Sam Graves

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Philip William Isley, 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 in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Philip has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the years Philip has been involved with scouting, he has earned 28 merit badges and held numerous leadership positions, serving as Troop Guide, Chaplain's Aide, Assistant Patrol Leader, and Patrol Leader. Philip is a Brotherhood Member in the Order of the Arrow and a Warrior in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. His tribal name is Silent Crocodile of the North Shore. Philip planned and directed the landscaping and remodeling of the entrance to the Mount Memorial Cemetery at William Jewell College. Philip has also added a bench and statue to the landscaping in the cemetery. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Philip William Isley for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Tyler Joseph VanVacter, 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 270, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Tyler has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Tyler Joseph VanVacter 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 rise to honor four outstanding individuals, Chris Avery, Clint Coffelt, Anh Nguyen, and Steven Yung who competed and finished in third place in the Ace Mentor/Construction Industry Round Table 2007 Design Competition Awards Program, representing Oak Park High School. The Oak Park team designed a small sports complex that would offer an opportunity for kids and young adults to escape the local streets. The ACE mentor program was designed to help high school students who are interested in careers in architecture, construction, or engineering. Students are introduced to the various design professions and the role that each performs in planning, designing and constructing a project. Students in this program gain firsthand insight into the design industry by touring project offices, visiting active construction sites, and by working closely with their mentors on ``real world'' projects. Also, I want to recognize the great leadership of the team including Amy Light, the math and science coordinator for the North Kansas City School District. It is also important to acknowledge the parents, family, mentors and friends who have helped these students succeed in their academic efforts. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in congratulating the Oak Park High School Ace Mentor Team on their achievements and wish them the best of luck in their future academic endeavors. It is an honor to represent this team in the U.S. Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Vicki Silkwood, a constituent of the 6th district of Missouri who recently was installed as President of the Missouri Federation of Business and Professional Women for 2007-2008. As President, she will preside over the Missouri Board of Directors and will serve on the Chillicothe Business and Professional Women's/USA Board of Directors. The Missouri Federation of Business and Professional Women has approximately 1,000 members statewide and works on achieving equality for women in the workplace through education, advocacy and research. Ms. Silkwood has been very active over the years with the Chillicothe Business and Professional Women's organization. She has held numerous leadership positions, beginning with two consecutive terms as President of the Chillicothe local and as District Director for the Missouri Federation of Business and Professional Women's Board. Ms. Silkwood has also served as Membership Retention Chair for the State Board, State Treasurer, and State First and Second Vice President and President Elect. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in congratulating Vicki Silkwood for her accomplishment of being selected as President of the Missouri Federation of Business and Professional Women for 2007-2008. It is an honor to represent Ms. Silkwood in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Ryan James Cheshier, 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 270, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Ryan has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the years Ryan 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 Ryan James Cheshier 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 Donald Marsh, 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 in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Matthew has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the years Matthew has been involved with scouting, he has earned 34 merit badges and held numerous leadership positions, serving as Chaplains' Aide, Assistant Patrol Leader twice and Patrol Leader twice. Matthew has earned the 100 Night Camper Award and became a Runner in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. Matthew used his organizational and leadership skills to lead a group of boys and adults in restoring the trail erosion barriers at the Camp Fire Boys and Girls Camp Shawnee. He is currently a senior at the University of Missouri--Rolla where he is a student of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Matthew Donald Marsh 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 Logan James Reed, 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 in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Logan has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the years Logan has been involved with scouting, he has earned 31 merit badges and held numerous leadership positions, serving as Assistant Patrol Leader and Patrol Leader. 1Logan has earned the Master Camper Award and became a warrior in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. Logan used his leadership skills to lead a group of boys and adults in constructing two pre-fabricated water fountains and benches with a concrete pad that is handicap accessible on the walking trail in Kearney. He is a member of the Northern Hills Baptist Church and attends the Excelsior Springs Area Career Center for the HVAC program. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Logan James Reed 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 Grant Richard Sampson, 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 314, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to congratulate the Greater Maryville Chamber of Commerce on their Centennial Anniversary. On April 23, 1907, the chamber was created when area businessmen came together to improve the economic vitality by promoting businesses and community and enhancing the quality of life in Maryville, Missouri. The mission of the Greater Maryville Chamber of Commerce is to support advancing agriculture, education, industry, legislation, retail, professional services, recreation, and tourism of the City of Maryville and its surrounding area. The City of Maryville, organized on February 14, 1845, has become the commercial, educational and entertainment center for the region by hosting such events as fairs, auto shows, and rodeos. Madam Speaker, I am proud to represent the Greater Maryville Chamber of Commerce and congratulate them on 100 years of service and I look forward to future celebrations.