Congressional District Speeches in Missouri's Fourth District

Floor Speech

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Mr. ALFORD. Mr. Speaker, the Congressional Art Competition began back in 1982, and since then more than 650,000 students have entered.

As we speak, the winning art from 435 districts is being displayed in the tunnel here that connects our office buildings. Our office wanted to do something different, Mr. Speaker, something that would instill patriotism back in America, especially for our young people, so our Fourth Congressional District of Missouri is starting the congressional speech competition. I hope it catches on with other Members here.

These are students from all over our district that have entered this contest. We had a big turnout for this. The assignment was: ``What America Means to Me.''

This week, I will be reading the top 10 speeches from these individuals. Speech by Maddie Arnett

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Mr. ALFORD. Mr. Speaker, this is from Maddie Arnett, 10th grade, Climax Springs High School in Camden County.

`` `America the Beautiful' is a Nation that deeply values the principles of freedom and equality. These values were earned through tireless efforts of its people, making it a place where individuals can pursue their dreams and aspirations, working towards building a better life for themselves and their families. The iconic `Star-Spangled Banner' asks, `O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?'

``The question is a powerful reminder of the country's ongoing commitment to these values.

``While the interpretations of what America means vary, one thing is certain: It continues to inspire hope and optimism for a bright future.'' Speech by Brooklyn Garrison

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Mr. ALFORD. Mr. Speaker, next up in our speech contest is Brooklyn Garrison, 10th grade, Concordia High School in Lafayette County.

``America, to me, embodies the promise of opportunity and the pursuit of dreams. It's a land where diversity thrives, where people from all walks of life come together to build a better future.

``It's a beacon of freedom, where individuals have the right to speak their minds, worship as they please, and chase their ambitions without fear of persecution. America symbolizes resilience, overcoming challenges, and striving for progress.

``It's a place where innovation flourishes, where the impossible becomes possible, and where the spirit of entrepreneurship thrives.

``America is not just a country; it's an idea, a belief in liberty, equality, and the endless possibilities of tomorrow.'' Speech by Jaxson Deckard

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Mr. ALFORD. Mr. Speaker, our next winner in our speech contest is Jaxson Deckard, 11th grade, Warsaw High School in Benton County.

``Early on, I had an interest in serving my country to preserve our freedoms. I was raised in a patriotic, God-loving home, with family members serving before me.

``To me, America is a land of freedom. Citizens have the freedom to make their own decisions and opinions. This gives citizens pride and patriotism unlike any other country, pride and patriotism that gives citizens the drive to follow their dreams.

``My dream is to attend a military service academy to become a fighter pilot for our great Nation.

``Whatever your dreams are, I encourage you to chase them. In America, there are no limits to how far you can go.'' Speech by Jack Schroeder

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Mr. ALFORD. Mr. Speaker, our last finalist winner for today is Jack Schroeder, 12th grade, Smithton High School in Pettis County.

``To me, the United States of America is a beacon, a beacon that shines its light across the world, showing the world what life can be like: a life where everyone can have the same opportunities.

``Parts of the world have been blocked off from the light, whether from their actions or ours, but regardless of what blocks the light, we simply shine brighter.

``We've shown our capabilities of bringing our message and ideals to some of the darkest corners of the world, whether they be domestic or abroad.

``Regardless of what we must sacrifice, we've always held our ideals close to our hearts and fought for the repressed and oppressed people to have the same rights and liberties that we do.

``To me, America is a beacon of liberation.''

Mr. Speaker, it is great to be able to get up here and speak the words of our young people.

Patriotism is still alive in America.

Later this week, Mr. Speaker, we will have the six remaining finalists for our speech contest. It is something I hope the rest of Congress picks up and runs with.

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