Scott McInnis

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Connie Flukey, of Grand Junction, Colorado, who has committed herself to a lifetime of volunteer service. Connie is a caring individual who inspires citizens to follow in her benevolent steps. She is a valuable member of her community and it is an honor to recognize her service before this body of Congress and this nation. In recognition of her service, Connie was recently honored by the White House with the President's Call to Service Award for more than four thousand hours of volunteer service and also by the Points of Light Foundation for serving more than five hundred hours in one year. Only one thousand people in the entire country are expected to receive such a prestigious award this year. The President's Council on Service and Civic Participation created the award program to recognize Americans whose example of dedication inspires others to volunteer. Connie definitely fits the mold as she was instrumental in the founding of an organization that helps to coordinate searches for missing children across the country including involvement in the high profile Elizabeth Smart case. Mr. Speaker Connie Flukey is a dedicated public servant that goes above and beyond the call of duty to serve her community and her nation. I am proud to acknowledge the achievements of a person who encourages her fellow Americans to volunteer and help out in their towns and cities. It is the efforts of people like Connie that help build strong and caring communities. Thank you for your service Connie and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Dr. Paul Smith and thank him for his work as Associate Chief of Staff for Community-Based Care. His years of commitment and dedication as a public servant are certainly commendable and worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this nation today. As Paul celebrates his retirement, let it be known that I, along with my fellow Coloradans are grateful for all that he has accomplished during his years of service. Paul received his degrees from the University of Southern Colorado in Pueblo, Colorado Northwestern University Medical School before going on to join the U.S. Army as a physician in 1991 and completed his Family Practice residency at Womack Army Medical Center, Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Paul became Board Certified in Family Practice and then served for four more years as an active duty Family Physician at Evans Army Community Hospital, Fort Carson, Colorado. Paul entered private practice in Pueblo, Colorado in 1998 and enjoyed a busy practice until 2000 when he joined the Veterans Affairs Department as a staff physician at the Pueblo VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic in August. He is a member of the National Academy of Family Physicians and a 2001 graduate of the VA's Health Care Leadership Institute course. In addition to his strength as a doctor Paul also excels in administration, as he was appointed Acting Chief of Staff of the Southern Colorado Health Care System (SCHCS) in 2000 and became Acting Director in 2002. Through his guidance and coordination of the integration of the SCHCS with the Denver VA Medical Center it has become a stalwart model of exemplary healthcare. This experience led to his current position as Associate Chief of Staff for Community-Based Care, overseeing seven Community Based Outpatient Clinics throughout the Eastern Colorado Health Care System. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Dr. Paul Smith has been an invaluable resource to the Colorado Health care. It is my honor to recognize his service and dedication before this body of Congress and this nation. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with dedicated public servants like Paul. On behalf of the citizens that have benefited from the hard work and commitment he has given to the Community-Base Care Program and the constituents it serves, I extend my appreciation for his years of dedicated service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise to pay tribute to Butch and Sandy Longmore of Montrose, Colorado. For many years, they have been taking foster children into their home and providing a positive influence in the foster children's lives. As foster parents, they have shown tremendous compassion and commitment to the Montrose youth. I am honored to acknowledge this exceptional couple before this body of Congress and this nation today. Over the last twenty-two years, the Longmores have taken in over 150 foster children. Depending on the circumstances, the foster child stays for a period ranging from a week to several months. In seven different cases, the Longmores have adopted one of the children they were temporarily housing. In addition to their seven adopted children, the Longmores have four children of their own. In recognition of their efforts, the Colorado State Foster Parent Association recently honored the Longmores as the May recipients of the Colorado Foster Parents of the Month. Butch and Sandy are compassionate and caring individuals that obviously take great interest in providing care to young individuals that have difficult situations to overcome. Mr. Speaker, Butch and Sandy Longmore have truly distinguished themselves as outstanding individuals. They understand the community's commitment to raising the next generation of citizens, and, in assuming that responsibility, have positively changed foster children's lives. I thank Butch and Sandy for their hard work and dedication and I wish them the all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Debbie Forrester and recognize her for her outstanding achievements playing handball over the years. She is an amazing handball athlete with a very impressive history of tournament play and it is with great satisfaction that I am able to acknowledge her accomplishments before this body of Congress and nation today. Debbie started playing handball twenty-two years ago and since then has been national runner-up several times in both singles and doubles before winning the national championship last year. Debbie was ranked seventh in the world in the ``open'' division, and won three national titles in that division. As a longtime resident of Western Colorado, Debbie has used her handball skill to make friends and build community relationships among her fellow citizens. Debbie's husband, Kim, was also a nationally ranked handball player as well at one point, and the two of them entered many doubles tournaments together. