[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 156 (Thursday, December 2, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2037]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      IN HONOR OF LANCELOT McCLAIR

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 2, 2010

  Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Lancelot 
McClair, who recently passed away at the age of 68 following a long 
illness.
  Lance was born in Arkansas and moved to Seaside at the age of 9. He 
joined the Navy during the Vietnam War and served on a submarine. On 
returning home he studied law at Monterey Peninsula College and 
received his Masters Degree from Golden Gate University. He trained as 
a police officer and joined the Public Defender's Office as an 
investigator.
  In 1982, he was elected Mayor of Seaside, California. At thirty-nine 
years old at the time, he was the youngest mayor in the city's history. 
Lance served as Mayor until 1994, his twelve year tenure setting 
another record. During that time, Seaside was hit hard by recession, 
followed by the closure of neighboring Fort Ord, at the time the Army's 
largest base and home to over 35,000 soldiers and civilians. He worked 
hard for his city's economic development and promoted tourism.
  After his time as Mayor, Lance continued to be involved in local 
politics, working to strengthen Seaside's position in the county. He 
made an unsuccessful run for Congress, and later for County Supervisor.
  Madam Speaker, Lance McClair is remembered by all as first and 
foremost a fighter for his city. I know I speak for every Member of 
Congress in offering our condolences to his wife, Earlene; his mother, 
Chester Viola McClair; two sons, Todd and R. Vance; daughter, Gigi 
Stephens; and his many friends upon this great loss.

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