Scott McInnis

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise before you today to honor the lifetime achievements of a man from my district. For over thirty years, Jim Lunn, of Pueblo, Colorado has dedicated his life toward educating young musicians. Jim has been an outstanding teacher, and for his service, has recently been inducted into the Colorado Music Educators Hall of Fame. I would like to ask my colleagues in Congress to please join me in recognizing him here today. Jim was nominated for this prestigious award by several of his colleagues, who recognized his dedication to helping children learn and appreciate music. Jim also volunteers his time to grade schools, choral concerts, local theaters and his church. Jim's love of music and his willingness to share his passion for it has been a blessing for his community. Mr. Speaker, it is a great privilege to rise before this body of Congress to pay tribute to the life-long achievements and dedication of Jim Lunn. For almost forty years, Jim has devoted his life to fostering children's interest in music. Jim now joins his wife as a recipient of the award and they are only the second couple in Colorado to win this high honor. It is my privilege to offer my congratulations and gratitude to Jim for his continuing efforts to bring music appreciation to the Pueblo community and the State of Colorado.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before you to pay tribute to a remarkable woman from my district. Frances Jones of Pueblo, Colorado, passed away recently at the age of one hundred and eleven. Frances was dedicated to her family, and tried to live each day to its fullest. She will be missed by many and I would like to ask my colleagues to please join me in recognizing her amazing life before this body of Congress and this nation today. Frances was born when Grover Cleveland was president, and went on to graduate from Central High School. She later helped found the Alpha Mu Delta Sorority, and married her best friend and soul mate John Jones. During World War II, Frances served as the chairwoman of the local Red Cross canteen. She also remained active in volunteering her time for the greater good of her community and worked with the Pueblo Kennel Club for forty years, taught piano, and mentored young cub scouts before retiring at the age of ninety-six. She is survived by a son, Tom, and his wife Lillian, three grandchildren and five great- grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation and pay tribute to the life of Frances Jones. Frances' love of family and serving her community are truly a model of living life to its fullest. The Pueblo community, and the State of Colorado will truly miss her, and my thoughts go out to Frances' loved ones during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before you to pay tribute to a remarkable man from my district. David Novak of Pueblo, Colorado passed away recently at the age of seventy-three. David will always be remembered as a devoted family man and educator of his community's youth, and I would like to ask my colleagues to please join me in recognizing his amazing life before this body of Congress and this nation today. David began his career as a special education teacher in Pueblo, Colorado after graduating from Adams State College in 1952. He was an advocate for youth throughout his community, and instrumental in organizing youth baseball leagues. David's passion about youth baseball played an instrumental role in bringing the 1976 Babe Ruth Youth World Series to Pueblo, Colorado. Because of his dedication to the sport, he was inducted into the Greater Pueblo Sports Association Hall of Fame in 1980. He is survived by his wife and best friend, Laurel, their children, Michael, Patrick and Rebecca, eight grandchildren, and two brothers, Tony Novak and Joe Martell. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the inspiring life of David Novak. He was a beloved man who made a tremendous impact on his community through his many years of educational leadership and organizing youth baseball. David's love of family and public service is truly a model for us all. The Pueblo community and the State of Colorado will truly miss David, and my thoughts go out to his family 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 great woman from my district. Louise Garcia, a native of Durango, Colorado, recently passed away at the age of 85. Louise dedicated her life to improving public transportation and serving the Durango community. I am honored today to bring her contributions to the attention of this body of Congress and this nation today. Louise will forever be remembered as a pioneer of the transportation system in Durango. She worked as both a dispatcher and a bookkeeper for the city bus and Opportunity Bus transportation systems. Louise dedicated her time, energy and even personal living space to the betterment of the city's bus system. Louise enjoyed the outdoors and often volunteered to take children camping with the local Community Action organization. Louise was also an active member of the Mother's Club and the choir at her local church. Mr. Speaker, Louise Garcia was a dedicated woman that selflessly served her Durango community, and I am honored to pay tribute to such a generous public servant. Her lifetime of service is an incredible model for all Americans and my thoughts and prayers go out to her family during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before you today to pay tribute to a remarkable woman from my district. Fran Weaver of Pueblo, Colorado passed away recently at the age of seventy- nine. Fran was a successful author and friend to many, and I would like to recognize her tremendous contributions to the Pueblo community before this body of Congress and this nation. Fran was renowned for her devotion to education, and after raising her children, decided to return to college where she earned a degree in journalism. She delighted in writing her weekly column, ``Midlife Musings,'' for The Pueblo Chieftain, as well as lecturing on national television and Crystal Cruises. She felt that old age should not be a reason to slow down, and, according to her former newspaper, ``urged them to open themselves up to new experiences.'' As I reflect on Fran's accomplishments, it is evident that she heeded her own advice. