The Adams County Board of Commissioners, U.S. Congressman Scott Tipton and a large gathering of citizens and public officials from throughout the state honored Ted Strickland for his lifetime of public service in public hearing on March 28, 2011. In Strickland's distinguished career, he has served as a soldier, state representative, state senator (including 12 years as president of the senate), lieutenant governor and a county commissioner."Ted always demonstrated professionalism in dealing with the issues," said Commissioner W. R. "Skip" Fischer, chairman of the board. "He would present a business case and vote on the merits of the issue."
U.S. Congressman Scott Tipton commented on Strickland's many contributions to Adams County and the state of Colorado, which he recently read into the U.S. congressional record. He also presented Strickland with a flag that was flown over the capital in tribute to his outstanding service.
"Ted Strickland truly embodies what is right and good in U.S. politics," said Congressman Tipton. "Ted has been a true servant for the people of Colorado. His heart and mind were always in the right place. I hope we can live up to the standards he has set."
Elected officials from both the democrat and republican parties attended the event to honor Strickland. He was noted for using grace and humor to courteously deal with differences of opinion.
"Former Commissioner Elaine T. Valente used to say that you always knew where Ted stood," said Commissioner Alice J. Nichol. "She said when he believes in something, he stands by it and lives it. I also know this to be true from working with Ted in the state legislature."
Many people stood to express their gratitude to Strickland for his strong character, graciousness, humility, sense of humor and commitment to doing the right thing.
"I have known Ted in my 10 years with the county Republican Party and he represents the best we have to offer as public servants," said Commissioner Erik Hansen. "He is always gracious, never has a bad word to say about anyone and he is always willing to talk about the issues and do the right thing. It is truly my pleasure to thank Ted for his invaluable impact on Adams County."
Strickland received many messages of praise and appreciation and he responded with humor and humility. "I am deeply honored and humbled by your very gracious and kind words," said Strickland. "Words fail to adequately express my gratitude. I'm reminded of Abraham Lincoln's early campaigns for the house of representatives. There were few ways to campaign in those days and one of them was situations like this - local gatherings. He said that while his opponent was there with many nobles and notables, Lincoln was merely there with his friends. It's the many people ? across the state and across the nation - who, despite my many shortcomings, have allowed me to become their friend, for which I am honored and humbled and truly grateful."
