[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 58 (Thursday, April 25, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E555]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        A TRIBUTE TO ANNE THOMAS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. TOM LATHAM

                                of iowa

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 25, 2013

  Mr. LATHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and recognize 
Anne Thomas for being named a 2013 Hero of the Heartland by the 
American Red Cross serving Greater Iowa.
   Each year, the American Red Cross serving Greater Iowa recognizes 
Heroes of the Heartland by selecting everyday Iowans who have done 
extraordinary things to help their neighbors and communities. The 
Iowans honored with this prestigious award displayed selflessness in a 
variety of courageous, charitable and thoughtful acts. The Heroes of 
the Heartland program not only showcases the heroes among us, but also 
helps raise crucial funds to ensure that the American Red Cross is 
prepared and equipped to assist those that need food, shelter, and 
comfort during emergencies and difficult times.
   To be named a Hero of the Heartland, Anne Thomas of Clive started 
the local organization ``Let's Soar Together'' in 2006 with a group of 
her friends. Let's Soar Together filled a need in her community to 
advocate for children with special needs and provide support and 
resources for their families. Ms. Thomas' organization has donated 
dozens of iPads and iPods to children with behavioral disorders and 
autism in the Waukee School District, built adaptive swings for Maple 
Grove Elementary School, and donated more than a thousand dollars to 
the Waukee YMCA to install a playground with adaptive play equipment. 
Anne's commitment to a cause greater than herself continues to change 
lives and benefit her community.
   Mr. Speaker, Ms. Thomas' actions that earned her the title a ``Hero 
of the Heartland'' are a testament to the humble, hardworking and 
helpful people who make up the great state of Iowa. I invite my 
colleagues in the House to join me in congratulating Anne on a job well 
done, thanking the American Red Cross serving Greater Iowa for their 
life changing efforts, and wishing all of those involved in the Heroes 
of the Heartland program continued success for years to come.

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