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the life of Fran Weaver. Fran's love of the written word and zest for life is truly an inspiration for us all. The Pueblo community and the State of Colorado will truly miss her, and my thoughts go out to Fran's loved ones during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is truly a privilege to take this opportunity to pay tribute to David Eppich, a man who for over twenty- five years has led a distinguished career in education and public service in Durango, Colorado. His incredible devotion to his community and involvement in youth programs was recently recognized by the Durango Chamber of Commerce, named David Eppich its Citizen of the Year. This is an incredible honor for a Durango resident, and could not have been bestowed upon a more well deserving individual. For over a quarter of a century, David has worked with Fort Lewis College and emerged as a community leader actively involved in the youth programs in the Durango region. Humbled by the award, David believes there are many more well deserving individuals, and continues to encourage others to volunteer their time and resources to organizations in the Durango area. Mr. Speaker, it is quite clear that David Eppich is a person who possesses unparalleled dedication and commitment to his life long pursuit of public service. It is not only his incredible devotion, but also his passion for contributing to the youth programs in the Durango community that I wish to bring before this body of Congress. It is my distinct pleasure to honor David here today, and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise before you today to pay tribute to a remarkable man from my district who has dedicated his life to improving the lives of the citizens of Taiwan. Todd Laws, of Delta County, Colorado, started his mission ten years ago by devoting his time and efforts to help improve the lives of Taiwanese youths. Todd's work serves as a valuable model of service to us all, and I would like to ask my colleagues to please join me in recognizing his achievements before this body of Congress and this nation today. Todd recently returned from Taiwan after an intensive week of facilitating training for the Young Life leaders within the country, an organization that combines Christian beliefs with basic human values. While there, he taught basic skills such as balancing a checkbook, marketing oneself for jobs, and morality. Todd hopes to return to Taiwan in the near future, to continue this noble and worthy cause. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to Todd Laws for reaching out to the youth of Taiwan. He has truly demonstrated a devotion to the teaching of morals and values to the world's youth, and I would like to thank him for his contributions to this noble endeavor before this body of Congress and this Nation today. Thanks for your service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is truly a privilege to take this opportunity to pay tribute to John Mraule, a man who for over twenty- five years has dedicated himself to developing women athletics while rising to the top ranks of Colorado high school basketball coaches. His recent induction into the Colorado High School Activities Association Hall of Fame is a testament to his incredible ability to develop outstanding women athletes as well as his unparalleled work ethic. This incredible honor is the manifestation of a life-long passion, and could not have been bestowed upon a more deserving individual. John started the women's basketball program at Montrose High School before it was a sanctioned sport, and since has led his teams to eleven league titles, ten district championships, thirteen state tournaments, and the state championships in 1985 and 1991. As further proof of his coaching abilities, John has been named the Southwestern League Coach of the Year, and was named State Coach of the Year during his team's championship season in 1991. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that John Mraule is a person of unparalleled dedication and commitment to women athletics who coaches his teams on a championship level. It is John's incredible talent, unrelenting passion for competition, and drive for perfection that I wish to bring to the attention of this body of Congress. John is a remarkable man who has taken the Montrose High School girl's basketball program to extraordinary heights. It is my distinct pleasure to honor him here today, and wish him the best of luck in all his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is truly a privilege to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Richard Nichols, a citizen that has dedicated his life toward aiding others in medical distress. Richard has been an outstanding paramedic in Craig, Colorado and I would like to ask my colleagues to please join me in recognizing him before this body of Congress and this Nation today. Richard began his service to his community ten years ago as an ambulance driver, and before long enrolled in an EMT basic course. Seeing the benefit of his increasing skill level, Richard earned his paramedic license through the University of Colorado at Yampa Valley Medical Center. Today he values each opportunity where his crew's skills are tested and the patient walks out of the hospital, healed. Richard is also instrumental in the classroom where he teaches an EMT basic course at the Community College of Northwest Colorado. Mr. Speaker, it is quite clear that Richard Nichols is a person who possesses unparalleled dedication and commitment to not only each patient he treats, but also his students hoping to follow in his footsteps. It is his incredible talent and spirit of enthusiasm with which he has always conducted himself that I wish to bring before this body of Congress and this Nation today. Thanks for your continued service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is truly a privilege to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Harold Broughton and thank him for his service to the agricultural industry. His incredible accomplishment of being awarded the 2003 Lifetime Membership Award at the Western Colorado Horticultural Society is a testament not only to his extraordinary natural abilities, but also his incredible work ethic and indomitable human spirit. This well deserved honor is the manifestation of a life-long passion, and could not have been bestowed upon a more deserving individual. As a fourth generation farmer, Harold Broughton has spent his career managing the fruit orchards for families and organizations throughout Colorado. He was able to start his own company in 1966 which would later be named Harold