[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 129 (Friday, September 21, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1583]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF ROHNERT PARK

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 20, 2012

  Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr, Speaker, I rise today to honor a city in my District 
on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of its establishment. 
Incorporated in 1962, Rohnert Park has become an integral part of 
Sonoma County's historical and cultural heritage.
  The land that would become Rohnert Park was known as Rancho Cotate 
when it was granted by General Mariano Vallejo to one of his soldiers 
in 1844. During the next century, the land would change ownership many 
times and experience much development.
  After World War II, when Sonoma County experienced a surge in growth, 
the City of Rohnert Park was conceived and developed by two Sonoma 
County lawyers, Paul Golis and Maurice Fredericks, who had a vision of 
a vibrant planned community in the heart of the valley. Their concept 
stressed the importance of ``neighborhood units'', groups of houses 
centered around schools and parks, in order to provide ample recreation 
to city-dwellers.
  Through collaboration and hard work, Rohnert Park was established in 
1962. Today it is proud to serve its residents with many recreational 
amenities and attractions. Rohnert Park is home to two municipal 
swimming pools, an 18-hole golf course, and bike, hiking, and 
equestrian trails. The city also contains Sonoma State University and 
the Green Music Center.
  Mr. Speaker, Rohnert Park is an important city in the heart of Sonoma 
County. Please join me in honoring Rohnert Park on the occasion of its 
50th anniversary.

                          ____________________