Scott McInnis

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to an American patriot and dedicated public servant. William ``Bill'' Sinclair will be retiring after serving the citizens of Colorado Springs, Colorado, from the Colorado State House of Representatives for eight years. As Bill celebrates his retirement, let it be known that he leaves behind an outstanding legacy of commitment to the people of Colorado and Colorado General Assembly. Bill has always held firm to his beliefs of serving his country and community. He spent a distinguished career serving in the United States Air Force, defending our country in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. He logged 6,000 flying hours as a command pilot, retiring in 1975 as a Colonel. Serving as a business manager for several nonprofit organizations in Colorado Springs, Bill became actively involved in numerous civic organizations. He is a past president of the Retired Officers Association and downtown Rotary Club, a former chairman and member of the Pikes Peak Center for Performing Arts, and a past member of the Board of Directors of CHINS-UP of Colorado Springs. Bill was elected to the State House of Representatives in 1996, and currently serves as chairman on the State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee and is a member of the Transportation & Energy Committee. His outstanding record of public service has garnered Bill numerous honors, including legislator of the year awards in 1998 and 1999 from the Colorado Association of Commerce and Industry and in 2001 by the Colorado Sherrifs Association. He has twice been recognized as a Guardian of Small Business by the National Federation of Independent Businesses. Mr. Speaker, it is quite clear that State Representative Bill Sinclair is a person who possesses dedication and commitment to his life long pursuit of public service. Bill's selfless dedication to Colorado Springs, the State of Colorado, and the United States has helped ensure a promising future for our great country, and it is my privilege to recognize him today before this body of Congress and this Nation. It is my distinct pleasure to honor Bill here today, and wish him and his wife Barbara all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise today to pay tribute to John Andrews and thank him for his leadership and contributions to Colorado as the President of the Colorado Senate. The level of energy and commitment that he has brought to the Colorado General Assembly throughout his years of public service is truly outstanding. As John celebrates his retirement, let it be known that the citizens of Colorado and I are eternally grateful for the guidance he has provided in making Colorado a leader of American democracy. At the age of sixteen, John attended the 1960 Republican National Convention as a page, and from then on knew he was destined to a career in politics. A volunteer on numerous GOP conventions and a speechwriter for President Nixon, John was elected to the Colorado Senate in 1998 for District 27. Representing Arapahoe County, John has worked hard to improve education and transportation; strengthen judicial accountability; protect Colorado's water; minimize taxes and regulation; and foster economic growth. In 2002, John was elected president of the Senate, and serves as chairman for the Executive Committee of the Legislative Council and the Legislative Council Committee; as well as serving on the Local Government Committee and State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute before this body of Congress and this Nation to State Senator John Andrews for his selfless dedication to public service. It is clear that John has been an invaluable resource for the State of Colorado, and his efforts have helped ensure a promising future for our great country. I would like to extend my congratulations to John on his retirement and wish him and his wife Donna all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity and pay tribute to Gayle Berry and thank her for her tireless efforts serving the people of Colorado as a four-term member of the Colorado House of Representatives. Gayle will always be remembered as a dedicated public servant and leader of the community, and as she celebrates her retirement, let it be known that she leaves behind a terrific legacy of commitment to the people of Colorado and Colorado General Assembly. A lifelong resident of Mesa County, Gayle graduated from Fruita Monument High School and received her college degree from Mesa State College. Before entering the political arena, she worked as a legal secretary, and owned and operated a successful small business for fourteen years. Elected to the Colorado House in 1996, Gayle currently chairs the House Transportation and Energy Committee, sits on the House Appropriations Committee and the House Local Government Committee, and served four years on the Joint Budget Committee. Her excellent record in the State House has earned Gayle numerous Legislator of the Year awards. Gayle's extensive involvement in civic organizations comes from her belief that in order to better your community you have to be an active participant. Her commitment to Mesa County includes membership in Club 20, Mesa State College Alumni Association, the juvenile pilot program W.R.A.P., and the Speakers Bureau for Kids Voting Mesa County. She has also served as chair and as a member of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce, and as a board member of Community Hospital. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize State Representative Gayle Berry's dedication and commitment to public service. It is not only her incredible devotion, but also her passion for contributing towards the betterment of the Mesa County community and the State of Colorado that I wish to bring before this body of Congress and this Nation. It is my distinct pleasure to honor Gayle here today, and 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 recognize the Alamosa County Chamber of Commerce for over eighty years of impeccable service to the Alamosa, Colorado business community. The Alamosa Chamber is an incredible asset to the town, and I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing the Chamber's tremendous service to the Alamosa community. Looking back on the history of Alamosa, the Chamber has sponsored many events and activities to improve the town, including its Town and Gown banquet, Cribbage tournaments, and founding the Alamosa Community Development Corporation. The Chamber has also helped to maintain a fantastic relationship between the town and Adams State College through sponsoring scholarships and organizing community and school events. Most importantly, the Chamber has been instrumental in promoting local businesses, aiding in their growth and success throughout the years. Mr. Speaker, the Alamosa County Chamber of Commerce is a dedicated organization that is actively involved in bringing the people of Alamosa together. For over eight decades, the Chamber has left an indelible mark of excellence on the Alamosa community and the State of Colorado. It is my privilege to pay tribute to the Chamber and its members before this body of Congress and this nation today. I thank them for the remarkable service they provide to Alamosa and the State of Colorado.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity and pay tribute to Ken Chlouber and thank him for his commitment to public service as a two-term senator in the Colorado General Assembly. As the President Pro Tem of the Senate, Ken will always be remembered for the leadership and guidance he has provided. As he celebrates his retirement, let it be known that he leaves a great legacy of service and dedication to his district and the State of Colorado. An extraordinary man in every sense of the word, Ken has had a colorful career in and out of politics. He has worked as a miner and auctioneer; enjoys running ultra marathons; is a big game hunter; and his pack burro racing skills garnered him election to the Colorado Pack Burro Racing Hall of Fame in 1985. Elected from District 4 in 1996 to serve the people of Douglas, El Paso, Lake, Park, and Teller counties, Ken has sponsored bills supporting agriculture, mining, tourism, emergency medical care, prison construction, and the creation of the Arkansas Headwaters Recreational Area. In addition to serving as President Pro Tem, Ken is a member of the Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Energy; Appropriations; Legislative Council; and Transportation committees. Ken's honors for his excellent record in the General Assembly include the American Cancer Society Legislative Accomplishment and the NFIB Guardian of Small Business. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute before this body of Congress and this nation to State Senator Ken Chlouber for his selfless dedication to public service. It is clear that Ken has been an invaluable resource for the State of Colorado, and his efforts have helped ensure a promising future for our great country. I would like to extend my congratulations to Ken on his retirement and wish him and his wife Pat all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise and pay tribute to journalist Tom McAvoy and thank him for his contributions to Colorado as the Denver Bureau Chief for The Pueblo Chieftain newspaper. The level of integrity and honesty that he has brought to this position throughout his twenty-one years of reporting on Colorado politics is truly exceptional and worthy of recognition by this body of Congress. As Tom moves on to his new position at The Pueblo Chieftain with the newspaper's editorial board, let it be known that the citizens of Pueblo and I are eternally grateful for the outstanding work Tom has done in covering the Colorado Legislature. A Pueblo native, Tom received a degree in political science and mass communications from then Southern Colorado State College, and went on to receive his master's degree in journalism from Ohio State University. Before joining the Chieftain in 1977, Tom worked for the Associated Press's Denver bureau, taught journalism at Southern Colorado State College, and was Denver's information officer in Pueblo. Since Tom joined the Chieftain, he has built a solid reputation for his fair and thorough reporting on Colorado politics and other events occurring in Denver that affect Pueblo and Southern Colorado. The Colorado Press Association recognized his first-rate coverage, as he became the first recipient of their Shining Star award, which recognizes the most consistent reporter or writer over a year's span. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Tom McAvoy's dedication and hard work reporting on the Colorado Legislature has been an invaluable resource for the State of Colorado and is worthy of acknowledgment before this body of Congress and this nation today. I have personally known Tom for twenty years and can guarantee that his insight at the Capitol will be sorely missed. Thanks, Tom, for all your hard work, and I wish you and your wife, Sue, all the best with your new position at The Chieftain.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is a special honor that I rise today to pay tribute to the Colorado Bluesky Enterprises, Inc. that is a devoted and compassionate organization in Pueblo, Colorado. The Colorado Bluesky Enterprises, Inc. has been improving the lives of Colorado citizens with developmental disabilities and their families for 40 years, and I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing their tremendous service to the Southern Colorado community. The Colorado Bluesky Enterprises, Inc. has provided services and support to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families since its inception in 1964. This wonderful organization has placed individuals in jobs throughout the area after training them in their own community-based cafes and through contracted employment opportunities. The organization has served over 2,000 children with developmental disabilities, ages 0-3 years, by providing up to three years of therapy, which enable each child to begin life at their highest level of physical and cognitive skill. Colorado Bluesky Enterprises, Inc. has served adults by providing residential shelter with loving host home families for hundreds of individuals and building affordable housing for highly independent consumers. In addition, it has provided transportation, counseling, life skills training and case management to consumers while spending thousands of hours training police, lawyers, city officials, judges and members of the Pueblo community about the special needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. Colorado Bluesky Enterprises is the lifeblood for the community of families who love and care for an individual with a developmental disability. Mr. Speaker, the Colorado Bluesky Enterprises, Inc. is a dedicated, selfless organization that has 40 years of service assisting those in need from the Southern Colorado community. Their focus on individuals with developmental disabilities, and their families, is outstanding and exemplary to all of us in our nation. This organization's enthusiasm and commitment certainly deserve the recognition of this body of Congress. Congratulations on celebrating 40 years of compassionate and caring service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to pay tribute today to the life and memory of Allen Bell of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, who passed away recently at the age of sixty-one. A well- known radio broadcaster in Glenwood Springs, Allen touched the lives of many in his community. As his family and Glenwood Springs community mourn his passing, I believe it is appropriate to recognize the life of this colorful man, and his many contributions to his community and state. Allen grew up in California, and served in the Air Force where he developed a love for radio and aviation. For thirty-five years Allen enjoyed a professional broadcasting career, spending twenty-six of those years in Glenwood Springs as president and general manager of KMTS/KGLN radio stations. He built and maintained the microwave station on Red Mountain, was a member of the Ham Radio Club of Glenwood Springs, and enjoyed building model planes and rockets. An active member in the community, Allen always was willing to volunteer his time to community service projects. Mr. Speaker, we are all terribly saddened by Allen Bell's passing, but can be comforted in knowing that he brought much joy to his Glenwood Springs community. I would like to extend my heartfelt sorrow to his wife Connie, his mother Nella and stepfather Hal, his son Christopher, and his brother Mark during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay tribute to a truly talented class of students from Alamosa, Colorado. The students from teacher Buckley Bangert's Advanced Placement American Government class recently competed in an annual competition that teaches high school students about the Constitution. These motivated students have taken an active interest in our country's political process, and I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing their tremendous achievements before this body of Congress. Alamosa High School Advanced Placement Government students studied for months to prepare for their roles as constitutional expert witnesses in simulated congressional hearings. Students addressed issues such as the development and expansion of the Bill of Rights, and the historical and philosophical ideas that underlie the Constitution. The students placed first in the district competition, and tied for fourth place at the State competition. The Alamosa students' prowess and extensive knowledge attracted the attention of the State judges, who extolled the team for achieving one of the highest scores for a first time attempt at the State level. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to honor the students from Alamosa High School for their remarkable achievements in the constitutional competition. The dedication of the students and their teacher, Buckley Bangert, are certainly commendable, and it is with great pleasure I recognize them today before this body of Congress and this nation. I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute and thank Phyllis Taylor for her leadership and contributions to Aspen, Colorado, as principal of Aspen Middle School. I would also like to pay tribute to her excellent 40-year career in education and service to her Aspen community. As Phyllis celebrates her retirement, let it be known that the citizens of Colorado and I are eternally grateful for the outstanding work she has done in her 40-year career as an educator in Aspen. Phyllis Taylor will leave Aspen Middle School at the end of this school year after a 2-year tenure, in which she helped to maintain the high level of achievement of the Aspen School District. The school routinely ranks in the top tier of Colorado school systems for academic performance. In fact, last fall Aspen Middle School was awarded the John Irwin Schools of Excellence Award, which is issued to schools that perform in the top 8 percent of Colorado public schools. This was the first time the school had received this award. As she retires to spend more time with her family, Phyllis Taylor's skills as an educator will surely be missed. -Mr. Speaker, I am honored to bring the service of Phyllis Taylor to the attention of this body of Congress and this Nation, and to congratulate her on an outstanding career as an educator in Colorado. I would like to wish her the best in retirement and sincerely thank her for her service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Grand Junction, Colorado resident Janet Irvine for her tireless efforts to maintain the morale of our troops overseas, and to better her Grand Junction community. Through the volunteer organization AdoptaPlatoon, she sends her homemade cookies to soldiers overseas, and keeps a regular correspondence with many of them. Janet began her efforts to help our troops in 1999, when she joined AdoptaPlatoon, a volunteer group that links citizens to soldiers and platoons in need of support, and began sending her homemade cookies to small groups of soldiers. Over time, more and more troops from different platoons heard about Janet's delicious cookies, and now she regularly keeps seventy-five to one hundred-fifty troops supplied with cookies. Recently, the availability of email to troops has increased the frequency with which Janet can correspond with them. In response to her dedication, a platoon stationed in Kandahar, Afghanistan flew the flag over Fort Apache in her honor on March 12, 2003. Janet works to encourage others to serve the troops by talking to classes at area schools. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the selfless dedication and commitment Janet Irvine has demonstrated to our troops before this body of Congress and this nation. Her efforts to brighten the lives of our troops overseas are truly remarkable. I sincerely thank her for her efforts and wish her the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before you today to pay tribute to the life and memory of David McDonnall, an extraordinary American who was one of four Baptist missionaries killed in Iraq on March 15 by unknown assailants. His wife of less than one year, Carrie Taylor McDonnall, was also seriously wounded in the attack. While we mourn the loss of David and his fellow missionaries, I think it is appropriate to call the attention of this body of Congress and this nation the sacrifices David made for his country and the people of Iraq. David grew up in Lamar, Colorado, and graduated from Lamar High School in 1993. Motivated by a desire to serve those in need and help rebuild the country, David and Carrie traveled to Iraq this last November, even though they knew there was a possibility they could be harmed. Their selfless efforts while in Iraq included distributing food, organizing relief projects, and renovating schools. When David and his group were attacked, they were searching for a suitable sight for a water purification project for the Iraqi people in Mosul. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and pay tribute to the life and memory of David McDonnall. His personal sacrifice is a testament to the love he had for his fellow man, and will not go in vain as others continue his noble work in Iraq. My thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to John Burritt of Redlands Mesa, Colorado for his remarkable achievements as an American pioneer in the biathlon and his work with the youth in his community. His 14th place finish in the 20- kilometer biathlon at the 1960 Winter Olympics was the highest American finish to that date in the typically European dominated sport, and has since been matched only twice. It is John's commitment to excellence which enabled him to compete in his sport at the international level, and to help shape the history of American athletics. John came to the sport of biathlon, a sport that combines cross- country skiing and shooting over often rugged, grueling terrain, through a somewhat unorthodox path. Although he grew up enjoying cross- country skiing and hunting on his family's Redlands Mesa farm, he did not come to the biathlon until his days at Western State College in Gunnison, Colorado. John began practicing with the cross-country skiing team to improve his conditioning, and in 1956, at the invitation of a US Army colonel, he competed in the first biathlon race ever staged in the United States at Camp Hale. John continued his training after college while he served his country in the U.S. Army, which allowed him to compete at the international level, specifically on the US team at the 1959 World Championships in Courmayem, Italy. After finishing his military career, John qualified for a place on the 1960 Olympic team, where he finished 14th in the 20 kilometer biathlon at Squaw Valley. Since his retirement from competition in 1964, John has continued to stay active in cross-country skiing, spending this past winter teaching the sport to local children. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the achievements of John Burritt in front of this body of Congress and this nation, and to thank him for his contributions to the great tradition of athletics in Colorado and the United States. His efforts to instill the love of cross-country skiing in the youth of his community are commendable, and I sincerely thank him for his contributions to the sport. I wish him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to rise today to honor Thelma Starner for her selfless dedication to the community of Delta, Colorado, and congratulate her on being recognized by the Delta City Chamber as their Humanitarian of the Year. The award is presented to an individual who has shown an outstanding commitment to the Delta community, and Thelma could not be a more worthy recipient. It is a privilege to pay tribute to Thelma for her well-deserved award, and her ongoing efforts to better her community today. Thelma owned and operated Delta Sand & Gravel for twenty-five years. As an active member in her community, she dedicates her time to a vast array of civic functions. Thelma has served as president of the Delta Chamber, Western Colorado Community Foundation, and Altrusa International of Delta; and is current president of the hospital's board of directors and of the board of Tri-County Resource Center. Thelma also was a founding board member of West Central Housing Development Organization and Delta Area Development Inc. Her enthusiasm for taking part in these organizations comes from the joy she receives in giving back to the community she loves. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize Thelma before this body of Congress and this nation for the recognition she received by the Delta City Chamber as their Humanitarian of the Year. She has done much to improve her community, and I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise today and pay tribute to Chris Jouflas of Grand Junction, Colorado, for his dedication to his community, state, and nation. Chris has spent his life as a sheep rancher in the mountains and valleys of Colorado and Utah, and has done much to better his Colorado community. Chris' father immigrated to the United States in 1907, and was one of the first Greek immigrants to arrive on the Western Slope. He started the family ranching business in 1910, and it soon grew to thousands of acres for ranching and grazing in Colorado and Utah. Soon after marrying his wife Connie in 1953, Chris took over the family ranching business and successfully guided it until 1992. The family still owns a 2000-acre ranch near Wolcott, Colorado, where Chris' oldest daughter and family live, and Chris stays actively involved with the ranching community. For anyone who has skied the beautiful slopes in Vail, Colorado, they probably have Chris, and the Greek liqueur Ouzo, to thank in part. In the 1960s, and then again in the 1970s, Chris sold parts of his sheep herding land to Vail Associates in deals brokered by Chris's favorite bargaining tool, Ouzo. These legendary deals allowed for some of Vail's most well known runs to be created, and a ski run has since been named after the Greek liqueur. Mr. Speaker, it is with a great deal of satisfaction that I rise and pay tribute to Chris Jouflas before this body of Congress and this nation today. It is clear that he has spent his life dedicated to the Colorado ranching community and the State of Colorado. It is my pleasure to honor Chris here today, and wish him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to pay tribute to the life of William Thomas ``Tom'' Wiseman of Ignacio, Colorado; an extraordinary American who recently passed away at the age of seventy-three. Tom was an active member of the Ignacio community as the owner of Wiseman Hardware and Lumber Company, and was involved in numerous community organizations. Tom graduated from Durango High School in 1948, and subsequently from Denver University in 1952. Upon returning to Ignacio, he joined his father at Wiseman Hardware and Lumber Company. In 1968, Tom purchased the hardware business from his father, which he operated until his retirement in 1992. Tom generously gave his time and energy to his community, serving on the Ignacio Town Board, the Ignacio School Improvement Committee, and the Presbyterian Church Session. In addition, he was active with the La Plata County Republican Party, worked with the Ignacio Community Historical Society, and was a member of the Durango Masonic Lodge. Above all Tom loved spending time with his devoted family, including his wife Paula, whom he leaves behind. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and pay tribute to the life and memory of William Thomas Wiseman. He dedicated his life to his family and toward the betterment of his Ignacio community. My thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to pay tribute to the life and memory of Pete Jones of Buffalo, Wyoming, who passed away recently at age sixty-nine. I personally knew Pete well, and he was a devoted family man, a dear friend, and a beloved member of his Buffalo, Wyoming and Glenwood Springs, Colorado communities. As his family and community mourn his passing, I believe it is appropriate to recognize the life of this exceptional man, and his many contributions to his community and state. Pete was a man of the highest integrity and ethics. During his years spent in Glenwood Springs, he was known in the business community for his fair dealing and problem-solving skills. In his spare time, he immensely enjoyed the rodeo, competing in rough stock events, and also trained and worked as a smokejumper. However, he found the most joy in life spending time with his wife Doris, his children, grandchildren, and the families of his brothers and sisters. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to Pete Jones. I am proud to have known such a great man who enriched the lives of his family and community. My heart goes out to his family during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to an outstanding patriot from my home state of Colorado. Sergeant Robert Jepsen recently returned from serving our nation in Operation Iraqi Freedom. While there, Robert was injured in a terrorist bombing attack near Baghdad. Sadly, the attack also claimed the lives of three of Robert's fellow 82nd Airborne Paratroopers. While we mourn the loss of Robert's comrades, I think it is appropriate to call the attention of this body of Congress, and our nation, to the sacrifices that Robert and his fellow soldiers have made on behalf of a grateful nation. After graduating from high school, Robert answered his country's call to duty when he entered the United States Army. From the outset, it was clear that Robert had the qualities of a tremendous soldier. His bravery, intelligence and outstanding leadership did not go unnoticed, and Robert earned his Ranger Tab with the 101st Airborne Division, (Air Assault). Throughout his recovery, Robert has drawn on the qualities that made him a great soldier. He continues to maintain a positive attitude and high spirits while recuperating at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, and plans to return to school to realize his dream of becoming a pediatrician. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise and pay tribute to Sergeant Robert Jepsen. Robert's personal sacrifice and unwavering heroism is the true embodiment of patriotism. On behalf of my fellow Coloradoans, and Americans, I wish to thank Robert for his bravery and noble service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to pay tribute today to John Rino for his admirable service and dedication to his Trinidad, Colorado community. His volunteer efforts for Trinidad seniors were recently recognized at the Harry R. Sayre Senior Center where a new wing was dedicated in his name. I would like to congratulate John on receiving this honor and thank him for his unwavering commitment to the City of Trinidad and the State of Colorado. An active member in city politics, John served on the Trinidad city council for sixteen years, and served for two terms as mayor. During his years in public service, John was instrumental in making significant improvements to the city. He organized the county ambulance district, saw that neglected streets were paved, saw that wooden water transmission lines were replaced with metal lines, and extended water lines to areas of the city that were not previously provided with city water. For the last sixteen years, John has volunteered his time with the senior citizen center, organizing and cooking spaghetti dinner fund-raisers that usually have 150 or more people in attendance. Mr. Speaker, it is quite clear that John Rino is a person who possesses dedication and commitment to his pursuit of public service, and it is my distinct pleasure to honor John before this body of Congress and this nation today. Naming the new wing after John is the center's way of saying thanks for his selfless efforts and leadership, and is a well-deserved testament to his ongoing efforts to better his community. I wish John