Jason Smith

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the cheerleading team from Thomas W. Kelly High School in Benton, Missouri. At the National Cheerleaders Association Championship this year they took home the first place trophy, earning their first National Championship. They earned this by working hard and setting their eyes on the prize early on. During their practices they focused on quality, not quantity and the team would come together and give it their all to perfect their routines. Last October, the cheerleading team proudly took home the title of Class 2A Large State Champion, but they did not stop there. They traveled to St. Charles for the National Championship to compete with schools from all over the country. During the competition, the Kelly High School cheerleading team competed against schools more than ten times the size of their own. This may have seemed daunting to some, but the team came prepared and represented Scott County admirably. This is the first National Championship trophy for the cheerleaders of Thomas W. Kelly High School, but I do not see it being their last. It is my privilege to recognize their achievements and hard work before the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, we have heard the comment numerous times, ``If you like your health care, you can keep it,'' what the President had said. Mr. Speaker, we know that that was not true. I would like to give you an example of just one of thousands that I have had from my district. This comes from Frank. When he contacted our office, he said: My first personal introduction to ObamaCare was a cancelation notice on December 31, 2014. He said: I wasn't canceled for numerous claims or because of my health. I was canceled because of ObamaCare. Let me tell you, he lost his health insurance; and this is the change from his current health insurance that he was supposed to keep to now what he has to have. His current policy premium was $237.86. His new premium is $531.89, an increase of 123.6 percent. His deductible on his old policy was $2,500. His new policy deductible is $6,350. His copay on his prior policy was a zero copay within the network. His new program has a 40 percent pay above his deductible.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. I thank the chairman. So let's look at it. If you have a $30,000 medical procedure, under his old insurance plan, he had a $2,500 deductible. Under this new plan, with his $6,350 deductible plus the 40 percent on top of it, he is going to be out $15,810. This is what my constituent Frank wrote: ObamaCare is clearly the biggest, most costly lie that has ever been forced upon me by the Federal Government. It should be entitled what it is, the ``Most Ridiculously Unaffordable Health Care Act.'' Mr. Speaker, that is why I am standing here today with my colleagues asking for a vote on H.R. 596 to repeal the most ridiculously unaffordable health care act.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Terry Brewer, the founder and president of Brewer Science, who recently received the 2014 SEMI award for North America as a result of his impact on the manufacturing of integrated circuits in the semiconductor industry. The SEMI Award recognizes outstanding technical achievement, and is the highest honor conferred by SEMI. As a global industry association that is composed of 1,900 member companies that are the engine of the future, SEMI creates smarter, faster, and more economical products that improve our lives. Dr. Brewer has distinguished himself not only as a leader, but as an innovator in the field of technology. Brewer Science is a global technology leader in developing and manufacturing innovative materials, processes, and equipment used in electronics such as tablet computers, smartphones, digital cameras, televisions, and LED lighting. On May 5, 2014, Brewer Science unveiled its new high-volume manufacturing facility at the Rolla National Airport. This expansion accommodates product demand growth and exemplifies the company's commitment to continuous improvement. From its headquarters in Rolla, Missouri, Brewer Science supports its worldwide customers through a service and distribution network in North America, Europe, and Asia. It is my pleasure to commend Dr. Brewer for his achievements, and I am confident that his business will continue to stay on the forefront of technological advancement.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Loyd Ivey who was elected to the Consumer Electronics Hall of Fame for his contribution and significant achievements to the industry. As a local growing up in Scopus, Missouri, he graduated from Woodland High School and moved to Illinois to work in the steel and wood industries. In 1971 he founded Ivey Electronics to produce bookshelf speakers encased in a burn and spill-proof walnut laminate for the student market of Northwestern University. Loyd joined the Consumer Electronics Association in 1974 and presented his first product there before merging with American Case Company to create American Acoustic Labs. American Acoustic Labs became MiTek Corporation in 1979, which went on to become one of the United States' largest manufacturers of car and home speakers. MiTek has grown into a global enterprise with offices around the world. Loyd has been married to his wife Debi since 1968 and is the