Scott McInnis

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the West Elk Mountain Rescue team, a dedicated group of people from my home district who risk their lives so that others might live. This 22 member rescue team is composed of dedicated men and women that volunteer using their own resources to equip themselves with the knowledge to find and rescue people in need. I want to take this opportunity to recognize their many years of service to their community before this body of Congress and this Nation. The WEMR was created in 1996 and works under the authority of the Gunnison County Sheriff's office. The team consists of mainly men and women, but also includes a five-year old golden retriever/labrador mix rescue dog who aides local and national law enforcement agencies. The human members of the team come from Crawford, Hotchkiss, Paonia, Cedaredge, and Eckert to cover a search area encompassing both Delta and Gunnison counties. Team members are certified and trained in CPR/ First Aid, emergency medical technicians, avalanche rescue, water rescue, technical rock climbing skills, and general rescue. The group acquires many of its members from people who were once in need of the team's services. Mr. Speaker, West Elk Mountain Rescue is a dedicated group of people who avail themselves to the community everyday of the year to provide search and rescue expertise to those in dire need. These brave men and women risk danger to their own lives and take time away from their families to serve others. Their dedication to their community is highly commendable and I am honored to recognize their service before this body of Congress and this Nation.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Carolyn Clemens, a dedicated employee of Delta County, Colorado who was recently honored for 25 years of impeccable service with the County. Carolyn is a responsible employee who engenders the trust of everyone she encounters, and I have the pleasure of recognizing her many years of service to her community before this body of Congress and this Nation. Carolyn came to Delta with experience as a legal secretary and a background in accounting. She began her work with the county as an executive legal secretary to County Attorney and the County Commissioners where she obtained permits for all the counties gravel pits. Carolyn is currently an Administrative Assistant working directly with the County Administrator. Mr. Speaker, Carolyn Clemens has spent 25 years serving her local government in Delta County. Her dedication to her community is highly commendable and I am honored to recognize her many years of service before this body of Congress and Nation. Thank you for all your hard work Carolyn, and I wish you, and your family all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Dora Valdez, a dedicated employee of Delta County, CO who was recently honored for 25 years of impeccable service with the County. Dora is a responsible employee who engenders the trust of everyone she encounters, and it is an honor to recognize her many years of service to her community before this body of Congress and this Nation. Dora was born and raised in Delta and has been an active member of her community her entire life. She has worked with four county clerks and managed all areas within that domain including motor vehicles, recording, election, cashier, and birth and marriage license departments. Dora is bilingual and aides many members of the Spanish community by translating for other offices. Dora enjoys her work, and has helped to many citizens in times of need. Mr. Speaker, Dora Valdez has spent 25 years serving her local government in Delta County. Her dedication to her community is highly commendable and I am honored to recognize her many years of service before this body of Congress and this Nation. Thank you for all your hard work, Dora, and I wish you, and your family all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, to place your life in danger for the sake of others is an honorable and noble task, and that is exactly what firefighters do regularly. Chief Jon Asper of the Greater Eagle Fire Protection District is a local legend and hero whose main goal in life is to serve his community to the best of his abilities. Jon's efforts are certainly commendable and I would like to take this opportunity to thank him for the important role that he has played in protecting and serving the people of Colorado. ``Jon Jon'', as he is affectionately known, has volunteered his time to the Eagle Volunteer Fire Department for nearly 20 years. He has held various positions with the department, including Public Relations Officer, Fire Prevention Officer, Second Lieutenant Training Officer, and Operations Captain, before becoming chief of the department. He has also spent a career in business as the owner of Winterhawk Establishment, and as a friendly bartender and bar manager for a number of local establishments. Going above and beyond his duty as a firefighter is par for the course when it comes to Jon. He is constantly trying to make himself a better firefighter and stronger leader of his crew, taking numerous Continuing Education classes towards a degree in Fire Science Technology. He has also been an instrumental figure in the Eagle County Firefighter Academy and in providing a Drivers Education Class. Jon