[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 18]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 23799]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




          TRIBUTE TO AVONDALE, ARIZONA ON ITS 60TH ANNIVERSARY

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                         HON. RAUL M. GRIJALVA

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 7, 2006

  Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I stand today to honor the city of 
Avondale, Arizona on its 60th anniversary. Avondale is a vibrant city, 
ranked as one of Arizona's fastest growing communities, and it is my 
great privilege to acknowledge this important milestone.
  Avondale began as an agricultural community, as many in Arizona. 
William Moore built the community's first establishments. As the area 
attracted more settlers through its pleasant climate and favorable 
farming conditions, a post office was built at the Avondale Ranch in 
the early 1900's, lending the town its current name. On December 16, 
1946, Avondale was incorporated as a city, and by then was an important 
part of the state's capitol.
  Today, Avondale has reached a population exceeding 70,000, and has 
much to offer its residents. To keep up with the population's demands, 
the city offers a wide variety of academic establishments, arts 
festivals, among other cultural attractions, and is a favored 
destination of NASCAR fans. Because of these draws and the 
accomplishments of residents, Avondale enjoys a growth rate among the 
Nation's highest, and expects to reach 120,000 residents by 2020.
  Avondale has come a long way from its agricultural beginnings. It is 
my great pleasure to congratulate them on this landmark.

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