father of two sons. He also serves as a sheriffs deputy and department pilot in Bollinger Country. It is my privilege to recognize his achievements and lasting contributions before the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize the centennial celebration of the New Madrid County Courthouse. As one of the five original counties in the state of Missouri, this courthouse is a landmark symbol for justice and peace serving its citizens for over 100 years. The New Madrid County Courthouse relocated to its current location through the support of the community raising $20,000 to supplement the bond issue. In the fall of 1934, President Truman gave his speech near the front steps of this courthouse for his second Senate campaign before becoming the first Missouri born president. In celebration of the courthouse's longevity in service, the county has reinstated the 1821 county seal as the official seal. There will be 24 stars featured on this seal representing Missouri as the 24th state in the Union. Today, the dedicated staff members of New Madrid County Courthouse continue to create a safe environment and provide peace and order for the community. It is my pleasure to recognize the centennial celebration of the New Madrid County Courthouse.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Madam Chair, on rollcall No. 32 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yes.'' Amendment No. 5 Offered by Mr. Schock

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Gene Bess from Poplar Bluff, Missouri for his exceptional years of service to the community as a basketball coach and mentor. Coach Gene Bess is considered one of the most winningest college basketball coaches recently gaining his 1,200th win. Coach Gene has been recognized as one of the best coaches in college basketball winning two national junior college championships. Coach Bess has been named the NJCAA Coach of the Year twice and Regional Coach of the Year 18 times. He has led the Raiders of Three Rivers College to 17 tournament appearances and the program has kept a winning record consistently over .750. Coach Bess's impressive winning record is only one of the reasons he is such a beloved and respected member of the community Coach Bess not only strives to motivate his players to do their best on the court, but to keep a clear focus on their future. He has expressed the importance he places on seeing his players continuing their education at other institutions and finishing their degrees. For his remarkable accomplishments as a college basketball coach and his dedication to serve our community, it is my pleasure to recognize the achievements of Coach Gene Bess before the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for bringing this legislation to the floor. Mr. Speaker, President Obama, just last week, made the action and said, ``Change the law,'' on immigration granting amnesty to millions of illegal aliens. The President should not be allowed to do this. In fact, article II, section 3, of the Constitution requires the President to take care that the law is being faithfully executed. On March 28, 2011, President Obama said he would not use an executive order for amnesty, explaining that, ``Temporary protective status historically has been used for special circumstances.'' Those are his words. More than 20 times, the President said executive action on immigration would not be appropriate. Nothing has changed in our Constitution, but now, the administration is singing a different tune. Mr. Speaker, I am from the Show-Me State. I would love for any of my colleagues in this body to show me in this document, the Constitution of the United States, where it grants the President the authority to change the laws. Article I of the Constitution says Congress will change the laws, not the President. The President will execute the laws--faithfully execute the laws. Mr. Speaker, I proudly support this legislation, and I ask all my colleagues to do so to stop this action.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Golden LivingCenter in St. James as the 2014 recipient of the Gold-Excellence in Quality National Quality Award. Golden LivingCenter is the only long term care center that has received this prestigious award from the National Quality Award program for three consecutive years. Since 1964, as a role model for providing skilled nursing and post- acute care, Golden LivingCenter has been dedicated to improving the lives of their patients and residents. Their employees have continuously been committed to provide exceptional care for the residents of the communities they serve. For the years of service and commitment to helping others, it is my pleasure to recognize Golden LivingCenter in St. James before the United States House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Clyde Hawes from New Madrid, Missouri for his exceptional years of service as Presiding Commissioner of New Madrid County. Mr. Hawes has set a wonderful example of public service and dedication to bettering our community. This month he will be retiring after serving as Presiding Commissioner for 36 years. Before that Mr. Hawes also served as Assessor of New Madrid County for 20 years while owning and operating his family farm. Mr. Hawes has spoken at several public events sharing his knowledge about business, agriculture, and civic