Broughton Orchards, LLC which electronically sizes, custom packs, brokers and ships fruit throughout the nation under the Tom-Tom label. Mr. Speaker, it is quite clear that Harold Broughton is a person of unparalleled dedication and commitment to his life-long pursuit of horticulture and shipping fruit nationwide. It is not only his incredible devotion, but also his unrelenting passion for the fruit industry in Colorado that I wish to bring before this body of Congress. It is my distinct pleasure to honor Harold here today, 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 before you to pay tribute to a remarkable man from my district. Walter Predovich of Pueblo, Colorado recently passed away at the age of eighty-four. He will always be remembered as a devoted family man and highly respected attorney throughout the state. I would like to ask my colleagues to please join me in remembering his life before this body of Congress and this Nation today. Walter began his career by answering his nation's call to duty in serving his country in the Navy. After an honorable discharge, he returned to Colorado to graduate from Colorado College and later the University of Denver School of Law. He went on to practice law for more than half a century and retired as a senior partner in the law firm of Predovich, Ward and Banner. Walter was also passionate about the arts, and served on the board of directors of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, where he had been president and chief operating officer for almost fifteen years. He is survived by his wife and best friend of fifty-seven years, Marjorie, their two sons, Walter and David, and two grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the wonderful life of Walter Predovich. Walter was a beloved man who made a tremendous impact on his community through his many years of service in his profession and to the performing arts. Walter's love of family and community service is truly a model to us all. The Pueblo community and the State of Colorado will truly miss Walter, and my thoughts go out to his family during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize Mark Marchus and thank him for his many contributions to Routt County, Colorado. After 6 years of impeccable service to the Routt County Regional Building Department, Mark announced his impending retirement. He has done much to enhance his community, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank him for his service. During his tenure with the Routt County Regional Building Department, Mark distinguished himself as an able and competent leader. He made the department more customer friendly, and was instrumental in developing a computer tracking system to aid contractors to monitor each step involved in receiving a building permit. He also implemented an interactive voice system that allows contractors to request building inspections until Midnight the day before. These technological improvements significantly improved the department's efficiency. Mr. Speaker, it is a great privilege to honor Mark Marchus and wish him all the best as he steps down on April 30 from the Routt County Regional Building Department. He has dedicated his time and energy toward the betterment of the Routt county community and certainly deserves the praise and admiration of this body of Congress and this Nation. Mark, thank you for your dedicated service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise before you today to pay tribute to the life and memory of Joe Espinoza, who passed away recently at the age of ninety-two. Joe embodied the ideals of patriotism, integrity and love of family that we, as Americans, have come to expect from our public servants. As his family mourns the loss, I believe it is appropriate to remember Joe and pay tribute to his contributions to his city, state and country. Joe began his service to this nation as a Marine in World War II, and following an honorable discharge, returned to Colorado where he and his wife, Melissa, opened their family restaurant and bar, El Patio. He entered a life of public service in 1978 when he was elected Mayor of San Luis, an office he held for three terms. During his tenure, Joe enjoyed the distinction of being the town's oldest mayor. He is survived by two sons, Josito and Abby; four daughters, Theresa, Margaret, Joetta, and Claudine; twenty-two grandchildren, thirty-one great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the memory of Joe Espinoza. He was a beloved family man and public servant who also made numerous contributions to his community. The San Luis community and the State of Colorado will truly miss Joe, and my thoughts go 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 the Hirschfeld family's impressive tradition of business excellence and philanthropy in Colorado. For over three generations, the Hirschfeld's have dedicated their time and efforts toward improving their Denver community. In acknowledgment of the family's many contributions, Barry Hirschfeld, his father Edward, and grandfather A.B. were recently inducted into the Colorado Business Hall of Fame. The Hirschfeld legacy began when A.B. founded the A.B. Hirschfeld Press Company in 1907 by printing business cards with a hand press. It has grown to one of the largest printing companies in the area, employing 150 members of the community, and boasts annual earnings of $23 million. The Hirschfeld's entrepreneurial spirit guided them into a number of other prominent business ventures. A.B.'s love for sports resulted in his co-ownership of the Denver Broncos and Denver Bears. Edward's interest in telecommunications led him to start a local television station, and he was instrumental in helping to bring cable television to Denver through Mile High Cable. Barry, the current president of Hirschfeld Press, took an early interest in telecommunications as well, starting a car phone company in 1984, and has pursued various real estate interests throughout the Denver region. The Hirschfeld family is also well known for their philanthropic endeavors. A.B. served on no less than fifty civic organizations during his life, and founded the Denver Housing Authority, which has worked to help low-income families. Edward actively participated in numerous Jewish and social organizations, was a co-founder of the Hundred Club of Denver, and served as board chairman of Mile High United Way. Today, Barry and his wife Arlene tirelessly devote their efforts to numerous community activities and charitable organizations, such as the Boettcher Foundation and aiding in the creation of the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District. Mr. Speaker, the drive the Hirschfeld family has shown in their business and charitable activities have made them true civic leaders in their community. For nearly a century, the Hirschfeld family has left an indelible mark of excellence on the City of Denver and the State of Colorado. It is my privilege to extend my sincere congratulations to the Hirschfeld's on their induction into the Colorado Business Hall of Fame.