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Debbie Forrester is an exceptional handball player, who uses her talents to educate and entertain interested citizens. Helping kids to get involved in sports is fundamental to a healthy childhood and I greatly appreciate Debbie's role in that process. It is my privilege to honor Debbie for her handball achievements and wish her the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to David Kamenshine and thank him for his work as a Passport Services Agent with Northeast Passport Agency. His years of commitment and dedication as a public servant is certainly commendable and worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this nation today. Along with my fellow Americans, I am grateful for all that he has accomplished during his years of service. David Kamenshine started working for the United States federal government in 1969 with the Defense Department. Twenty years later, in October of 1989, he moved over to the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Passport Services at the Northeast Passport Center in New York City. David diligently served his employer and was transferred to the New York Passport Agency in February of 1994 when the Northeast Passport Agency was merged into the New York Passport Agency. David has held several positions during his time with Passport Services, each time dedicating himself to providing the very best service for traveling customers. He assumed his current position as Customer Service Manager in 1996. During my tenure in the United States Congress, David provided exceptional service to constituents of the 3rd Congressional District of Colorado. He worked hard to ensure that inquiries on behalf of my constituents submitted to the Northeast Passport Agency were addressed in a timely and thorough manner. David routinely demonstrated a willingness to assist beyond the standard response, demonstrating a genuine concern for the constituent while upholding the policies of the Northeast Passport Agency. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that David Kamenshine has been an invaluable resource to many Americans. It is my honor to recognize his service and dedication before this body of Congress and this nation. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with devoted public servants like David. On behalf of the citizens that have benefited from the hard work and commitment he has given to the Northeast Passport Agency and constituents it serves, I extend my appreciation for his years of enthusiastic service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Gail Schulz and thank her for her work as the Branch Manager of the Social Security Administration in Durango, Colorado. Her years of commitment and dedication as a public servant is certainly commendable and worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this nation today. Along with my fellow Coloradans, I am grateful for all that she has accomplished during her years of service. Gail began her career with the Social Security Office in Idaho Falls and later moved to Durango where she eventually became the Branch Manager of the Durango Social Security Office in September 1995. She is retiring this July, having served over 32 years with the Social Security Administration. Gail is dedicated to her job and her employees. She has high expectations of herself and her staff. Gail stresses the importance that claimants receive all the considerations to which they are entitled. She is also an active member of her community and involved with La Plata County Quilter's Guild and the Archeological Society. During my tenure in the United States Congress, Gail Schulz provided exceptional service to constituents of the 3rd Congressional District of Colorado. She worked hard to ensure that inquiries on behalf of my constituents submitted to the Social Security Administration were addressed in a timely and thorough manner. Gail routinely demonstrated a willingness to assist beyond the standard response, demonstrating a genuine concern for the constituent while upholding the policies of the Social Security Administration. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Gail Schulz has been an invaluable resource to the Social Security Administration. It is my honor to recognize her service and dedication before this body of Congress and this nation. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with devoted public servants like Gail. On behalf of the citizens that have benefited from the hard work and commitment she has given to the Social Security Administration and the constituents it serves, I extend my appreciation for her years of enthusiastic service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Leslie Keery of Rifle, Colorado, for her dedication to the students of Rifle High School. As an art instructor, Leslie has positively impacted the lives of both her colleagues and students. Leslie is aiding kids in developing their artistic and creative skills for use in future careers and I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing her before this body of Congress and this nation for her dedication to her students and her success in the classroom. Leslie was recently honored with the local Walmart Teacher of the Year Award; that is awarded based upon the written essays of students and staff members. Her