Scott McInnis

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to recognize the extraordinary talents of a dedicated young mandolin player from Pueblo, Colorado. Travis Thompson is the national champion of the prestigious Walnut Valley Festival. He provides enjoyment and inspiration to all who are fortunate enough to hear him play. Travis is only the fifth Coloradan to receive this prestigious title since the addition of the mandolin competition to the festival in 1976. He began playing the instrument at age 11 after meeting his idol, Chris Thile of Nickel Creek, at a music festival. Several years later, Travis made his first of three attempts to reach the finals of the contest. His diligence and persistence have placed Travis on the path to eventually joining the ranks of bluegrass icons such as Alison Krause. Travis hails from a family of musicians. His father, sister, and mother play the guitar, fiddle, and bass respectively in the performance group Second Wind. Not only does this young man pursue excellence in the entertainment field, but he also runs track and maintains a 3.6 grade-point average at Rye High School. Mr. Speaker, Travis Thompson's gift motivates other citizens to follow their dreams. His devotion and enthusiasm certainly deserve the recognition of this body of Congress. It is my privilege to pay tribute to Travis for his contributions to the Colorado community.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I pay tribute today to Corporal Dusty Schulze of Craig, Colorado. Dusty is a police officer with the Craig Police Department, whose recent selflessness and courage in coming to the aid of his fellow Coloradans demonstrated tremendous heroism. I, along with the citizens of Colorado, am proud of Dusty's extraordinary valor. It is appropriate to pay tribute to his actions before this body of Congress and this Nation. On September 17th of this year, Dusty responded to a fire in a Craig apartment building. Risking his own safety, Dusty entered the building directly below the fire to search for people stuck inside. When all of the tenants were out of the building, Dusty assisted the paramedics and firemen in administering medical care to the injured. Dusty's courageous and altruistic acts were no surprise to those who know him well. Dusty is a natural born leader and a brave and caring police officer. His genuine concern for the citizens of Craig is unwavering, and his remarkable actions that September day did not go unnoticed. The Craig City Council recently awarded Dusty a Meritorious Commendation, one of the highest honors a Craig Police Officer can receive. Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to rise and pay tribute to Dusty Schulze, a man whose actions are the very essence of all that makes this country great. It is in times of tragedy that true heroes emerge, and I am proud to say that Dusty Schulze is a hero, not only to those he saved, but also to his community, state and nation. It is with a great deal of pride that I stand to honor him today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a great deal of pride that I pay tribute today to Jim Diehl of Craig, Colorado. Jim recently risked his life in order to assist members of the Craig police department in the evacuation of a burning apartment complex. It was in this time of dire emergency that Jim's gallantry shone through and he proved himself a true hero. I am proud to call Jim's extraordinary acts to the attention of this body of Congress. On September 17, Jim found himself outside the flame-engulfed Alpine Apartment complex in Craig. Realizing lives were in danger, Jim ran into the burning building to search for people trapped inside. Throughout the fire, Jim ran from room to room removing tenants from harm's path. For his brave and selfless act, the Craig City Council awarded Jim a Citizen Commendation. Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to rise and pay tribute to a man whose actions are the very essence of all that makes this country great. Jim Diehl risked death in order to save the lives of fellow Americans. His acts are the embodiment of heroism and it is with a great deal of pride that I stand to honor him today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, In 1999, I introduced legislation that established this Park and National Conservation Area, so my love of this place and belief in its continued protection is obvious. As you know, Mr. Speaker, I am a strong believer in local consensus and the preservation of western values. The Park and NCA were established on those ideals, and I am pleased that the bill I bring before you today continues on that path. The legislation was originally scheduled for a hearing in the Resources Committee last June, after Senator Campbell successfully saw it through the Senate. It took a few additional months, however, because I wanted to ensure that the water rights involved with these land transactions would remain protected for the people of Colorado. After working with the landowners and The Conservation Fund, I am now comfortable with the commitment that the landowners have made and am eager to see this bill move forward. As you know, Mr. Speaker, water rights in the West are vital to our livelihood and even the murmur of losing control of them is enough to start a stampede. That is why language has been included in this bill to guarantee that the Bureau of Reclamation retains jurisdiction and access to water delivery facilities. For nearly 100 years, the Uncompahgre Valley Water User's Association has done a great job providing water to the valley; I want to make sure they can continue to do so. My 1999 bill establishing the Park did not intend to affect the Bureau's jurisdiction in any way, and neither does this boundary modification. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area is a national treasure to be enjoyed by all. The park's combination of geological wonders and diverse wildlife make it one of the most unique natural areas in North America. I am proud to represent the area and believe that this legislation will greatly benefit those who live in the area and all who visit the Park. I want to thank Senator Campbell and the Resources Committee for their work on this bill. I close by urging all members to support this legislation, so it can move promptly to the President's desk and be signed into law.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen from my district. William ``Sarge'' Brown of Grand Junction, Colorado is an active member of the skiing community and a great citizen. For his years of hard work and many contributions to Colorado's ski industry and his local community, I am honored to pay tribute to Sarge here today. Like many of his generation, Sarge heeded his country's call, serving in the Army during World War II and the Korean War. At the end of the Korean War, Sarge directed a mountain and winter warfare program for Dartmouth College's Reserve Officer Training Corps. He retired from the military in 1966 as a Sergeant Major, and began work at Vail Mountain where he worked his way up the ranks to become Mountain Manager. While at Vail, Sarge worked to help make the resort the world-class destination that it is today. Sarge retired from Vail in 1989, and was inducted into the National Ski Hall of Fame in 1990. Today, Sarge remains active in the skiing community by serving on the board of the Powderhorn Recreation and Development Company. Mr. Speaker, William ``Sarge'' Brown has dedicated many years to serving his country and his community, first in the Army, and then as Mountain Manager at one of Colorado's most beloved ski resorts. His hard work and contributions to his community are an inspiration, and I am honored to join with my colleagues in recognizing the work of William ``Sarge'' Brown here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to rise and pay tribute today to a remarkable man from my district. Hugh Thackaberry of Fruita, Colorado, a fine man and devoted citizen, was wounded many years ago in service to our nation. I am proud today to bring his valor, courage, and patriotism to the attention of my colleagues here today. Hugh was a squad leader in the Army's 2nd Infantry Division during the Korean War. In May of 1953, Hugh was injured in battle in North Korea's Chorwon Valley. After being removed from the battlefield, Hugh was transported to a mobile field hospital. At one point during Hugh's recovery, the hospital was overcome with American casualties. Although injured, Hugh selflessly climbed from his bed to render aid to his fallen countrymen. This action epitomizes the integrity and self- sacrifice that defined Hugh's service to his country. For his bravery, Hugh was awarded the ``Wharang Distinguished Military Service Medal'' by the government of South Korea. Recently, the United States awarded Hugh the Purple Heart, recognizing his many sacrifices for his country. I am proud to have the privilege of presenting him that medal for his honorable service. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise and pay tribute to the heroism of Hugh Thackaberry. His personal sacrifice and patriotism are an illustration of the spirit of a great American. I am extremely proud and honored to recognize a national Hero. Thanks Hugh for your service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen from my district. Fire Captain Frank Nemick recently announced his retirement from the Pueblo Fire Department. For his selfless dedication and many years of service, I am honored to pay tribute to Frank here today. From the time he was a young boy, Frank always wanted to be a firefighter. He joined the Pueblo fire department in 1964 and served at Station 4 in Bessemer. Over the years, he worked hard and quickly advanced up the ranks. Frank has dedicated his life to helping the citizens of the Pueblo community. Whenever someone was in trouble or in need of assistance, Frank was always ready to come to their rescue. His enthusiasm and dedication are infectious, and he has influenced several members of his family to follow him into a career as a firefighter. Mr. Speaker, for thirty-nine years Frank Nemick selflessly served his community and his neighbors, and he will retire as a Captain from Station 10 at Pueblo Memorial Airport. His hard work and dedication are truly an inspiration. As he prepares for his retirement, I am honored to join with my colleagues in thanking Frank for all his hard work and in wishing him all the best in the years to come.