[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 111 (Monday, July 11, 2016)]
[Senate]
[Page S4942]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                          TRIBUTE TO TOM KUNTZ

 Mr. DAINES. Madam President, nestled along the banks of the 
Madison River, protected by the Madison, Gravelly, and Tobacco Root 
Mountains sits the charming town of Ennis, MT. Ennis is a strong 
community of nearly 1,000 citizens. This humble city boasts blue ribbon 
trout fishing, gorgeous hiking, and attracts people from all walks of 
life to the spirit and values of the Old West.
  Tom Kuntz and his wife made Ennis, MT, their home in 2014. Since 
then, he has weaved himself into the fabric of this community as a 
dedicated volunteer at Ennis Community Children's School. After raising 
kids of his own, Kuntz still wanted to be involved in the lives of 
children. They say it takes a village to raise a child, and Kuntz takes 
his part in this happily.
  Lacy Keller, director of the Community School, says Kuntz is a weekly 
volunteer and lends a hand whenever and wherever he can. ``He comes in 
every week, hangs out with the kids, comes on field trips, fixes our 
bikes and broken toys, mows the lawn, he does whatever he can for us 
and the kids.'' The community school averages 20-25 children ranging in 
ages from 2-12, and Keller says that all of them adore Kuntz.
  Just a few weeks ago the kids couldn't wait to invite him on one of 
their hiking trips. One girl had recently fractured her foot and would 
have missed out on the group adventure if it weren't for Kuntz. Keller 
says that Kuntz graciously carried the little girl on his back up and 
down the mountain trail. Together the pair spent the day smiling, 
laughing, and Kuntz even sang songs to entertain her and the students 
throughout the day.
  Kuntz is a selfless volunteer who donates his time and money and 
expects very little in return. On numerous occasions he has purchased 
items out of his own pocket to help out with maintenance or building 
projects. Most recently, Kuntz helped to complete a garden for the 
school so that students can grow vegetables and cultivate a firsthand 
knowledge of agriculture.
  He embodies the diligent and gracious heart of Ennis citizens and is 
instilling that into the future Montana farmers, educators, and leaders 
growing up in Ennis. Montana is truly one of the last best places, and 
I am honored that Tom is so invested in the success of our children. 
Thank you, Tom, and welcome home.

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