Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Pamela Sonnenmoser of Northwest Missouri. Pamela is active in the community through work and in her spare time and she has been chosen to receive the YWCA Women of Excellence Award for Emerging Leader.

Pamela Sonnemoser is a multi-talented individual as a floral designer, artist, journalist, and public speaker. She is also reaching out with Christian love and the desire to enrich the lives of others. Whether through daily inspirational radio messages on our St. Joseph Christian radio or by speaking at retreats or seminars, she focuses on spiritual and/or personal and professional development of women. As a Certified Personality Trainer, Pamela helps women improve relationships with family, friends and coworkers and find their niche in the workplace by learning and developing the strengths of their temperament. Pamela is a contributing author to three books in the Christian non-fiction genre.

Her talents to train and guide others have been further recognized by her appointment to the training faculty of the Christian Leaders Authors and Speakers Services (CLASS). Her volunteer efforts include being a staff member at God's Mountain Youth Camp, speaking for church groups at no cost, organizing teen groups to feed the hungry of the inner city, and teaching creative writing workshops on poetry at the Atchison Public Library for home school groups.

Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Pamela Sonnenmoser. She has made an amazing impact on countless individuals in her community. I am honored to represent her in the United States Congress.

Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Barbara Ide of Saint Joseph, Missouri. Barbara has been chosen to receive the St. Joseph YWCA Women of Excellence Lifetime Achievement Award.

In 1969, Barbara Ide became involved in historic preservation to preserve the cityscape of St. Joseph. Among the many buildings she helped preserve were downtown St. Joseph's crown jewel--the Buchanan County Court House, the city founder's Robidoux Row, Patee Hall, Warehouse Row, and the Hall Street Historic District. Barbara first became involved in historic preservation when St. Joseph's Federal urban renewal program proposed demolishing over half of the historic downtown. The National Trust for Historic Preservation took notice of Barbara's efforts and in the early 1970s invited her to address its National Convention to present preservation lessons learned in St. Joseph. Her speech was later reprinted in a National Trust's publication.

After purchasing Robidoux Row, she developed and chaired the highly successful Robidoux Festival which ran for several years. As a founding board member and the first president of the not-for-profit St. Joseph Preservation, Inc., she established a revolving fund through historic property donations and attracted a membership of over 200.

In addition to preserving the historic cityscape of St. Joseph, Barbara has contributed to the city's social fabric. Moving to St. Joseph in 1948, she became an integral part of the community leading by example. Over the years, Barbara has served as an active member (often on the board or as president) of numerous organizations like the Runcie Club, PEO, St. Joseph Historical Society, the First Presbyterian Church, Questors, and the Junior League.

Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Barbara Ide. She has come to be one of the most outstanding members of our community and I am honored to represent her in the United States Congress.

Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize CBIZ Insurance Services, Inc. of St. Joseph, Missouri. This business has been chosen to receive the YWCA Women of Excellence Award for Employer of Excellence.

CBIZ has been giving back to St. Joseph for 100 years by supporting nonprofits such as United Way, UCP, YWCA, YMCA, Sertoma, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts through volunteerism and fundraising. CBIZ is also involved in a ``Dress for Success'' initiative, which will help provide business attire to women trying to enter or advance in the business world. This program will include partnering with nonprofits that currently assist with clothing needs in our community.

On a national level, CBIZ supports achievement by women through the Women's Advantage program, which celebrates women business professionals inside and outside their organization. This program provides training by women for women in the areas of personal and professional communication, organization, and influence skills through focused leadership, mentoring, and networking training. Currently 125 women in nine pilot locations participate in the program. Locally, the current Vice President has worked her way up from a clerical/filing position and has provided support and encouragement to several other women seeking advancement.

Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing CBIZ Insurance Services, Inc. They are a tremendous asset to the St. Joseph community and I am honored to represent such a business in the United States Congress.

Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating the outstanding achievement of The Elms Resort and Spa in Excelsior Springs, Missouri, for celebrating 120 years of history and hospitality on July 4, 2008. The Elms has lasted through two fires, the Depression, bankruptcy, and multiple owners and still stands today as a grand example of elegance, first-class amenities and the spa of healing waters that made it so famous.

