[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 143 (Thursday, October 1, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1410]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            JESSE H. JONES PARK--A CHAMPION OF LOCAL HISTORY

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                              HON. TED POE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 1, 2015

  Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, in this digital age it is becoming 
more challenging to ensure our children have a strong connection to 
history, community and the great outdoors. Well, the Jesse H. Jones 
Park and Nature Center right in the heart of Harris County provides the 
kids and families of my district exactly that.
  For the past three decades the park has been a place where the local 
community can gather and form important bonds of citizenship. But the 
space also serves an educational purpose. Home to the Akokisa Indian 
Village and Redbud Hill Homestead, the park preserves elements of life 
in Native American and pioneer communities, including demonstrations of 
traditional customs and crafts.
  It also provides an important green space, with a wide range of local 
flora and fauna including ancient bogs, white sand beaches and 
wildflower meadows, in addition to play equipment, hiking trails, and 
sports and recreation amenities, giving local residents an opportunity 
to escape the trappings of modernity, engage with their local heritage, 
and developing greater physical well-being.
  In the month of October alone, the park will host boat tours on 
Spring Creek, a workshop for local science teachers, an astronomy 
class, a tree-planting session, Halloween events and a settlers' soap-
making demonstration.
  The Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center brings out the best in one 
of America's best communities. The park has a dedicated team of staff 
and volunteers that exemplify the charitable and community-minded 
spirit Texas is famous for.
  Harris County Commissioner Jack Cagle and his staff should be 
commended for their leadership in the community. The nature center will 
be long valued and maintained as a resource of cultural and 
environmental heritage.

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