[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 162 (Wednesday, October 24, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2227]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING VERNA RUTHERFORD OF PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS

                                 ______
                                 

                              HON. TED POE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 24, 2007

  Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, today I am proud to recognize a distinguished 
Texan and long time community leader in Southeast Texas. After nearly a 
decade of service Mrs. Verna Rutherford is stepping down as Port Arthur 
Chamber of Commerce President. As Chamber President Mrs. Rutherford has 
worked tirelessly for the economic expansion of Port Arthur and all of 
Southeast Texas.
  Mrs. Rutherford has always been a dynamic leader in her community. 
She is past president and 1981 Quota Club member of the year, 1984 Port 
Arthur Noon Business and Professional Woman of the Year, 1993 Chamber 
Athena Award recipient, a member of the Port Arthur NAACP, Rotary Club, 
and Aurora Sertoma Club.
  Mrs. Rutherford's level of commitment goes far beyond the 
organizations she is a member of and this commitment was on full 
display after Hurricane Rita ripped through the Texas Gulf Coast. 
Hurricane Rita has often been forgotten by all but those who have lived 
through it on the Texas Coast. After Rita, the role of Chamber 
President grew much broader; instead of business development, Mrs. 
Rutherford was concerned about getting the citizens of Port Arthur 
food, water, and housing--there was no task too large or small. Though 
hurricane Rita slammed into the Texas coast almost 2 years ago Verna is 
still helping those who cannot find help elsewhere.
  On behalf of the Second Congressional District of Texas, I want to 
congratulate Mrs. Rutherford on a job well done and wish her the best 
as she moves forward with her career. Through her diligent efforts and 
dedication she has made Southeast Texas a better place to live.
  And that's just the way it is.

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