Recognizing the Contributions of Judge Laurine Blake

Floor Speech

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Mr. FALLON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Judge Laurine J. ``Lauri'' Blake of Bonham, Texas. Judge Blake has faithfully dedicated herself to serving and protecting our community.

Judge Blake received her bachelor's degree in criminal justice studies from the University of North Dakota in 1987. She began her distinguished public service career as a police officer for the City of Dallas after graduating at the top of her police academy class. In 1993, Judge Blake earned her Juris Doctor from Southern Methodist University School of Law and was selected to serve as the Assistant Criminal District Attorney for Collin County. Over the next eleven years, she rose up the ranks to become the First Assistant District Attorney in Grayson County and successfully helped prosecute numerous criminals to keep our communities safe.

In 2004, Judge Blake was elected as District Judge for the 336th Judicial District Court in Fannin County, making history as the first female judge elected to this district court. Under her leadership, she established a rehabilitation program for parolees struggling with addiction and worked closely with Texas Court Appointed Special Advocates to protect child welfare. For her outstanding work, she received the Better Leader Award from the Texoma Council of Governments and the Texas CASA Judicial Innovation and Leadership Award. I am pleased to recognize Judge Blake today for the positive impact she has made on our community.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capitol in recognition of Judge Blake's exceptional service to the people of North Texas. I thank her for all she has done.

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