[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 147 (Wednesday, October 16, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1531]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING THE RETIREMENT OF LORIE GRINNAN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RALPH M. HALL

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 16, 2013

  Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of a dear friend of 
mine, Lorie Grinnan, on her retirement as the County Commissioner of 
Precinct 2 in Rockwall County. Lorie has served as Commissioner for 
eight years, and was the first woman to be re-elected to that position. 
During that time, she has been dedicated to serving the community of 
Rockwall, TX.
  I have known Lorie for many years, and her commitment to implementing 
sound policies that benefit the citizens of Rockwall County is 
unparalleled. She has served in public office for 17 years, and during 
that time has undertaken many projects from transportation to emergency 
services.
  Besides serving as County Commissioner, Lorie was also a member of 
the Rockwall Independent School District Board for nine years, and 
served as a member of the Juvenile Services Board as Commissioner and 
school board member. She also currently presides as the president of 
the Emergency Services Board. In addition to her roles as a public 
servant, she is a member of many community organizations including the 
Rockwall Noon Rotary, First United Methodist Church, Chamber of 
Congress, and city councils of Rockwall, Heath, Rowlett, and McLendon-
Chisolm.
  Some of her active projects as County Commissioner include a $100 
million road bond, infrastructure improvements to various roads in the 
area, and work to maintain quick ambulance response time despite 
construction.
  Among one of her greatest undertakings was spearheading the Veterans 
Advisory Committee to help oversee the construction of the Veterans 
Memorial. Over 2,000 citizens attended the opening ceremony which was 
held on November 11, 2011.
  Commissioner Grinnan, as well as her husband Jeff, and their two 
children Nicholas and Kimberley, all attended Texas A&M University. 
Kimberley is also seeking a law degree from Texas Tech University.
  Upon her retirement, Lorie will leave behind a distinguished legacy 
and her influence will be felt throughout Rockwall County for many 
years to come. I ask my colleagues to join me today in congratulating 
Lorie Grinnan, and wishing her the best of luck on her future 
opportunities.

                          ____________________