Scott McInnis

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to an outstanding organization from my district. The Family Visitor Program of Glenwood Springs, Colorado works to promote healthy families by supporting parents of newborns. The program's caregivers go to new parents, giving them a helping hand and reminding them that they are not alone. The program has worked tirelessly to strengthen Colorado's families, and I am honored to recognize the Family Visitor Program here today. The Family Visitor Program began in 1983 after a study by the University of Colorado found that parents of newborns were often located far away from their extended families. This separation contributes to a sense of isolation and loneliness, especially when planning and caring for a new baby. The program began sending caregivers to the homes of families of newborns and expectant mothers in order to combat these feelings of loneliness, and they have continued to do so for twenty years. Newborns that were visited in the early days of the program are now parents themselves and are utilizing the benefits of this program. Mr. Speaker, the work done by the Family Visitor Program strengthens the very core of our community: the family. For twenty years, new parents have been able to turn to the program for guidance and support, and their children have been given the chance to begin life in a happier environment. For these reasons and for their hard work, I am honored to join with my colleagues in paying tribute to the Family Visitor Program here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to pay tribute to a remarkable public servant from my district. Sergeant Guy Thoms of Pueblo, Colorado recently retired from the Pueblo Police Department after twenty-nine years of service, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank him for his many years of dedication to the citizens of Pueblo. Guy embarked on his service to our country in the early 1970s when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He later served as a police officer in New York in 1974 where Guy served on the SWAT team until he relocated to Colorado. In 1978, Guy joined the Pueblo Police Department in the patrol division, where his mettle was steadily rewarded with promotions. In 1990, Guy was made a Sergeant and focused his efforts on combating the growing threat posed by gang violence in the region. Guy's altruistic spirit extended beyond his official duties as a police officer and could be witnessed in his generosity towards his fellow officers. He donated portions of his vacation time to officers who were in need of time off due to injury and illness. Guy also served on the Pueblo Police Pension Board for many years. Mr. Speaker, it is difficult to say goodbye to such a dedicated officer as Guy Thoms, and his hard work and determination will certainly be missed. The city of Pueblo has greatly benefited from its quality police force, a force that owes much of its success to officers like Guy. I thank him for his years of service and wish him all the best in the future.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I stand before you today to pay tribute to a remarkable citizen and civil servant from my district. Mike Copp of Glenwood Springs, Colorado recently announced his upcoming retirement as City Manager after twenty years of service. Mike has been a valuable citizen and public servant, and I would like to take this time to honor him and his two decades of hard work before this body of Congress and this nation here today. Mike came to Glenwood Springs twenty years ago to fill the position of City Manager. Throughout his tenure, Mike has received numerous offers to manage larger cities, but he has chosen to stay put and continue to work in the city that he proudly calls home. Mike's shoes will not be easy to fill, and thankfully he has committed to stay on and help find and train his replacement. Mike has spearheaded many projects that have benefited the city over the years, and his leadership will be sorely missed. Mr. Speaker, the position of city manager is not an easy one to fill and bears a tremendous amount of responsibility. Mike Copp did a wonderful job of meeting and exceeding those expectations. As he prepares for his future beyond public service, I would like to extend Mike my best wishes on whatever he chooses to pursue next. I thank him for his twenty years of service to the Glenwood community.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with solemn heart that I rise before you today to pay tribute to the life of Robert McCarroll of La Jara, Colorado. Robert was a dedicated county commissioner, member of his church and, above all, a family man. Robert was a pillar of the La Jara community, and as his family mourns his loss, I think it is appropriate that we remember his life and celebrate the work he did on behalf of others. I would like to pay tribute to this lifetime of service before this body of Congress and this Nation. - Robert served his country and his community in a variety of positions throughout his remarkable life. As a member of the Air Force during the Korean conflict, Robert served in Japan, Korea and Guam and is a member of the local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post. Most recently, Robert served as a Conejos County Commissioner after being elected to his first term in 2000. After his