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is truly a privilege to take this opportunity to pay tribute to John Elway, a remarkable individual and stellar athlete from the State of Colorado. John will be forever revered as one of the most outstanding quarterbacks to ever play in the National Football League. In recognition of his achievements and dedication to the sport, John was recently selected to enter into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor is a true testament to his extraordinary leadership and commitment to excellence both on and off the field, and it is my honor to highlight his accomplishments before this body of Congress and this nation. John captured the attention of sports enthusiasts worldwide throughout his impressive career. He began playing for the Denver Broncos in 1983, and went on to lead his team to five playoff appearances, five Superbowls, and two Superbowl victories. Upon his retirement in 1998, John had amassed more victories than any quarterback in the history of the NFL. As further testament to his career accomplishments, John was chosen to enter the Pro Football Hall of Fame on his first year of eligibility. John is also well known as an active leader off the field, and has for many years, contributed his time and energies toward improving the lives of his fellow citizens. In 1987, John founded The Elway Foundation, an organization that has been instrumental in raising over $3 million to help eliminate child abuse. The money has been used to aid the Family Advocacy, Care, Education, Support organization and The Kempe Children's Center. John's dedication to his community truly serves as a valuable model of civic service to today's youth and young athletes. Mr. Speaker, it is quite clear that John Elway is a person whose unparalleled dedication and hard work both led him to the top of his profession in the National Football League. The combination of his incredible talent and unrelenting passion for competition, combined with an unconquerable human spirit, has led to his selection as a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. It is my distinct pleasure to recognize his achievements before this body of Congress and this nation today, and I wish him all the best in his future endeavors. You have made your teammates, your fans, and the State of Colorado proud.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise before you today to pay tribute to the students of Fruita Monument High School who recently devoted their time and efforts toward improving the lives of others. Last year, 25 students joined the Committee for a Merry Christmas For All to construct, collect and distribute Christmas toys to needy children in Colorado. Their actions serve as a valuable model of community service, and I would like to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing their tremendous contributions to the State of Colorado before this body of Congress and this nation. The Committee for a Merry Christmas For All was established 17 years ago. Since the committee's beginning, the Grand Junction Free Press reports that ``Students have designed and constructed nearly 5,000 toys . . . and they've collected another nearly 6,000.'' This past year, under the tutelage of their teachers Ed Reid and Mel Crider, the students constructed and distributed a variety of toys. On the Saturday preceding Christmas, the students and their teachers met at Fruita Monument High School and distributed the collection of toys to children in need throughout the Grand Junction community. This is an amazing group of young citizens, and I am proud to highlight their amazing actions here on the floor of the House of Representatives. Mr. Speaker, it is a high honor to rise before this body of Congress to pay tribute to each member of the Committee for a Merry Christmas For All. I would also like to thank their teachers Ed and Mel, who have dedicated their time and efforts to make this service possible. These efforts have brightened the lives of thousands of needy children in Colorado, and the State will forever remain grateful. It is my honor to offer my deepest gratitude and appreciation to the Committee and School, and I thank them for their service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to pay tribute to the life and memory of former Grand Junction Mayor John Bennett, who after a long battle with an illness, passed away at the age of sixty-six. John was a true American patriot, and a beloved friend and colleague to many in his Colorado community. In his years spent in public service, John embodied the ideals of integrity and courage that we, as Americans, have come to expect. 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. Mayor Bennett lived an immensely rich and full life, always holding firm to his beliefs in serving his community and country. He spent over twenty years defending this Nation, serving in the Air Force and the Army, where he earned a reputation as a solid and dependable leader. After his retirement, John continued to feel a call to service and dedicated his efforts toward improving the lives of his Grand Junction community. He served as a member of the Grand Junction City Council, and was elected mayor in 1988, where he was known for his judiciousness and problem-solving skills. Mr. Speaker, we are all at a great loss because of Mayor Bennett's passing, but can be comforted in knowing he helped make Grand Junction a better place for future generations. I would like to extend my heartfelt sorrow to his wife of over twenty years, Barbara, and his loving children, Tammy, Vicki, and William. Mayor Bennett's selfless dedication to Grand Junction, the State of Colorado, and the United States has helped ensure a promising future for our great country and I am deeply honored to bring his life to the attention of this body of Congress. I am proud to have known such a great man who enriched the lives of his family, community, and Nation.

