Mississippi River Bridge Won First Place in the Aci Excellence in Concrete Construction Awards

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, the American Concrete Institute recognizes and awards construction projects across the world every year.

During the 2023 ACI Excellence in Concrete Construction Awards, the I-74 Mississippi River Bridge, located in Bettendorf, Iowa, took home first place in the infrastructure category.

This regional project was started with the intention of improving access across the Mississippi River. The bridge was recently updated to include interchange ramp reconfigurations and interstate and local roadways improvements.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the architects, engineers, contractors, and suppliers that worked so diligently to improve this vital link within the Quad Cities across the Mississippi River. Congratulations to Sam Raymond, Carson Guzman, and Ryan Peters

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize three very impressive Norwalk High School students and their recent achievements.

I congratulate Sam Raymond, Carson Guzman, and Ryan Peters for receiving the National Speech and Debate Association's 2022-2023 Speaking and Service Award.

Every year the National Speech and Debate Association recognizes students who go above and beyond in their service to their teams, schools, and communities with the Speaking and Debate Service Award.

From more than 140,000 members, fewer than 140 students receive this recognition and reached the maximum number of service points in the student honor society.

These three individuals earned distinction through their impressive record for speech and debate competition, as well as community service, public speaking, and leadership activities.

Mr. Speaker, once again, I congratulate Sam Raymond, Carson Guzman, and Ryan Peters for their award. Recognizing Zach Graham, the 2023 Pat Tillman Scholar

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Zach Graham, the 2023 Pat Tillman Scholar.

This award is inspired by the legacy of Pat Tillman who left the NFL to serve as a U.S. Army Ranger and ultimately gave his life in service.

Zach Graham is a dedicated Army veteran and a third-year graduate student at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry.

In 2014, Zach graduated from Iowa State University with a double major in anthropology and international studies and a minor in military science. Zach commissioned as an intelligence officer in the Army and he was stationed in Germany as the lead intelligence officer for the Army's aviation unit in Europe.

Zach transitioned from the military to dentistry when he found his calling, a profession that allows him to make a tangible impact with precision and artistry.

Zach Graham's dedication to service above self is truly commendable, and we eagerly anticipate the remarkable contributions he will continue to make.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Zach on receiving this incredible honor and award. Congratulations to Mrs. Suzi Jones as Theatre Educator of the Year

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to congratulate a passionate and impressive educator from Iowa's very own Pella High School, Mrs. Suzi Jones.

Mrs. Jones was recently recognized by the Iowa High School Speech Association as their Theatre Educator of the Year.

Every year, IHSSA selects the winner for this award based on community and statewide impact. Mrs. Jones was surprised with this award in front of the entire Pella High School student body.

As a parent, I am grateful to all educators and teachers dedicated to shaping the lives of our future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I thank them for their exceptional effort and, once again, I congratulate Mrs. Jones for her award.

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