and his crew's hard work and training have paid off numerous times in battling forest fires, especially during the Ute Creek Fire in the Summer of 2002. In 2002, the Department received the Daily Point of Light Award, from the Points of Light Foundation which honors individuals and volunteer groups that have made a commitment to connect Americans through service to help meet critical needs in their communities. Mr. Speaker, Jon Asper acts with great commitment and leadership in all that he does for his community as Chief of the Greater Eagle Fire Protection District. Jon never forgot that safety and protection came first and foremost for the people he served. It is my pleasure to recognize Jon before this body of Congress and this Nation. I would like to extend my appreciation to him for everything that he has done and wish him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a sad heart that I rise to mourn the loss of Kathy Griswold McKean, the co-founder of Liberty Day, from my district. Kathy was recently killed in a car accident on her way to deliver a Liberty Day mailing. She and her husband Andy dedicated the past 10 years of their lives to bring the Constitution and the Bill of Rights into the hands and minds of students across the country, and I want to recognize their contributions before this body of Congress and this Nation today. Liberty Day started with Kathy and Andy in the Denver Lions Club almost a decade ago. It is a national organization honoring James Madison that prints millions of America's founding documents with the help of Denver's Herschfield Press and distributes them free of charge all across America. Kathy and Andy worked without pay, donating thousands of hours and resources to the project in the hopes that Americans will understand the basic freedoms we enjoy today. The Lions International, Rotary, Kiwanis, and Optimist clubs have all embraced the project, enabling their work to have worldwide distribution. Mr. Speaker, Kathy Griswold McKean was a dedicated patriot that selflessly served her community and country, and I am honored to pay tribute to such a diligent community servant and preservationist of American history. Her contributions to our country will not be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family during this time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Bob Silbernagel from Grand Junction, Colorado. Bob is the Editorial Page Editor for the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel, and has served the paper, city and state with distinction. I know Bob well, and he is a man of the utmost integrity. I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing his dedication and commitment to his community and the field of journalism before this body of Congress and this Nation. Bob studied journalism at the University of Wisconsin, and went on to work for a number of weekly newspapers before moving on to the Glenwood Post Independent. In 1980, he joined the staff at the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel. Bob has been closely involved in writing and publication of the Colorado Riverfront Commission's People, Parks and Trails: A guide and history for the Colorado Riverfront Trail in Mesa County. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to recognize Bob Silbernagel for his exceptional service to the people of Grand Junction and Colorado. For many years, his dedication to his community and journalistic integrity has made the Grand Junction Sentinel a thriving and influential news source. It is with great pleasure that I recognize him today before this body of Congress and this Nation. Thanks for your service, Bob, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Gary Harmon from Grand Junction, Colorado. Gary is a journalist with the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel, and has served the paper, city and state with distinction. I know Gary well, and he is a man of the utmost integrity. I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing his dedication and leadership before this body of Congress and this Nation. Gary attended Casper College and California State University in Long Beach where he studied journalism. He went on to work at three different newspapers before moving to Grand Junction in 1987 to join the staff at the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel. Gary is a hard-working journalist who won nationally prestigious John Hancock Award for Business and Financial Reporting in 1989 for an eight part series on workers' compensation. He has also won several news writing and column- writing awards from several Colorado and California press associations and the Colorado Associated Press Editors and Reporters. Gary is the father of two sons, whom he is actively involved in teaching to play basketball. