[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 1]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 404]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING JESS A. LAIRD FOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD

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                          HON. JEB HENSARLING

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 17, 2008

  Mr. HENSARLING. Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize an 
outstanding citizen, Mr. Jess A. Laird, for being named Citizen of the 
Year by the Athens Chamber of Commerce.
  Jess currently serves as president of First State Bank and as a board 
member for the Athens Chamber of Commerce. He devotes his time and 
efforts to not only serving, but also to leading the community through 
numerous civic organizations. In addition to serving as the former 
president of the Cain Center board, Rotary Club, Industrial Foundation 
and the American Heart Association, Jess has worked with the TVCC 
Foundation, ETMC board of managers, Salvation Army and United Way 
board.
  In addition, Jess still finds time to be involved at First United 
Methodist Church, by singing with the Praise Team. More importantly, 
Jess is a devoted husband to Susan and a dedicated father to two sons, 
Blake and Rex.
  Madam Speaker, on behalf of the Fifth District of Texas, I am honored 
to be able to recognize a constituent and good friend of mine, Jess, 
for being an invaluable leader and for generously offering his talents 
to improve his community.

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