Scott McInnis

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I rise to pay tribute to the passing of a great man from my district. Dr. J. Alan Shand was a beloved member of his community and a staple in most of their lives. He will be remembered as a valued member of the La Junta, Colorado community and I am honored to bring his many contributions to the attention of this body of Congress and nation today. Following service in World War II, Dr. Shand moved to La Junta in 1946 along with his wife and son and he found a job at Mennonite Hospital. They expanded their family to include another son and daughter. During Dr. Shand's career he was not only one of the town's most beloved doctors but he also helped deliver a gift to hundreds of families: babies. Wanting to be a doctor since he was young, Dr. Shand reached his goal and then went beyond. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Shand, a humble man with a great disposition, was a pillar of his community. Dr. Shand brought many young ones into this world and continued to touch their lives from that day forward. It is with great sadness that we mourn his loss. I join this body of Congress in paying tribute to his good works and fine example. My heart goes out to Dr. Shand's loved ones and to his community 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 two great people from my district. Eric and Grace Cross, who spent the last 32 years of their life in Alamosa, Colorado, recently passed away at the ages of 76 and 74. The Crosses dedicated their lives to public service and to the challenging fields of teaching and missionary work. I am honored today to bring their contributions to the attention of this body of Congress and this nation. Eric and Grace met as teenagers at the Briercrest Bible Institute, and after their marriage in 1949, moved to Ecuador for four years to work as missionaries. They served an additional six years as missionaries in Del Rio, Texas before moving to Alamosa. Eric later earned a Bachelor's Degree in special education from Adams State College and the two of them continued to minister to the migrants who worked the fields of the San Luis Valley. In 1966, after a move to Palisade, Colorado, Eric became a teacher, and later principal, at the Regional Center, where Grace also worked as a technician and later a dorm a supervisor. At night, Eric earned his Masters degree in special education at Western State College. In what little spare time Eric had left he served as an interim minister in churches throughout western Colorado and eastern Utah. When Eric and Grace retired, they continued to serve the Alamosa community, coordinating the soup kitchen and help desk for the Palisade Migrant Center. Mr. Speaker, Eric and Grace were dedicated people that selflessly served their community and country and I am honored to pay tribute to them here today. Their lifetime of service is an incredible model for all Americans and my thoughts and prayers go out to their families 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 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.

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, I am privileged to pay tribute today to two phenomenal individuals from my district who have devoted over a half century to each other and to their fellow citizens. George and Mary Gleason of Aspen, Colorado, recently marked 60 years of marriage. As they, their family, and friends celebrate this union, I would like to take this time to honor the Gleasons and their dedication to each other before this body of Congress and this nation. George and Mary first met in 1942. As native Coloradans, they attended college in state and exchanged their vows there as well. Early in their marriage, the Gleason's spent time away from the state during World War II due to George's career as an aerospace engineer. As dedicated skiers, Aspen was a favorite destination for them and they eventually purchased a cabin there. In the 1980s they became permanent residents. The Gleason were able to pass along the love of this town to their children, many of whom still call Aspen home. The Gleasons have truly become pillars in this picturesque mountain town, maintaining their love of skiing and organizing outdoors trips for the senior community. Mr. Speaker, George and Mary Gleason have maintained their commitment to each other and to their community for 60 years. Their enthusiasm for life and for the outdoors is infectious for all who they encounter. Their love for each other, their children, and grandchildren knows no bounds. I am honored to pay tribute to the anniversary of their vows and to the abiding love the Gleasons have for each other. I wish them many more years in matrimonial bliss. Happy 60th wedding anniversary!

