[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 65 (Tuesday, May 11, 2004)]
[Senate]
[Page S5223]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        OREGON HEALTH CARE HERO

 Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize an 
outstanding Oregon leader who has been a health care hero for Oregon's 
seniors. Barbara Arazio has served on the Oregon Board of Nursing Home 
Examiners for 18 years, mentoring nursing home administrators and 
ensuring quality care for vulnerable Oregon seniors.
  When Oregonians find that one of their loved-ones is in need of 
skilled nursing care, they want assurances that the highest quality 
care will be provided in a safe environment. Because of Barbara's 
diligence and hard work, our families have that peace of mind. Barbara 
has played a central role in helping nursing homes not only comply 
with, but exceed the State standards for nursing facilities.
  The level of service at each Oregon nursing facility is driven by its 
leadership. Barbara has trained nursing home administrators and 
continually worked with them to make sure that residents have access to 
the best health care and facilities. In fact, the quality of life at 
Oregon care centers, from the activities, to the meals, to the well-
trained staff, can be traced back to Barbara's caring hand.
  As Barbara embarks on her well earned retirement, she will be greatly 
missed by the administrators, staff and residents of Oregon's long term 
care system. She has touched many lives and is truly a Health Care Hero 
for Oregon.




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