[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 202 (Thursday, December 7, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1190-E1191]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING MR. FRANK J. THORNTON

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. ABIGAIL DAVIS SPANBERGER

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 7, 2023

  Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Frank J. 
Thornton, Fairfield Supervisor and Chairman of the Henrico County Board 
of Supervisors.
  Since his election to the Henrico County Board of Supervisors in 
1995, Mr. Thornton has worked hard to build bridges and bring the 
Henrico community together. His historic election is a clear example of 
his perseverance and hard work.
  Throughout his career, Mr. Thornton has worked hard to empower all in 
Henrico. In the

[[Page E1191]]

classroom, he provided guidance and instruction to students as a 
professor of French literature. As a community leader, he has been a 
driver for change--challenging the status quo time and again. His poise 
in leadership and fearless advocacy have been the hallmarks of his 
career. Mr. Thornton's passion for Henrico County and his dedication to 
the fight for equity and representation have left a permanent mark on 
the community.
  For many years, Mr. Thornton served as the only Democrat and Black 
member on the board. That is no longer the case today, thanks in part 
to Mr. Thornton's tenacity and ability to inspire change. He has become 
a role model for many and has set a great example for up-and-coming 
leaders.
  Throughout his 27-year tenure as Fairfield Supervisor, he has been 
elected as Chairman of the Henrico County Board of Supervisors multiple 
times. Through his work, he has embraced change and highlighted 
Henrico's diversity. He has also been a strong advocate for the 
development of community resources--such as the Frank J. Thornton YMCA 
Aquatic Center and the extension of the bus line to Short Pump. Through 
his work, he has helped Henrico become more connected, vibrant, and 
active. A patient and dedicated representative, Mr. Thornton has kept 
his promise of ``Making Henrico Better for the Future.''
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating and 
thanking Mr. Frank J. Thornton for his outstanding service on behalf of 
Henrico County as Fairfield Supervisor, and in wishing him the best as 
he retires.

                          ____________________