Scott McInnis

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Suzanne Williams and thank her for her extraordinary contributions to the State of Colorado as a member of the Colorado General Assembly. As a four-term member of the State House of Representatives, she will always be remembered as a dedicated public servant and leader of the community. As she moves on in her career, let it be known that I, along with the people of Colorado, are eternally grateful for all that she has accomplished in her tenure in the Colorado House of Representatives. Representing Arapahoe and Denver counties for District 41, Suzanne has worked in neighborhood schools for twenty-two years as a special education teacher. Suzanne's intimate knowledge with education has served her well as a member of the Education Committee, sponsoring legislation to implement funding for full-day kindergarten in low- performing school districts. Other legislation Suzanne has sponsored includes the Child Care Loan Forgiveness Program that assists childcare professionals in attending community college to gain more skills, and the American Indian Scholars license plate, which established a scholarship fund for Colorado American Indians to attend a college or university within the state. Suzanne's efforts to better her community include extensive involvement with civic organizations. She currently sits on the Colorado Special Education Advisory Board and the Colorado Medicare Consortium, and she has served on the board of directors for Aurora Sister Cities, D.A.R.E. Colorado and the United Cerebral Palsy Association. The Colorado Chapter of American Mothers, Inc, recognized her outstanding commitment to community service in 1996 when she received the Colorado Mother of the Year Award. Mr. Speaker, it is quite clear that State Representative Suzanne Williams is a person who has demonstrated an exceptional level of dedication and commitment to her life long pursuit of public service. It is her incredible devotion along with her passion for contributing towards the betterment of her 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 Suzanne here today, and wish her and her husband Ed all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Frank Weddig and thank him for his dedication and service to the Colorado General Assembly as a member of both the State Senate and House of Representatives. Frank has brought an outstanding level of energy and integrity to the Colorado General Assembly throughout his years of public service, and as he celebrates his retirement, let it be known that he leaves behind a great legacy of commitment to the people of Colorado. Representing the people of Arapahoe County in District 36, Frank was elected in 2000 based on his fair and balanced approach to government and his previous political experience. In 1977, he was appointed to the Aurora Parks and Recreation Board; in 1979, he was named to the Aurora Planning and Zoning Commission; and from 1981 to 1994 served on the Aurora City Council. In 1994, he received an appointment to the State Senate and was subsequently reelected in 1996, before running for the State House of Representatives in 2000. During his tenure in the General Assembly Frank has worked hard to improve education and promote fiscal responsibility. During his last term, he sat on the Local Government Committee and the State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute before this body of Congress and this nation to State Representative Frank Weddig for his selfless efforts of public service during his tenure in the Colorado General Assembly. The level of integrity and honesty he has displayed while serving his district and the people of Colorado has earned the respect and admiration of his peers. I would like to extend my congratulations to Frank on his retirement and wish him and his wife Pat all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Nancy Spence and thank her for her extraordinary contributions to the State of Colorado as a member of the Colorado General Assembly. As a three-term member of the State House of Representatives, she will be remembered as a legislator with the utmost dedication and talent, and will continue to be known as a leader in the community. Let it be known that I, along with the people of Colorado, are eternally grateful for all that she has accomplished in her tenure in the Colorado House of Representatives. Representing the people of Arapahoe County in District 39, Nancy was first elected in 1998 after serving many years on the Cherry Creek School Board of Education. Nancy has used this background effectively in the State House, championing public education reform as the Chair on the Education Committee. She also has worked hard for a fiscally responsible government to reduce taxes for small business and the people of Colorado, and served on the Transportation and Energy Committee. Nancy's excellent legislative record has garnered her numerous awards, including the 2003 Student Voice Award by the Colorado Student Association for Higher Education, the 2002 and 2003 Guardian of Small Business award by the National Federation of Independent Business, and the 2002 President's Award from the University of Colorado School of Dentistry. Nancy's efforts to better her community include extensive involvement with civic organizations. She is a lifetime member of the Cherry Creek Valley Historical Society; member of the Colorado Commission on Higher Education, member of the WICHE Legislative Committee, and is a past member of the Governor's Blue Ribbon Task Force on Higher Education. Mr. Speaker, it is quite clear that State Representative Nancy Spence