recognition as a special teacher was also complemented with a one thousand dollar donation to the art department, an opportunity to compete for the state competition and a nomination for the national Teacher of the Year Award. Mr. Speaker, Leslie Keery has done much to enrich the lives of the students at Rifle High School and her community, and I am honored to bring her accomplishments before this body of Congress and this nation. Congratulations on your award Leslie, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Pam Wilson and thank her for her work as Fire Information Officer with the San Juan Lands Center, a joint office of the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management in Durango, Colorado. Her years of commitment and dedication as a public servant is certainly commendable and worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this nation today. I, along with my fellow Coloradoans, am grateful for all that she has accomplished during her years of service. Pam has worked as a Fire Information Officer for the last three years, but started her career with the Forest Service in Colorado in 1979. Over her years with the Forest Service, she has worked as a draftsperson, landscape architect, planning assistant, visitor information specialist, and now a public affairs specialist. In 2002, as Pam was still training, she was thrown into the role of being the first fire information officer to work on the Missionary Ridge Fire. Pam did an incredible job of providing accurate fire information and working with the hundreds of people that were evacuated from their homes during the fire. It was her interpersonal skills and empathetic feelings and responses that made the difference. Pam remained on scene for the duration, taking only minimal breaks away from the 16-hour work days experienced during a fire that burned for 39 days. She also worked on the fire information effort with the Bear Creek Wildland Fire Use fire. Pam excels at providing timely and constant flow of fire information. Residents of southwestern Colorado are kept informed of ongoing fires but more importantly, know what to expect in terms of fire potential and how they might take responsibility for protecting their health and property. Pam works very closely with the counties, State Forest Service and others to explain how private parties can mitigate fire risk, and to develop and implement plans for reducing these risks. The San Juan Public Lands Offices have what is widely recognized as one of the very best fire information and fire education programs. Pam Wilson plays a very large role in that. Fires such as Missionary Ridge often tear a community and intergovernmental relationships apart, but the work of Pam, and of course a few others, prior to and during that fire resulted in as smooth of an operation as could be imagined. Her efforts, as much as anyone else on that fire, made it possible for firefighters and managers to focus without distractions on the safety of the public and firefighters and the protection of property. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Pam Wilson has been an invaluable resource to the San Juan Public Lands Office. It is my honor to recognize her service and dedication before this body of Congress and this nation. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with dedicated public servants like Pam Wilson. On behalf of the citizens that have benefited from the hard work and commitment she has given to the U.S. Forest Service and the constituents it serves, I extend my appreciation for her years of dedicated service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Gretchen Mitterer and thank her for her work as a Government Liaison with the Internal Revenue Service. Her years of commitment and dedication as a public servant is certainly commendable and worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this nation today. I, along with my fellow Americans, am grateful for all that she has accomplished during her years of service. Gretchen began her career with the IRS in January of 1986. Her attention to detail, her people skills and her professionalism have led to rapid career advancement. Gretchen has been the Colorado Governmental Liaison since January 2001. She began as a Group Secretary and held various positions over time including: Branch Secretary, Tax Auditor, Administrative Assistant, Public Affairs Specialist and Communications Specialist. During my tenure in the United States Congress, Gretchen provided exceptional service to constituents of the 3rd Congressional District of Colorado. Gretchen worked hard to ensure that inquiries on behalf of my constituents submitted to the IRS were addressed in a timely and thorough manner. Gretchen routinely demonstrated a willingness to assist beyond the standard response, demonstrating a genuine concern for the constituent while upholding the policies of the IRS. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Gretchen Mitterer has been an invaluable resource to the Internal Revenue Service. It is my honor to recognize her service and dedication before this body of Congress and this nation. