[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 43 (Thursday, March 18, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E494]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


     HONORING LAUREN De BOWES FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN DANCE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 18, 1999

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to congratulate 
Lauren DeBowes for her outstanding achievements as an Irish dancer. A 
resident of New Haven, she will be representing Connecticut and the 
United States at the All World Irish Dance Championship in Ennis County 
Clare, Ireland.
  Lauren is one of five young women in her age group from the New 
England area who will be making the trip to compete at the World 
Championship. With only 8 years of competitive dance experience under 
her belt, this is a truly impressive accomplishment. Teamed with her 
coach, John O'Keefe, Lauren performs both the soft dance and hard shoe 
dance, both of which have led her to success in several local 
competitions.
  I was a tap dancer when I was young and can recall the thrill of 
recitals and concerts. I can only imagine the excitement that Lauren is 
feeling as she prepares for her trip to Ireland. Her hard work, 
dedication and enthusiasm has put her at a level to compete with the 
best in the world.
  I would like to take this opportunity to extend my best wishes to 
Lauren as she celebrates her 16th birthday. This is certainly a special 
year. It is a pleasure for me to rise today and join with her family, 
friends, and the New Haven community to honor Lauren DeBowes for her 
tremendous accomplishments as an Irish dancer. Connecticut and the 
nation are indeed fortunate to be represented by such a talented young 
woman.

                          ____________________