is a person who has demonstrated an exceptional level of dedication and commitment to her life long pursuit of public service. It is her incredible devotion along with her passion for contributing towards the betterment of her 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 Nancy here today, and wish her and her husband Peter all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Tom Wiens, and thank him for his extraordinary contributions to the State of Colorado as a member of the Colorado General Assembly. Elected to serve the people of District 45 in 2002, he will be remembered as a legislator with the utmost dedication and talent, and will continue to be known as a leader in the community. As he moves on in his career, let it be known that I, along with people of Colorado, are eternally grateful for all that he has accomplished in his tenure in the Colorado House of Representatives. A businessman and rancher, Tom grew up on his family's historic ranch where they raise hay and cattle, and breed champion cutting horses. During his time at the State House, he has served on the Business Affairs and Labor Committee, and the Agriculture, Livestock, and Natural Resources Committee. His work as a legislator garnered him the Freshman Legislator of the Year award in 2003 by the Independent Bankers of Colorado, and the Colorado Fire Chiefs Association made him an honorary member. While Tom has effectively served the people of Douglas and Teller Counties in the General Assembly, he has stayed an active participant in the community. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Children's Hospital Research Foundation, and is a member of the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo Association. He is involved with parent organizations at Douglas County High School and Larkspur Elementary, works with several faith-based community outreach programs, and is a member of Cherry Hills Community Church. He also has served as a volunteer police chaplain and is a former Director of the Colorado Ski Museum and Hall of Fame. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that State Representative Tom Wiens has ceaselessly dedicated his time and efforts to serving his district and the people of Colorado. It is his incredible devotion along with his passion for contributing towards the betterment of his 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 recognize Tom here today, and wish him and his wife Diana all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Gregg Rippy and thank him for his extraordinary contributions to the State of Colorado as a member of the Colorado General Assembly. Appointed to fill District 57's vacated seat in September of 2000, and subsequently elected for two more terms, Gregg will always be remembered as a dedicated public servant and leader of the community. As Gregg moves on in his career, let it be known that I, along with the people of Colorado, are eternally grateful for all that he has accomplished in his tenure in the Colorado House of Representatives. A fourth generation Coloradan, Gregg has worked in the family construction business started by his grandfather since age fourteen. He began his political career on the Glenwood Springs Planning and Zoning Commission in 1992, and has served as secretary and treasurer for Garfield County's Republican Party. Due to legislative redistricting in 2001, Gregg became the incumbent for District 61, serving Eagle, Garfield, Gunnison, Hinsdale, and Pitkin counties, and was reelected for the 2003-2004 term. For this last term Gregg has chaired the Local Government Committee and served on the Agriculture, Livestock, and Natural Resources Committee. Gregg has garnered numerous awards for his outstanding record as a legislator. In 2003, the National Association of Home Builders named him State Official of the Year. He also received the Excellence in Leadership award and the Defender of the American Dream award from the Colorado Association of Home Builders, and the Legislator of the Year award from the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties. Some of Gregg's extensive community involvement includes holding several degrees in the Masonic Lodge, and he is a charter member and ex-president of the Glenwood Springs Sunrise Rotary. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that State Representative Gregg Rippy has ceaselessly dedicated his time and efforts to serving his district and the people of Colorado in the Colorado General Assembly. I am honored to bring his hard work and commitment to the attention of this body of Congress and this nation today. Thank you for all your service Gregg and I wish you and your wife Marilee all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to John Oien of Delta, Colorado for his outstanding career in the U.S. Forest Service and to congratulate him on his recent retirement. Over his thirty-seven year career, John helped preserve the beauty of the national forests in Colorado and other Western states, while making them more accessible for the public to enjoy. His service to this nation is commendable and worthy of recognition by this body of Congress and this nation. John graduated from California Polytechnic State University with a degree in environmental design while working for the Forest Service in the Angeles National Forest. Following his graduation, he worked in National Forests in California, Nevada, and Idaho focusing on the planning of recreational areas. In 1979, John arrived in Delta, Colorado, where he began to work on the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests. He has also done scenery management work on the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway and the San Juan Skyway, and worked with the Western Colorado Interpretive Association to allow the public to better understand the many qualities of the national forests. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that John Oien has been an invaluable resource for the State of Colorado and to our National Forest System. His selfless dedication to preserving a priceless part of America's landscape is worthy of acknowledgment before this body of Congress and this nation today. Thanks, John, for all your hard work, and I wish you and your wife, Jenifer, all the best in your well-deserved retirement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to pay tribute to the life and memory of Edwin ``Ed'' Ward of Durango, Colorado who passed away recently at the age of eighty-nine. Ed lived a full life as a devoted family man and beloved member of his community. As his family mourns his loss, I believe it is appropriate to remember Ed and the many contributions he made to his community and state. Born and raised in Delta, Colorado, Ed spent twenty-three years working with power companies helping to maintain the generating stations and their infrastructure in Western Colorado. Ed represented his fellow employees as an elected union representative for Local 57 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Upon his retirement in 1976, Ed dedicated his efforts to numerous civic organizations in his Durango community. He was active in the Animas Valley Grange, Pomona Grange, and Durango Elks Lodge. He also served for ten years on the board of directors of Animas Water Company, and on the board of the Animas Mosquito Control District Board. Ed was also a member of the La Plata County Fair Board and the Fair Grounds Commission. Mr. Speaker, we are all terribly saddened by the loss of Edwin Ward, 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 my honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to Jack Selway for his admirable service and dedication to his Pueblo, Colorado community. I would also like to congratulate him on receiving the 2004 Robert Hawkins award by the Mental Health Association of Pueblo. The award is named in honor of Robert Hawkins who served as Superintendent of the Colorado Mental Health Institute-Pueblo, and is presented to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution in heightening the awareness of mental health in the Pueblo area. This award is a well- deserved testament to his achievements. Jack and Victoria Rosser co-founded the Mental Health Association of Pueblo in 1999 with the purpose of trying to eliminate the stigma of mental illness and to increase patient access to treatment through education, advocacy, and research development. A public relations professional, Jack is a well-known and dedicated member of the community. He has emceed numerous public events, including the ceremonies for the 2000 convention of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society held in Pueblo, where he performed our National Anthem. Jack also is a member of The Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce and The Pueblo Economic Development Corporation. He is a member of the Rotary Club of Pueblo Number 43, and has established an organization that is collecting the history of the first 100 years of Rotary International. In addition to co-founding the Mental Health Association of Pueblo, he founded the local chapter of the Depressive and Manic Depressive Association of Pueblo, and created a website with information on mental health resources. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Jack Selway has a strong commitment to the community of Pueblo and to improving the quality of mental health care in the Pueblo area. His efforts to strengthen his community are truly remarkable, and his receiving the 2004 Robert Hawkins Award is a well-deserved testament to his tireless efforts. It is my privilege to recognize the accomplishments and service of Jack Selway 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 with a heavy heart that I rise today to pay tribute to the life and memory of U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Eric Petty, who honorably devoted his life to defending the freedoms of our nation. A member of the 1st Battalion, 35th Armor Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Eric was recently killed while guarding a weapons cache in Salman Al Habb, near Baghdad. His story is one of honor, selflessness and sacrifice. As we mourn the loss of an American patriot and hero, I think it is appropriate to call the attention of this body of Congress, and this nation, to the sacrifice that Eric made on behalf of a grateful nation. Honoring his father's service to our nation, Eric was a junior in high school when he joined the Army where his father had served as a warrant officer. He was a well-known figure in Grand Junction, Colorado, serving as a U.S. Army recruiter in my hometown for three years. Eric could have stayed on as a recruiter, but his deep love for his country and his sense of duty led him to take a position where he could be placed on the front lines. When his unit was attacked while guarding a large cache of ammunition, he ordered all of his soldiers to get into their vehicles, and was the last one to get in when he was shot. If it were not for his heroism and leadership, many more soldiers would have lost their lives. Mr. Speaker, U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Eric Petty will be sorely missed. Although we grieve over the loss of this incredible individual, we can take comfort knowing his sacrifice was made while fulfilling his dream of serving our nation. I would like to extend my heartfelt respects to his beloved wife Kimberly, son Colton, parents, family and friends as they mourn his passing. It is my honor to pay tribute to the life of Eric Petty before this body of Congress and this nation.