retirement from his work in warehouses, Robert decided he needed to keep busy and that pursuing his interest in politics was the best way to do so. Robert was also a dedicated member of his church. Despite all of his associations and positions, his most impressive role was serving as a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to pay tribute to the life and memory of Robert McCarroll before you today. He was a truly outstanding citizen, and he will be missed by many in his community. It is with admiration, respect and a sense of sadness that I recount Robert's seventy-three years of life before this body of Congress. Although Robert has left us, his good-natured spirit lives on through the lives of those he touched. I would like to extend my thoughts and deepest sympathies to Robert's family and friends during this difficult time. -

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to a great citizen from my district. Reverend Fortson Lee Chandler of Pueblo, Colorado is a man of devotion, hard work, and humility who inspires those around him. His dedication to his friends and neighbors shows a spirit of charity all too rare in today's society. After years of service, Reverend Chandler has announced his retirement from the Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church in Pueblo. For his tireless work and commitment to the community, I am honored to rise and honor Reverend Chandler here today. Reverend F.L. Chandler was ordained fifty-one years ago at the Union Baptist Church in Atlanta. He worked as an associate minister at St. John Baptist Church in Colorado Springs prior to moving to Pueblo to take over as pastor at the New Hope Baptist Church. Reverend Chandler devoted several years of service to New Hope Baptist before going to Bethlehem Baptist Church. At Bethlehem Baptist, F.L. forged strong ties to the community that he loves and has served so well. He made it a point to reach out to those who have had fewer opportunities in life. Reverend Chandler has guided Bethlehem Baptist for thirty-four years and will be greatly missed. Mr. Speaker, Reverend F.L. Chandler is a kind and devoted spiritual leader who our community turns to for inspiration and guidance in their daily lives. He has devoted over fifty years to guiding his parishioners. I am honored to join with my colleagues today to thank him for his tireless work and to wish him the best of luck as he embarks upon his retirement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to a man who has spent his life providing a valuable service to others. Sammy Hudson of Grand Junction, Colorado has shined the shoes of thousands of community members and visitors, providing everyone with great service and pleasant conversation. For his years of service to the community, along with his hard work and dedication, I am honored to recognize Sammy here today. -Sammy began shinning shoes as a nine-year-old boy in Chicago, learning the craft from his grandfather. He has spent the last 23 years working in Grand Junction, and today, as the only traditional shoe- shiner in Grand Junction, Sammy provides a valuable service to his customers. His six decades of experience, along with a rigorous attention to detail and engaging personality, enable Sammy to brighten up the lives of numerous customers while simultaneously making a living doing something he enjoys. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Sammy Hudson for his service to the Grand Junction community. Sammy serves as an example of the kind of resourcefulness, hard work, and dedication that have helped to make this country great. Recognition for the outstanding service he provides is long overdue, and I am privileged to bring Sammy's story to the attention of this body of Congress today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I take this opportunity to pay tribute to Willard ``Bill'' Canode of Durango, Colorado who recently passed away at the age of 90. Bill was an exceptional educator and administrator who was recognized on numerous occasions for his innovative ideas in the field of education. As his family and friends mourn their loss, I think it is appropriate that we remember Bill today for his many contributions throughout his life. Bill served as superintendent for numerous school districts throughout his lifetime. Originally hailing from Illinois, Bill spent the majority of his years out West in Colorado, Wyoming and Arizona. No matter where Bill lived, others took notice of his outstanding dedication to education and to the community. He was named Educator of the Year in Wyoming; Yuma, Arizona's Number 1 Citizen; and Citizen of the Month by the Durango Herald. In addition to his achievements in education, Bill was a loyal member of his church, the Rotary Club, Lions Club, and served as a state officer for the AARP. He also enjoyed performing in the theater and organized the La Plata Players, an amateur troupe who performed for the enjoyment of their community. Above all, Bill was a devoted family man with a wife, two daughters, seven grandchildren, and six great- grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sorrow that we remember the life and memory of Willard Canode. He will be remembered for the kind heart and gentle demeanor that he displayed throughout his life. As Bill's family and friends mourn his passing, I am honored to recognize the wonderful life he lived. Bill will surely be missed.