matters. Apart from his work as commissioner, Mr. Hawes is a Sunday school teacher at his church. As a devoted family man, Clyde sets a precedent for others to follow by committing to a balancing work and family. For his years of service and all the work he has done to strengthen our community, it is my pleasure to recognize the achievements of Clyde Hawes and congratulate him on his retirement before the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Laurie Everett of Cape Girardeau, Missouri for the inspiration she offers to the youth and women of Missouri. At age 22, Ms. Everett first enlisted in the U.S. Army. Her experience strengthened her ability to offer other women encouragement to persevere through the arduous transition of being away from home. As an entrepreneur and owner of Annie Laurie's Antiques, she mentors both female interns and professional women to support their professional development. In addition, to support at risk youth, Ms. Everett sponsored youth job trainings through the Myers Goodwill Workforce Investment Board of Southeast Missouri. Laurie Everett's achievements in business and dedication to mentorship have greatly influenced our community. It is my pleasure to recognize her efforts and accomplishments before the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lisa Cook from Chaffee, Missouri for her success in the medical field and service to our community. Lisa Cook, following the wisdom passed to her from her mother, followed her dreams of achieving an education and continued to climb the corporate ladder. Her hard work and passion to serve others is apparent in the numerous ways she has been honored and recognized for her achievements. Despite her demanding work schedule, Mrs. Cook always finds time to volunteer and support the community in various ways. Lisa and her husband find it most fulfilling to engage in charitable causes under the cloak of anonymity. For them it is not about being recognized for their contributions, but knowing that their actions impact other individuals in a positive way. I admire Lisa Cook for her positive attitude and determination to succeed which has influenced many in our community. It is my pleasure to recognize her efforts and accomplishments before the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sandra Bollinger from Sikeston, Missouri for her success in the medical field and service to our community. Sandra Bollinger has set a wonderful example of hard work and a dedication to serve others. For thirty years Sandra has worked in the medical field as a pharmacist, providing needed care and service to families in southeast Missouri. As a reputable pharmacist and driven businesswoman Sandra also opened and owned the first licensed Class I consulting pharmacy in the state of Missouri. Ms. Bollinger is a great example of the success a person can reach when they are passionate and motivated about what they do. From serving others behind the counter, to educating new students in medicine, Sandra has truly become a leader in her field. Outside her normal work, Ms. Bollinger devotes time to volunteer and is active in the community. She has served in numerous organizations using her expertise to advise both adults and the youth. It is my pleasure to recognize her efforts and accomplishments before the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Diane Howard who received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Annual Zonta Women of Achievement for her respectable achievements and tremendous influence in the community. Her notable impact is evident in her recognition as the ``Woman of Achievement'' in 2000 by the Cape Girardeau Area Zonta Club. Since 1984, Ms. Howard has been an attorney with the Limbaugh Firm in Cape Girardeau. Additionally, she was a member of the Board of Governments of the Missouri Bar and played an active role in many bar organizations as well as civic and non-profit organizations. Before beginning her private practice, she was a criminal prosecutor on active duty with the U.S. Navy (JAG Corps). She continued her service in the Naval Reserves for 21 years serving throughout the United States where she spent two weeks trying a case at the Guantanamo Bay Cuba Naval Service. She pursued to serve as Commanding Officer of three Units including the Office of the Judge Advocate General in Washington, D.C. In 2005, she retired from the Navy Reserves after 25 total years of faithful military service with the rank of Captain. Diane Howard's dedication to all her work has been undeniably laudable and has been a great contribution to our community. It is my pleasure to recognize her efforts and accomplishments before the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Kathy Hecht of Jackson, Missouri for her exemplary achievements and impact on the community. In June 2005, Ms. Hecht bought Boothill Area Rapid Transportation (BART), a shuttle service that provides transportation to and from the St. Louis airport. She strategically manages 38 drivers as well as 5 full time and 2 part time employees. Furthermore, she offers free transportation to veterans taking Honor Flight trips to express appreciation for their service. Ms. Hecht has taken on prominent roles in the Missouri community. For instance, she became a member of the Chambers of Commerce in each of the regions BART does business