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Congressman Cohen Passes Resolution to Redesignate the Federal Building to Honor Judge Odell Horton

March 25, 2007

Washington, DC -- TodayCongressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) passed H.R.753, a bill which redesignates the federal building at 167 North Main Street in Memphis as the "Clifford Davis/Odell Horton Federal Building." Currently, the building is designated as the "Clifford Davis Federal Building." Clifford Davis was a U.S. Representative, first elected in 1940, who served 11 terms.

Odell Horton was appointed to the United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee by President Jimmy Carter on May 12, 1980, the first black federal judge appointed since Reconstruction. Judge Horton served as chief judge of the district from January 1, 1987 until December 31, 1993.

Congressman Cohen stated, "It is entirely proper to redesignate the federal building in Memphis to recognize Judge Horton who contributed so much to our city, state and country. He was a true man of honor who dedicated his life to public service, who broke down racial barriers and who served the judicial system well."

After having served as both jurist and chief justice for the United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee, Judge Horton took senior judge status on May 16, 1995. Judge Horton died in February, 2006.

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Marilyn Dillihay, Press Secretary, (202) 225-3265