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation to recognize a group of outstanding citizens from my district. The Associates of the Cortez, Colorado Wal-Mart Store and their Store Manager, Brice Carruth, acted with great generosity in the face of a devastating fire and recently helped save priceless artifacts from destruction. For their kind and selfless act, I am honored to pay tribute to Brice and the Cortez Wal-Mart Associates here today. In June of 2002, facing severe drought conditions and the accompanying risk of devastating fires, the National Park Service decided that priceless and irreplaceable treasures from Mesa Verde National Park needed to be moved from their curatorial center to a safer location. It was agreed that the collection should be moved to the old Cortez Wal-Mart store. No sooner had the collection been safely relocated than the Long Mesa fire erupted and eventually descended on the Mesa Verde curatorial facility. The efforts of the Cortez Wal-Mart Associates to renovate and cleanup the old facility helped protect over three million irreplaceable artifacts, including numerous documents, pictures, and maps. Mr. Speaker, Brice Carruth and the Cortez Wal-Mart Associates selflessly gave of their time to safeguard a national treasure. Their work to save the artifacts of Mesa Verde National Park ensures that these unique treasures can continue to be enjoyed by future generations. For their noble service, I am honored to recognize the Associates of the Cortez Wal-Mart and Store Manager Brice Carruth here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before this body of Congress and this Nation today to pay tribute to the life and memory of a great citizen from my district. Jackie Weaver of Pueblo, Colorado recently passed away at the age of eighty. Jackie was a caring woman who gave selflessly to those around her. As her family mourns her passing, I would like to pay tribute to her memory before my colleagues here today. Jackie was born in Frederick, Maryland in 1923, and she worked as a chemist in New York City before marrying her husband, D.A., in 1946. After moving to Pueblo with her family in 1978, she became an active member of the community, working with the Christian Women's Club and the youth ministry of her church. In addition, Jackie devoted time to the Reach-for-Recover Program of the American Cancer Society and the Pueblo Kiwanis Club. Jackie cared deeply about children and worked to improve their lives by caring for three foster children and by adopting a child through the World Vision Ministries. Mr. Speaker, Jackie Weaver's dedication and commitment to her family and her community has touched many lives. She tirelessly gave to her family and community. While Jackie has passed on, her legacy will continue to live. I am honored to join with my colleagues in honoring Jackie here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to the life and memory of an extraordinary citizen from my district. Peter ``Tom'' Savich of Silverton, Colorado recently passed away at the age of eighty. Tom was an involved citizen and a fixture of his community, and I am honored to pay tribute to him here today. Tom was a life-long resident of Silverton, living in the house in which he was born for his entire life. Like so many of his generation, Tom heeded his country's call and served in the Army during World War II. On D-Day, Tom fought with the troops that stormed Omaha Beach in Normandy. He fought with remarkable bravery and courage, which earned him the Bronze Star for bravery, the Medal for European-African-Middle Eastern Service, and the French Jubilee of Liberty Medal. Upon returning home, Tom became very involved in his community. He helped found Silverton's American Legion Post 14. He was active in the rehabilitation of the Silverton Hillside Cemetery, and he took a leadership role in maintaining many gravesites that would have otherwise been neglected. Tom was especially concerned with the graves of bachelor miners and was instrumental in ensuring that their final resting places received proper care and attention. Tom also collected artifacts chronicling Silverton's history, which he organized into the Tom Savich Museum. Mr. Speaker, Tom Savich was a humble, generous person who cared greatly about his fellow man. As his family and friends mourn his passing, I am honored to pay tribute to Tom's life and his dedication to his community here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great enthusiasm that I rise before you today to honor an outstanding citizen from my district. Terry Tice of Telluride, Colorado is a remarkably giving person who focuses many of his efforts on assisting the town of Telluride and his fellow citizens. It is my privilege to pay tribute to Terry before this body of Congress and this nation for his positive role in the community and for his philanthropic spirit. Terry has lived in the Telluride area for over thirty years, operating the Telluride Trappings and Toggery with his wife Susan. The Toggery not only offers local high school kids employment during their breaks, it also provides numerous scholarships to high school graduates. In addition to his business, Terry has served on the town council for four terms and helped implement the Town Charter. He has been a member of the district school board and volunteered a great deal of his time to various community causes. Mr. Speaker, it is a great honor to stand before you today and recognize Terry's many attributes and dedication to his community. Terry's graciousness has recently prompted the Telluride Foundation, an organization centered around community philanthropy, to name him citizen of the year. I join the Telluride Foundation in congratulating Terry for his award. I would also like to thank him for his numerous contributions for the betterment of his community.