[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 1 (Wednesday, January 23, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E4]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   PAYING TRIBUTE TO KARLA SAFRANSKI

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 23, 2002

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
recognize an outstanding individual from Silverton, Colorado and thank 
her for her dedication and hard work in the community. Karla Safranski 
has brought much needed economic growth to Silverton and to the 
Southwest Colorado region. I would like to mention several of her 
accomplishments before this body.
  Karla's efforts to inspire economic growth have been spearheaded 
through the San Juan 2000 organization. This organization is 
responsible for providing loans for startup businesses as well as 
providing affordable housing for the residents of San Juan County. As 
the past President and current Board Member, Karla has been 
instrumental in leading the successful organization to its present 
position and statute. Her dedication is impressive considering Karla, 
along with husband Ken, spend a great deal of their time operating 
their own successful business in the community, ZE-supply.
  As a result of Karla's and her colleagues' efforts, the community of 
Silverton has experienced a significant increase in economic growth. 
San Juan 2000 has raised money and gathered support throughout the 
region to develop affordable industrial and commercial business space. 
The group has worked side by side with county leaders, private 
landowners, city officials, elected officials, and various 
organizations throughout the area to stimulate economic growth. The 
organization's and Karla's efforts have led to the creation of a strong 
year-round economy in the Silverton area.
  Mr. Speaker, to reward Karla's efforts, she was recently named 
Economic Development Leader of the Year by the Region 9 Economic 
Development District. The district provides various economic services 
to several counties and Indian tribes in Southwest Colorado. This is 
quite an accomplishment and I am extremely proud to represent the City 
of Silverton and residents like Karla Safranski. Keep up the hard work 
Karla and good luck to you and your husband Ken in your future 
endeavors.

                          ____________________