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Maxwell ``Max'' William Eldon Pepper, 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 in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Maxwell has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the years Maxwell has been involved with scouting, he has earned 28 merit badges and held numerous leadership positions, serving as Librarian, Assistant Patrol Leader, and Quartermaster. Maxwell is an Ordeal Member in the Order of the Arrow and a Warrior in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Maxwell ``Max'' William Eldon Pepper 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 rise to honor 5 outstanding individuals, Stephanie Hull, Shane Daniel, John Ahlfield, David Klco, and Ammon Sarver, who competed in the 2007 National Science Bowl representing Liberty High School. This is Liberty's third year in a row to make it to the National Finals. Since 1991, the National Science Bowl, through the sponsorship of the United States Department of Energy has brought together high school students to compete in an academic competition in the fields of chemistry, biology, physics, earth science, mathematics, astronomy, and general science. Also, I want to recognize the great leadership of the team including Coaches Rosemary Camp and Mary Coogan. It is also important to acknowledge the parents, family, mentors and friends who have helped these students succeed in their academic efforts. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in congratulating the Liberty High School Science Bowl Team on their achievements and wish them the best of luck in their future academic endeavors. It is an honor to represent this team in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Evan 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 264, and in 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 numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Evan 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. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Alex J. Martin, 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 264, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Alex has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Alex has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Alex J. Martin 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 Whalon, 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 264, and in 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 Whalon 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 Joshua Patrick Zans, 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 264, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Joshua has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Joshua 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 Joshua Patrick Zans 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 Kevin Aaron Lewis, 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 264, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Kevin has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Kevin 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 Kevin Aaron Lewis 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 Travis James Foster, 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 264, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Travis has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Travis 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 Travis James Foster 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 Joshua Abernathy, 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 264, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Joshua has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Joshua 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 Joshua Abernathy 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 Dominick Esteban, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 214, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Dominick has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Dominick 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 Dominick Esteban 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 Trent Harrison, 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 692, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Trent has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Trent 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 Trent Harrison for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Chairman, on rollcall No. 195, I put my card in the machine but was inadvertently not recorded. I should have been recorded as a ``no.'' Amendment No. 5 Offered by Mr. Sessions

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, on Tuesday, March 20, 2007, I was traveling with the President of the United States to attend a meeting back in the district and thus missed rollcall votes #160 through 163. Had I been present, I would have voted ``Yea'' on rollcall votes 161 and 162 and ``Nay'' on rollcall votes 160 and 163.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize the outstanding achievement of the Benton Cardinals Girls High School Basketball team on defeating Farmington Knights, by a score of 52-37, to win the school's first ever state championship in girls' basketball. The Cardinals finished their incredible season by posting an unblemished record of 30-0 this season in Class 4A girls' basketball and an overall amazing record of 77-6 over the past three seasons. The Cardinals consist of 14 tremendous young women, including Chelsie Strong, Holly Switzer, Jenni Musser, Blair Brown, Alicia Bell, Nicole Wilkinson, Melissa McIntosh, Nicole Wilkenson, Charnelle Starling, Delissa Hall, Hannah Moore, Karli Sample, Meghan Curtis, and Claire Bowman. Also, I want to recognize the great leadership of the team including Head Coach Brett Goodwin, who was assisted by Adam Willard. I also want to acknowledge the work of school administrators, Superintendent Melody Smith, Principals Jeanette Westfall and Jeff Modis, and Athletic Director Mike Ziesel, as additional keys to success. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in congratulating the achievement of the Benton Cardinals girls High School Basketball 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 Christian Andrick II, 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 603, and by earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Christian has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the years Christian has been involved in scouting and has held numerous leadership positions. He has served as Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, and Troop Bugler. Christian is in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say and in the Order of the Arrow. For his Eagle Scout project, Christian completed a landscaping beautifications project in front of the First Christian Church in Blue Springs, Missouri. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Christian Andrick II for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Kenneth Lehman, 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 397, and by earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Kenneth has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the years Kenneth has been involved in scouting, he has earned 40 merit badges and held numerous leadership positions, serving as Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, OATR, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and is currently the Senior Patrol Leader. In 2006, Kenneth carried on the family tribal name started by his Grandfather Russell Lehman by becoming Brave Young Sure Footed Running Elk in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. Kenneth is also a Brotherhood member in the Order of the Arrow. Kenneth has earned the God and Life Award. For his Eagle Scout project, Kenneth planted 15 Northern Red Oak trees in front of and around Westbrook Care Center. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Kenneth Lehman for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.