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before you today to pay tribute to a remarkable man from my district. Orville Rouch of Pueblo, Colorado, died recently at the age of eighty-five. Orville was a patriot, a devoted family man and a father who will be missed by many in the community. I think it appropriate that we remember his life here today. After serving his nation in the Army during World War II, Orville returned to the states and enrolled in the San Francisco College of Mortuary Science. He soon joined the family business started by his parents, the Rouch Funeral Home, which has served the community for over eighty years. Orville was an active member of the Pueblo Charter Lions Club, Pueblo Masonic Lodge 17, and the First United Methodist Church. Orville cherished the relationships he established in the civic community. He will be forever remembered for his dedication to his business and community, and most of all, Orville will be remembered as a loving father to his two sons. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress to pay tribute to the life of Orville Rouch. Orville was remarkable man who served the Pueblo community and State of Colorado selflessly. 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 a talented teacher from Walsenburg, Colorado. Henry McIntosh inspires and challenges his students to become better people. His teaching enthusiasm spirals through the community as he equips students with the knowledge to chase after their dreams. I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing Henry's tremendous service to the Walsenburg community. This year the Colorado Department of Education recognized Henry as the top teacher in the state. He received the 2003 Outstanding Colorado Teacher Award for his extraordinary commitment to involving students in their communities and increasing student achievement by promoting school accountability. Henry helped to institute the first advanced placement programs at John Mall High School in order to give students in rural communities the same opportunities that urban schools offer. He encourages students to be involved with their school by sponsoring the student-run organization that addresses concerns and suggestions for improving the school called the student senate. Henry pushes his students to work hard by organizing a literacy tour in Great Britain for his advanced placement students over Spring Break as a reward. Mr. Speaker, Henry McIntosh is a wonderful ambassador for education who dedicates his life to teaching the next generation of leaders in his Walsenburg, Colorado community. Henry has taken the noble and challenging occupation of teaching to a new level of excellence. His compassionate and selfless service to Walsenburg and the Colorado community certainly deserve the recognition of this body of Congress. Congratulations on your award Henry, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you with a heavy heart to pay tribute to the life of a remarkable woman from my district. Helen Burkett from Durango, Colorado passed away recently at the age of ninety-eight. Helen was a beloved figure in the Durango community and as her family mourns their loss, I think it is appropriate that we take the time to recognize her many contributions here today. Helen was born on her family's Durango farm in 1906. She remained on the property for 94 years. Helen attended grade school in a one-room building located near Lemon Reservoir. When construction began on the Vallicito Reservoir in 1936, Helen opened a store on the farm in order to help her family through the ``Great Depression.'' Helen was a dedicated businesswoman, and after 67 years in business, ``Helen's Store'' achieved the status of ``local landmark'' in recognition of her tremendous service to her patrons. Helen also delighted in the ranching life. She was an accomplished cattlewoman and was always willing to share her skill and knowledge with younger generations. In 1994, the Durango Professional Rodeo Company recognized Helen's contributions to the ranching community when they awarded her the Western Heritage Award, given to those dedicated to the promotion of Western culture. Those who knew her well remember Helen's zest for life, as well as her caring and nurturing disposition. There is no question that Durango is a better place as the result of Helen's many contributions. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the life of Helen Burkett. Helen was a true frontierswoman who had a tremendous impact on her community. Above all, Helen was a loving mother, a wonderful grandmother, a caring great-grandmother and a loyal friend to many. The Durango community and the State of Colorado will truly miss her. My heart goes out to Helen's loved ones during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise before you to recognize a remarkable citizen from my district. Ben Rizzi recently retired after 30 years of service to the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Colorado. Ben dedicated his professional life to the conservation of Colorado's natural resources and I am proud to call his contributions to the attention of this body of Congress and this nation. Ben was born in Walsenburg, Colorado. Following high school, he attended Colorado State University in Fort Collins. Throughout college, Ben worked for the Forest Service over each summer