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to recognize Gary Harmon for his exceptional service to the people of Grand Junction and Colorado. For many years, his dedication to his community and journalistic integrity has made the Grand Junction Sentinel a thriving and influential news source. It is with great pleasure that I recognize him today before this body of Congress and this Nation. Thanks for your service, Gary, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Rich Englehart and thank him for his exceptional contributions to his community and the State of Colorado as Delta City Manager. He will always be remembered as a dedicated public servant and leader of his community. As Rich celebrates his retirement, let it be known that he leaves behind a terrific legacy of commitment to the people of Delta and the State of Colorado. For nearly twenty years Rich has played an important role in municipal government. As City Manager, Rich is responsible for implementing the policy and procedure that the City Council makes. He also advises the City Council on all matters relating to the planning, development and operating status of the city departments. His good nature and guidance have done much to help grow the city, and foster good working relationships between civic, business, and municipal leaders. An avid outdoorsman, Rich participates in a variety of sports, including playing baseball for the Mesa State Mavericks. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Rich Englehart has ceaselessly dedicated his time and efforts to serving his county and the people of Colorado as City Manager for Delta. I am honored to bring his hard work and commitment to the attention of this body of Congress and this nation today. Thank you for all your service Rich, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay tribute to Rebecca Frank from Grand Junction, Colorado. Rebecca has dedicated her career to representing and informing the people of her county and the State of Colorado in her capacity with the Grand Junction Sentinel and the Colorado Division of Wildlife. I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing her tremendous service and achievements before this body of Congress and this Nation. Rebecca Frank served as the News Editor for the Grand Junction Sentinel where she has always performed her job with excellence and integrity, keeping the people of Grand Junction well informed of community, state, and world events. In 1985, she decided to expand her interests and left the paper to join the Colorado Division of Wildlife Commission in 1985. Currently she represents the Northwest District Colorado where she served as Chairwoman in 1987 and 1988. In addition to her duties, at the Division of Wildlife Commission, Rebecca has given several hours of her time to Grand Junction's business community. She has served as a member of the Mesa County Economic Development Council, the Grand Junction Planning Commission and both the Grand Junction and Mesa County Riverfront Commissions. She also served on the board the Grand Junction United Way and currently volunteers with Catholic Charities. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to recognize Rebecca Frank for her exceptional service to the people of Grand Junction and Colorado. She has dedicated her life to bettering her community, and it is with great pleasure that I recognize her today before this body of Congress and this Nation. Thanks for your service, Rebecca, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mancel Page, a dedicated watchmaker from Grand Junction, Colorado. Mancel is retiring at the age of 81 after 40 years in the jewelry business, and I want to take this opportunity to recognize his many years of service to his community before this body of Congress and this Nation. Mancel came by the jewelry business naturally. His mother's uncle was a jeweler in Germany, and Mancel began taking apart and repairing clocks when he was ten years old. His store, Page Parsons Jewelers, located on the main street of downtown Grand Junction, was founded in 1895 and is one of the oldest businesses in the city. Mancel, grew up repairing clocks and loving sports. He played basketball for his school in Missouri and during the time he served in the military during World War II. Athletics are something outside of work that he still makes time to enjoy. While in the military Mancel worked at a local jewelry store and then went on to college to study gemology before becoming a certified gemologist. Mancel and his wife Anna moved to Grand Junction in 1950 and bought the jewelry store in 1964. Through the decades Mancel has enjoyed great success. Mancel is also active in Grand Junction community organizations such as the Downtown Development Authority, and the downtown merchant's association that have been instrumental in revitalizing the downtown area to be more customer friendly. Mr. Speaker, Mancel Page has dedicated 40 years to the jewelry business and his efforts in the Grand Junction community are highly commendable. I am honored to recognize his many years of service before this body of Congress and this Nation. Thank you for all your hard work Mancel, and I wish you, your wife Anna, and your daughter Peggy all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay tribute to Rene Workman, a dedicated fire chief from my district. Rene is a caring and capable firefighter who is committed to saving the lives of families in Fruita, and will step down after 17 years of service with the Lower Valley Fire Protection District, and I am proud to join my colleagues here today in recognizing her tremendous service to the Colorado community before this body of Congress and our Nation. Rene's dedication to help those in need began with her own family tragedy; her father died of a heart attack when she was 8 years old. Rene joined the