The Elms has welcomed a number of politicians and stars through the years. From Al Capone, to Jack Dempsey and even President Harry S. Truman, many figures throughout history have experienced the cultivated history and vibrant atmosphere of this great resort. This esteemed recognition of 120 great years has not come easily, but after years of restoring and rebuilding, the resort is vibrant as ever. This hotel is a true survivor and stands as a magnificent tribute to the unbeatable spirit of the town of Excelsior Springs.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you join me in applauding The Elms Resort and Spa for their dedication of service and loyalty to the people of Excelsior Springs, Missouri as a true Missouri landmark. I wish the resort 120 more years of greatness to come.

Madam Speaker, it is with great pride and pleasure that I welcome the courageous and honorable men of the U.S. Army Fourth Infantry Division Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol, Company E 58th Infantry Long Range Patrol, and Company K 75th Infantry to their 40th Anniversary Reunion in Kansas City, Missouri. These brave men and their families will finally receive the honor they have deserved for so long.

This exceptional group began in Vietnam with the 4th Infantry Division LRRPs formed within the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Brigades in 1966 and 1967. On July 5th, 1968, these LRRPs were then placed under the control of Captain Ruben H. Siverling, Commander of E Company 58th Infantry (LRP). Captain Siverling described the greatness of these brave men by stating: ``I have been recognized and honored for several various degrees of accomplishment in my journey through life. None are more satisfying or humbling than to have served under extreme combat as the last commander of E 58th (LRP) and the first commander of Company K 75th Rangers.''

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring a very elite unit of U.S. Army Vietnam veterans, and to welcome them to their 40th Anniversary Reunion. These men, like so many others, have sacrificed so much to protect our Nation's freedom. I congratulate them on their dedicated service and I humbly welcome these men and their families to Kansas City.

Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize the lifetime achievements of Raymond R. Brock, Jr., of Gladstone, Missouri. Ray has been awarded the Alexander Doniphan Community Service Award on the 200th birth anniversary of Alexander W. Doniphan. Ray's prestigious recognition exemplifies Alexander Doniphan's greatest qualities through education, jurisprudence, statesmanship, patriotism and as a successful businessman.

Ray Brock has dedicated his entire life to giving back to the community. From being a member of the Board of College Hill, Inc., to a pioneer in the development of the Northland area, Ray has shown committed excellence over the years. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1954, and has worked with the Salvation Army, Northland Community Foundation, the Liberty Hospital Board of Directors, Clay County Parks & Recreation Board, and countless other organizations. All of these qualities embody the unique character required for the Alexander Doniphan Community Service Award.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you join me in applauding Raymond R. Brock, Jr., for his selfless acts of generosity through volunteerism. His life should serve as an example to all of us to help each other and our community.

Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating the outstanding achievement of the city of Gladstone, Missouri, for being named one of the 10 winners of the National Civic League's 2008 All- America City Award. The award recognizes communities that identify community-wide challenges and successfully deal with those challenges head on. Gladstone was one of 17 finalists for the award, and the only city in the Kansas City area that was a finalist this year.

Gladstone on the Move, a citizen-based organization that identified long-range goals for the city, played a large role in making Gladstone stand out as an All-America City. Its recommendations included a property tax increase to pay for additional ambulance service, public improvements, an extension of a sales tax for the beautiful new community center, as well as a strong neighborhood revitalization program. The city of Gladstone should be proud of the way it effectively identified and met the needs of their residents.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you join me in applauding Gladstone's city leaders and residents for their example of excellence as a winner of the National Civic League's 2008 All-America City. Their pride in their community and drive to keep improving their city should be commended and I am proud to represent them in Congress.

Madam Speaker, every day the American people are faced with another headline about record fuel prices. We have been urged to reduce consumption and the American people are listening. Obviously though, Madam Speaker, the Air Force isn't.

The United States Air Force spends more than $6.6 billion per year on fuel costs and rising fuel prices continues to drive this number higher. As a taxpayer and supporter of our men and women in uniform, I believe the Air Force should be doing all they can to heed the call and maximize fuel economy wherever possible.

However, the Air Force in their recent tanker award has determined that the opposite path is appropriate. The Air Force selection of an Airbus aircraft over the more fuel efficient Boeing aircraft has real impacts and costs for every American.

