[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 144 (Thursday, October 23, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2068]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                        TRIBUTE TO RUTH VOORHEES

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MICHAEL PAPPAS

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 23, 1997

  Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a woman whose 
service and dedication should serve as an example to us all. For 22 
years, Ruth Voorhees has volunteered at Morristown Memorial Hospital.
  When Mrs. Voorhees became a widow at the age of 77, she began 
volunteering at this hospital as a way to cope with her loss. As a 
volunteer, she became a valuable asset of the Morristown Memorial 
Hospital volunteer corps. Her ability to turn an adverse situation into 
something constructive and meaningful is heartwarming and is recognized 
by many.
  Recently, Mrs. Voorhees turned 99. Although birthdays of volunteers 
aren't usually observed, the staff made an exception and tied a big 
birthday balloon to her chair. Moreover, each day of the week of her 
birthday, she was taken out for lunch and dinner. This was all part of 
a week-long celebration to thank Mrs. Voorhees for her years of 
service.
  Mr. Speaker, Ruth Voorhees embodies the movement this country has 
made toward placing a higher value on service and voluntarism. Also, 
Mrs. Voorhees has reaped deep rewards since becoming a volunteer and 
has found new dimension of life and new friends as a result of becoming 
a volunteer.
  Ruth Voorhees' service and commitment to her community is work 
deserving of thanks from Congress, members of her community, friends, 
and family. I join with the staff of Morristown Memorial Hospital in 
congratulating and thanking Ruth Voorhees for her desire to help make 
the world as a better place.

                          ____________________