department as a volunteer when she was 26 and worked towards her certification as a paramedic. She was hired as the chief in 1992, and seventeen years later she is remembered for her compassion for both her volunteers and her patients. Rene's husband Matt remains a volunteer. Rene often sacrifices sleep, and the few days she has off, to come into work with the Fire District, where she also responds to house calls for medical problems because of her emergency medical technician. She has been a fearless leader who transformed the department by improving the training and standards within the Fire District. The people in Rene's district are safer as the result of her service and protection. Mr. Speaker, Rene Workman is a dedicated individual who sacrifices her time to helping those in need. Her compassion and selfless service to our state definitely deserve the recognition of this body of Congress and this nation. Thanks for your service Rene, and I wish you all the best in your future nursing career.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute to Troy Bledsoe, a dedicated coach and athlete from Alamosa, Colorado. Troy was recently inducted in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Hall of Fame for his long history of dedication to athletics in Colorado, and I am honored to recognize his accomplishments before this body of Congress and this Nation. Troy knows what it means to be an athlete because he was a multiple letter winner in football, basketball, and tennis at Hendrix College in 1949. Troy began his coaching career with 6 years of high school coaching in Arkansas before moving onto the college level. He led several basketball, golf, football, and volleyball teams to championship seasons at Fort Lewis College and the University of Denver. Troy was also the chairman of the Exercise Science Department at Fort Lewis, and the Director of Athletics for 18 years. Troy was instrumental in the creation of the Fort Lewis College Athletic Hall of Fame, of which he himself was inducted into in 1995. One of Troy's biggest legacies is the award bearing his name for the male and female senior student-athletes with the highest grade point averages that are presented at the all-sports banquets every spring. Mr. Speaker, Troy Bledsoe is an energetic coach that encourages his athletes to work hard to achieve their dreams both on and off the athletic arena. He has demonstrated a love for coaching that resonates in his compassionate and selfless service to the Colorado athletic community. Troy's enthusiasm and commitment certainly deserve the recognition of this body of Congress and this Nation. Congratulations on your induction Troy, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay tribute to journalist Dennis Herzog from Grand Junction, Colorado. For a quarter century Dennis has served the people of Grand Junction and Colorado with distinction, and I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing his tremendous achievements before this body of Congress and this Nation. Dennis Herzog earned his journalism degree from the University of Missouri School of Journalism. He soon took a job with a paper in Tennessee, then in New York before moving to Grand Junction. For 25 years, he has been with the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel, 20 of which he has served as the managing editor. In partnership with the paper's editor and publisher, he has helped the Daily Sentinel earn the nationally prestigious John Hancock Award for Business and Financial Reporting. In addition, Daniel is a member of the board of directors of the Colorado Press Association and the Cinema at the Avalon. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to recognize Dennis Herzog for his exceptional service to the people of Grand Junction and Colorado. For 25 years, his dedication to his community and journalistic integrity has made the Grand Junction Sentinel a thriving and influential news source. It is with great pleasure that I recognize him today before this body of Congress and this Nation. Thanks for your service, Daniel, and I wish you well in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Martha Romer, a dedicated public servant from Grand Junction, Colorado. I personally know Martha well, and when she has not been busy working on her farm, she dedicates her time to local government organizations. I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this Nation today to recognize Martha's efforts in her community. Martha grew up in Memphis, Tennessee and attended Southwestern College where she participated in the local USO during World War II. After the war, she married and moved to Colorado. Martha became active in the political system, hosting caucuses, campaigning, and volunteering as an election judge. Outside her volunteer work, she managed a hog farm with several breeds that were shown throughout the Midwest and garnered numerous awards. Martha also was the chairperson of three state pork associations and collaborated with Colorado State University to develop pork research. Since moving to Mesa County in 1974, Martha has continued to volunteer in the local political process, serving as a precinct committeewoman, and a district captain. Mr. Speaker, Martha Romer is a warm and genuine individual who has dedicated herself to bettering her Grand Junction