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with dedicated public servants like Gretchen. On behalf of the citizens that have benefited from the hard work and commitment she has given to the IRS and constituents it serves, I extend my appreciation for her years of dedicated service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to rise and pay tribute to Pete Dawkins of Vail, Colorado, a truly outstanding individual. Throughout his life and his career, Pete has received many prestigious distinctions and awards as a prominent athlete, scholar and leader, but his commitment to the citizens of this country through his record of military service stands out. Pete spent many years dedicated to the service of our country and contributed tremendous leadership during his tenure. I would like to join my colleagues in recognizing the achievements of Pete Dawkins before this body of Congress and this nation today. Pete's ability to persevere was tested at the young age of eleven, undergoing physical therapy to treat the potentially debilitating disease of polio. He not only overcame polio, but he went on to become a star running back in college at the United States Military Academy. His performance during his senior season on the field led Army to an undefeated season and he was recognized individually as the college football player of the year winning the Heisman Trophy. After graduating near the top of his class from West Point, Pete chose to study at Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar, instead of pursuing an opportunity to play professional football. Pete began his service to the military after he completed his study in England. Throughout his twenty-six year tenure in the military he served in Vietnam, received his doctorate from Princeton, was selected as a White House Fellow, and ascended to the rank of Brigadier General. Following his military service, Pete has enjoyed a successful career in the private sector. He is currently working as the vice chairman of the Citigroup Private Bank. In his spare time, he still pursues his passion for sport on the ski slopes of the Vail Valley. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to honor the achievements of Pete Dawkins before this body of Congress and this nation. His selfless commitment to our nation's armed forces serves as a model for all Americans who desire to serve their country. Pete strives for success in everything he does, and his hard work and dedication in his undertakings has been rewarded with great success. I thank Pete for his service to others and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Martha Spears and thank her for her work as Congressional Liaison with the Homeland Security Department. Her years of commitment and dedication as a public servant is certainly commendable and worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this nation today. I, along with my fellow Americans, grateful for all that she has accomplished during her years of service. Marty Spears began her career with the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) in 1983 as the Legal Assistant in the office of the District Counsel, Atlanta, Georgia. Her service was interrupted while she followed her military husband to Panama in 1986, and three years later resumed her position before becoming an Immigration Inspector in 1993. She was promoted three times to the Supervisory Information Officer position in 1997 and the District Adjudications Officer in 2000 and most recently to the position of Community Relations Officer. In March 2003, when INS was abolished and three new agencies were formed that became part of Department of Homeland Security, Marty became the Community Liaison Officer under the Office of Citizenship within U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. She has served as the Denver District's congressional liaison since April 2001, responding to a monthly average of 200-300 congressional inquiries including the states of Colorado, Wyoming and Utah that are also in the District. During my tenure in the United States Congress, Martha provided exceptional service to constituents of the 3rd Congressional District of Colorado. Martha worked hard to ensure that inquiries on behalf of my constituents submitted to the Denver District were addressed in a timely and thorough manner. Martha routinely demonstrated a willingness to assist beyond the standard response, demonstrating a genuine concern for the constituent while upholding the policies of the Homeland Security Department. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Martha has been an invaluable resource to the Department of Homeland Security. It is my honor to recognize her service and dedication before this body of Congress and this nation. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with dedicated public servants like Martha Spears. On behalf of the citizens that have benefited from the hard work and commitment she has given to the Department of Homeland Security and constituents it serves, I extend my appreciation for her years of dedicated service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Dennis Ross and thank him for his work as Acting Director with the Grand Junction Department of Social Security. His years of commitment and dedication as a public servant is certainly commendable and worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this nation today. Along with my fellow Coloradans, I am grateful for all that he has accomplished during his years of service. Dennis started his public service in immigration in New York City. He then transferred to the Social Security Office, which eventually brought him to Colorado and currently to Grand Junction. During my tenure in the United States Congress, Dennis has provided exceptional service to constituents of the 3rd Congressional District of Colorado. Dennis worked hard to ensure that inquiries on behalf of the citizens submitted to the Social Security Administration were addressed in a timely manner. David routinely demonstrated a willingness to assist beyond the standard response, showing a genuine concern for the constituent while upholding the policies of the Social Security Administration. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that David has been an invaluable resource to the state of Colorado. It is my honor to recognize his service and dedication before this body of Congress and this nation. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with devoted public servants like Dennis. On behalf of the citizens that have benefited from the hard work and commitment he has given to the Social Security Office and constituents it serves, I extend my appreciation for his years of enthusiastic service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise before this body of Congress and this Nation to pay tribute to Rusty Caldwell for his admirable service to his country and dedication to his Colorado community. Rusty is a true American hero and patriot, and a beloved friend and colleague to many in his community. In his years spent in the armed forces, Rusty embodied the ideals of integrity and courage that we, as Americans, have come to expect from our military personnel. He has led an amazing life and I believe it is appropriate to recognize this exceptional man, and his many contributions to his community, state and country. Rusty began his career of service after high school. In 1943, he went off to fight in World War II, and was assigned to the destroyer escort USS Weaver. His missions consisted of going ashore with Marine units and directing naval artillery on to the beaches. Throughout the war, Rusty went ashore nine times, and was hit by enemy fire twice, earning him two purple hearts. He saw action in most of the infamous engagements in the South Pacific including, Tarawa, Kwajelein, Eniwetok, Yap, Palau, Iwo Jima and Leyte Gulf. After the war he came home and married Eva Dean, and earned a degree in vocational agricultural education from Oklahoma State. This tranquility didn't last long however, and in 1950 he was called for service once again, this time in the Korean War. This time Rusty was trained as a forerunner of today's special forces units and Navy Seals. His mission was to track down and capture enemy commanders. Rusty survived frostbite, mine explosions, rifle shots, and a knife wound while he was in Korea and earned him five more purple hearts. After Korea, he spent 31 years as an agricultural teacher in Oklahoma and Iowa before moving to Parachute, Colorado in 1993. He is active in his community, singing in a community chorus, traveling, and participating in his Veterans of Foreign Wars post. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Rusty Caldwell has a strong commitment to his country. His efforts to strengthen and secure his Nation and the world are truly remarkable. It is my privilege to recognize the accomplishments and service of Rusty before this body of Congress and this Nation. I sincerely thank him for his service and wish him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to William Shaffer and thank him for his work as the Congressional Services Representative with the General Services Administration. His years of commitment and dedication as a public servant is certainly commendable and worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this Nation today. Along with my fellow Americans, I am grateful for all that he has accomplished during his years of service. William was born in Pennsylvania and served in the U.S. Air Force in Denver, Colorado, before going on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Northern Colorado in 1973. He began his federal career with the Veterans Administration hospital in Hot Springs, South Dakota as a Recreation Therapist. After pursuing further training with the Veterans Affairs Personnel Administration Training Program, he worked as a Personnel Specialist in Maryland, Utah, Wyoming, Kentucky and finally Denver, Colorado. In 1991, William moved to the General Services Administration as the Personnel Liaison at the Denver Federal Center, and later for the entire Rocky Mountain region. He was responsible for the Region's Congressional Support Program working to provide support services to ninety-six U.S. House of Representatives district offices and U.S. Senators State offices in Montana, Utah, Wyoming, Colorado, North Dakota, and South Dakota. These support services included procurement of office furniture, equipment and supplies, maintenance and rehabilitation; property disposal; storage and relocation. William is also an ordained Pastor with the Presbyterian Church. In his spare time, he enjoys playing softball and volunteers at a Denver intercity food pantry. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that William Shaffer has been an invaluable resource to the General Services Administration and it is my honor to recognize his service and dedication before this body of Congress and this nation. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with devoted public servants like William Shaffer. On behalf of the citizens that have benefited from the hard work and commitment he has given to the General Services Administration and the constituents it serves, I extend my appreciation for his years of enthusiastic service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to recognize the life and passing of Carol Mae ``Peppy'' Seale of Durango, Colorado. As one of the founders of women's athletics at Fort Lewis College, she was dedicated to the nation's youth and committed to establishing greater opportunities for the nation's female youth population. She will forever be remembered as a pillar of her community, and as her family and community mourn her passing, I believe it appropriate to pay tribute to this exceptional woman before the body of Congress and this nation. Peppy first moved to Durango in 1969 after she received her teaching degree from Carroll College and her master's degree from the University of Northern Colorado. She then went into coaching women's athletics at Fort Lewis College. She committed herself to the volleyball team for fourteen seasons, acting as the coach for the squad as well as providing all the transportation for the team to and from competitions. During her tenure as the head volleyball coach, she led the team to 148 wins. In addition, she spent time coaching other sports, including the basketball, softball, skiing and tennis teams. Outside work, Peppy had a love for the farm she lived on and the animals that inhabited it. In recognition of her dedication to athletes and her success as a coach, Fort Lewis has inducted her into the Fort Lewis Athletic Hall of Fame. For her work advancing the cause of women in women's athletics she was named by the Women's Resource Center as an Extraordinary Woman of the Community. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to celebrate the life and achievements of Carol Mae Seale before this body of Congress and this nation today. She played an important role in founding athletic programs for women at Fort Lewis College, and was a valuable asset to the Fort Lewis community. My thoughts go out to Peppy's loved ones in this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to rise today to recognize Scott Tucker of Golden, Colorado. Recently, Scott announced his retirement from his position as the executive director of the Urban Drainage and Flood Control District. As he moves on to future challenges, I would like to acknowledge his dedication and commitment to better his community before this body of Congress and this nation. Scott has committed his career to addressing and solving problems pertaining to water resources in urban communities. After receiving a bachelor's and master's degree in civil engineering, Scott began his career in water resources. He first came to work in Colorado in 1970 for the Urban Water Resources Research Program. Two years later he joined the Urban Drainage and Flood Control District, where he is now the Executive Director. As Executive Director, he oversaw programs involving master planning, design and construction, maintenance, floodplain management, and projects involving the South Platte River. He retires from Urban Drainage and Flood Control District after thirty- two years of service. In addition to his work in water resources, he is an active member of his community. As an avid skier, he is involved in the National Ski Patrol System, where he holds the leadership position of Treasurer. Additionally, he participates in competitive bicycle racing and is a member of the Bicycle Racing Association. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to honor the accomplishments and service of Scott Tucker. Scott has dedicated his career to dealing with an issue many people take for granted, water as a resource. His leadership at the Urban Drainage and Flood Control District will be greatly missed, and I wish Scott all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to rise and pay tribute to Miles Stotts of Pitkin County, Colorado. Recently, Miles announced his retirement from his position as Director of Natural Resources for Pitkin County. As he moves on in his career to undertake new challenges, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize his accomplishments before this body of Congress and this nation. In 1996, Miles came to Pitkin County, when he accepted a position as Manager of Construction overseeing the remaking of the county's landfill. Upon successfully creating one of the most ecological landfills in the state, he took a job as the county's Director of Natural Resources. This job required managing a wide variety of responsibilities for the county. During his tenure, he has been responsible for accrediting restaurants, preventing the spread of the West Nile virus, and monitoring septic systems, water quality and wildlife. One of his most significant achievements was overseeing the successful passage of the Wildlife Protection Ordinance, a mandate for bearproof garbage cans. Mr. Speaker, Miles Stotts has shown his commitment to the citizens of Pitkin County in his care for the environment. Miles leaves behind a legacy for his work as the Director of Natural Resources, and his oversight and leadership in developing the county's new landfill. Thanks for all your hard work Miles, and I wish you the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to rise to pay tribute to Gary Wermers of Pueblo, Colorado. As a science teacher at Heaton Middle School, he has shown commitment toward educating our youth. Gary is a valuable member of his community, and I am honored to join my colleagues in recognizing Gary's tremendous work before this body of Congress and this nation today. Gary teaches science to seventh grade students at Heaton Middle School in Pueblo. His value in teaching goes well beyond his ability to convey the subject matter in the curriculum as he strives to stress moral and civilized behavior of his students. For his efforts and accomplishments in the classroom, he was recently awarded the 2004 Teacher of the Year Award from the Wal-Mart Corporation. In addition to his time teaching in classrooms, he attempts to connect with students as a mentor in activities where students find interest. He coaches the boys' basketball team, and sponsors the student council and the Fellowship of Christian Hawks. Mr. Speaker, Gary Wermers has clearly been an outstanding influence on our youth. The community benefits from him as an excellent educator, but it is the individual students who benefit the most from his personal and lasting style of teaching. I thank Gary for his important work in his community, and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Francisco Carmona and thank him for his work as Customer Service manager with the Seattle Washington Passport Agency. His years of commitment and dedication as a public servant is certainly commendable and worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this nation today. Along with my fellow Americans, I am grateful for all that he has accomplished during his years of service. Francisco attended the University of Washington. In 1986, he joined the State Department in Washington DC, where he assisted in researching routine and intricate passport cases. Francisco became an expert at complex citizenship law as a result of his research. In 1996, he transferred to the Seattle Washington Passport Agency and became the Customer Service manager. Francisco has been instrumental in assisting constituents with obtaining passports in life or death emergencies, complex citizenship cases, and expedited passports for last minute travelers. Francisco has been known to stay late, come in on the weekends and go the extra mile to help the constituents he is serving. He is highly regarded by his peers and superiors. