We want to commend Congressman John McHugh and his excellent staff for assisting our exchange student who was having difficulty renewing his visa to study in the United States.

This young man from Vietnam had lived with us for the last two years while attending Immaculate Heart Central High School. In June he graduated as a member of the National Honor Society and planned to begin his college career at Jefferson Community College while his two younger brothers would be IHC students. He had planned to return to Watertown on Aug. 11 to complete a move to an apartment and to prepare for classes. Despite providing every form of documentation required — and more — the U.S. Consulate in Vietnam kept delaying a decision on issue of a visa to this student while refusing to give any explanation.

Frustrated by the lack of progress and with school time rapidly approaching, we contacted Congressman McHugh's office. We can't say enough about the positive response from Congressman McHugh and about the courtesy, professionalism and genuine concern of everyone we dealt with in his Watertown and Plattsburgh offices. Thanks to their efforts, our student has been notified that his visa is approved so he will be able to return to New York and begin his classes at JCC as scheduled.

It is good to know that even while the congressman is dealing with national and global issues, the needs of individual constituents are not overlooked. We in the 23rd Congressional District are fortunate to have such a dedicated representative and support staff working for our interests.

John and Michele Davison

Dexter