community for many years. It is a privilege to stand here before this body and recognize the efforts of such a selfless and benevolent woman. Thanks for all your hard work Martha, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay tribute to Daniel Petre from Garfield County, Colorado. Daniel is an accomplished public servant who was recently chosen to succeed Thomas Ossola as a Judge in Colorado's Ninth Judicial District. His impressive service and contributions make him an excellent choice for this judgeship, and I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing his selection before this body of Congress and this Nation. At fifty-three years of age, Judge Daniel Petre has established a rich legacy that will aid him on the district bench. After completing his bachelor's degree at Dartmouth, he went on to receive his law degree from Southern Methodist University. Daniel managed a law firm in Glenwood Springs for twenty-two years before becoming the Garfield County Magistrate and the District 5 water referee. Recently, Colorado Governor Bill Owens appointed him as a one of three judges for the Ninth District court. Daniel also serves on the board of Garfield Legal Services and is a former member of the Re-1 School Board. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to recognize Judge Daniel Petre for his past service to Garfield County and the state of Colorado, and to congratulate him on his appointment to the Ninth District bench. I am confident he will serve with integrity and compassion, and I am honored to recognize him today before this body of Congress and this Nation.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Doug King, a dedicated businessman from my hometown of Grand Junction, Colorado. Doug has been an empathetic and generous employer for the McDonald's company. Recently Doug was nominated for the Ronald Award that is given to owners and operators that are outstanding citizens in their communities and, it is my privilege to recognize his service before this body of Congress and Nation today. Every year Doug donates his time and resources with thousands of programs like the Moab Senior Volunteer Program, The United Way, and several local, elementary, middle and high schools. Doug revolutionized the Mesa County Fair Program by spending thousands of dollars bidding up the price for third through last place animals at the fair, allowing many third place animals in Mesa County to bring in as much money as first place ones. At the end of the day the children always get to keep the animal that they have spent months raising with such special care. I personally know Doug well, and he is one of the most generous people I have ever met. There are many occasions to point to like the time he bought hundreds of dictionaries for the Grand Junction Rotary so that every third grader in Grand Junction could have one. On another occasion he bought one-hundred extra-value meals to give to a mother who lost her child so she could give them to the homeless to feel better about herself. The one that really stands out is the bonus program that he developed for his employees. He developed the program to reward his employees for working hard, and initially it entailed giving away cash prizes at the end of every week up to four hundred dollars. The program was so effective Doug upped the ante giving away a Jeep Cherokee, a six-person spa, television sets, and a Ford Mustang Convertible. Mr. Speaker, Doug King is a wonderful ambassador for the McDonald's company and a dedicated member of the Grand Junction community who has made public service a priority in his life. He is an excellent employer who truly cares for his employees and even more, he is a wonderful family man. He engenders the love and support of his wife, Kathy, his son Shane, daughter, Monica, and grandchildren, Riley and Charlotte. I am honored to rise before this body and recognize his many contributions to the State of Colorado. Thanks for all your hard work, Doug, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Dennis King, a dedicated banker from my hometown of Grand Junction, Colorado. Dennis has been in the banking business for twenty-nine years and is an extremely active member of his community. It is my honor to stand before this body of Congress and this nation today to recognize his service. A lifelong Coloradan, Dennis attended Mesa Junior College, Colorado State University, and graduated from Western State College before going on to the Colorado Graduate School of Banking. Dennis put his education to work in the bookkeeping department at United Bank of Delta in 1975. His business acumen and leadership helped him rise through the ranks at Norwest Bank, First National Bank of the Rockies, and recently he became the President of the Timberline Bank for the Grand Junction market. Dennis has been extremely involved in his community throughout his entire life. He is an active member of the United Methodist Church, and the Delta and Grand Junction Kiwanis Clubs, taking on several leadership positions. He has been an advocate for youth, coaching several baseball teams and serving as a liaison to the Future Business Leaders of America in addition to his service on numerous advisory committees for the local high school. Dennis prides himself on civic service and has been a longstanding activist