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Francisco Carmona has been an invaluable resource to the Seattle Washington Passport Agency. It is my honor to recognize his service and dedication before this body of Congress and this nation. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with devoted public servants like Francisco. On behalf of the citizens that have benefited from the hard work and commitment he has given to the Seattle Passport Agency and the State Department and the constituents they serve, I extend my appreciation for his years of enthusiastic service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Ann Bond and thank her for her work as a Public Affairs Specialist with Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Her years of commitment and dedication as a public servant is certainly commendable and worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this nation today. I, along with my fellow Americans, am grateful for all that she has accomplished during her years of service. Ann came to the Federal agencies with a long history of dealing with the public and the media in southwestern Colorado. She has served as the Public Affairs Specialist for the San Juan National Forest since 1988, and assumed the joint responsibilities of the Bureau of Land Management Public Affairs Specialist for the San Juan Public Lands in 1995. In her current role, Ann is the lead for all Forest Service and BLM public affairs and congressional activities, excluding fire related actions, affecting about 2.5 million acres of public land in southwestern Colorado. She excels at going beyond the minimal news release approach to public affairs by insisting on clear, candid communications with the media and the public, and by establishing an expectation for the public to be informed and to participate responsibly in land use decisions. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Ann Bond has been an invaluable resource to the Bureau of Land Management and it is my honor to recognize her service and dedication before this body of Congress and this nation. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with devoted public servants like Ann. On behalf of the citizens that have benefited from the hard work and commitment she has given to the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management and constituents they serve, I extend my appreciation for her years of enthusiastic service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Billy Hightower and thank him for his work as Mesa County Veterans Service Officer with the Veteran's Affairs Department. His years of commitment and dedication as a public servant is certainly commendable and worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this nation today. Along with my fellow Americans, I am grateful for all that he has accomplished during his years of service. Billy bravely served in the U.S. Air Force as a jet mechanic in the Korean War, and later went on to teach psychology and sociology at both Grand Junction Central High School and Mesa State College. He became active in helping veterans when he began working with the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) organization serving as the 1976-1977 Colorado State Commander, the 1977-1978 National Senior Vice Commander and the 1978-1979 National Commander. During his tenure at the DAV, Billy worked on an outreach program for veterans called Project Forgotten Warrior that was adopted by the Veterans Affairs Department all across the country. In 1979, Billy became a Health Systems Specialist with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Throughout his eighteen years with the Veterans Affairs Department his extraordinary talent and dedication led him to work with the Salt Lake City Regional Director, the Virginia Regional Office Director, and the Veterans Affairs Under Secretary for Health. He also served as a Grand Junction Organizational Development Specialist, and Patient Advocate before taking his current position as the Mesa County Veterans Service Officer. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Billy Hightower has been an invaluable resource to the Department of Veterans Affairs. It is my honor to recognize his service and dedication before this body of Congress and this nation. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with devoted public servants like Billy. On behalf of the citizens that have benefited from the hard work and commitment he has given to the Department of Veterans Affairs and the constituents it serves, I extend my appreciation for his years of enthusiastic service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to David Dunnagan and thank him for his work as Hospital Service Coordinator for the Disabled American Veterans Department of Colorado. His years of commitment and dedication as a public servant is certainly commendable and worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this Nation today. Along with my fellow Americans, I am grateful for all that he has accomplished during his years of service. As a Hospital Service Coordinator, David is stationed at the Grand Junction VA Medical Center, and works hard to ensure that the veterans and their dependents receive the benefits to which they are entitled. David's primary objective is to provide them with the best service possible. David is a decorated combat veteran, who served in the U.S. Army for twelve years from 1966 to 1978, and retired from the National Guard in March 1997. He knows firsthand the struggles and conflicts that veterans and their families often face, and helps cut through the confusion that is often connected with seeking veterans benefits. His knowledge and expertise provides them with the comfort they need. They understand that he is working for them and securing their future. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that David has been an invaluable resource to the Disabled American Veterans Department of Colorado and it is my honor to recognize his service and dedication before this body of Congress and this Nation. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with devoted public servants like David Dunnagan. On behalf of the citizens that have benefited from the hard work and commitment he has given to the Disabled American Veterans Department of Colorado and constituents it serves, I extend my appreciation for his years of enthusiastic service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Reginald and Beverly Graham of Durango, Colorado, and their tireless dedication toward educating our youth. ``Reg'' and ``Bev,'' as they are affectionately known, have committed to Fort Lewis College as contributing members of the academic community for many years, and I think it is appropriate to highlight their efforts before this body of Congress and this nation today. Reg and Bev have dedicated their lives to our youth's education. At Fort Lewis College, Reg taught as a professor in business and Bev taught as a specialist in learning and writing. In addition to her time teaching higher education, Bev also taught music at the elementary and middle levels. Fort Lewis College has always been important to Reg and Bev, and now that they are retired from teaching, it still remains special. Recently, in order to better Fort Lewis College, they donated to endow a chair in the business department. This provides one source of funding to staff educational positions in the business department. Reg and Bev are committed to the community beyond the walls of the classroom. Jumping at an opportunity to take part in the public education and positively impact students prior to college, Reg chaired the committee for school improvement in the Durango School District. Reg's additional dedication to the community is apparent through his work as a member of Kiwanis and as a planner of Meals on Wheels for the First United Methodist Church. Bev is a member of Phi Delta Kappa and active in both the Methodist Church Choir and Durango Society. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to honor Reg and Bev Graham before this body of Congress and this nation today. Reg and Bev are establishing a legacy that reflects their commitment to excellence in education at Fort Lewis College. I praise Reg and Bev for their dedication to education as seen through their work as faculty members and their continued support of Fort Lewis College. I wish them the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to rise and pay tribute today to Curtis Mucklow of Steamboat Springs, Colorado for his work in the agricultural community. Curtis has dedicated his career to providing the educational resources necessary for successful cultivation of agriculture in his community, and it is my pleasure to recognize Curtis before this body of Congress and this nation. Curtis's first involvement with agriculture was as a ranch hand in Clark, Colorado. From there he went on to receive his bachelors and masters degree in animal science, and began a career as an extension agent in Elbert County. As an extension agent, he works as an educational liaison to develop resources for the agricultural community and identify and implement solutions to agricultural problems. In 1989, he assumed the role of extension agent for Routt County, a job that would allow him to be a major influence on agriculture in Steamboat Springs and the surrounding area. During his tenure, he has achieved many successes. Significant achievements include creating the ``Guide to Rural Living,'' a source providing information about the business of farming, and creating a scholarship in Routt County for 4-H students. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to acknowledge the contributions of Curtis Mucklow before this body of Congress and this nation. He has worked hard to improve agriculture in Routt County. He is known for his passion for his job in addition to his knowledge. I thank Curtis for his work in the Steamboat Springs community and wish him luck in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Linda Koile of Oak Creek, Colorado, and to thank her for her service to her community. Linda is the town's new code enforcement officer, a position that requires great commitment and dedication to her community. Linda is a valuable member of her community and I am honored to recognize her commitment before this body of Congress and this nation today. A resident of Oak Creek, Linda jumped at the opportunity to serve the citizens of her hometown when the job as the town's code enforcement officer became available. Linda was excited to fill the opening and ready to begin a new challenge. Accepting the job required Linda to teach herself a new occupation. Being a code enforcement officer requires extensive knowledge of the municipal codes and of law enforcement. Linda felt she could do a better job and better serve her town if she furthered her education. With that in mind, she financed her own training at the Colorado Mountain College Law Enforcement Academy. Upon graduation, Linda will join the Oak Creek Police Department as an official officer, both enforcing the town's municipal codes and assuming additional responsibilities. Mr. Speaker, I believe it is appropriate to honor the hard work and selflessness of Linda Koile before this body of Congress and this nation. I am a former police officer, and I understand the challenges that law enforcement presents. Her work demonstrates how commitment and dedication from people like Linda can strengthen the community. I thank Linda for her work and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.