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Grand Junction, Colorado resident Jim Dunn for his efforts to help comfort our nation's veterans. For several years, Jim and his wife Margaret, who sadly passed away this March, took the time nearly every holiday to bring candy and fruit baskets to the men at the Veteran's Association Medical Center. Jim's service reminds us all of the great importance of and need to care for and cherish America's great heroes, and it is my honor to recognize his dedication to our veterans today. Jim and Margaret began their visits to the medical center eighteen years ago, often going several times a month and enlisting others, such as the City Market, to help in their cause. They also grew grapes and pears on their ranch to bring to the men. It is Jim's hope that more people will take up the mantle from Margaret and him in order to brighten the holidays for the veterans who ensured our freedom.- Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Jim Dunn before this body of Congress and this nation. His efforts to brighten the lives of our veterans are truly remarkable. The freedoms we enjoy today are a direct result of the sacrifices made by veterans throughout our nation. I sincerely thank him for his dedication.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity and recognize Jessica McKay, a senior at Fruita Monument High School in Fruita, Colorado. A member of the varsity golf team, Jessica has had a remarkable spring season. Beginning with a thirteen shot win at the season opening tournament at Tiara Rado Golf Course, she has dominated the Western Slope Tour. Jessica has demonstrated remarkable poise and courage to become the player she is today. As a four-year varsity player on the Fruita Monument team, Jessica has steadily improved to become one of the top golfers in the state. However, Jessica and her family were struck with tragedy when, during her sophomore year, her younger brother Ricky was killed in a car accident, and six months later her father Tim died of a heart attack. Jessica did not play golf for eight months, but feeling guided by her departed loved ones, she rededicated herself to the game. Last summer she participated in a program that took her to Rhode Island and Florida, and she competed in a tournament in the Virgin Islands. Not only is Jessica an excellent golfer, but she is also an inspiration to her team and a natural leader. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the achievements of Jessica McKay before this body of Congress and this nation. Her dedication and perseverance in spite of obstacles is truly moving. I wish her all the best in her 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 Kay Hayashi, of Grand Junction, Colorado, who passed away recently at the age of eighty-five. Kay's extensive involvement with Club 20 has done much for the people in my district and for the State of Colorado. As her family and community mourn her passing, I believe it is appropriate to recognize the life of this exceptional woman, and her many contributions to her community and state. Kay had been an active member of Club 20 since its founding in 1953, an organization dedicated to representing the people of the Western Slope at all levels of government. Kay was one of the first members awarded Emeritus status to acknowledge her years of commitment to the organization. During her years of service, Kay served as Treasurer, and was a member of both the Board of Directors and Executive Committee. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to recognize the life of Kay Hayashi. She dedicated her life toward the betterment of her community, state and nation, and she will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with her 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 Karen Osborn of Fruita, Colorado for her dedication to the students of Fruita Monument High School. In her position as activities secretary, Karen has worked to improve the lives of the community's youth by helping to expand the range of activities and the students' ability to participate in them. Karen began her career in the school system as a room mother at Shelledy Elementary, and moved on to become attendance secretary at Fruita Monument High School in 1985. The following year she moved over to the athletics department as activities secretary. Over her years in this position Karen has seen many changes, from the introduction of girls' soccer, the change from typewriters to computers, and the graduation of her own three children. In addition to her extensive administrative duties, Karen has taken on many responsibilities above and beyond the duties of her job, including coaching the cheerleading squad and preparing food for various tournaments hosted by Fruita Monument. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to bring the service of Karen Osborn to the attention of this body of Congress and this nation. She has done much to enrich the lives of the students at Fruita Monument High School, and I sincerely thank her for her service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to pay tribute to the life and memory of Charles Latham of DeBeque, Colorado, who passed away recently at the age of sixty-two. Charles was a lifelong Coloradan and rancher, and a beloved friend and colleague to many in his DeBeque community. 