[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 105 (Thursday, July 22, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1630]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 TRIBUTE TO NAOMI AND ZACK PRENDERGAST

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                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 21, 1999

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to 
acknowledge Naomi and Zack Prendergast for their dedication to their 
family and for their recognition as the 1999 Parents of the Year for 
America. Because of their commitment to family and serving others, they 
are quite deserving of praise.
  Meeting over 22 years ago in a shelter for abandoned children in 
Italy, Naomi and Zack found a common desire to serve others. They were 
married and began a life together which has taken them around the world 
in their personal ministry. The parents of 12 children, they are unique 
not only because of their large family, but for their dedication to 
raising their children to serve.
  Five years ago, the Prendergast family moved to Longmont, CO. From 
the broad range of volunteer and service efforts which they have 
undertaken, an organization known as Family Service, Inc., has emerged. 
With such a large family, and such dedication to service, helping 
others has always been a family affair for the Prendergasts. Their 
family singing group performs at nursing homes, schools, shelters and 
various other places where inspiration and joy may be given.
  The Prendergast family also began an effort to gather donated food 
for area homeless shelters. Family Services, Inc., with the help and 
generosity of community members, provides donated food each week to 
these shelters, donating an average of 8,000 pounds of food per month. 
Zack has found time to run a project, in addition to the various 
projects he works on, to promote responsible fatherhood. St. Vrain 
Fatherhood Connection offers parenting classes for young fathers and a 
support group located at a local church.
  I am grateful for people like the Prendergast family, who not only 
strive to serve, but teach their children the importance of respect and 
service as well. For their dedication to helping others, their 
involvement in bettering the community in which they live, and for 
sharing their fundamental values and work ethic with their children and 
the citizens of Longmont, I wish to commend Zack and Naomi and 
recognize their achievements. They are unique and I greatly appreciate 
their noble efforts.

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