in. She also joined the Advisory Board of Directors for the Bank of Missouri, the only woman serving on this board. However, the achievement she is most proud of was her decision to fold her 18 year-long career in education to open her own business in order to become more accessible to her family. Kathy Hecht's service to the state of Missouri has been truly admirable and has benefited our community greatly. Her selfless decision to be a full time parent is also highly admired by her family and those closest to her. It is my pleasure to recognize her efforts and achievements before the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Abbie Crites-Leoni from Cape Girardeau, Missouri for her exceptional successes in law and service to our community. Abbie has been awarded several times for her achievements as a lawyer and investigative work. She has become a role model for younger women wanting to pursue a career or interest in criminal justice and law. Apart from law, Abbie has also proven herself as a successful business owner. Alongside her husband, she helped administrate a construction company that has built suburb communities and even a wedding and event center which has benefitted the community greatly. Most recently, Abbie has achieved a new goal of becoming a judge. This is an incredible milestone, and she is the first woman to serve full-time as a federal judge in Cape Girardeau. In addition to serving as an impartial judge in our court system, Abbie also finds time to serve the community in other ways. She has participated and led several different councils that aim to inspire and support local kids. For her work in seeking justice and practicing law in an admirable and ethical way, I applaud Abbie for her success and the bright future that still lies ahead. It is my pleasure to recognize her efforts and accomplishments before the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 70th Anniversary of the First Assembly of God in Potosi, Missouri. In 1944 the first members of this church came together seeking to build a community of believers to worship and to serve others. The First Assembly of God is part of the large council of Assemblies of God which is celebrating their 100th year. First Assembly works to reach out to the community of Potosi and beyond. Among their many services, they minister to the youth with different programs that aim to teach and encourage young kids to grow in their faith. They also support missionaries across the globe who are working selflessly to bring aid and the love of Christ to those in need. For the years of service and their commitment to helping others, it is my pleasure to recognize the 70th Anniversary of the First Assembly of God in the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Colonel Kimberlee Joos who received the Celebration Award at the Annual Zonta Women of Achievement for her selfless service and proud achievements that greatly impact both our Missouri community and the nation as a whole. In 1991, Colonel Joos received her commission through the Air Force ROTC program at Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. She then became a master intelligence officer with a notable skillset in various intelligence disciplines including Flying Unit- level Intelligence Support, Theater Airborne ISR Operations, and National Cryptologic Operations and Collection Management. Her service extends beyond Missouri, and she now commands the 17th Training Wing at the Goodfellow Air Force Base in Texas. Additionally, she holds command responsibility for units in California, Arizona, and Florida where she administers real property, equipment, supplies, and contracts. She also offers support to Army, Navy and Marine Corps on- base units in addition to countless other organizations. Colonel Joos's noteworthy accomplishments are evident in her various awards and decorations that include the Defense Superior Service Medal and Joint Service Commendation Medal. Colonel Kimberlee Joos's dedication has been truly admirable and has benefited our community greatly. It is my pleasure to recognize her efforts and successes before the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 25 years of service that Serenity Hospice Care in Park Hills, Missouri has provided our community. Serenity Hospice Care is the area's only independent, non-profit hospice. They have served over 5,000 patients and their families, regardless of the patient's ability to pay. When Serenity Hospice Care first opened its doors 25 years ago, it was thanks to a volunteer staff and funds raised by an all-volunteer Board of Directors concerned by the lack of hospice care in the surrounding counties. Until they received their Medicare and Medicaid certification, Serenity Hospice Care operated solely on the funds raised by generous donors. Today those funds are used to help cover the costs for the patients without sufficient insurance coverage. It is in the late stages of life where Serenity Hospice Care aims to relieve the financial burden of finding adequate hospice care for seniors. As their name so perfectly describes, Serenity Hospice Care has provided peace and comfort to many patients and their families. It is their mission of ``providing excellent end-of-life care and grief support services to all in our community who need them'', that makes them a valuable and respected organization to the eight counties it services. It is my pleasure to recognize Serenity Hospice Care and their devoted staff for their 25 years of service.