[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 115 (Thursday, July 11, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E720]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             RECOGNIZING TEXAS-24 HOMETOWN HERO DOUG BARNES

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                          HON. BETH VAN DUYNE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 11, 2024

  Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our Texas-24 
Hometown Hero, Doug Barnes. As Grapevine's favorite custodian, Doug was 
recently bid a heartwarming farewell by Heritage Elementary School to 
celebrate his retirement. Affectionately known as Mr. Doug, students at 
Heritage Elementary have been influenced deeply by his positivity, long 
cherishing his daily tradition of greeting them with high fives.
  Even on his days off, Doug can be found at the students' soccer games 
and other activities to show his support and cheer them on. Heritage 
Elementary organized a special surprise to mark the end of Doug's time 
with the school. In true `Mr. Doug' fashion, students and staff 
gathered for a celebration of high fives and hugs as they lined the 
parking lot to thank him with handmade signs and cards. The bittersweet 
goodbye brought Doug to tears as he reflected on his relationship with 
the students, saying there's no greater feeling than sowing seeds of 
kindness and watching them bloom.
  Doug's role within the school community and in the hearts of these 
students is truly irreplaceable. He has gone above and beyond to show 
the value of kindness and the great impact that even the smallest of 
gestures can have.
  I'd like to thank Doug for exemplifying compassion and setting a 
great example for young North Texans. His legacy of love and support 
will always be treasured by our community. Congratulations to Mr. Doug 
on his retirement.

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