Recognizing Lohgan Dennehy of Butte

Floor Speech

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Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Lohgan Dennehy of Butte for her work providing handcrafted personal protective masks to health care, school district, and community workers as Montana combats the COVID-19 outbreak.

At 10 years old, Lohgan knows what she wants to be when she grows up--a fashion designer. To encourage her dream, Lohgan's parents bought her a sewing kit, and her mother taught her how to sew. She's become a natural.

Her parents say she has a heart of gold, that she's one of the most kindhearted human beings you've ever met. She enjoys making a difference. It was no surprise when Lohgan wanted to help when she heard there was a shortage of masks in Butte.

Lohgan watched YouTube videos on the proper way to make a mask with her sewing machine and materials. She admits it was difficult at first, but eventually she mastered the process and can make one in just 20 minutes. Lohgan sends her special masks to doctors and nurses at both St. James Healthcare in Butte and the Community Hospital of Anaconda, Butte's public transportation drivers, school district employees delivering meals to kids, soldiers at the local military enlistment offices, and anyone who has a pre-existing condition. Montanans throughout our state embraced Lohgan in her efforts, donating money and supplies to keep her going.

So far, she's made 120 masks and has another 50 requests to make more. It's a lot of work for Lohgan, who's completing her fourth grade assignments from home, but she's committed to doing her part to keep people safe and healthy.

Madam Speaker, for using her talents to help her fellow Montanans amid a public health crisis, I recognize Lohgan Dennehy for her spirit of Montana.

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