[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 128 (Wednesday, September 25, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1369]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING MICHAEL J. SMITH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN R. CARTER

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 25, 2013

  Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Hutto, TX City Councilman 
Michael J. Smith. Michael was awarded a coveted place on the Walk of 
Fame at Morgan's Wonderland in San Antonio, TX which is the world's 
first theme park designed with special-needs individuals in mind yet 
built to be enjoyed by everyone.
  Michael thought he would pursue a law-enforcement career after 
graduating from Texas A&M University. After seeing the condition of 
facilities for adults with special needs he realized changes had to be 
made and committed his energies to being of service.
  He opened Beyond the Limits, an award-winning day habilitation center 
where adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities gather to 
learn social and life skills that can be used at home, in the 
community, or in the workplace. Along with being a catalyst for change 
in the special-needs community, the center's cardboard-recycling 
efforts have earned recognition from the State of Texas Alliance for 
Recycling and Keep Texas Beautiful.
  Michael's activism doesn't stop there. In addition to his duties as a 
Councilman, he works closely with the Texas legislature to promote 
legislation that benefits adults with disabilities by providing support 
and assistance to them and their families.
  Michael J. Smith's commitment to advocacy and service reflects the 
best values of Central Texas. I applaud his work and wish him success 
as he continues to be a champion for the special-needs community.

                          ____________________