in local government affairs, serving as a delegate to several Republican county assemblies, state conventions, Colorado State House assemblies, and the Third Congressional District of Colorado. Since 1974, he has spent thousands of hours as the County and Overall Campaign Chair for several campaigns and has been an involved member of Club 20. Dennis is committed to issues that affect Colorado and has correspondingly served on the Tri- County Water Conservancy Board of Directors and the Colorado Committee for Taxation per his appointment by Colorado Governor Bill Owens. Mr. Speaker, Dennis King is a dedicated leader of the Grand Junction Community who has made public service a priority in his life. People like Dennis help keep our communities strong and I am honored to rise before this body and recognize his many contributions to the State of Colorado. Thank for all your hard work, Dennis, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to John and Angie Moss, two dedicated community servants from Grand Junction, Colorado. John and Angie have been involved in the restaurant and real estate business for many years, their service to their community is highly commendable, and I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this Nation today to recognize their accomplishments. John moved to Grand Junction in 1971 and at the age of 24 he built his first Taco Bell restaurant. John has since expanded the business to include several locations in Southwest Colorado and California, which led to his Glen Bell Award from the Taco Bell Incorporated company. Their corporation, Moss Inc, which operates these Colorado and California locations, have been active in their community as donors and supporters of the most widely attended tennis tournament in Colorado. In recognition of their service to the community, they were awarded the Business of the Year by the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce. John himself has served in the board of the Wells Fargo Trust Board, and is a former Rotarian. John is supported by his wife Angie, and their two adult children Leslie and Jay. Both Angie and John went to Mesa State College and actively give back to their alma mater by providing scholarships, supporting projects, and have been intimately involved in the planning of the Moss Performing Arts Center. In addition to the restaurant business and college philanthropy, John and Angie also are involved in real estate, ranching, and farming that feed their enthusiasm for the outdoors. They are stewards of the land who have been awarded the Colorado Division of Wildlife's Landowner of the Year award in the past, and currently maintain a seventy-acre conservation project along the Colorado River. Mr. Speaker, John and Angie Moss are strong, dedicated individuals who have served their community for over 20 years and I am honored to stand here before this body and recognize the efforts of two such selfless and benevolent people. Thanks for all your hard work over the years John and Angie, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize an outstanding individual who for many years has selflessly served the interests of the people of my Congressional District and the State of Colorado. Karen Paulson has served as my Executive Assistant and Office Manager since 1998, and I am proud to bring attention to her accomplishments here today before this body of Congress and this Nation. Karen has been an unwavering servant to Colorado for many years. She began her career of public service as the Clerk of the Colorado State House of Representatives, where Karen took on the administrative responsibilities of the Colorado General Assembly. Her duties there led to a position as the Executive Assistant to the Colorado Republican Party, where she was instrumental in efforts to recruit high quality candidates for public office in Colorado. In 1992, Karen served as the Executive Assistant to the Majority Leader of the Colorado House of Representatives, cultivating close working relationships with local, state, and federal officials. Karen's experience with policy and procedure made her a perfect candidate for Executive Assistant in my Washington, DC office. She is a soft-spoken, dependable, kind and intelligent individual whose work ethic is strong. Karen's diligent guidance and tireless commitment have really set the tone for my Washington office over the last six years. The adoring mother of two, Karen lovingly displays pictures of her sons Greg and Carl in her office, and beams with news of their latest exploits. Karen also serves as the ``den mother'' to her extended family--my Washington staff--always remembering their birthdays with a card, a cake and a smile. I cannot count the number of times that I have seen Karen go out of her way to brighten someone's day with a kind word or a sympathetic embrace. I have learned a lot in the twelve years since I first came to Congress, and Karen Paulson has demonstrated to me the true meaning of the phrase ``public servant.'' Mr. Speaker, Karen Paulson is a consummate professional. However, far more important, she is a truly humble, caring and selfless person. Her work in my office, and her constant devotion to the people of our state of Colorado, is remarkable. I am truly honored to stand today before my colleagues and recognize the service of such a