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I pay tribute to Manual Hernandez of Grand Junction, Colorado. Manual's selfless and courageous acts demonstrated tremendous heroism when he came to the aid of a fellow Coloradan. I am proud of Manual's extraordinary valor, and believe it appropriate to pay tribute to his actions before this body of Congress and this nation. While eating breakfast in a Grand Junction restaurant, Manual heard a cry for help. Without hesitation, he rose to his feet and went to the rescue. Outside, Manual found an eight-year-old girl trapped beneath the tire of a car. He quickly recruited two additional men to help lift the vehicle. The men, fueled by a desire to save the young girl, raised the vehicle with Herculean strength and pulled her to safety. She is now recovering in a Grand Junction hospital. Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to rise before this body of Congress and this country, to pay tribute to Manual Hernandez, a humble and remarkable human being who risked his own life to save another. I join my colleagues in thanking Manual for his tremendous act of heroism.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a great deal of pride that I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to an American hero. Command Master Chief Robert Conklin stands as a fine example of our fighting men and women of the Armed Services who have dedicated their lives to protecting their nation and their fellow citizens. Master Chief Conklin has given thirty-four years of service to his country, and I am honored to pay tribute to his accomplishments here today. Robert Conklin enlisted in the Navy in 1969, and has accomplished a long and distinguished career. He has served as Command Master Chief, the highest rank for an enlisted man, on the USS Conolly, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, and the USS Bataan, and currently serves aboard the USS Ronald Reagan. Through his service, Master Chief Conklin has earned numerous awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy Good Conduct Medal, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Mr. Speaker, Command Master Chief Robert Conklin is the kind of dedicated and devoted serviceman who young recruits look to for guidance and encouragement. He has enjoyed a stellar career, and has earned the admiration of his fellow shipmates, as well as the respect of the citizens of the country he has committed his life to serving. I am deeply honored to join with my colleagues in recognizing the tireless work and dedicated service of Master Chief Robert Conklin here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Jeanne Power, and thank her for the extraordinary contributions she has made to the community of Steamboat Springs and the State of Colorado. Jeanne has spent her life assisting others, and her dedication and selflessness is a shining example to all Americans. After graduating from the University of Wyoming, Jeanne returned to her home in Steamboat Springs, where she became a member of the Routt County Search and Rescue team. Later, she joined Steamboat Springs Ambulance as an Emergency Medical Technician. Five years ago, Jeanne found her true calling when she became the city's only female firefighter. Jeanne now serves the City of Steamboat Springs as a paramedic and firefighter. In such a high-pressure career, she has managed to achieve a delicate balance between her fun-loving attitude and intense dedication to serving others. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I bring the life and spirit of an incredible woman to the attention of this body of Congress. Jeanne Power has dedicated her life to the betterment of others, and she is truly a tremendous asset to her city, state and country. Jeanne, I thank you for your service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I take this opportunity to pay tribute to the life of Lynn Weldon, who passed away recently at the age of 73. Lynn was a pillar of the Alamosa, Colorado community. As his family mourns their loss, I think it is appropriate that we remember his life and celebrate the work he did on behalf of others. After graduating from high school, Lynn attended Central Missouri State University. Upon receiving his bachelor's degree, Lynn went on to complete his master's degree at the University of Kansas. Lynn then served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955 during the Korean conflict. His service to the United States during a time of war is illustrative of his character. He was a man wholly devoted to his country, family, and friends. After returning from Korea, Lynn received his Doctorate of Education from the University of Kansas in 1957 and, in June of the same year, married Arvilla Pement. In 1958, Lynn was offered a teaching job at Adams State College; it was there that he began a 40-year teaching career. Throughout his tenure at Adams State, Lynn taught a variety of subjects ranging from philosophy to the paranormal. He was also known for his extraordinary dedication to community service. Lynn served on the Alamosa City Council for nearly 20 years, ministered with the Community Church of Christ, and performed with the San Luis Valley Mellow Tones. He was also instrumental in the movement to build a cultural center in Alamosa. Mr. Speaker, Lynn's dedication and selflessness certainly deserve the recognition of this body of Congress. It is my privilege to pay tribute to him for his contributions to the Alamosa and Colorado communities. I would like to extend my thoughts and deepest sympathies to Lynn's family, friends, and former students during this difficult time.