[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 55 (Tuesday, April 8, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E533]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               IN RECOGNITION OF FOR THE LOVE OF THE LAKE

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                           HON. PETE SESSIONS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, April 8, 2008

  Mr. PETE SESSIONS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize For the 
Love of the Lake, a local community land and water conservation 
organization that is very dear to my heart.
  White Rock Lake Park resulted from the need for a larger water supply 
for the growing population in Dallas during the late 1890s. Since it 
became a city park on December 13, 1929, White Rock Lake Park has 
always held a special place in the hearts of all Dallasites. 
Historically, it was known as the ``people's playground'' and is now 
referred to as the ``Jewel of Dallas.''
  What initially began as an interest in keeping White Rock Lake Park 
clean and beautiful quickly evolved into a conservation organization 
with hundreds of dedicated and energetic volunteers. Since its founding 
in 1995, For the Love of the Lake has helped enhance the lake and park 
with various hands-on activities such as picking up litter and 
recyclables with their Second Saturday Shoreline Spruce-Up events and 
Adopt-A-Shoreline groups. Now led by President Steve Tompkins, For the 
Love of the Lake is reconstructing of a hike and bike trail, building a 
new bridge reminiscent of one built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, 
and expanding the Celebration Tree Grove. On April 11, 2008, Good 
Fulton & Farrell Architects will receive the Volunteer Group of the 
Year Award as the group leader of an Adopt-A-Shoreline group. In the 
past year, they have demonstrated their outstanding commitment in 
community service and financial contributions. Their first month with 
For the Love of the Lake was January 2007 and despite the bitter cold 
weather, they showed with a positive attitude and a giving heart. It is 
individuals like these that keep our communities strong and White Rock 
Lake Park beautiful. I am proud to be one of the many volunteers 
associated with this group.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my esteemed colleagues to join me in recognizing 
For the Love of the Lake for their contributions to White Rock Lake 
Park and the City of Dallas and in congratulating Good Fulton & Farrell 
on being named the Volunteer Group of the Year.

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