vacation. It was during this time that Ben's love for the outdoors began to influence his career path. After receiving his degree, Ben took a job on a cattle ranch near La Veta. After working on the ranch for a year, Ben took a position with the Soil Conservation Service, which was eventually renamed the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Throughout his tenure with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ben achieved great success as a District Conservationist. Ben worked tirelessly for the betterment of every landowner and parcel of land he encountered. Ben is truly an outstanding steward of the land and the benefits of his tireless devotion and hard work will be felt for generations to come. Although Ben is retiring, his legacy will live on through his two sons, both of whom have followed in their father's footsteps and chosen careers in the field of natural resources. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to Ben Rizzi. Ben spent nearly three decades working for the betterment of Colorado's farming and ranching communities. Ben will be missed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. However, he will now have more time to spend with his family and his many friends throughout Colorado. Thank you Ben 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 remarkable life of a man from my district. Don Johnson from Aspen, Colorado passed away recently at the age of 68. Don was devoted to his wife and children, and will also be remembered for his commitment to the Aspen community. Don will be remembered as a pioneer in the ski industry of Colorado. Throughout his 37 year career, it is estimated that he created and blazed more than 70 of the trails that skiers run every season. Don will also be remembered as a devoted husband who, with his wife Janet, raised four sons. Along with helping to raise his family, he also ran his mountain with skill and fortitude. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress to pay tribute to the life of Don Johnson. Don was a husband, father, and friend to many who made a tremendous impact that will be felt for generations to come. The Aspen community, and State of Colorado, will truly miss Don. My heart goes out to his loved ones 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 remarkable woman who resides from my district, Helen Haverstraw. Helen resides in Bayfield, Colorado and has been an active member of her community and her church for many years. Helen is a gracious individual and inspires those around her and I am honored to praise her accomplishments today. Helen celebrated her 100th birthday on December 12th. She was born in 1903 in West Virginia on a farm during the Teddy Roosevelt era. The farm produced tomatoes, corn and other crops and her father would travel six miles to get into town to sell the fruits of his labor. Helen went on to become valedictorian of her high school. She married Ted Haverstraw in 1928 and they raised their daughters in West Virginia. Following a series of moves in the 1980's and early 90's, she returned to Colorado, where she continues to reside. Mr. Speaker, Helen Haverstraw has lived a long and active life. She attributes her longevity to her abstaining from harmful products and a positive attitude. Helen's personality and willingness to help others have led her to the exceptional milestone she celebrates this year. Congratulations on your 100th birthday Helen, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to a remarkable woman from my district. Peggie Ford from Grand Junction, Colorado recently returned from a trip to Venezuela where she and a team of volunteers performed volunteer medical work for underprivileged children. Peggie's altruistic dedication to those less fortunate than herself is certainly deserving of recognition and it is my honor to call her acts to the attention of this body of Congress and our Nation here today. Peggie is a surgery nurse with Saint Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction. She traveled to Venezuela as a member of a team of volunteers organized by Rotaplast International, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing medical help to underprivileged people throughout the world. This was Peggie's second trip to provide medical services to the needy. On the first, she traveled to Chile, where she assisted in numerous beneficial surgeries for those in need. During her recent trip to Venezuela, Peggie and her team worked tirelessly to provide reconstructive surgery to children with cleft palates. Fueled by their intense desire to help, the team performed surgeries for 11 straight days. Each morning, they began work at dawn and continued late into the night. Those who received the surgery were eternally grateful and truly had their lives enhanced by the selfless dedication of the volunteer medical professionals. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to Peggie Ford. It is truly a remarkable person that is willing to spend their vacation time to travel across the world to employ their talents for the betterment of others. Peggie is the embodiment of all that makes this country great and it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to her selfless contributions.