[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 24 (Tuesday, March 10, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E331]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         IN RECOGNITION OF THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF RHODA HOOPER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. CHARLES F. BASS

                            of new hampshire

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 10, 1998

  Mr. BASS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor an 
outstanding woman and worker, Rhoda Hooper, from my home state of New 
Hampshire.
  Mrs. Hooper was recently named as the ``Outstanding Older Worker'' 
from our fine state and I believe she serves as an example to us all 
that ability is truly timeless.
  At the age of 88, Mrs. Hooper is the type of person we would all like 
to be, and certainly would be lucky to hire. Her success story is both 
poignant and triumphant. Forced to find employment after the death of 
her husband, Mrs. Hooper entered the job market as an older worker 
without significant work experience outside the home or even a driver's 
license. But despite the odds seemingly stacked against her, Mrs. 
Hooper found work at New Boston Central School where she has fulfilled 
the role of office aide and so much more for the past seven years.
  Since she does not drive, on a pleasant day she walks the quarter 
mile from her home to her job where she never missed a day. Her strong 
work ethic seems to be matched only by the size of her generous heart. 
Despite demanding office duties, Mrs. Hooper takes the time to take a 
personal interest in each of the students. For instance, you will never 
find a student at New Boston Central School without mittens. She knows 
when any of the children are without them and makes sure they do not 
leave school without a hand-knit pair. If you've ever experienced a New 
Hampshire winter, you know just how wonderful that gift of warm mittens 
can be.
  Her co-workers call her ``a lifesaver and a joy to work with.'' The 
students affectionately call her ``Grandma.'' I call her a ``winner.'' 
Not just because she has won a richly deserved award, but because she 
is a role model for workers everywhere. Mrs. Hooper has overcome 
obstacles to achieve her goals and change her life, and in the process 
has enriched the lives of countless others.
  I extend my best wishes to Mrs. Hooper as she receives her award and 
urge her to keep up the good work. She is truly a special person and I 
am privileged to recognize her here today.

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