[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 105 (Tuesday, July 8, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1116]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING MARY KASTEN

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. JASON T. SMITH

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 8, 2014

  Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mary Kasten 
who is receiving the Southeast Missourian ``Spirit of American Award'' 
in recognition of her outstanding service to the community of Cape 
Girardeau and the state of Missouri.
  Mary's service expands from God, family, country and her fellow man. 
She volunteered much of her time as a Sunday school teacher and choir 
member in the St. Andrew's Lutheran Church. Mary also served as a 
member of the Cape Girardeau School Board and held various offices on 
the board for 20 years. Mary continued to be dedicated to education by 
serving on the Board of Regents at Southeast Missouri State University, 
her alma mater. Mary also served in the Missouri General Assembly for 
nearly 20 years where she represented her family, friends and neighbors 
with distinction.
  One of Mary's greatest works for others was the beginning of the Cape 
Girardeau Community Caring Council. Her vision of this program began in 
Southern Missouri and is now being replicated in the rest of the State 
and nationwide.
  If anyone deserves the ``Spirit of American Award'' it would be Mary 
Kasten. I applaud her for her achievements and service.

                          ____________________