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to a dedicated public servant. Karen Wade recently announced her retirement from the National Park Service. Throughout her many years of service, Karen has work tirelessly to create and promote a bond between our National Parks and the people they serve. For her years of service, I am honored to pay tribute to Karen here today. Karen began her career with the National Park Service as a seasonal radio dispatcher at Mesa Verde National Park near her native Cortez, Colorado. Karen went on to her first permanent post in 1978 as a Trail Coordinator with the Appalachian Trail Project. Over the years, Karen has held many positions in the Park Service, including Superintendent of Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shine in Baltimore, Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Texas, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska, and the Great Smokey Mountains National Park in the southeastern United States. In 1999, Karen became the Regional Director for the Intermountain Region. In that position, she oversaw parks in eight western states, including Colorado, and was entrusted with such treasured national parks as the Grand Tetons, the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and her beloved Mesa Verde. Throughout her career, Karen's work has not gone unnoticed. She has received many awards and accolades, including Superintendent of Year for Natural Resources, a Southeast Region Award for her work at the Great Smokey Mountain National Park, and the Environmental Protection Agency's Environmental Achievement Award. Mr. Speaker, Karen Wade has dedicated 25 years to protecting and promoting our national parks. Her tireless work has ensured that future generations will be able to enjoy the beauty and splendor of our national parks. For her dedication and years of service, I am honored to join with my colleagues in paying tribute to Karen here today. I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to a remarkable couple from my district. Dorothy and Wayne Talley of Del Norte, Colorado recently celebrated their seventy-second anniversary. Dorothy and Wayne's extraordinary commitment to each other and to their family is an inspiration, and I am honored to pay tribute to them here today. Dorothy and Wayne are blessed with eight children, twelve grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Through mutual respect and genuine affection, Dorothy and Wayne have maintained their union for over 70 years. Throughout those years, Wayne has pursued several careers, including selling tractors and transporting material for the Summitville mine. After retiring, Wayne continued to stay active, first selling cars, then starting a sewing machine repair shop. Dorothy worked hard to take care of their family. Mr. Speaker, the dedication and devotion that Dorothy and Wayne Talley have shown to each other is truly an inspiration to us all. Since 1931, Dorothy and Wayne have supported and uplifted one another and have set a noteworthy example for their family and community. To spend over seven decades together is a rare testament to their love, and I am honored to join with my colleagues in congratulating Dorothy and Wayne and in wishing them many more wonderful years together.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen from my district. Reverend Alex Howard of Pueblo, Colorado recently announced his retirement from the Parkview Medical Center. His devotion, hard work, and humility inspire those around him, and his dedication to his friends and neighbors shows a spirit of charity all too rare in today's society. I am honored to recognize his many years of service here today. Alex has been the Director of Spiritual Affairs for the Parkview Medical Center for 21 years. His service and ministry have been marked by two overriding ideals: uniting people and giving local youth moral and ethical guidance. Over the years, Alex has worked hard to bring people from different faiths, races, ages, and genders together, encouraging them to celebrate their common beliefs. He has also fostered enthusiasm and excitement in the community's youth and encouraged them to strive to lead a good life. Alex has worked tirelessly to uplift and edify those who are in his charge, and though Alex is retiring from Parkview, he will continue his work as the pastor of St. Peter the Apostle Episcopal Church in Pueblo. Mr. Speaker, Reverend Alex Howard is the kind of devoted spiritual leader our community looks to for guidance and inspiration. He has devoted 34 years to ministry and 21 years to Parkview Medical Center, and I know that his guidance will be sorely missed. I am honored to join with my colleagues today to thank him for his tireless work and to wish him the best of luck as he continues to serve the community.