all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise today to pay tribute to Ray Meyer for his selfless dedication to his Delta, Colorado community, and congratulate him on being recognized by the Delta Chamber of Commerce as their Citizen of the Year. A lifelong resident of Delta and a member of the Delta City Council, Ray has involved himself with numerous civic organizations. This award is a well- deserved testament to his ongoing efforts to better his community. Born in Delta and raised in his father's grocery store, Ray has always been an active member in the community. The time Ray spent away from Delta was just as active, attending college at the University of Denver and serving our country in the Navy during World War II. Once he came home from defending our country in the Asian-Pacific Theatre, Ray joined his father's grocery business. In 1958, he became manager of Delta Savings and Loan, and served as CEO and chairman until his retirement in 1985. Ray has served his Delta community as a member of the city council for 14 years, sitting as chairman and on numerous committees, including region 10. He is also an active member at St. Michael's Catholic Church, a member and past president of the Lions Club, and a former president of the Rotary Club and Delta chamber. He serves on the library board and the public arts committee, and is a member of the Community Concert Association. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize Ray Meyer before this body of Congress and this nation today for his commitment to his Delta, Colorado community. He has done much for the city of Delta, and I congratulate him on receiving the Delta Chamber Citizen of the Year award. I would also like to congratulate Ray and his wife Jo as they recently celebrated their sixty-fifth wedding anniversary. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Lon Erwin for his remarkable record of service to the community of Durango, Colorado. I would also like to congratulate him on receiving the 2004 Barbara Conrad Award from the Durango Chamber of Commerce which was presented by his wife, Sidny Zink, a Durango City Councilor. This award, honors an individual who is associated with the Leadership La Plata program and is dedicated to building a stronger community by bringing people together. Since his graduation from the Leadership La Plata program in 1990, Lon has been active in numerous initiatives and organizations. He serves as president of the local chapter of Civitan International, serves as board president of the Southwest Colorado chapter of the Red Cross, and is the executive director of the Community Foundation Serving Southwest Colorado. Erwin is also the volunteer coordinator for Durango Food Share, which distributes food to those in need in Durango, Cortez, Pagosa Springs, and Aztec, Colorado. Not only is he willing to give his time to worthy causes, but he had the foresight to establish leadership classes for high school students in Durango, Cortez, Bayfield, and Ignacio, ensuring that the next generation has the tools to lead and strengthen the community. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the service and achievements of Lon Erwin before this body of Congress and this nation. His efforts to strengthen his community are truly remarkable, and his receiving the 2004 Barbara Conrad Award is a well-deserved testament to his tireless efforts. I sincerely thank him for his service and wish him the best in his future efforts.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Russell Hindmarsh for the contributions he has made to his Dolores community and the State of Colorado. Recently, Russell was chosen as Cattleman of the Year for his lifelong commitment to the cattle industry. It is with great satisfaction that I congratulate Russell for this well-deserved honor, and thank him for his contributions to his community and state. A veteran of the Korean War, Russell began working in the livestock industry at a young age, and learned to ranch sheep and cattle from his father. As his career in the industry progressed, he has focused his attention to raising cattle. Russell's involvement in the ranching community of Colorado includes having served on the advisory boards for the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, serving on the Southwest Livestock Association board, and serving on the Montezuma Woolgrowers board. He also is a former member of the Colorado Woolgrowers, the National Woolgrowers, the Colorado Cattlemen, and the National Cattlemen. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Russell Hindmarsh has a legacy of strong commitment to the cattle industry in the Dolores community and the State of Colorado. Russell's efforts to keep this great tradition of ranching vibrant is worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this nation today. It is my privilege to extend to Russell my sincere congratulations on being named Cattleman of the Year for 2004, and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to pay tribute to the life and memory of Julius DiGregorio, a lifelong resident of Trinidad, Colorado who passed away recently at the age of 89. Julius lived a full life as a patriot, devoted family man, and beloved member of his community. As his family mourns his loss, I believe it is appropriate to remember Julius and the many contributions he made to his community, State and country. Julius embodied the spirit of America, and his story is a prime example of what makes America such a great country. He grew up in Trinidad, Colorado, where he played on the State Champion Trinidad High School Miners football team. Undeterred by the Great Depression in the 1930s, Julius attended Notre Dame College, earning a degree in mechanical engineering which he put to use as an engineer in South America. He served his country proudly in World War II, earning a bronze star while serving under General Patton during the liberation of Italy. Once Julius returned to Trinidad, he staked his claim by building and managing an apartment building, as well as owning and operating the Columbian Hotel. In 1949, he married Frances Amato with whom he had three loving children. A man devoted to education and his community, Julius became the Director of the Head Start programs for Las Animas and Huerfano Counties in the 1970s, and a member of the Western Regional Head Start Director's Board. Mr. Speaker, we are all terribly saddened by the loss of Julius DiGregorio, and I am deeply honored to bring his life to the attention of this body of Congress and this Nation. My heart goes out to his family during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker it is with great pride that I rise today to pay tribute to one of our nation's top educators. Larry Edward Penley will be inaugurated in the coming weeks as the President of Colorado State University, and with his rich academic background, the students of Colorado will be well served. Larry has been improving the lives of American students for years, and I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing his tremendous service to the Colorado community and this nation. Larry received both his bachelor's degree in psychology and his master's degree in communication from Wake Forest University before completing his doctorate in Management at the University of Georgia. Following graduate school Larry joined the faculty at the University of Texas at San Antonio where he eventually served as associate dean of the College of Business. In 1991, he was appointed as dean of the Arizona State W.P. Carey School of Business which he saw become one of the nation's most prominent business schools. Larry is a well-rounded academic who has been involved with several community improvement organizations like the United Way and the Arizona Coalition for Tomorrow. His research has focused on effective management skills and he is published in several of the nation's top academic journals. In addition to his service to the University and multiple associations he has consulted for, Larry has been awarded several honors, such as the MBA Students Associations Lifetime Achievement Award and the Hispanic Business Students Association Century Award for Exemplary Support and Leadership. Larry has raised millions of dollars for Arizona State University as he revised the curriculum to include more technology and actively recruited a diverse range of the nation's top high school students. Mr. Speaker, Larry Edward Penley is a dedicated, selfless person who has been a wonderful ambassador for education in our country, and I am honored to welcome him to the Colorado academic community. His passion for public service is an outstanding example to set for America's youth, and his enthusiasm and commitment certainly deserve the recognition of this body of Congress and this nation. Congratulations on your new position, and keep up the good work!-

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Dawn Mathews of Hot Sulphur Springs, Colorado, on receiving the ``Power of One'' award at the Sixth Annual Colorado Woman Conference for her work with the Roadside Memorial Project. The conference recognizes individual women, selected by Colorado newswomen, who have made an extraordinary difference in their community. It is my privilege to recognize Dawn and her achievements before this body of Congress and this nation today. As founder and executive director of the Roadside Memorial Project, Dawn strives to document and preserve the roadside memorials for victims of car accidents and raise traffic safety awareness. She believes that these memorials are an important way for families of the victims to deal with their loss, and that they send a valuable message to motorists about the hazards of driving. Dawn photographs the memorials and then uses computer graphics to create images that she puts on public display. While her goal is to get people to slow down on the road, she finds her personal involvement with the families of the victims as one of the most rewarding aspects of her work. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize Dawn Mathews here today before this body of Congress and this nation and congratulate her on receiving the ``Power of One'' award. KUSA-TV's Amanda Martin selected Dawn for this honor, and it is a well-deserved testament to her dedication to her community and the State of Colorado. I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.