[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 135 (Friday, September 19, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1451]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING SARAH KENNEDY

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. HOWARD P. ``BUCK'' McKEON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 18, 2014

  Mr. McKEON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a young lady from 
California's 25th district who is making a lasting difference in our 
community, one friendship at a time.
   I've been blessed with the honor of serving in Congress for nearly 
22 years, and I've had the pleasure of meeting many extraordinary 
people. However, today, it is a privilege to share a few words about 
the inspiring work of Sarah Kennedy.
   Sarah is a 14-year old student from Santa Clarita, California. I had 
the joy of meeting Sarah and her family not too long ago. It was 
evident from our brief conversation that Sarah is a person who can 
transcend boundaries, and her honest and sincere personality lights up 
a room. Sarah is the type of person you want to know and befriend.
   Actually, friendship is her secret weapon. Sarah is behind a growing 
anti-bullying movement that recognizes the good in everyone. Through 
the power of relationships, Sarah breaks down the boundaries that often 
divide students in our schools. Upon meeting someone, Sarah offers the 
individual a gumball, and soon they are fast friends. I wouldn't be 
surprised if every student in Santa Clarita has a gumball by now.
   Too often in our busy lives, we forget about the power of the simple 
things in life. A simple ``hello'', a modest ``how are you'', these 
humble words make a difference. Through Sarah's inspiring and wise 
actions, she is bringing students together. Adults should stand ready 
to learn from her as well. We all have time in our busy days to make a 
friend.
   As a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, I am grateful for 
the noble pursuit Sarah has undertaken. Mr. Speaker, we know that Sarah 
is fighting the good fight. I know that her family is proud of her, and 
I stand here today to congratulate Sarah on her progress. I hope 
everyone has the chance to have a true friend like Sarah Kennedy.
   Sarah is an inspiration to all of us, and she has a friend in me.

                          ____________________