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to the life and memory of Ralph Sample who recently passed away at the age of 85. A lifelong resident of New Castle, Colorado, Ralph was an enterprising and hard working man who was extensively involved in his community. I am honored to pay tribute to his memory here today. Ralph was born in Glenwood Springs in 1917. Later in life, Ralph settled with his wife Edna in his native Glenwood Springs, where they farmed, raised cattle and sheep, and Ralph operated Sample's Jersey Dairy. In addition to farming and ranching, Ralph was an entrepreneur. He helped to establish both the Glenwood Insurance Agency & Realty and Valley Realty. Many community groups benefited from Ralph's participation. He was extensively involved with the Glenwood Springs Masonic Lodge as a member of both the York Rite and the Scottish Rite. Ralph was also an active community leader with the Glenwood Springs Rotary Club and the Elk Creek Grange No. 415. He devoted countless hours to their many philanthropic pursuits. Mr. Speaker, I join with my colleagues in extending my deepest sympathies to the family of Ralph Sample. His hard work and civic- mindedness stand as a shining example of the spirit of Colorado. While Ralph has passed on, his legacy will live on with all those who knew him. I am honored to recognize his life and passing here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to pay tribute to a young man from my district. Payden Bell of Bayfield, Colorado was the victim of a terrible accident earlier this summer and has shown an amazing level of courage by persevering in the face of difficult odds. As he continues on his path toward recovery, I am honored to recognize Payden before this body of Congress. Payden was working with the family mule when something apparently spooked the animal and it took off running. In the process, a rope got tangled around Payden's feet, dragging him for over a half-mile. Suffering from life-threatening abrasions and gashes to his body and head, Payden was released from the hospital after 18 days and is expected to make a full recovery. One can only imagine the pain and suffering Payden experienced. Many adults would not have the will power to overcome the agony of such an injury, yet this young boy has recovered so rapidly that his family believes it is nothing short of a miracle. Payden had skin grafts, stitches and was even placed in an antibiotic jacket to help him heal. Less than three weeks later, his wounds were largely healed. Mr. Speaker, I want to acknowledge Payden's triumphant recovery and his courageous spirit throughout this ordeal. Payden's accident was tragic, and his determination has been remarkable. I would like to wish this young man a continued recovery and all the best in the future.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to the life and memory of a great citizen from my district. Joseph Murphy of Durango, Colorado was a dedicated teacher, enthusiastic coach, and devoted public servant. As his family and community mourn Joseph's passing, I would like to pay tribute to his memory here today. Joseph was born in Pueblo, Colorado in 1922. Like many of his generation, Joseph served his country in the Army during World War II. Later, he and his wife Marie settled in Durango, where they became fixtures of the community by getting involved in local politics. Joseph taught Journalism and English at Durango High School and at Fort Lewis College. As an athlete, baseball was dear to Joseph's heart and he shared his love of the game with others in many ways. Joseph was seemingly always involved with baseball, playing semiprofessional ball, coaching a team, officiating for years, and announcing sports news on the radio. In addition, Joseph was a dedicated public servant. He served on the Durango City Counsel for four years and served one term as Durango's Mayor. Mr. Speaker, Joseph Murphy embodied the spirit of America. When his country needed him, Joseph bravely fought in World War II. When his community needed him, Joseph faithfully served as its Mayor. When his students needed him, Joseph worked to enrich their lives. When his teammates and players needed him, Joseph inspired and supported them. While Joseph has passed on, his legacy will live on. For these many reasons, I am honored to join with my colleagues in recognizing Joseph here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen and educator from my district. Sallie Watkins, a physics teacher from Pueblo, Colorado, has worked tirelessly to teach and inspire her many students. I am honored to share her story here today. In 1946, Sallie began teaching at Notre Dame Academy in Cleveland, Ohio. Her dedication and commitment toward the betterment of humanity came through in her work within the church. Leaving the convent, Sallie came to Pueblo in 1966 to continue her work. She took a position at Southern Colorado State College. Through the years, she has continued to teach and inspire countless students. In addition to teaching, Sallie has been very involved with the local community. She helped found the Girls Club, which became part of the Boys and Girls Club of Pueblo. She also oversaw the creation of the Pueblo Program, a program to improve science teaching and curriculum in the local schools. Many community organizations, such as the American Cancer Society, the YMCA, and the Colorado Association of Mental Health, have benefited from Sallie's involvement. Mr. Speaker, Sallie Watkins has dedicated her life to serving others. She is an inspirational teacher and a loving volunteer. Sallie's students hold her in such high regard that they are currently creating a physics scholarship in her name. Sallie is an inspiration and a person of the compassion. I am honored to join with my colleague in thanking Sallie for all her hard work and wishing her the best of luck in the future.