[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 107 (Tuesday, June 25, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E831]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING M. DIANE HAYS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. SAM GRAVES

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 25, 2019

  Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I pause to recognize M. Diane 
Hays, who passed away on June 20, 2019. It is both fitting and proper 
to reflect and recognize her life's accomplishments and for all of her 
efforts in serving the greater Independence, Missouri, community.
   Russell and Diane Hays started the Coins for Canines program in 1997 
after budget restraints barred the city from purchasing a replacement 
K-9 after its only working dog passed away. Mr. and Mrs. Hays raised 
funds by placing jugs at local businesses, presenting donation request 
letters to various groups, and lobbying the Jackson County Legislature 
for funds derived from the anti-drug sales tax. The funds were used to 
purchase K-9's, their training, and eventually repair and renovation of 
the Police Department's new K-9 training center. In 2002 Mr. and Mrs. 
Hays received the Missouri Peace Officers Association's Citizens of the 
Year Award. This couple embodies the spirit of volunteerism, and their 
support of law enforcement illustrates the model of exemplary 
citizenship.
   Madam Speaker, I ask that you join me in offering our condolences to 
Diane's friends and family, particularly her husband, Russell Hays, 
their daughters Kim and Lynda, their five grandchildren, and seventeen 
great grandchildren. She will be greatly missed in Independence. I 
would also like to thank the Hays family for sharing Diane's heart and 
her commitment to our K-9 officers with the community for so many 
years.

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