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 20th Anniversary of Behavioral Health Response. BHR is a nonprofit organization, established in 1994, that provides free 24-hour access to behavioral health services for the citizens of the Eastern Region of Missouri by equipped mental health professionals. BHR continues to play a crucial role in Missouri's behavioral healthcare system. BHR serves as a prominent asset to the behavioral health community through its cooperation with hospitals, community mental health centers, police officers, and other community organizations. They also provide prompt and constant accessibility by means of private telephone counseling and mobile outreach services. In addition, BHR uses a strategic system of careful administrative work, compassionate calls, and courteous follow-up calls to ensure respect and high-performance for the citizens. BHR complements the efficient and effective deliverance of high-quality healthcare services and largely contributes to the well-being of the residents of Missouri. For the critical contributions Behavioral Health Response has made to the behavioral healthcare system in Missouri, it is my pleasure to recognize the 20th Anniversary of Behavioral Health Response in the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reagan Myers from Poplar Bluff, Missouri for his years of service with the Salvation Army. Reagan Myers is being honored as the 2014 Mariana Islands Young Citizen of the Year. This award is not easily attained, and can only be achieved by demonstrating a selfless passion for serving and a giving heart. Reagan and his family are serving as missionaries under the auspices of General Baptist International Missions. At only 16 years old, Reagan has demonstrated his commitment to serving those in need in Saipan. Over the past year he has donated many of his own items to the Salvation Army, he has volunteered his time to help in the soup kitchen, and ring the bell at the red kettle location. Reagan has led efforts to provide relief to families who suffered from Typhoon Vongfong. With support from his church, he provides baskets to families in need filled with food, toys, and Bibles. Reagan Myers is a role model for young and old alike, and it is my pleasure to recognize his achievements before the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, for months I have said how detrimental the new Waters of the United States EPA regulation would be to the people of my district. We have long protected some of the most beautiful waterways in the world, but once again, bureaucrats think that they know better. I have many questions about the regulation, but when the Natural Resources Committee held a hearing on this rule back in June, the Federal agencies did not even show up. How can we trust them to work with landowners if the rule is implemented? Earlier this year, the House passed a bill to protect Americans from the huge regulatory burden, but like so many others, it is stuck in the Senate. Luckily, there is still time to do something to stop this disastrous power grab. The EPA is accepting comments on the proposed Waters of the United States rule until Friday, November 14, so join me in telling the EPA how terrible this ill-considered regulation would be for Missouri and the United States.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Luke Blanton of Sikeston, Missouri for his outstanding achievement of receiving his Eagle Scout Award. This award is not easily attained and cannot be achieved without a steadfast determination to succeed. In order to receive this award, Luke completed an Eagle project that exemplifies patriotism and his commitment to serve others. With the help of Sikeston Career and Technology Center, Luke built a flag depository box in the Veterans Park in Sikeston, Missouri where numerous flags continue to be collected so they can be retired properly. At a young age Luke has shown values such as honesty, loyalty, and civility that inspire others. He has shown commitment to good citizenship, physical fitness, and education. By learning important survival skills, he has made himself an asset to our community, as well as the nation. Luke is a role model for young and old, alike, and it is my pleasure to recognize his achievements before the House of Representatives.

Mr. SMITH of Missouri

Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, Missouri's Eighth District has more than 200 miles of the Mississippi River and is dependent on barge traffic to move our crops. This year, with one of the largest harvests on record, the Army Corps of Engineers closed a stretch of the Mississippi River that gets the harvest to market and did not adequately notify shippers. This is absolutely unacceptable. My colleagues and I sent a letter this week urging the Corps to notify industries in advance of construction, and also to take market factors into consideration when planning construction in the future. The work the Corps does protecting our river system is vital, and we need to work to secure the Corps more resources to complete its mission, but construction must be scheduled appropriately and not at the expense of America's farmers and shippers.