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen from my district. Fern Doherty of Trinchera, Colorado has worked tirelessly to promote and preserve a Western heritage, the ranching way of life. Fern is an active and devoted member of her community who donates her time to numerous community groups. For her tireless efforts and years of service, I am honored to pay tribute to Fern here today. For eighty-two years, Fern has been an active member of the Las Animas County community. She has molded the community's youth by serving as a 4-H leader and by remaining active with the local Parent Teacher Association. An active member of the ranching community, Fern has served as President of the Las Animas County CowBelles, an organization devoted to advancing the interests of the beef industry, and was recently named the Las Animas County Cattleman of the Year for 2003. In addition, Fern was the 2000 Silver Queen for the Trinidad Round-up, which honors the courageous outlook on life and youthful spirit of a senior in that community. Mr. Speaker, Fern Doherty exemplifies the true spirit of the American West. She is devoted to her family, committed to her community, and active in her support for the ranching way of life. Her dedication and hard work keep the tradition and heritage of the West alive, and I am honored to join with my colleagues here today in extending my thanks to Fern and in wishing her the best of luck in the future. Thank you, Fern, for your service to Colorado.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to stand before you today and pay tribute to the career of a dedicated servant from the state of Colorado, Douglas Brown. At the end of this month, Doug will retire from his position as the Director of the Colorado Office of Legislative Legal Services, ending thirty-one years of dedicated service to our state. Doug's hard work and dedication have been instrumental in defining the shape of Colorado's state government, and I am honored to pay tribute to him here today. Doug began his career as a staff attorney with the Office of Legislative Legal Services in 1972 and was appointed Director of that office eight years later. During his tenure as Director, Doug helped represent the Colorado General Assembly in thirteen cases before the Colorado Supreme Court. In addition to his duties at the Office of Legislative Legal Services, Doug was also very involved with the National Conference of State Legislatures, serving as a member of the organization's executive committee. Doug also spent a year as an adjunct political science professor at the University of Denver and was a lecturer in law at the University's law school for two summers. Mr. Speaker, it is truly a privilege to stand here today and honor the career of such a remarkable citizen. Doug Brown's knowledge and expertise will be hard to replace, and I know that his fellow attorneys and the staff at the Office of Legislative Legal Affairs will miss him a great deal. I 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 this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to the life and memory of a great citizen. Linda Vroom, who lived for many years in Aspen, Colorado, recently passed away. As her family and friends mourn Linda's passing, I would like to pay tribute to her memory here today. Linda had a noble spirit and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. While in Mexico City during the earthquake of 1985, Linda rescued an infant by jumping out of the third story of an apartment building. She was a talented artist who loved to sing and play the flute. Linda was also an avid biker, though her great passion was for fine wine and good food. Linda was known for helping countless people to educate themselves on these topics at both the Aspen Wine & Spirit and the Cooking School of Aspen. For the past two years, Linda pursued her love of wine by studying to become a sommelier. Mr. Speaker, Linda Vroom had a great passion for life, and she loved to share that passion with others. While Linda has passed on, her legacy will continue to live. I am honored to join with my colleagues in honoring Linda here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen from my district. Ben Perea of Pueblo West, Colorado selflessly dedicates his time and services to helping the children of a Mexican orphanage. His hard work and dedication are an inspiration, and I am honored to recognize him here today. Once a month for the past two years, Ben has made the long trip from Pueblo West to Chihuahua, Mexico to deliver clothing, food, and supplies to the 120 children of the Casa Hogar Misericordia (House of Mercy) orphanage. His devotion and selflessness have improved the lives of countless children. Ben collects all of the supplies that he can and then takes them himself to the children of Chihuahua. Though Ben helps the children obtain more than just food and clothing, in November of 2002, he was able to secure a 72-seat school bus for the orphanage to help these children attend school. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand and recognize the selfless actions of Ben Perea. His dedication and service have improved the lives of hundreds of children. I join with my colleagues in commending Ben for his endless work and wish him the best of luck in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with solemn heart that I stand before you here today and honor the memory of an outstanding citizen of my district. Margaret Morgan of Glenwood Springs, Colorado recently passed away at the age of 106. She was the region's oldest citizen and will be sorely missed. As her family and friends mourn her passing, I would like to take this opportunity to remember the remarkable aspects of Margaret's life. Margaret was a lifelong resident of Glenwood Springs, having been born there in 1896. Margaret's was the first class to graduate from the county high school in 1916. After graduation Margaret pursued a career centered around her lifelong passion for horses. Margaret got her first horse at the age of four, immediately sparking her interest in riding and grooming the large animals. Over her lifetime, she worked as a wrangler and an outfitter for over thirty years. Margaret's home was always open to friends and family and was frequently filled with guests from all across the country. Her hospitable nature attracted many friends throughout the years, all of whom are saddened by the news of her passing. She attributed her longevity to a life spent free of any unhealthy vices. Her diet consisted of natural foods eaten regularly, and she refrained from smoking and drinking. Despite our society's numerous advances in science and medicine, centenarians remain rare in this day and age. Margaret was so much more than Glenwood's oldest resident to her fellow citizens; she was a tremendous asset to the community and, above all, she was a friend to many. I extend my deepest sympathies to her family and friends as they mourn her loss.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress to pay tribute to the brave actions of three outstanding citizens from my district. Jerry Steele, John Doose and Scott Steele selflessly responded to calls for help from a fellow Coloradan and risked life and limb to save the life of a stranger. Their display of courage and willingness to risk their own lives is remarkable. I am honored to pay tribute to their heroic acts today. While working on a house across the street, the trio witnessed a violent explosion and immediately rushed to the aid of a neighbor in trouble. They would later learn that the spark of a cigarette lighter in a house with a leaking natural gas line had ignited the blast. Scott ran quickly to shut off the gas valve and prevent any further explosions. Jerry and John pulled the victim, Luke Little, to safety, administering first aid until the paramedics arrived. Their quick thinking ultimately saved Luke's life. Moments after they pulled him to safety, fire consumed the house. These three men risked their lives to help save the life of a man they had never met. Had it not been for the heroic actions of Jerry, John and Scott, Luke Little most likely would not have survived the accident. Thanks to their quick thinking and remarkable display of bravery, Luke's family is optimistic about his full recovery. This extraordinary act of selflessness is truly worthy of our recognition, and it is my honor to pay tribute to Jerry Steele, John Doose and Scott Steele for their heroic actions.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen from my district. Doyle Davidson of La Junta, Colorado recently announced his retirement from the Colorado Boys Ranch, a residential treatment facility for at- risk boys. I am honored to recognize Doyle's dedication and commitment to our youth before my colleagues here today. Like so many brave men and women of his generation, Doyle heeded his country's call and served as an Army officer during World War II. Doyle participated in the Normandy Invasion and the Battle of the Bulge, and received the Bronze Medal for distinguished military service. He then went on to serve in Korea before returning home and embarking on a life marked by his service to the community. As an active community member, Doyle has served on several local Chambers of Commerce, including those in Delta, Pueblo, and Canon City. He is also active in groups ranging from the La Junta Rotary to the Southern Colorado Economic Development District. In addition, Doyle was appointed to serve on several State councils and committees, including the Colorado State Highway Council and the Highway Legislative Review Committee. Doyle's hard work has not gone unnoticed. He was named Good Will Ambassador for the State of Colorado by former Governor John Love, and has been honored with the prestigious Ft. Carson Good Neighbor of the Year Award for 1988. However, more valuable than awards and accolades, Doyle has also earned the respect and admiration of his fellow Coloradans. Mr. Speaker, Doyle Davidson has given many years of service to his country and his community, and I am honored to pay tribute to his accomplishments before this nation today. Doyle has been a tireless and dedicated servant of Colorado and I wish him all the best in his future endeavors. Thank you, Doyle, for your many years of service.