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. Born in Grand Junction, Charles graduated from DeBeque High School and attended Mesa Junior College before beginning his career as a rancher. An active member of the community, Charles served on the DeBeque School Board for seventeen years. His dedication to ranching in Colorado included membership in the Colorado Cattlemen's Association, Bluestone Water Conservancy District Board, Garfield County 4-H, and the 4-H steering committee. Mr. Speaker, we are all terribly saddened by the loss of Charles Latham. He did much to better his DeBeque community, 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 sadness that I rise today to pay tribute to the life and memory of Colonel Lorris ``Bill'' Moomaw who recently passed away. Bill was 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, Bill embodied the ideals of integrity and courage that we, as Americans, have come to expect from our military personnel. 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, state and country. Bill lived an immensely rich and full life, always holding firm to his beliefs in serving his community and country. In 1935, he graduated from flying school at Randolph Field, Texas, and began flying commercial flights until the onset of World War II. During the war, Bill flew numerous transport missions, serving as the Operations officer of the first regularly scheduled Military Air Transport runs. In 1945, he served as Operations officer for a dangerous and important transport operation between India and China known as ``The Hump,'' and his unit received over nine hundred citations, and became the only non- combat unit to receive a Presidential unit citation. As the war ended, he was assigned to finding and removing American POW's from South East Asia, Singapore, and Indonesia, frequently flying into unsecured areas occupied with hostile forces. At the end of the war, Bill was offered and accepted a regular commission and was transferred to Washington where he served as military aide and pilot to the first two Secretaries of the Air Force. His flights included piloting such dignitaries as Presidents Roosevelt, Truman, Eisenhower and Johnson, and taking Bob Hope and other Hollywood celebrities on Christmas trips to entertain our troops. Mr. Speaker, we are all at a great loss because of Colonel Lorris Moomaw's passing, but can be comforted in knowing his service to our nation helped secure the freedoms we enjoy today. I am honored to pay tribute to the life and memory of Colonel Lorris William Moomaw before this body of Congress and this nation. My thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a sad heart that I rise to pay tribute to the passing of a selfless servant from my district. Mike Bloss, a native of Winter Park, Colorado, was recently killed while serving our country in Iraq as a contract security specialist. A beloved figure in his community, Mike dedicated his efforts to teaching students with disabilities how to ski and mountain bike. As his family and community mourn his passing, I believe it appropriate to bring his contributions to his community, state, and country to the attention of this body of Congress and this nation. Mike was a retired Welsh special forces officer who began as a volunteer at the National Sports Center for the Disabled in Winter Park. As he gained more experience through various instruction certification programs, he turned the volunteering opportunity into a seasonal job. Mike was a fond employee of the organization who demonstrated great understanding for the needs of skiers with disabilities, having suffered a foot injury himself from a fall he took while he was in the military. As an additional source of income and for the chance of an adventure, Mike took on contract jobs with a Virginia firm that specialized in high-risk private security. Mr. Speaker, Mike Bloss was a dedicated man who selflessly served his community and country, and I am honored to recognize his sacrifice before this body of Congress and this nation. His lifetime of service is an incredible model for America's youth. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to rise today to recognize Kelly Allmon for her selfless dedication to the community of Cortez, Colorado, and congratulate her on being recognized by the Cortez Chamber of Commerce as their Citizen of the Year. The award is presented to an individual who has shown an outstanding commitment to the Cortez community, and Kelly could not be a more worthy recipient. It is a privilege to pay tribute to Kelly for her well-deserved award, and her ongoing efforts to better her community today. In 2001, Kelly implemented the Retail Enhancement Program in Cortez, which works together with the Cortez Chamber of Commerce to market local businesses. During her tenure as director, the program has developed marketing campaigns such as the ``Cortez Cash'' program, and creating a community slogan, ``Cortez: Genuine to the Core.'' In addition, the program works to provide workshops and seminars for local businesses. Kelly's hard work and dedication seem to be paying off, as Cortez has seen a marked increase in sales tax revenue over the last year. