Recognizing 150th Anniversary of Allen, Texas

Floor Speech

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Mr. SELF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the city of Allen's 150 years of history and community spirit and encourage all residents to join in honoring this sesquicentennial milestone.

Founded in 1876, Allen has become one of north Texas' most vibrant communities and has built a proud legacy of civic leadership, opportunity, and service.

Allen's story is one of vision, resilience, and progress. What began as a small railroad settlement in rural Collin County has become a dynamic city known for its flourishing neighborhoods, strong local economy, high-ranking schools, and exceptional quality of life. Its continued success reflects the dedication of generations of residents, educators, business leaders, first responders, public servants, city leadership, and staff who have helped shape Allen into the excellent example it is today.

As Allen has expanded in size and prominence, it has remained grounded in the values that have long defined its character: Texas toughness, hard work, civic pride, and a deep sense of unity. The city's sesquicentennial anniversary is not only an opportunity to honor its rich history, but to celebrate the bright future that lies ahead.

Allen's legacy continues to reflect the strength, promise, and spirit of north Texas. On behalf of Texas' Third Congressional District, I am honored to recognize the city of Allen on the occasion of its 150th anniversary and to extend best wishes as we celebrate this historic milestone.

Recognizing 75th Anniversary of North Texas Municipal Water District

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Mr. SELF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the North Texas Municipal Water District as it celebrates its 75th anniversary of service to the people of north Texas.

Founded in 1951 by civic leaders from 10 original member cities who understood that water would be the key to our region's future, the District has spent the last 75 years turning that vision into reality. What began as a partnership among a handful of communities has grown into a regional utility of 13 member cities and 34 customers serving more than 70 communities and over 2.4 million Texans across Collin County and beyond.

In Texas' Third Congressional District, I have witnessed firsthand the extraordinary growth of north Texas. Communities such as McKinney, Plano, Frisco, Allen, Wylie, Farmersville, and many others have become one of the fastest growing areas in America. Families and businesses continue to choose our region because of its opportunity, innovation, and quality of life.

However, growth does not happen on its own. It requires planning and the willingness to build for tomorrow. Every home, school, hospital, and business depends on reliable water infrastructure. Today, the North Texas Municipal Water District provides not only drinking water but also wastewater treatment and solid waste services that support communities across our vast region.

For 75 years, the District has demonstrated a commitment to the region through responsible stewardship, long-range planning, and investment in the infrastructure necessary to meet the needs of future generations. Its leadership has helped ensure that one of America's fastest growing regions has the resources to continue thriving.

On behalf of the people of Texas' Third Congressional District, I congratulate the North Texas Municipal Water District on this milestone anniversary and thank the men and women of the District past and present for 75 years of dedicated service.

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