[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 11]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 16553]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


[[Page 16553]]

     IN RECOGNITION OF NEW HAVEN POSTMASTER SHELDON RHINEHEART FOR 
                       OUTSTANDING PUBLIC SERVICE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 25, 2000

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I pay 
tribute to an outstanding public servant and my good friend, Postmaster 
Sheldon Rhinehart. Sheldon's recent retirement ends a career with the 
United States Postal Service that has spanned nearly half a century, 
leaving a legacy of integrity and inspiration.
  In his forty-seven years with the postal service, Sheldon has been 
witness to a variety of changes, social as well as operational. From 
his start as a clerk, he moved up the ranks. As New Haven's first 
African-American postmaster, he is not only an example of these 
tremendous changes but has continually challenged the postal service to 
change itself. Sheldon's work has been recognized locally and 
nationally--a tribute to the invaluable contributions he has made.
  Sheldon is a strong advocate for minority groups, both professionally 
and personally. During his tenure, he has made room at the postal 
service for many with disabilities. He played a key role in the 
establishment of the Vision Trail from downtown New Haven to the 
waterfront and was a driving force in involving the Postal Service with 
the 1995 Special Olympic World Games held in New Haven. Sheldom has 
also had a primary role in developing training and social programs for 
the Postal Service on a nationwide basis. With his outstanding record 
of commitment, he has demonstrated a unique commitment to public 
service--leaving an indelible mark on the United States Postal Service 
and our community.
  Sheldon has shown unparalleled leadership, not only in his 
professional positions, but in the community as well. He is currently 
serving on the United Way of New Haven's Board of Directors and has 
served on a variety of boards within his community including the 
Newhallville Action Committee, the Newhallville Day Care Center and St. 
Luke's Episcopal Church. We are certainly fortunate to have such a 
committed individual working on behalf of our community.
  I am proud to stand today and join his wife, Carolyn, two children, 
Deborah and Sheldon Jr., friends, and colleagues to honor Sheldon for 
his good work and dedicated career. I wish him many years of continued 
health and happiness in his retirement.

                          ____________________