[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 108 (Monday, July 30, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1470]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


    PAYING TRIBUTE TO THE STATE OF COLORADO ON ITS 125TH ANNIVERSARY

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                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 30, 2001

  Mr. McINNIS. One hundred years after the United States became a 
Nation, Colorado became the 38th state in the Union. In recognition of 
this historic moment, I stand here to pay tribute to the great State of 
Colorado. I would like to share a little historical background, and 
some lesser known facts about the state in honor of this anniversary.
  According to the state archives, when the Colorado Territory was 
populated by only approximately 100,000 people, thirty-nine members of 
the constitutional convention gathered for the purpose of preparing 
Colorado's constitution. President Grant declared Colorado a state on 
August 1, 1876, one week after the Governor's secretary, John Reigart, 
set off toward Washington, D.C. with a copy of the constitution and 
other necessary documents.
  Since then, Colorado has continued to make history. The stunning view 
from Pikes Peak inspired Katherine Lee Bates to write one of our 
country's most popular patriotic songs, ``America the Beautiful.'' On a 
less serious note, Denver ``lays claim to the invention of the 
cheeseburger,'' according to 50states.com. Colorado is also home to 
some of America's greatest heroes. Pueblo, for instance, has held the 
honor of being the only city in the Nation with four living recipients 
of the Medal of Honor. In addition, Colorado Springs is home to the 
distinguished United States Air Force Academy.
  Among its natural wonders, Colorado is home to the world's largest 
outdoor natural hot springs pool, which spans over two city blocks. The 
pool was visited by former president Teddy Roosevelt, and by ``Doc'' 
Holliday, who hoped the natural springs would cure his tuberculosis. 
Other geological marvels include Florissant Fossil Beds National 
Monument and the Great Sand Dunes, plus fifty-two mountain peaks over 
14,000 feet high, and the headwaters of over 20 rivers. The Nation's 
highest city, Leadville, which boasts an elevation of 10,430 feet, also 
rests in Colorado. In addition, Colorado holds three quarters of the 
Nation's land area with an altitude over 10,000 feet, along with 222 
state wildlife areas. With such a variety of natural beauty and 
resources, it is no wonder that Colorado provides agriculture, summer 
and winter recreation, and a pioneering spirit to millions of residents 
and visitors each year.
  Mr. Speaker, there is no end to the wonder and greatness of this 
state. It is with great pride that I stand here today in honor of the 
125th anniversary of the State of Colorado.

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