[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 42 (Thursday, April 10, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E624]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       HONORING ILLINOIS MOTHER OF THE YEAR PAULA ``POLLY'' MYERS

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                            HON. RAY LaHOOD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 10, 1997

  Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a woman in my 
congressional district who was recently named Illinois' Mother of the 
Year. Paula ``Polly'' Myers, from Petersburg, IL, has been chosen for 
her involvement in her church, school, and community, but mostly for 
the love and dedication she has shown in raising seven wonderful 
children.
  Polly Myers has lived her life displaying the qualities that inspire 
this type of award. Even as she was working and going to school to 
provide better opportunities for her children, she found time to teach 
Sunday School, serve on the PTA board, and play an active role in all 
aspects of her children's lives. She dedicated herself to her four 
natural children, and her three step-children, whom she raised as her 
own.
  To be selected for this award, a nominee must meet a very rigid list 
of criteria. The search committee looks at the character and 
accomplishments of her children, her involvement in religious and civic 
institutions, her adherence to the Golden Rule, and how she embodies 
traits such as courage, patience, kindness, and understanding. By all 
of these standards, Polly Myers is a deserving recipient.
  Polly Myers said herself that ``You never go into motherhood thinking 
you're going to get an award.'' She is certainly right about that. 
Still, I am glad that awards such as this are given, and I am proud to 
honor Polly Myers, a truly deserving recipient.

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