high school football team on defeating Blair Oaks, by a score of 38-17, to win the Class 2 State Championship. The Cardinals finished their incredible season by posting an unblemished record of 14-0 this season while scoring 501 points and only allowing 145 points. In the Championship game, the defense forced seven turnovers, resulting in 24 points from turnovers, third most in Show-Me Bowl history. Also, I want to recognize the great leadership of the team, including Head Coach Todd Dunn and the work of his assistance coaches. I also want to acknowledge the work of school administrators, Superintendent Craig Barker, Principal Don Edwards and Assistant Principal Clint Ross, and Athletic Director Scott Harrold, as additional keys to success. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in congratulating the achievement of Lawson Cardinals High School football team on their perfect season and state championship. It is an honor to represent this team in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Phillip Earley, of Chillicothe, MO. Phillip is an active student at Chillicothe High School by participating in many extracurricular activities. During his time at school, he has received many outstanding athletic and academic achievements. Phillip has been actively serving his student body and teammates by participating in C-Club and football. For his excellence in football, he was selected for the All District First Team Offense and the All Conference Second Team Offense and Defense. He also received the honor of being selected by the Missouri Sportswriters to the Class 3 All State Football Team. Not only has Phillip been honored with many awards for his dedication and service to his football team, but also has been honored for his academic excellence. This includes receiving the academic letter twice at his school. Also, I would like to recognize the coaches that have inspired Phillip to achieve his best in athletics and academics. These notable coaches are Phil Willard, Jeff Staton, and Dave Mapel. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Phillip Earley. His dedication and service to his school has been extremely important to the success of his team record and to his academic achievement. I commend his exemplary record for of all of his athletic and academic honors, and I am honored to represent him in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Macle Joyce Spicer of Guilford, Missouri. Macle will be celebrating her 80th Birthday on November 25th and it is my privilege to offer her my warmest regards on achieving this important milestone. Macle is a fine citizen of Missouri and the Guilford community. It is an honor to represent Macle in the United States Congress, and I wish her all the best on this birthday and many more in the future.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Andrew Herdman of Kansas City, Missouri. 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 247, 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Andrew Herdman 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Justin C. Schultz of Kansas City, Missouri. Justin 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 247, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Justin has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Justin has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Justin C. Schultz 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Julian Gibson-Cornell, 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 75, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Julian has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the many years Julian has been involved with Scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Julian Gibson-Cornell for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.