[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 140 (Friday, October 28, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2216]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CONGRATULATING GEORGE GILLETT ON BEING INDUCTED INTO THE COLORADO SKI 
                       AND SNOWBOARD HALL OF FAME

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MARK UDALL

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 28, 2005

  Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mr. 
George Gillett on his induction into the Colorado Ski Museum's Ski and 
Snowboard Hall of Fame for 2005. Mr. Gillett's accomplishments have 
greatly impacted the ski community, and he deserves recognition for the 
many contributions that he has made.
  When George Gillett bought Vail & Beaver Creek Resorts in 1985, a new 
era for the Colorado ski industry began. With his pioneering focus on 
customer service, Gillett redefined the skiing experience. He launched 
a massive installation of high-speed detachable chairlifts at Vail, 
kick-starting the growth that would make Vail America's number one ski 
destination.
  Mr. Gillett also supported major alpine ski events at a time when 
most ski areas in America preferred not to host international races. 
Through his perseverance, Vail hosted the 1989 World Alpine Ski 
Championships, proving to the world that Colorado could successfully 
host major international ski championships. Due to his support, Vail 
later hosted the 1999 World Alpine Ski Championships. George Gillett is 
still active in the ski community, running Booth Creek Ski Holdings and 
managing resorts throughout North America. In 1999 Ski Magazine voted 
him one of the ``100 Most Influential Skiers of All Time.'' His 
innovative thinking and passion for redefining the ski industry have 
left a lasting mark on Colorado skiing.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join with me in expressing our 
gratitude to Mr. Gillett for contributing to his community and industry 
in far-reaching ways. We recognize his accomplishments in making Vail & 
Beaver Creek world class ski resorts. I'm proud to offer warm 
congratulations to Mr. Gillett on his well deserved honor in entering 
the Colorado Ski Museum's Hall of Fame.

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