[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 7]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 9484]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




          RECOGNIZING AUSTIN HARRIS OF ALAMOGORDO, NEW MEXICO

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. HARRY TEAGUE

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 26, 2010

  Mr. TEAGUE. Madam Speaker, I would like to take a moment to recognize 
one of my constituents for his unwavering commitment to our country and 
his exemplary citizenship. His name is Austin Harris.
  Austin is someone who exercises his patriotism on a daily basis. His 
room is decorated red, white and blue, and he watches the Congressional 
proceedings on television. Not only that but he also makes a habit of 
reading remarks made by the President of the United States.
  While he keeps himself updated on a regular basis on the affairs of 
the federal government, Austin has also distinguished himself locally. 
He has served as an advocate for public transportation and represented 
his city in the ``All-American Cities'' competition in Atlanta, 
Georgia.
  Austin has also taken the time to travel to our state capitol and 
lobby the State Legislature for services for persons with developmental 
disabilities. His volunteerism hasn't stopped there; Austin is also a 
volunteer at his local senior center, City Zoo and Teen court.
  The fact that a young man would take the time to do so much is 
impressive enough. Oftentimes in our society, it seems as though we 
have to do a lot to get young folks interested in civics and community 
service. The fact that Austin has done this on his own sets him apart 
from his peers. The fact that Austin has cerebral palsy and is 
epileptic elevates him above his peers.
  The fact that Austin has an uphill battle in dealing with issues we 
take for granted every day and still gives back to his community is 
itself, unique. It is unique to Austin and it is uniquely American.
  I am proud to say that this young man hails from my district. I wish 
that more young people across America had his sense of duty and pride 
in his country. Austin realizes that for America to continue to be 
great, everyone must do their part every day. I am honored to recognize 
him today and wish him continued success. His actions do us all proud 
and are a shining example of what it truly means to be an American 
citizen.

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