[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 14 (Wednesday, February 8, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E85]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING THE CITY OF THORTON AT ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY

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                            HON. MARK UDALL

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 8, 2006

  Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of a 
great city in the Second District of Colorado, the City of Thornton--
and to congratulate its citizens on the 50th Anniversary of the city's 
official incorporation. I am proud to represent this community in the 
United States Congress and to share a little of the history of this 
remarkable Front Range city. What began as a small development project 
by a local entrepreneur, Sam Hoffman, in the early 1950s--and supported 
famously by no less a figure (no pun intended) than Hollywood's Jane 
Russell, it has become one of the most attractive communities in 
Colorado.
  In the early 1950s, a small development project north of Denver was 
named after Colorado Governor Dan Thornton and targeted toward soldiers 
returning from World War II. Sam Hoffman created a small community 
offering these soldiers and their families the opportunity to purchase 
a three-bedroom brick house for under $10,000. From that modest 
starting point, Thornton has grown into a community of more than 
100,000 people, all of whom can be very proud of the great advancements 
their city has made since its incorporation on May 26, 1956.
  The City of Thornton is still growing and attracting new residents. 
Located just 10 miles north of Denver, Thornton offers the ideal 
location for people hoping to experience the vibrancy of city life 
while still having easy access to skiing, camping, and all of 
Colorado's other natural wonders. With over 1000 acres dedicated to 
public parks and a focus on recreation programs, residents can maintain 
an active lifestyle and still be within driving distance to cultural 
events in Denver, Boulder, and the larger cities in the area.
  Thornton is a perfect example of a small city that has managed 
tremendous growth in a short period of time. Former Thornton Mayor 
Margaret Carpenter shepherded the city through its most explosive 
growth era (the 1980s and 1990s), and today the city boasts premier 
recreation facilities, a strong business and commercial sector, and a 
diverse population.
  I admire the way that the residents of Thornton have built a strong 
community with pride and inclusion, and ask that my colleagues join me 
in congratulating the City of Thornton on its 50th anniversary, and I 
look forward to seeing the city grow for another 50 years.

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