This week in Washington, I had the privilege of presenting Stephen Hoefer of Dallas the Congressional Award Gold Medal, Congress’ highest honor for youth, for his extensive service in our community. The Congressional Award Act from the late 1970s created the Congressional Award Foundation that recognizes young Americans who are taking initiative and promoting service. Gold medal award winners have dedicated two years to reaching their goals in Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness and Expeditions/Exploration.

Congressman Pete Sessions with Stephen Hoefer

Stephen has spent the past several years working with the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children and has used his love for golf to serve as an Assistant in the Therapeutic Recreation Department –introducing golf to children with physical challenges. Additionally, Stephen served as a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster for a local Boy Scout troop.  As an active Eagle Scout, I was extremely proud to present this honor to a fellow Scout. 

The service listed above is only the beginning of Stephen’s commitment to service and excellence, and he is an inspiration to us all.  I am encouraged by his initiative and am confident that he will continue to do great things as he serves our community in the future.

Domestic Energy and Jobs Act

Unlike the Administration’s policies which stifle energy production here at home, House Republicans support a comprehensive energy policy that explores all of our domestic energy capabilities. Opening up more of our nation’s resources for development will create jobs and allow us to have long-term independence from foreign oil. I urge the President and Senate Democrats to join our efforts to get Americans working again, spur much-needed economic growth and secure our energy future.

The Today Foundation chooses each student based on his or her academic performance, community involvement and leadership ability. The application requirements include a résumé, two one-page essays and a letter of recommendation by a teacher, principal, counselor or community leader. TLF program requirements include attending local forum meetings, completing projects and writing assignments, visiting with state officials in Austin, and participating in the program conference in Washington, DC.

This year’s TLF Participants are:

This week, the students had the opportunity to hear from several Washington leaders and attended educational tours at the Pentagon, Arlington National Cemetery, the Newseum, and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO). They also had the opportunity to sit in on my Telephone Town Hall Meeting on Monday night to hear constituent's questions and listen to our discussion about the current issues facing our nation. 

I always value the opportunity to discover the perspectives and aspirations of young citizens in my district, and I applaud their perseverance, discernment and quest for learning that has enabled them to advance in their community and excel in the Texas Leadership Forum. The business tools and leadership skills they have developed will serve them well in their future.