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Kelly Allmon before this body of Congress and this nation for the recognition she received as the Cortez Chamber of Commerce's Citizen of the Year. Her efforts to strengthen the business community in Cortez are truly remarkable, and her award is a well-deserved testament to her tireless efforts. I sincerely thank Kelly for her service, and wish her the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Delfino Gallegos of Capulin, Colorado. Mr. Gallegos is one of only a handful of living World War I veterans, and was recently honored for his service at the American Legion's 85th birthday celebration at the Dickey-Springer Post 113, an organization founded by World War I veterans. Mr. Gallegos was born December 28 1903 in Costilla, New Mexico. He answered his nation's call to service, joining the military at the age of 17, and was sent to Camp Sherman, Ohio for basic training. Towards the end of the First World War, his duties included guarding prisoners from Germany and other countries. Upon his honorable discharge from the service in 1923, Delfino met and married his wife Deliria, and moved to Capulin where he worked as a potato farmer and sheepherder. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Delfino Gallegos before this body of Congress and this nation. The freedoms we enjoy today are a direct result of the sacrifices made by veterans throughout our nation. He is a great patriot and treasure to his community and veterans across Colorado. I sincerely thank him for his service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to rise today before this body of Congress and this nation to recognize a remarkable woman from my district. Jeannine Ford Artaz of Glenwood Springs, Colorado has displayed the kind of selfless dedication to her community that enriches the lives of all around her, and it is my pleasure to thank her for her many contributions to Glenwood Springs and the State of Colorado. In 1950, Jeannine moved to Colorado and began her career in television and radio. She served as the Butternut Weather Girl for KBTV, Channel 2 in Denver, was ``Miss Jenny'' on Romper Room, and was an editor and journalist for Channel 9 News. In 1965, she moved to Glenwood Springs and had radio programs on KGLN and KDNK, and Television Talk shows on Cable 12. While many people in Colorado might have known Jeannine as a television and radio personality, she became a beloved member of her Glenwood Springs community through her generosity and extensive community involvement, where she was known affectionately as Grandma Nene. A small sampling of her participation includes volunteering for the Valley View Hospital Auxiliary; Glenwood Springs Sheriff's Department; Brownies, Girl Scouts, and Boy Scouts; and Glen Valley Nursing Home. For the annual Newcomers Fashion Show she designed and made the featured wedding ensemble, initiated some of the first efforts in starting a local animal shelter, and was the Strawberry Days Grand Marshall in 2001. Mr. Speaker, it is clear Jeannine Ford Artaz plays a vital role in her Glenwood Springs community. Her dedication and selfless efforts have done much to enhance the lives of those around her, and is worthy of recognition before this body of Congress and this nation. Thanks for your service to your community Jeannine, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is a great pleasure to stand and recognize Virginia Howey for receiving the Southwest Colorado Not-for- Profit Director of the Year Award. Virginia has spent twenty-two years starting early childhood and family support programs in Montezuma County, and this award is a well-deserved testament to her dedication to her community and the State of Colorado. Virginia's extensive involvement with community organizations comes from her firm belief that one person can make a difference, but it takes a whole community to make a lasting impact. As the current Pinon Project executive director, she has implemented 12 programs for prenatal moms, infants and toddlers, preschoolers, school-age youth, families, and individuals, serving roughly 900 families in Montezuma and Dolores counties. She also has served as chair of the Family Resource Association's state board of directors, on the United Way of Montezuma advisory board, as fiscal agent for the Montezuma/Dolores Community Summit, and as Southwest KIDS coordinator for four years. She also was responsible for securing a Department of Transportation grant for a seat belt campaign and implemented the Montezuma-Cortez school district's Early Reading First Program for 300 preschool children. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Virginia Howey on receiving the Southwest Colorado Not-for-Profit Director of the Year Award before this body of Congress and this nation. The award is a testament to her hard work and great skill as an organizer building programs that benefit individuals, families, and communities throughout Southwest Colorado. I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to pay tribute to the life and memory of Ruth Summons. Ruth's long life of one hundred years saw many changes, and her kind soul touched many lives. Her journey ended in Colorado, a place that she loved dearly, and where she chose to spend her retirement. As her family and friends mourn her passing, I believe it appropriate to call to attention her legacy before this body of Congress and this nation today. Ruth was born to a family of eight children in Louisiana, where she attended a one-room schoolhouse. Her adventurous spirit carried her to Texas for business school, and then on to Denver, where she worked as a secretary in a law firm for forty-seven years. Ruth met her husband Harold at a singles dance for seniors in Denver, and they married and moved to Grand Junction to enjoy their retirement. Ruth lived her life in such a way that her husband will forever remember her, saying: ``there wasn't a better woman on Earth.'' Mr. Speaker, Ruth Summons lived a long and full life, and she will be sorely missed by those fortunate to have known her. It is my honor to recognize her life