[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 163 (2017), Part 4]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 4840]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         IN HONOR OF MIKE SMITH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEVIN BRADY

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 24, 2017

  Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Mike Smith possesses a vision of 
service that is now celebrating its 20th anniversary. With Barbara Knox 
and Dr. Rose Austin, Mike helped launch the Rotary Club of East 
Montgomery County.
  Since its incorporation on February 28, 1997, the Rotary Club of East 
Montgomery County has experienced many changes. Starting as a small 
breakfast club at the Bentwood Country Club, it increased in size and 
influence throughout its history. In its 20th year, the Rotary Club's 
growth has led it to a new, larger meeting location at the Courtyard 
Marriott in Kingwood.
  What hasn't changed is the Club's commitment to service in its local 
community and around the world. Whether it is funding scholarships for 
the students of our local school districts, volunteering with the 
Salvation Army, building and supporting a school in Guatemala, 
providing food relief in Haiti, or sending supplies for infants in 
Nicaragua, the Rotary Club of East Montgomery County continues to 
improve lives.
  On February 28, 1997, Mike was part of the original meeting of the 
Rotary Club of East Montgomery County. It was twenty years ago when 
articles of incorporation papers were signed and original officers 
agreed to serve in the club. The meeting was held at Walter McKeller's 
New Caney bank office with Mike, Ike Williams, Eugene Wisenbaker, and 
Jim Dickson.
  A local Farmers Insurance agent and business owner for 29 years, Mike 
served as the club's second president. Throughout his time with the 
club, he witnessed the club's first presidential citation and the first 
hosting of a foreign exchange student. Plus, he was the first to make a 
hole in one at the Rotary Golf Tournament.
  In addition to serving in the Rotary Club, Mike has served his 
community in multiple capacities as Chairman of the Board for the 
Community Chamber of Commerce of East Montgomery County and as a board 
member of EMCID, Montgomery County United Way, and Lake Houston YMCA.
  As we congratulate the Rotary Club of East Montgomery County on their 
20th anniversary, we thank Mike Smith for his work as a charter member 
and his service to the community. Mike truly embodies the motto of 
Rotary: Service Above Self.

                          ____________________