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise today to recognize the life and contributions of Robert ``Kess'' Kesselring of Aspen, Colorado. Kess passed away recently after a courageous 10-year battle with prostate cancer. He was widely loved for his willingness to teach and help others. Because of his positive impact on the Aspen community, it is my privilege to honor the life and memory of Robert Kesselring. Kess was born in Oakland, California in November of 1937. He graduated with a degree in finance from San Jose State University in 1959, where he was a member of the alpine ski team. Throughout his life, Kess was an avid outdoorsman, traveler and adventurer. He was an excellent sailor, and represented the United States in the 1973 Fireball World Sailing Championships. Kess held many jobs and had many interests. Each related to his intense passion for serving others. Kess was a teacher, ski patrolman, ski instructor and fishing guide. In light of his love for flyfishing, Kess eventually moved to Aspen, the trout capital of Colorado. While in Aspen, Kess was a fishing guide on numerous rivers and lakes in Garfield and Pitkin Counties. Mr. Speaker, Robert Kesselring was a friend to many, and a teacher who enhanced countless lives. He will long be remembered for his willingness to share his knowledge of the outdoors with others. To this day, one can find fly fishermen throughout the Roaring Fork Valley who owe their love of fly-fishing to Kess. He was a remarkable Coloradan who will truly be missed. It is my honor to pay tribute to him here today, and my thoughts go out to his family during this time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to the life and memory of an outstanding woman from my state. Bernice ``Bernie'' Toonen Cooper of Durango, Colorado passed away recently at the age of 90. As her family and friends mourn their loss, I would like to tell my colleagues about this remarkable woman here today. Born in 1913 in Wisconsin and raised in California, Bernie moved to Colorado in 1940. Trained as a nurse, she devoted 40 years to her profession, and many Durango residents chose to receive care in the hospital where she worked simply to have Bernie be their nurse. Several physicians with whom she regularly worked regarded her as the best nurse in town. Bernie was also known to have one of the biggest hearts in town. She had an infectious love for people and always had a hot meal ready when her many friends stopped by to visit. Known for her bright, loving eyes and scintillating smile, even people Bernie had met decades before in the hospital would stop to greet her on the street. Mr. Speaker, although Bernice Toonen Cooper is no longer with us, her charitable, loving spirit left an indelible mark on countless residents in Durango. Bernie was a true credit to her profession and her community, and I am honored to tell her story here today. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends during this difficult time.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise today to recognize the life and contributions of my friend Bill Bullock, who recently passed away after a long and courageous fight with cancer. Bill, who lived in Glenwood Springs, will long be remembered for his service to our country, his contributions to his community and his unyielding love for his family. Bill was born and raised in the neighboring state of Wyoming. It was there, while attending the University of Wyoming, that he met and married his wife Doris in 1942. Following his marriage, Bill answered his country's call to duty and joined the Army to fight in World War II, serving honorably as a gunner on a B-24 bomber. Following the war, Bill moved to Glenwood Springs, where he entered the retail business with his father and established himself as a leader in the Colorado business community. Under Bill's guidance, ``Bill Bullock's'' apparel stores spread throughout Western Colorado. Because of his dedication to his business, and commitment to excellence, Bill was named Colorado's ``Apparel Retailer of the Year'' in 1974. Despite his business success, Bill never lost sight of the importance of the people who shopped in his stores. Bill's love for people was clearly illustrated by his eagerness to get to work each day, looking forward to friendly conversations with his friends, neighbors and customers. Mr. Speaker, the dedication and selflessness demonstrated throughout Bill's life certainly deserves the recognition of this body of Congress and this nation. There is no question that Bill will be remembered as a great businessman. However, he will best be remembered as a selfless person, a great friend and dedicated family man. It is my privilege to pay tribute to a man who dedicated his life to his country, family and community. Bill's life was the embodiment of all that makes this country great and I consider it an honor to have been Bill's friend.