before this body of Congress and this nation. I would like to extend my heartfelt respects to her family and friends during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Chet Allen of Grand Junction, Colorado. His efforts and vision earned his business, Boomers nightclub on Main Street in Grand Junction, the designation ``The Best of the West places to go for people over thirty'' by Daily Sentinel readers. Since opening Boomers in 2002, Chet has helped revitalize Main Street, as well as spread his love of Blues, Jazz, and art, all of which figure prominently in Boomers atmosphere. Chet came to Grand Junction in 1981 as an engineer for the Rio Grande Zephyr Railroad. He and his wife Janet fell in love with the town and decided to stay, but felt the town was somewhat lacking in nightlife. In 2000, he and his wife purchased and renovated an old furniture warehouse on Main Street, expecting to lease it to someone who would turn it into a downtown hotspot. When the first tenants failed, Chet and Janet took the task upon themselves, and thanks to their responsiveness to the community needs, Boomers has thrived since opening in September 2002.- Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Chet Allen before this body of Congress and this nation. Through his vision and determination, he has made remarkable contributions to his community. I sincerely thank him for his efforts 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 honor the life and memory of Reverend Gary MacDonald of Durango, Colorado, who passed away recently at the age of forty-six. Reverend MacDonald was pastor of Durango's New Life Chapel, and his sudden death comes as a shock to us all. He was a man of devotion, hard work, and humilty, and while his family and community mourn his passing, I believe it is appropriate to pay tribute to the life of an exceptional person. Involved in the ministry for twenty-four years, Reverend MacDonald served as senior pastor of the Lubbock First Foursquare Church in Lubbock, Texas before he and his wife Tammy moved to Durango. In 1998, he was named senior pastor at New Life Chapel in Durango, and in April 2000 he was appointed as the divisional superintendent of the Western Slope Division of Foursquare Churches. Known for his passion and leadership, Reverend MacDonald spoke at youth camps, retreats, conferences, and churches throughout the country; and wrote many songs of worship. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to pay tribute to the life of Reverend Gary MacDonald before this body of Congress and this nation. Reverend MacDonald was a kind and devoted spiritual leader who did much to uplift the lives of his congregation. I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and members of his church as they mourn his passing.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Alta Cassietto of Montrose, Colorado. Throughout her fulfilling life, Alta has fulfilled many roles with great success, including being appointed Telluride's first woman Postmaster. Her service, both in her career with the Postal Service and her community involvement, is certainly commendable and deserving of recognition by this body of Congress and nation. Alta Cassietto was born in Cedaredge, Colorado in 1907. After traveling with her parents to their native Italy in 1908, the family returned to Telluride at the outbreak of the First World War. In 1927, as only a junior in high school, Alta began to work as a reporter for the Telluride Daily Journal. When economic conditions forced the paper to become a weekly in 1929, Alta became the editor, a position she held until 1934, when she became Telluride's first woman Postmaster, a position she held for thirty-six years until her retirement in 1970. In 1975 Alta moved to Montrose to better care for her mother. She has remained very active in the community, volunteering at the Montrose Memorial Hospital and with the Retired Seniors Volunteer Program. She has also pursued her love of traveling, having crossed both the Atlantic and Pacific ten times. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Alta Cassietto before this body of Congress and this nation. She is a truly great treasure for her Montrose community and the State of Colorado. I sincerely thank her for her service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Dayna Leonard of Montrose, Colorado on being named Youth of the Year by the Black Canyon Boys' and Girls' Club. The award, in its fifty-seventh year, recognizes contributions to family, community, school, and the club. Dayna will serve as a representative for the club for the remainder of the year, and it is my pleasure to recognize her achievement today. A fifth grade student at Pomona Elementary School in Montrose, Colorado, Dayna was named Youth of the Month by the Boys' and Girls' Club in February 2003. This honor allowed her to compete for the honor of Youth of the Year. Dayna was selected Youth of the Year from fourteen other winners because of her moral character, life goals and public speaking ability, after a competition which included an essay, an interview, and a speech. In addition to her participation in the Boys' and Girls' Club, Dayna is active in Black Canyon Gymnastics, the Torch Club leadership program, as well as several community service projects. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the service and achievements of Dayna Leonard before this body of Congress and this nation; and to congratulate her on having the distinction of being named Youth of the Year. Her dedication to improving herself and her community are truly remarkable and I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.