[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 98 (Thursday, July 18, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1300]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




COMMENDING THE COMMUNITY OF LAMAR COUNTY, TEXAS, ON THE PURCHASE OF THE 
                         OLD PARIS POST OFFICE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MAX SANDLIN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 18, 2002

  Mr. SANDLIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the vision and 
leadership of the leaders of Lamar County, Texas, the commitment of its 
citizens and the recognition of the success that can occur when the 
federal and local governments work together for the common good.
  Tomorrow, on July 19, 2002, the Lamar County Commissioners Court will 
save a building in Paris, Texas, that reflects the history of this 
community. Further, the Court will give the building new life and a new 
public purpose.
  In a matter of hours, Lamar County will approve the purchase of the 
historical Paris Post Office from the United States Postal Service. 
This building will be used for courtrooms, office space, and other 
public purposes. The building will be a center of justice and local 
government for generations to come.
  Our nation is a nation of laws. Our constitution is strong, enduring 
and based on principles of right and wrong. We believe in freedom, 
justice and certain unalienable rights that are extended to all people. 
Many of these issues are considered daily in courthouses all across 
America.
  A courthouse is more than bricks and mortar. A courthouse is a 
physical testament to the commitment of the American people to the 
principles we hold dear. Times change. Society changes. Other buildings 
may come and go.
  But a court house remains--visible, strong, and permanent. A 
courthouse reassures our citizens that our law is here today, was here 
yesterday and will be here tomorrow.
  In addition to being used a courthouse, this historic building will 
provide the citizens of Paris and Lamar County with additional public 
space to be used in a way that is deemed appropriate by the community 
and its leaders. Those uses may change from year to year. This is as it 
should be. A building such as this recognizes both the stability of our 
society and the changing needs of that society.
  I think it is entirely fitting and proper that the United States 
House of Representatives recognize and commend Lamar County Judge M.C. 
Superville, and County Commissioners Michael R. Blackburn, Rodney C. 
Pollard, Carl L. Steffey, and Jackie Wheeler for their vision in making 
this opportunity available to the citizens of Lamar County.
  The acquisition of this facility by Lamar County is an excellent 
example of what can be accomplished when we all work together. I 
appreciate the commitment of the local citizens and the generous 
attitude of the United States Postal Service. Both were necessary to 
complete this project.
  As a result of their efforts, the public has been well served.

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