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the contributions of a fine citizen from my district, Joe Skufca of Pueblo, Colorado. Joe is a man who has dedicated his life to the betterment of his country and community. As a decorated war veteran, and the devoted owner of what has been called ``Pueblo's friendliest grocery store,'' Joe is certainly a shining example for all of us. Upon graduating from high school, Joe answered his country's call to duty and entered the United States Army during World War II. The day before Joe was to take part in the invasion of Ie Shima, he was injured aboard his ship by a Japanese missile attack. Despite being injured, Joe bravely took part in the invasion the next day. This was not Joe's only act of personal sacrifice during the war. After the fall of Okinawa, Joe contracted malaria. After three months in the hospital, the Army told Joe it was time for him to go home, but he refused and stayed with his company for the invasion of Japan. This extraordinary bravery and dedication to his country did not go unnoticed, and Joe was awarded two bronze stars for his service. Upon his honorable discharge, Joe returned to his home in Pueblo to begin a new life. He went to work at the Star Grocery Mart and began a career which has served him well for many years. Fifty-six years ago, Joe became the owner of Star Mart, which he still owns to this day. Joe is widely known as Pueblo's ``friendliest grocer.'' Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to pay tribute to Joe Skufca before this body of Congress and this great nation. After bravely fighting and sacrificing for his country, Joe returned to my district where he has maintained a successful business, spreading joy to his customers, family, and friends. It is with great pride that I echo the praises Joe has received from his country and the Pueblo community. Thanks, Joe, for your service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to pay tribute to the adventurous spirit of a citizen from my district. Susy Ellison of Carbondale, Colorado has begun her journey to Antarctica with a group of teachers and research scientists, charged with studying a unique seal population found exclusively in that region. As Susy braves the extreme climate of Antarctica, I would like to recognize her courage and commitment to science and education before this body of Congress today. Susy is a high school teacher at Yampah Mountain High School in Glenwood Springs, Colorado and has experience working with the Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management and the National Park Service. The program with which she will travel to Antarctica is called Teachers Experiencing Antarctica and the Arctic, or TEA. TEA allows teachers an opportunity to gain experience and knowledge that can be applied in the classroom when they return. Susy will be in the field in Antarctica for approximately eight weeks, braving the elements in the name of science. When Susy returns to the classroom, I am certain her students will be filled with wonder and excitement as she recounts her experiences from the far off land of Antarctica. I commend Susy on her adventurous spirit and wish her the best for a safe and successful journey.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to the life and memory of an outstanding citizen and community leader. Arthur Moss of Grand Junction, Colorado recently passed away at the age of eighty- four. Art was very active in his community and leaves a legacy in Grand Junction worthy of praise. As his family and friends mourn his loss, I am honored to pay tribute to his life and accomplishments here today. Born in Canada and raised in Michigan, Art moved to Grand Junction in 1955. He was a community leader from the beginning, serving as the first Director of Club 20, an organization dedicated to representing the concerns and interests of the communities of Western Colorado. Art helped bring Grand Valley Daybreak, an adult daycare program, to Grand Junction. In addition, he served as President of the Western Colorado American Boy Scouts and Chairman of Mesa County Republicans. An endless list of organizations have benefited from Art's influence, from the Masonic Lodge to the United Fund. No matter what the cause, Art always helped get the job done. Mr. Speaker, Arthur Moss was a true community leader. Unconcerned with seeking credit for his work, Art worked tirelessly to improve his community. He was a dedicated and driven man who wanted the best for his friends and neighbors. While Art has passed on, his legacy is sure to live for many years to come. I am honored to join with my colleagues in remembering the life and accomplishments of Arthur Moss here today, and my thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to an outstanding civil servant from my district. After almost three decades of service, Phyllis Ludwig of Bayfield, Colorado recently announced her retirement from the Bayfield Post Office. As she prepares to begin a new phase in her life, I am honored to pay tribute to Phyllis and her many accomplishments. Phyllis has been with the Bayfield Post Office for nearly twenty- eight years. She began as a part time flexible worker, steadily working her way up the ranks. In 1983, Phyllis was appointed Postmaster. To her credit, in the twenty years that she has served as Postmaster, not a single grievance has been filed against her. While Phyllis may be retiring from her professional life, she plans to remain active in the community. Phyllis will remain President of the Upper Pine River Fire Department Auxiliary and will continue to organize Operation Merry