[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 134 (Wednesday, September 7, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1215]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO PATTY AND JIM COWNIE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. DAVID YOUNG

                                of iowa

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 7, 2016

  Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and 
congratulate Patty and Jim Cownie for being awarded the 2016 Robert D. 
Ray Pillar of Character Award, presented by the Robert D. and Billie 
Ray Center at Drake University. They were presented with the honor 
during the annual Ray Center's Iowa Character Awards in Altoona, Iowa.
  Each year, a selection committee of 50 members selects recipients who 
have exemplified a life filled with volunteerism and sacrifice. The 
Cownies embody each of those qualities. Ever since the Ray Center 
opened its doors as Character Counts back in 1997, Patty and Jim Cownie 
have given their time and resources to make sure it was a total 
success.
  Patty Cownie has always displayed a commitment to volunteerism 
throughout her life. From 1999 to 2014 she served on the Drake 
University Board of Trustees and now dedicates her time and expertise 
to the Iowa Board of Regents. She has also contributed her time to 
organizations such as the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation, Meals 
from the Heartland and Bravo! Greater Des Moines.
  Recognized as one of the top businessmen in the State of Iowa, Jim 
Cownie has still found time to dedicate himself to causes and 
organizations of which he cares. Along with his wife, Patty, Jim has 
sacrificed his time and given his expertise to many charitable 
organizations throughout the state and continues to utilize his own 
resources to improve the lives of others.
  Mr. Speaker, I applaud and congratulate Patty and Jim Cownie for 
receiving this esteemed designation. It is truly an honor to represent 
them in the United States Congress. I ask that my colleagues in the 
United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating them 
and in wishing them nothing but continued success.

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