The independent firm Conklin & de Decker Aviation Information has completed a study that shows the Boeing offering to be nearly 25 percent more fuel efficient than the Airbus aircraft. Over the 40 year life of the aircraft at oil at $125 a barrel this will result in additional costs to Americans of nearly $30 billion dollars and more than 2.24 billion gallons of additional fuel not available to help bring relief to the record prices.

Now Madam Speaker, I understand that our military must choose the best tool for the war fighter and fuel is but one critical input. However, when the Boeing offering meets or exceeds all Air Force requirements with better technology and maximum operational capability when compared to the Airbus aircraft, it simply defies common sense that the Air Force would choose to add this burden to Americans. Higher cost? Less capability? More fuel? Madam Speaker it is time for Congress to take a closer look.

Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize William Lobbins III of Parkville, Missouri. Brett 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 1395, 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.

Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending William Lobbins III for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize the outstanding achievements of the Platte County Economic Development Council (PCEDC) of Platte County, Missouri. Burdette ``Pete'' Fullerton, Executive Director, has successfully guided the EDC, and I am honored to help celebrate their 20th Anniversary on June 20, 2008. This prestigious recognition is the culmination of twenty years of dedicated work to continuously improve and enhance our community.

The Platte County EDC serves as an authoritative voice in the community on economic development and related issues through an effective program of professional development, public policy, marketing, and communications. The EDC has assisted in several local projects over the past 20 years, including ADT Security Services, Citi Cards, Harley-Davidson Motor Company, KCI Expo Center, Lifetouch Publishing, Argosy Casino Hotel and Spa, Multivac, The National Golf Club, Tiffany Greens Golf Club, and Zona Rosa.

Pete Fullerton is responsible for the growth of this non-profit organization that promotes economic development in Platte County, Missouri. Pete has worked diligently on behalf of EDC to build a partnership between public and private sectors and has assisted in the successful completion of 127 projects. The PCEDC has helped to create over 11,000 new jobs for Platte County.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you join me in applauding the Platte County Economic Development Council of Platte County, Missouri for its hard work and dedication. Since the EDC began, it has served as a resource to its investors and the community. I want to thank Pete Fullerton for all of his work and applaud him for his accomplishments with the Platte County EDC.

Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Mary Baumann, of Savannah, Missouri. Mary recently retired as Andrew County Youth Program Assistant.

Mary Baumann began her dedicated service to the 4-H Program in 1976, after serving 15 years as secretary to the Andrew County Extension Council. Mary's leadership and teaching has helped many youths as they learned through programs sponsored by the 4-H program. Mrs. Baumann is well respected and recognized as a leader throughout the Northwest Missouri University Extension region.

Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Mary Baumann, whose dedication and service to the community has been truly outstanding. I commend Mary on an exceptional career, and I am honored to serve her in the United States Congress.

Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Dr. Jim Scanlon, of St. Joseph, Missouri. Dr. Scanlon, who has served as President of Missouri Western State University since 2001, will be retiring at the end of June following a distinguished 30-year career devoted to students in higher education. Dr. Scanlon has been a great visionary for Missouri Western State University and a fine leader in building the University's vision for the future.

Dr. Scanlon leaves behind a number of accomplishments. Under his leadership, Missouri Western attained University status and added new master's programs in applied sciences and applied arts. During his tenure three new buildings were added to the campus, one building currently under construction, one building renovation and addition in the planning stages, a new university plaza and several remodeled campus spaces for students. Dr. Scanlon has also championed a regional university plan, focusing Western's resources for both the good of the student as well as the community and region.

Dr. Scanlon came to St. Joseph and Missouri Western around the time I was first elected to Congress. I have had the wonderful opportunity to work with Dr. Scanlon on a number of occasions, and I can attest to his honesty, integrity, and vision. I know Dr. Scanlon's leadership will truly be missed, but I am very thankful for the time we were able to share together, and wish him the best in his future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Dr. Jim Scanlon, a true visionary and tremendous leader who dedicated his career to higher education. I commend Dr. Scanlon on an exceptional career, and I am honored to serve him in the United States Congress.

Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize James Duvall IV of Liberty, Missouri. 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 1320, 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.

Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending James Duvall IV for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Brett Penne of Parkville, Missouri. Brett 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 1261, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout.

Brett has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Brett 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 Brett Penne for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Madam Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Dennis Lemasters II of Platte City, Missouri. Dennis 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 1028, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout.

Dennis has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Dennis 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 Dennis Lemasters II for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.