Christmas, a program to assist underprivileged children and families. Mr. Speaker, Phyllis Ludwig is an active member of her community and dedicated civil servant. She has devoted nearly twenty-eight years to serving her friends and neighbors, and I am honored to join with my colleagues in recognition of her service today. Thank you, Phyllis, for your tireless work. I wish you all the best in retirement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this Nation today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen from my district. Bob Kuusinen of Steamboat Springs, Colorado recently announced his retirement from the Steamboat Ski and Resort Corporation. Bob has been a faithful and dedicated member of the Steamboat community, and I am honored to pay tribute to his accomplishments here today. Bob began his career in Steamboat over thirty-one years ago as a cook at Thunderhead Lodge. Over the years, Bob's hard work has helped him to make his way up the ranks. Today, he retires as the Senior Vice President of Steamboat Ski Area Operations. In this role, Bob was responsible for overseeing the operations and functions of one of Colorado's best-loved ski resorts. Mr. Speaker, Bob Kuusinen stands as an example of the American Dream: if you work hard and remain dedicated and steadfast, there is no limit to what you can accomplish. Bob has helped make Steamboat Springs one of the premiere ski resorts in the nation, and I am honored to join with my colleagues in wishing Bob the very best as he prepares to begin his retirement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before this body of Congress and this Nation today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen from Colorado. Father John Leonard O'Shea of Denver, Colorado recently passed away at the age of sixty-nine. John faithfully served his community throughout his life, first as a member of the Denver Police Department and later as a Catholic Priest. For his years of service and dedication, I am honored to pay tribute to the life and memory of Father O'Shea here today. John joined the Denver Police Department in 1961 and served in many different positions including patrol, training, property crimes, and traffic investigations. While on the force, John developed a method to streamline the processing of drunk drivers. John retired as Deputy Police Chief in 1987 and, after earning his Ph.D. in Psychology, began studying for the priesthood at Boston Seminary. John was ordained at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Denver in June of this year and was named the Senior Vicar at the Cathedral. Mr. Speaker, Father John O'Shea loved to serve his fellow Coloradans, and people were drawn to him because of his positive outlook and quiet dedication. John touched many throughout his life, and the Denver community has benefited greatly from his involvement. As his family and community mourn his loss, I am honored to join with my colleagues today in paying tribute to the life and memory of Father John Leonard O'Shea.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this Nation today to pay tribute to two outstanding citizens from my district. Nick and Rose Marie Nekola of Pueblo, Colorado own and operate a valued Pueblo institution, Ianne's Pizzeria. For years, they have worked to provide a quality product and diligent service to local residents. For their hard work and dedication, I am honored to pay tribute to Nick and Rose here today. Ianne's Pizzeria was opened by Rose's parents in 1954, at a time when the word ``pizza'' was foreign to most Puebloans. Nick and Rose took control of the pizzeria 32 years ago and have operated it ever since. In addition to serving quality food, the Nekolas have created a friendly and welcoming environment at Ianne's. Many of their employees have been with the restaurant for over 20 years, and it is not unusual to meet a customer who has patronized the pizzeria for 30 years. Under the Nekolas' guidance, Ianne's has become a staple of downtown Pueblo. Mr. Speaker, in today's climate of transition and change, it is truly refreshing to encounter an establishment dedicated to tradition and quality. Nick and Rose Marie Nekola have worked hard to make Ianne's Pizzeria an institution in the Pueblo community. For their hard work and integrity, I am honored to join with my colleagues in recognizing Nick and Rose Marie Nekola here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this Nation today to pay tribute to an exceptional athlete from my district. Glen Younger of Grand Junction, Colorado made a name for himself as a young man with skill and prowess as a wrestler and today passes on this athletic tradition by running a rodeo school. For his work and dedication, Glen's alma mater, Western State College, is honoring him by inducting him into the Community First National Bank and Insurance Mountaineer Sports Hall of Fame. Glen has accomplished much in his life, and I am honored to share his story here today. Glen began wrestling as a high school student in Grand Junction, continuing to compete in the sport when he went to college at Western State College in Gunnison. Glen had great success while at Western State, including an NCAA championship, two Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Championships, and a Mountain Intercollegiate Wrestling Association Title. After graduating from Western State, Glen joined the military and continued his winning tradition by winning several more awards, including the 1968 Interservice Freestyle Championship and the second place award in the 1969 Interservice Greco Roman Competition. Today, Glen has retired from wrestling but remains active in sports by running a rodeo school that teaches bull riding and bareback riding. Mr. Speaker, Glen Younger is a talented athlete and a valued member of the Grand Junction community. As he prepares for induction into the Western State College Hall of Fame, I am honored to join with my colleagues in congratulating Glen Younger here today. Thank you for your service to the community, Glen. