[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 102 (Wednesday, July 24, 2002)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E1327-E1328] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] THE RESTORATION OF THE DAVENPORT HOTEL ______ HON. GEORGE R. NETHERCUTT, JR. of washington in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 23, 2002 Mr. NETHERCUTT. Mr. Speaker, I rise with great pride as a native of Spokane, Washington, to recognize the reopening of the historic Davenport Hotel. Mr. Speaker, this historic event would not have been possible without the commitment and perseverance of Walt and Karen Worthy, the owners of the property. Designed by renowned architect Kirtland Cutter and built in 1914 by Louis Davenport, this grand hotel has been the centerpiece of downtown Spokane and an immense source of community pride. It has played host to American presidents, generals, statesmen, an stars of the opera, stage and screen. During the 1980s and most of the 1990s, the Davenport fell into great disrepair. Over almost two decades several owners tried to save the Davenport Hotel, but could not gather the necessary resources or assemble community support behind a restoration project of this magnitude. [[Page E1328]] The project needed someone who was willing to be completely dedicated to this monumental venture of restoring a part of our local history. Enter Walt and Karen Worthy. Walt and Karen purchased the Davenport in 2000, and made the top-to-bottom restoration of this landmark their labor of love. With great attention to detail and personal investment, Walt and Karen, with the help of many highly skilled tradesmen, have brought to life the Davenport lobby in all of its original splendor. They have restored the elegant beauty and fine points of the thematic ballrooms, fine restaurants and guest rooms to a state that would make Mr. Davenport proud. On behalf of the residents of Spokane and the 5th Congressional District of Washington, our thanks go to Walt and Karen Worthy for preserving and restoring this magnificent part of our Pacific Northwest heritage. ____________________