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to the Rifle Area Chamber of Commerce in Rifle, Colorado. The Chamber recently celebrated 50 years of service to the City of Rifle, and it is my honor to call the attention of my colleagues and this nation to all that the Chamber does for the citizens of Rifle. The Chamber has a strong tradition of excellent leadership and a dedicated staff. Since its inception, the Chamber has focused on the organization and health of Rifle's economy and its able and dedicated staff members always greet each citizen with a smile. In addition to its traditional activities, the Rifle Chamber of Commerce has always gone beyond the call of duty to be involved in the community. This anniversary celebration also marks a milestone for the only remaining charter member since 1954, John Scalzo. John's service to the chamber and to the city of Rifle has been much appreciated and invaluable, and I know the community is thankful for his service. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to rise and pay tribute to the Rifle Area Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber works tirelessly for the betterment of the city of Rifle and I am honored to pay tribute to its contributions today. Congratulations on your anniversary and keep up the hard work.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise before you today to pay tribute to a remarkable teacher and artist from my district. Lee Johnson has enjoyed an extraordinary career as both a full-time professor and professional artist, and I would like to join my colleagues here today in recognizing Lee's tremendous service and contribution to the Gunnison community. As a professor at Western State College, Lee has inspired countless students in using their full artistic potential in creating a variety of artworks. When not guiding students in their artistic education, Lee could be found in his studio working in a variety of artistic mediums. To devote more time to his passion of creating, Lee recently retired from Western State College. Moving forward, Lee will continue to draw upon the many beautiful sights of Colorado as inspiration in producing artwork to be appreciated by all. Mr. Speaker, Lee Johnson is a wonderful ambassador for education and artistic contributions who has dedicated over three decades of his life to teaching the future leaders of tomorrow in his Gunnison, Colorado community. While his classroom will fall silent, he will continue to communicate to us through his daily devotion to creating beautiful artwork. I would like to congratulate Lee on an extraordinary career of public service and wish him the very best in his retirement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today with a heavy heart to pay tribute to the life of a remarkable woman from North Egremont, Massachusetts. Mrs. Anne Rawlings recently passed away at the age of eighty-one. She was a beloved figure and as her family and friends mourn her loss, I think it is appropriate that we take the time to recognize her many contributions here today. Throughout her accomplished life, Anne was a patriot, mother, and wife. She joined the Army, where she served with the Women's Air Force Service Pilots, and helped to train fellow aviators in aerial gunnery. She was also a mother and was able to remain at home to help raise two children and take care of various family pets. Anne also enjoyed other activities such as reading, sewing, and picture puzzles and was an active member of St. James Episcopal Church in Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the life of Anne Rawlings. Anne was a true patriot, loving mother and wife who certainly had an impact on all who were fortunate to know her. I am honored to pay tribute for such a wonderful life and my heart goes out to her loved ones during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to pay respect to the passing of Gregorio Lambert, who died just four days after his 83rd birthday. Gregorio was a valued member of the Pueblo, Colorado community for close to 20 years. As his family mourns his loss, I think it is appropriate to pay tribute to the contributions Gregorio made to the veteran community of Colorado and his great service to this nation. Gregorio Lambert grew up in Texas and served in the Army during World War II. Gregorio participated in the Normandy invasion and was held captive as a Prisoner of War in Germany for a year. After receiving an honorary discharge, he returned to Texas and married his wife of 57 years, Flora, later moving to Pueblo in 1985 to raise his family of three sons. Gregorio will be remembered as a valued member of the Pueblo Veterans Ritual Team, which provided assurance that our great veterans receive proper funeral arrangements. He helped put many hearts and minds at ease in the mourning of their loved ones. In addition to this gracious duty, Gregorio was a lifetime member of the San Isabel Chapter of the Disabled American Veterans and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Mr. Speaker, Gregorio Lambert was a well-respected member of his community, who unselfishly spent his time honoring his fellow veterans and their families. I am honored to take this time to pay tribute to this great patriot today and I would like to extend my thoughts and deepest sympathies to Gregorio's family and friends 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. My friend, Ed McVaney, is currently in Iraq where he has placed himself in harm's way to assist the citizens of that nation in