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and the Nation today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen from my district. Robert Austin of Gunnison, Colorado recently announced he will leave the Gunnison Valley Hospital after 19 years of dedicated service. As Robert embarks on a new phase of his life, I am honored to take this opportunity to recognize his accomplishments here today. President of the Gunnison Valley Hospital since 1984, Robert has led the hospital through many changes. He has overseen the hiring of numerous surgeons, four building expansions, the creation of a long- term business plan, and Gunnison Valley's designation as a Critical Access Hospital. Through it all, Robert has worked hard to run the hospital fairly and compassionately. In addition to his work at the hospital, Robert is very active in his community. The Gunnison Rotary Club, the Gunnison Area Foundation, and the Western State College Advisory Council all benefit from Robert's participation. In addition, he is a member of the Colorado Hospital Association, where he served as the association's Chair in 1995, and the Governing Council for Small and Rural Hospitals for the American Hospital Association. Mr. Speaker, Robert Austin has been an effective leader in the health care industry and an active member of his community for many years. His hard work and dedication have benefited an untold number of Coloradans. For his tireless efforts and years of service, I am honored to join with my colleagues in paying tribute to Robert here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to the life and memory of an outstanding citizen from my district. Whit Eastman of Gunnison, Colorado recently passed away at the age of sixty-seven. Whit was a kind, generous man who cared greatly about his community. As his family and friends mourn his passing, I would like to take this opportunity to remember Whit today. A life-long resident of Gunnison, Whit had deep roots in the community. Whit has given much to his country and his community. He served a tour of duty in Korea during the Korean War. Upon returning home, he became the Financial Director for the City of Gunnison and, later, the President of the First National Bank. He actively strengthened the local Masonic Lodge, as well as serving as the President of the Rotary. Whit also served on the Western State College Foundation Board of Directors at his alma mater, Western State College. Mr. Speaker, Whit Eastman was a beloved member of the Gunnison community, and he will be deeply missed. His love for life and dedication to his friends and neighbors touched many lives. While Whit has passed on, his legacy will continue to live. I am honored to join with my colleagues in honoring Whit here today. My condolences go out to Whit's family and friends during this difficult time.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with solemn heart that I rise before you today to pay tribute to the memory of a remarkable citizen from my district. Othell Ballage of Pueblo, Colorado was a leader in his community and a friend to many. Sadly, he recently passed away at the age of 74. As his family and friends mourn his passing, I would like to remember Othell for his kind heart and generous spirit. Othell was transferred to Pueblo by the U.S. Army and stationed at the Chemical Depot over thirty years ago. Having seen much of the world during his time in the Army, Othell decided Pueblo would be a good place to call home upon retiring from the service in 1975. It was then that Othell chose to realign his sights from national service to a more regional focus. After his days in the Army, accomplishing what would be considered a lifetime of achievements for most, Othell began to leave his mark on Pueblo. For the next twenty years, Othell pursued his goals in both higher education and public service. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from the University of Maryland in 1982 and went on to earn a Master's degree in management from Pacific Western University in 1996. Othell also worked as a counselor for the Colorado Job Training Program and served on numerous boards, including those of the NAACP and the Pueblo Human Rights Commission, as well as the Governor's Task Force on Drunk Driving. Mr. Speaker, the city of Pueblo and its citizens have lost a truly outstanding citizen and friend. Even more impressive than his numerous contributions to the community was Othell's role as a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Othell was a remarkable citizen and he will certainly be missed. I am honored to pay tribute to his life here today.