devoted friend. I want to personally thank Karen for her many years of hard work and her impact on my life. I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay tribute to George Orbanek from Grand Junction, Colorado. George is the Editor in Chief and Publisher of the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel, and has represented the paper, city and state with distinction. I know George well, and he is a man of the utmost integrity. I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing his dedication and leadership before this body of Congress and this Nation. George first came to Colorado to study journalism, and in 1975 received his master's degree from the University of Colorado. He soon began his professional career at the Glenwood Springs Post Independent and in 1977 joined the staff of the Daily Sentinel in Grand Junction. He held positions as a reporter and editor in chief, before being named Editor and Publisher in 1985. Under George's leadership, the Sentinel was given the nationally renowned John Hancock Award for Excellence in Business and Financial Journalism. George is a member of the American Society of newspaper Editors and the National Newspaper Association of America. In addition to being a decorated newsman, George also has served as campaign chairman of the Mesa County United Way, on the Colorado Press Association board of directors, the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce board of directors, the Mesa County Economic Development Council and the St. Mary's Hospital foundation Board. He is currently a member of the Colorado forum, a group of Colorado business leaders, and the St. Mary's Hospital Board of Directors. A passionate fisherman and hunter, he also is active in local and national conservation groups. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to honor George Orbanek's commitment to the people of Grand Junction and the journalism profession. George has been a good friend over the vears and I am pleased to recognize him today before this body of Congress and this nation. Thanks George, for your excellent service to the community, and I wish you well with all of your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to mourn the passing of Ray Koester from Pueblo, Colorado. Ray, recently passed away at the age of 78 after a battling a lengthy illness. He was known for his energetic commitment, and straightforward personality that impressed everyone that he encountered. As his family and friends mourn this loss, I believe it is appropriate to remember Ray and pay tribute to him for his contributions to the State of Colorado. Ray earned his engineering degree in 1950 from the University of Denver and spent the next five decades as an engineer in the Pueblo community. He was extremely dedicated to all his projects and continued to work on them despite the limitations of his illness. Some of the biggest projects that he worked on included the Belmont subdivision, the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk, and the Levee Mural. Ray was also the longtime administrator and consulting engineer for the Conservancy District and worked with other organizations such as the HARP program, the Pueblo Board of Water Works, and the Colorado Outdoor Performing Arts Project. He was truly an engaged citizen who taught Sunday school for over 40 years, and served as the chairman of the local Republican party at the age of 74, in addition to being active in civic organizations like the Salvation Army, the Lion's Club, the Kiwanis Club and the Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Speaker, we are all terribly saddened by the loss of Ray Koester, though take comfort in the knowledge that our grief is overshadowed only by the legacy of dedication that Ray has left with us. I am honored to pay tribute to such a devoted public servant, one who has so effectively served the state of Colorado. I know that many throughout our State who had the chance to benefit from his experience and dedication will miss Ray Koester. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to mourn the passing of Thomas Maddalone from my home state of Colorado. Thomas, recently passed away at the age of eighty after a sudden heart attack. He was known for his great sense of humor, incredible wit and a personable nature that impressed everyone that he encountered. As his family and friends mourn this loss, I believe it is appropriate to remember Thomas and pay tribute to him for his contributions to the state of Colorado. Thomas lived most of his life in Aspen, Colorado where he graduated from Aspen High School and went on to work for Mountain Utilities at the local hydroelectric plant. He was a devoted patriot who served his country valiantly in World War II with the U.S. Army specializing in the electronics on bomber planes such as the B-24 Liberators. After the war Thomas came back to Aspen and worked both as a lineman for the local electrical system and a firefighter for the Aspen Fire Protection District. He has spent the last ten years living in Grand Junction and was an active member of the both the Elks and Eagles clubs and the American Legion. