[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 136 (Tuesday, September 30, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1931]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E1931]]
                    TRIBUTE TO FORTSON LEE CHANDLER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 30, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and 
this nation today to pay tribute to a great citizen from my district. 
Reverend Fortson Lee Chandler of Pueblo, Colorado is a man of devotion, 
hard work, and humility who inspires those around him. His dedication 
to his friends and neighbors shows a spirit of charity all too rare in 
today's society. After years of service, Reverend Chandler has 
announced his retirement from the Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church 
in Pueblo. For his tireless work and commitment to the community, I am 
honored to rise and honor Reverend Chandler here today.
  Reverend F.L. Chandler was ordained fifty-one years ago at the Union 
Baptist Church in Atlanta. He worked as an associate minister at St. 
John Baptist Church in Colorado Springs prior to moving to Pueblo to 
take over as pastor at the New Hope Baptist Church. Reverend Chandler 
devoted several years of service to New Hope Baptist before going to 
Bethlehem Baptist Church. At Bethlehem Baptist, F.L. forged strong ties 
to the community that he loves and has served so well. He made it a 
point to reach out to those who have had fewer opportunities in life. 
Reverend Chandler has guided Bethlehem Baptist for thirty-four years 
and will be greatly missed.
  Mr. Speaker, Reverend F.L. Chandler is a kind and devoted spiritual 
leader who our community turns to for inspiration and guidance in their 
daily lives. He has devoted over fifty years to guiding his 
parishioners. I am honored to join with my colleagues today to thank 
him for his tireless work and to wish him the best of luck as he 
embarks upon his retirement.

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