[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 11 (Thursday, February 12, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E174]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         RECOGNIZING LAUREN HOUGH FOR OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEERISM

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                            HON. CURT WELDON

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 12, 1998

  Mr. WELDON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate 
Lauren Hough of Agnes Irwin School. Recently, Lauren was named a 
Distinguished Finalist for the state of Pennsylvania in the Prudential 
Spirit of Community Awards. This nationwide program highlights the 
achievements of America's most exemplary young people, like Lauren, who 
volunteer to make a difference in their communities and throughout the 
world.
  Miss Hough is being recognized for her work with Operation Smile, an 
organization dedicated to providing medical assistance and surgical 
procedures to underprivileged children throughout the world. Last year, 
Lauren traveled with the organization to Kenya, where she assisted 
doctors by comforting children who are undergoing surgery for facial 
deformities.
  Operation Smile has made a significant impact throughout our nation 
and in the world. With the help of volunteers like Lauren, Operation 
Smile has positively influenced over 41,000 children.
  Lauren Hough should be proud to have been singled out for recognition 
out of a national pool of over 11,000 students. I applaud the work of 
Miss Hough in making a difference and aiding the lives of children 
throughout the world. She has demonstrated a level of commitment and 
integrity that is exceptional for a student of her age.
  Lauren's work is a model for other students and adults throughout the 
nation. Volunteer actions by those like Lauren is what made America 
great. As a representative of the youth of America, Lauren's vision for 
volunteerism provides me with an enthusiastic outlook for the future. I 
thank Lauren and encourage her to continue working to make a difference 
in the lives of others.

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