their recovery from three and a half decades of tyrannical oppression. It is my pleasure to call the attention of this body of Congress to the bravery and heroism of this great American. Ed recently retired as CEO of the J.D Edwards Corporation in Denver. During Ed's tenure, J.D. Edwards grew to become Colorado's largest software company. Under his watch, the company played a major role in promoting the health of Colorado's economy. J.D. Edwards employed five thousand Coloradans and kept our state at the forefront of the technology industry. Ed's journey to Iraq began as the result of a discussion he had with Congressman Bob Schaffer last May. When the Congressman proposed the trip, Ed's patriotic nature shone through and he accepted without hesitation. In Iraq, Ed spends each day working tirelessly to help the country rebuild its ravaged economic infrastructure. Ed is truly utilizing his vast expertise and tremendous work ethic for the betterment of those desperately in need. Ed currently lives in a 10-foot by 10-foot travel trailer near one of Saddam Hussein's former palaces. He spends each day working tirelessly to help the people of Iraq rebuild their homeland. It is truly an admirable human being who is willing to sacrifice his comfortable retirement to risk life and limb to assist others. Ed's commitment to this project is far from a symbolic gesture; he has made a commitment to remain in Iraq for an entire year. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise and call the attention of this body of Congress and our nation to Ed McVaney. Ed has done a great deal for the betterment of the state of Colorado, the United States, and the people of Iraq. He has done all this while happily serving as a wonderful husband, a tremendous father and a loyal friend to many. I am proud of Ed and it is my honor to recognize him here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute today to a remarkable woman from my district. Dona Guy is a beloved figure in Durango, Colorado who has touched the lives of countless people. Dona is retiring this year after 18 years of service to Fort Lewis College and I am honored to rise and recognize her contributions to the college and her community. Dona has dedicated her life to young people. Countless Fort Lewis students and alumni consider Dona their adopted grandmother. She began her career working in the school's records office and will retire from her current position as the school's Assistant Athletic Director. Dona has always gone beyond the call of duty in her work and her tremendous service has not gone unnoticed. She has been the recipient of many awards, including the prestigious Fort Lewis College Outstanding Staff Award. Dona's school spirit is legendary. Her intense and contagious cheering has been credited with inspiring numerous Sky Hawk victories. In addition, Dona provides a great deal of time and effort to various school groups, including the Talon Club, the Sky Hawk Angels and the Athletic Advisory Committee. For her dedication to the school's athletic program, Dona has received the Joanne Parish Outstanding Spectator Award, as well as the President's Spirit Award. Dona truly embodies Fort Lewis school spirit. Dona's contributions to the Durango community reach far beyond her work at Fort Lewis College. In a recent ceremony to celebrate Dona's retirement, two hundred and fifty students, friends, family members and fellow citizens gathered to pay tribute to Dona. Those who spoke recounted fond memories of times when Dona had enhanced their lives, not only through her work with the school, but through her involvement in the community as well. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to call the attention of this body of Congress and our nation to Dona Guy. In her service to Fort Lewis College, Dona has served as a mentor and friend to countless students and faculty members. In addition to her work, Dona has happily served as a wonderful wife, mother and friend. Thank you Dona, I hope you enjoy your retirement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you with a heavy heart to pay tribute to a remarkable man from my district. Archie Bodo from Durango, Colorado passed away recently at the age of 94. Archie contributed a great deal to the Durango community, and it is my honor today to rise and pay tribute to his life before this body of Congress and our nation. Archie was born on his family's vegetable farm in Durango in 1909. After growing up on the farm, Archie attended the Ford Motor Company School in Detroit, where he was trained as a machinist. Upon returning to Colorado, Archie opened a successful machine shop in Durango. In 1931, Archie married his wife of 72 years, Hazel Lemon. Although they had no children, the couple selflessly adopted and raised Hazel's niece and nephew as their own. In 1983, Archie retired after 37 years of devoted service to the City of Durango. Archie had a true zest for life. Renowned for his sense of adventure, Archie was an avid vehicle enthusiast who enjoyed car racing, building motorcycles and off road driving. Archie also delighted in gardening, roller-skating and discussing politics with his friends. Archie always shared his enthusiasm for sport with others and countless Durango residents had their lives enhanced as the result of his friendship and guidance. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to Archie Bodo. Archie's love of life and altruistic nature set a fine example for all Coloradans. Archie was a fine businessman and a friend to many. Above all, Archie was a tremendous father figure, and a devoted and loving husband. My thoughts go out to Archie's loved ones in this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to my friend Bob Beverly. Throughout his life, Bob has done a tremendous amount for the sport of skiing and the people of our home state of Colorado. Each day, Bob shares his joy for life with others and it is my honor to rise and call the attention of my colleagues to his many contributions. Bob was born in Steamboat Springs, and it was there that his lifelong passion for skiing began. While in high school, Bob was an alpine ski racer and a member of the renowned Steamboat Springs High School Marching Band on Skis. After high school, Bob attended the University of Denver, where he was active in the promotion of skiing as a collegiate sport. In fact, Bob's work was instrumental in the University sanctioning skiing as a varsity sport. After leaving the University of Denver, Bob continued his dedication to skiing when the National Ski Area Committee appointed him as its Chairman. In this capacity, Bob played a key role in influencing the National Collegiate Athletic Association's recognition of skiing as an official sport. Later, Bob helped to pioneer the skiing industry in Mesa Creek, Grand Mesa and my hometown of Glenwood Springs. Bob has dedicated a great deal of time to the promotion of skier safety. He has organized chapters of the National Ski Patrol, created a volunteer patrol program and has passed his knowledge along to countless instructors and patrolmen. Bob has also worked tirelessly to share his love for skiing with young people. He developed a statewide youth ski program, and continues to dedicate time to sharing his love for skiing with children. Bob's dedication to his sport has not gone unnoticed. In 1965, he was awarded the Halstead Memorial Award by the United States Ski Association and, in 2000, he was inducted into the Colorado Ski Hall of Fame. Bob has always used skiing as a means to better the lives of countless people. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to call the attention of this body of Congress to the contributions of Bob Beverly. Hundreds of young people have had their lives enhanced as the result of Bob's tireless enthusiasm, zest for life and altruistic nature. Bob has managed to do all of this while happily serving as a tremendous husband, father, and friend to many. It is a true honor to count Bob among my close friends.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise today to recognize a remarkable woman from my home state of Colorado. Janet Junkin was recently recognized as one of four finalists for Colorado's Teacher of the Year Award. Janet has dedicated her life to the betterment of young people and I am proud to call the attention of this body of Congress and our nation to her outstanding contributions. Janet has been teaching for over two decades. In that time, she has helped to develop the minds and character of countless young people. At the root of Janet's teaching philosophy is her belief that education is a catalyst to creating opportunities for young people. Each of her students has had their future enhanced by Janet's unwavering devotion to their best interests. In addition to traditional subjects, Janet also works to teach her students the importance of contributing to their community. Each year, Janet's classes undertake various community service projects. This past November, Janet and her class collected 52,000 cans of food for homeless families in the Denver area. By integrating classroom lessons with real life service to others, Janet imparts timeless values to her students that will help them develop into service-oriented adults. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to Janet Junkin. Janet's selfless dedication to her students contributes to the betterment of those in her class and society as a whole. Thank you Janet for your service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise before you to recognize a remarkable woman from my home state of Colorado. Char Sorenson was recently recognized as one of four finalists for Colorado's annual Teacher of the Year Award. Char has dedicated her life to the betterment of young people and I am proud to call the attention of this body of Congress and our nation to her outstanding contributions. Char is a teacher at Vanderhoof Elementary School in Arvada, Colorado. Char's genuine passion for teaching shines through in the classroom each day. As a teacher, Char works tirelessly to provide her students with the educational foundation that will help them to become effective and successful members of their community. In addition to traditional lessons, Char teaches her students integrity, respect and self-discipline through example. Char's commitment to the betterment of young people does not end with her position at Vanderhoof Elementary. Char is also devoted to teaching children the wonders of the great outdoors. As a volunteer with the Outdoor Education Laboratory School, Char works to ensure that hundreds of Colorado's students are exposed to the wonders of natural science. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to Char Sorenson. Char has dedicated her life to the betterment of young people and all of her students have had their future enhanced by her dedication.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise before you to recognize a remarkable organization from the State of Colorado. NightRiders Incorporated of Boulder, Colorado was recently recognized for its innovative approach to protecting Coloradans from the perils of drunk driving with the National Commission Against Drunk Driving's Corporate Leadership Award. I am proud to call the attention of my colleagues and this nation to the contributions that NightRiders is making for the betterment of the Boulder community. NightRiders has developed a unique way of getting Boulder citizens home from a night out. Upon request, a NightRiders employee rides a collapsible motorized scooter to the patrons' vehicle, places the scooter in the car, and safely transports the customer and their vehicle home. This service provides the passenger a safe ride while ensuring that our streets are safer for all. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to NightRiders Incorporated for its commitment to improving the safety of Colorado's roadways. NightRiders is dedicated to the prevention of drunk driving and the company's achievements are certainly worthy of recognition. I would like to congratulate NightRiders on this well-deserved award.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you with a heavy heart to pay tribute to the life of an extraordinary man. Will Rorvig, from my home state of Colorado, recently passed away after courageously battling a series of illnesses. Will was known throughout the Denver community for his zest for life, friendly disposition and generous spirit. I am honored to rise today to recognize Will's many contributions to the state of Colorado and our great nation. Will was raised in Montana and graduated from the University of Montana in 1967. Following graduation, Will answered his country's call to duty, and served honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He married his lovely wife Lana in 1977. Will spent his professional career in the field of accounting. Renowned for his brilliance in tax law, Will was widely respected as an outstanding accountant. Over the past six years, Will held the position of Tax Director for the Anschutz Corporation; there he was known not only for his intelligence, but also for his leadership and willingness to mentor less experienced members of his staff. Will was a beloved figure in Colorado. He delighted in playing golf and meeting for meals with his many friends, business acquaintances and family members throughout Denver. Will is also remembered for his generosity. Not only did Will perform traditional acts of charity, but he also had a unique penchant for generously assisting anyone he encountered whom he perceived needed his help. Will's altruistic nature certainly worked to the betterment of countless individuals less fortunate than himself. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise and pay tribute to Will Rorvig. Will was a generous man, a loyal employee, and a dedicated mentor. Above all, Will was a loving husband to his wonderful wife and a tremendous friend to many. There is no question that the state of Colorado and our nation are better off as the result of Will's contributions. My heart goes out to Will's loved ones during this difficult time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to a remarkable man from my district. The Colorado Association of Conservation Districts recently recognized Fred Velasquez from La Jara, Colorado as Colorado's Ranch Conservationist of the Year. Not only is Fred a tremendous steward of the land, but he has also contributed a great deal to the La Jara community. I am proud to call the attention of this body of Congress and our nation to Fred's many accomplishments. Fred was born and raised in Antonito and graduated from Antonito High School in 1949. Following graduation, Fred answered his country's call to duty and served in Korea and Japan as a member of the United States Army Medical Corps between 1951 and 1954. Upon returning from duty, Fred became the Deputy County Assessor for Conejos County. From 1968 through 1972, Fred served on the La Jara City Council. In 1972, the people of La Jara elected Fred to serve as their Mayor. As Mayor, Fred contributed a great deal during his four-year term. From 1959 to 1987, Fred owned a branch of the Farm Bureau Insurance Agency and, in 1991, continued his duty to Conejos when he became the County's Weed Supervisor. In addition to his duties for the City of La Jara, Fred is also a well-respected rancher in the region. Fred's recognition as Ranch Conservationist of the Year stemmed from his leadership in the implementation of soil and water conservation practices. Fred recently restored the land surrounding the Conejos River, which runs through his 500-acre ranch. This has improved the water quality in the river and provided habitat for the many species of wildlife that make their home on the ranch. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to rise and pay tribute to Fred Velasquez. Fred's many conservation accomplishments, coupled with his tireless service to our nation and his community, are certainly worthy of recognition. Thank you for your service Fred, and congratulations on a well-deserved award.