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Gwendolyn Raider, second wife, Ailene Grunberg, and his daughter Judith. He is remembered by the love of his son Anthony, brother Jess, sisters, Angie and Ida, grandsons, Ronald, Thomas, and David, and his great grandchildren Brett, Mathew, and Nikki. Mr. Speaker, we are all terribly saddened by the loss of Thomas Maddalone, though take comfort in the knowledge that our grief is overshadowed only by the legacy of dedication that Thomas has left with us. I am honored to pay tribute to such a devoted public servant, one who has so effectively served the state of Colorado. I know that many throughout our state who had the chance to benefit from his experience and dedication will miss Thomas Maddalone. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay tribute to Bruce Hill, a dedicated public servant and community leader from Grand Junction, Colorado. Bruce is a dedicated leader and a champion of the city, and I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing his tremendous achievements before this body of Congress and this Nation. Bruce is a Grand Junction native who has naturally assumed many leadership roles. At Tope Elementary School, he was appointed Safety Leader. Later, while attending West Middle School, Bruce's classmates elected him their student council representative, where he was known to lead by example, setting the standards for his peers to follow. After studying accounting at Mesa Junior College, he began working at Superior Alarm. When Bruce was hired, the owner told him that he would have a chance to own the company one day. Two years later, at the age of 22, he purchased Superior Alarm. Twenty-three years later Bruce is now the Mayor of Grand Junction. Utilizing his past experience as a customer service representative and the owner of Superior Alarm, he has been a true people's representative. Bruce makes himself available to the people of Grand Junction as much as possible. Holding informal gatherings, he takes a keen interest in listening to each individual's issue, and then uses his knowledge and influence to achieve a resolution. Using this style, Bruce has made a significant impact, despite his short four months in office. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to honor Bruce Hill for his ongoing contributions to the people and city of Grand Junction, and the State of Colorado. His leadership as Mayor is an example to all public servants, and it is with great pleasure that I recognize him today before this body of Congress and this Nation. Thanks, Bruce, for everything, and I hope you can serve this community for many years to come.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the passing of John Attardo, a dedicated firefighter from my home State of Colorado who lost his life serving his fellow citizens. As the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation honors these brave men, it is important for us to remember those dedicated firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their fellow Americans. I know that those who seek the true meaning of duty, honor, and sacrifice will find it in dedicated servants like John Attardo. He was a loving husband and with a huge heart and I know that his wife Tina, his family and his friends take pride in the uniform he wore and the ideals for which he worked. Our Nation will long endure due to the strength and character of the men and women like John who serve our country. Mr. Speaker, I cannot fully express my deep sense of gratitude for the sacrifice of these young firefighters and their families. Throughout our history, men and women in uniform have performed their duties with distinction and courage. These brave firefighters have made all Americans proud and I know they have the respect and admiration of all of my colleagues here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Margret Mergelman, a dedicated leader and 4-H activist from Gunnison, Colorado. For over sixty-four years, Margret has volunteered to better her community, and I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this Nation today to recognize her service. Margret earned her elementary education degree in 1943 from Western State College and that same year married Warren Mergelman, whose family has ranched the Gunnison area for generations. Margret accompanied her husband on the long cattle drives for local area ranchers. After the couple started a family she focused her attention on homemaking skills, especially cooking. When the kids became active in 4-H, she started a cooking club, in addition to sewing, gardening, and square-dancing clubs. She herself was a 4-H leader for ten years. Margret's cooking is legendary and her open-house lunch after the Cattlemen's Days parade has drawn more than one hundred people in the past. Today Margret is still active in the rural community, donating cash gifts to the local 4-H and annually sponsoring the Mergelman Family Award to competitors of the Round Robin Showmanship. She has also been a member of the Eastern Star for sixty-two years. Mr. Speaker, Margret Mergelman, is a dedicated individual who devotes her free time to aiding members of her Gunnison community and works to preserve Colorado's western style and heritage. Her level of enthusiasm and commitment is commendable and I am honored to stand here before this body and recognize the efforts of such a selfless and benevolent woman. Thanks for all your service Margret, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.