Aug. 5 sees Congressional Record publish “RECOGNIZING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PLANO COURTYARD THEATRE.....” in the Extensions of Remarks section

Van Taylor was mentioned in RECOGNIZING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PLANO COURTYARD THEATRE..... on pages E828-E829 covering the 2nd Session of the 117th Congress published on Aug. 5 in the Congressional Record.

The publication is reproduced in full below:

RECOGNIZING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PLANO COURTYARD THEATRE

______

HON. VAN TAYLOR

of texas

in the house of representatives

Friday, August 5, 2022

Mr. TAYLOR. Madam Speaker, today, I rise to recognize the Plano Arts Coalition as they celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Plano Courtyard Theatre. One of the oldest public buildings in Plano, the Courtyard Theatre serves as a center of cultural enrichment and exemplifies the social heritage of our community.

Located in downtown Plano, the Courtyard Theatre was originally constructed in 1938 as the gymnasium for Plano Independent School District's Cox High School as a Works Progress Administration Project. After years of vacancy, in 1999 the structure was restored and transformed into a state-of the-art performance hall as part of then-

Assistant City Manager Frank Turner's vision to revitalize the city's downtown area. During this same period, members of the community expressed a desire for a theatre to hold community and regional events, ultimately contributing to the selection of the multi-functional Cox Gymnasium.

Upon completion, the newly renovated Courtyard Theatre was capable of housing musical performances, theater productions, choirs, dance troupes, and other community events. As a historic and architectural landmark, the Theatre provides its patrons with a unique perspective that lends itself to a more intimate connection with audience members. Community engagement and continued investment from the city resulted in the project's ultimate success and in the City of Plano earning the prestigious ``Downtown Arts Designation'' by the State of Texas Cultural Arts Commission.

As we reflect on the rich history of this treasured institution, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in recognizing the Plano Courtyard Theatre and its team on their milestone anniversary and wish them continued success as they continue to ensure the city remains one of the best places to live, work, and raise a family.

____________________

SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 132(1), Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 132(2)

The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.

House Representatives' salaries are historically higher than the median US income.