[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 55 (Thursday, March 29, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E695]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING COMMUNITY SMILES FOR 60 YEARS OF SERVICE

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                        HON. ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 29, 2007

  Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speaker, I would like to take this 
opportunity to recognize a wonderful volunteer organization in my 
congressional district, Community Smiles/Dade County Dental Research 
Clinic. Community Smiles was established by a group of dedicated 
dentists in 1946 as the Dade County Dental Research Clinic. Their 
guiding principles are: to provide quality dental care, provide 
professional improvements and post-graduate education of dentists, and 
provide training to dental assistants for certification.
  Community Smiles is a non-profit, community center that treats 
indigent populations in need of care. This clinic is celebrating 60 
years of committed volunteer service to Miami-Dade County, during which 
thousands of patients have been treated pro bono. A remarkable record! 
The service this prestigious organization provides is invaluable to our 
community.
  In 2006, more than 2,400 disadvantaged patients received services 
from 138 dentists, including major reconstructive treatment. As they 
begin this new year, they are ready and prepared to continue to provide 
an increasing number of patients with the best healthcare service 
possible.
  I would like especially to recognize the current president, Dr. 
Robert Perdomo, III, for his leadership and dedication, and the 
immediate past two Presidents, Dr. Armando Paz & Dr. Shari Witkoff. 
Their unwavering pursuit of excellence has been an inspiration to the 
entire organization. It is their passion, talent, and service to the 
community of South Florida that makes our lives richer and Florida 
stronger.
  Once again, I would like to thank Community Smiles/Dade County Dental 
Research Clinic for their continued commitment to the promotion of 
dental care. I congratulate Community Smiles on its achievement and 
service to the community.

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