Mr. MCINNIS

Mr. MCINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise before you to recognize Marjorie Clement of Jefferson County, Colorado, who recently passed away at the age of 81. She was a stellar public servant who will be missed by many, and I think it appropriate that we remember her life before this body of Congress and this Nation today. Marjorie was appointed Jefferson County Commissioner in 1981, and was elected to serve for two additional terms. An ardent supporter of preserving Colorado's open spaces, Marjorie worked tirelessly to preserve some of Colorado's most beautiful landscapes and vistas. Marjorie became the second woman elected to the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners, and will be remembered as a great defender of the citizens in her community. In addition to her elected office, Marjorie also contributed to her community as a member of the Jefferson County Historical Commission and the Jefferson County Historical Society. Marjorie was an avid outdoorswoman, enjoying horseback riding, tennis, and skiing. She is survived by a daughter, Elizabeth Graham, a son, Lawrence Clement, five grandchildren, and a great-granddaughter. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this Nation to pay tribute to the life of Marjorie Clement. Marjorie was a beloved woman who made a tremendous impact on her community through her many selfless years in public service. The Jefferson County community and the State of Colorado will truly miss her, and my thoughts go out to Marjorie's loved ones during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before you to pay tribute to the life of a remarkable man from my district. Charles Richard Butler of Durango, Colorado passed away recently at the age of 80. Charles will always be remembered as a devoted family man and patriot, and I would like to ask my colleagues to please join me in recognizing his amazing life before this body of Congress and this Nation today. Charles began his career serving his country in the Navy, and played an integral role in unloading landing craft tanks on Utah beach during the D-Day invasion. After his honorable discharge, he went on to graduate from the University of Colorado in Boulder with both his undergraduate and graduate degrees in geology. Throughout his 35-year career, Charles worked in a variety of geological capacities and was highly respected as an expert in his field. Charles will also be remembered for leading an adventurous life, having both mined the wilds of Alaska, and searched for gold in Mexico. He is survived by his daughter, Ann, his niece Sarah Sumner and her daughters Laura, Julia and Meredith; his brothers William, Howard, and David along with numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this Nation to pay tribute to the inspiring life of Charles Richard Butler. He was a beloved family man who made a tremendous impact in the field of geology. The Durango community, and the State of Colorado will truly miss Charles, and my thoughts go out to his family during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before you today to pay tribute to a man from my district. Robert Greene Baker, of Grand Junction, Colorado, passed away recently at the age of eighty-eight. Robert will be remembered as a patriot and devoted community member, and it is my honor to recognize his life and accomplishments before this body of Congress here today. After serving his country as a Marine in World War II, Robert returned to Colorado. He later married his best friend Mary, a loving marriage that lasted sixty-three years. Together, they raised three wonderful children. Robert spent almost four decades with the Public Service Company of Colorado, earning the title of supervisor. Upon retiring, Robert was fortunate to enjoy time spent fishing and traveling to a variety of exotic locations with his family. Robert was also passionate about giving back to his community. He could be found volunteering for a variety of civic organizations, such as the Mesa County United Way, Grand Junction Planning Commission and the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress to pay tribute to the life of Robert Greene Baker. Robert served this nation and he leaves behind a legacy of dedication and commitment to his family and community. My heart goes out to his family and friends during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise before you today to pay tribute to a remarkable man from my district. John Tillema of Pueblo, Colorado, has devoted his life to instructing both the young and old to ski the slopes of his beloved state. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize John's tremendous enthusiasm and contributions to the sport of skiing before my colleagues here today. John learned to ski while serving with the Army Air Corps during World War II. After the war, he returned to Colorado where he graduated from the University of Colorado and went on to a career in the insurance business. John's true passion, however, was on the ski slopes. As an instructor, he has spent over thirty years teaching his craft. John's commitment to the sport has earned him several prestigious awards, such as the USA Ski Instructor of the Year and the Ski Country USA Lifetime Achievement Award. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to John Tillema and his zest for life and the sport of skiing; a passion that I am sure resonates throughout his many students over the years. I would like to thank him for his contributions before this body of Congress and nation today, and wish him all the best in his future endeavors. Thanks John for your service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before you today to pay tribute to the life of a fellow Coloradan. After over a decade of fighting with a rare illness, Chris Mesaric from Montrose, CO, sadly passed away recently at the age of thirty-five. Chris was a loving husband, proud father, and devoted son. He will be missed by many, and I think it appropriate that we remember his life here today. When Chris was diagnosed with severe aplastic anemia, he was given only days to live, but Chris decided that he would not accept waiting around to die, vowing to fight his ailment to the fullest. Regardless of the amount of pain that Chris may have experienced during treatments, he never let on to his suffering and instead focused on spending time with his family and those he loved. He is survived by his parents Frank and Linda, his wife Robin and two daughters. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress to pay tribute to the life of Chris Mesaric. He was a beloved man who overcame obstacles, always lived life to the fullest, and was an inspiration to many. The Montrose community and State of Colorado will truly miss him. My heart goes out to his family during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to a remarkable woman from my district. Dorothy Faught of Cortez, Colorado just celebrated her 80th birthday. As her family and friends mark the occasion, I would like to honor Dorothy here today. Dorothy Faught has spent decades caring for others in her career as a nurse. In fact, Dorothy has been working in the healing profession since 1945, having started by treating soldiers returning from World War II. Dorothy has spent her first 30 years as the head nurse in the intensive care units in Detroit, Michigan. She went on to continue her career as the Director of Nursing at the Cortez hospital. Dorothy continues her career to this day, working at Southwest Home Health. Her love and knowledge of nursing has won the praise from her colleagues and patients. Dorothy has passed down her enthusiasm for the profession to her two daughters and serves as a role model to others serving in health care. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to give praise to Dorothy's remarkable career. Dorothy serves as an inspiration to the Cortez community, especially her patients. I am truly honored to recognize her here today. I congratulate Dorothy for her success and thank her for her service. Happy 80th birthday!

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before you today to pay tribute to the short but inspiring life of a citizen from my district. Geoffrey Zaragoza from La Jara, Colorado passed away recently at the young age of nineteen. Geoffrey was a beloved son, friend and sportsman who will be missed by all and I think it is appropriate that we take the time to recognize his remarkable young life here today. Geoffrey will be remembered for his love of the outdoors. He always looked forward to casting his line upon the many fishing spots throughout the state. Geoffrey was also an accomplished track athlete whose speed mesmerized the crowds cheering on the Alamosa track and cross-country teams. Those in the community who knew Geoffrey will remember his devotion to always do his very best. He will certainly remain an inspiration to the entire La Jara community. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the life of Geoffrey Zaragoza. Geoffrey was a beloved young man who made a tremendous impact on his community in his short life. He was a loving son, a devoted fisherman, track athlete and a loyal friend to many. The La Jara community and State of Colorado will truly miss him. My heart goes out to Geoffrey's loved ones in 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 devoted entrepreneur from Monte Vista, Colorado. George Merriwether sets an example for people to work hard no matter their age. His enthusiasm for life is an inspiration to the community and I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing George's tremendous service to the Monte Vista community. At ninety years old, George Merriwether is still putting in countless hours five to six times a week at his own irrigation business. George started the business at age sixty when, after working twenty-six years in Los Angeles, he decided to return to Colorado. George's irrigation business is oriented towards service, with two pump crews installing pumps and one man in charge of their rebuilding. Mr. Speaker, George Merriwether is a dedicated individual who enriches the lives of Monte Vista citizens by providing a great irrigation service to the community. George has demonstrated a passion for work that is rare for a man of any age. One can only imagine what our nation could do if we all had as much energy and compassion as he does. George's enthusiasm and commitment certainly deserve the recognition of this body of Congress.