Scott McInnis

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 truly talented artist from my district, Tony Morey of Grand Junction, Colorado. Tony has painted a variety of murals throughout the community, helping businesses gain notoriety while brightening up our buildings and streets. Tony's murals are more then just advertisements for local businesses; they are works of art that I am proud to speak about today. Tony began his art career early in life and began working for a sign company after high school graduation. He shortly realized he wanted to expand his art career, so he began to paint murals. Eventually finding his way to Grand Junction, Tony has continued with his murals, decorating buildings with advertisements for local businesses. Tony will soon begin work on his second mural at the Bottle Shop, where his work has been credited with an increase in business. Some of Tony's most recognizable work includes murals for Mesa Pawn and the Eagle Lodge. Tony's ambitions are leading him to experimenting with work on traditional canvas. He hopes to someday display his art in a show, exhibiting the hard work and dedication he puts into every painting. I have no doubt that, with Tony's diligence, we will soon see his paintings on display across the country. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to pay tribute to the accomplishments of Tony Morey. His artwork brings happiness to the streets of Grand Junction while providing businesses with a cheap, effective advertising technique. I look forward to the advancement of Tony's career and I wish him the best with his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to a selfless community servant and dedicated veteran from my district, Doug Thomas of Craig, Colorado. An active member of the Craig community, Doug is the newly elected Chaplain for the American Legion in the State of Colorado. I would like to join the Craig community and American Legion in honoring Doug's commitment and recognizing this distinct honor. When members of American Legion had the opportunity to select their new Chaplain, Doug was an obvious choice. His reputation as a dedicated Chaplain had preceded him; Doug had done great work as both the District Chaplain and Chaplain of Post 2700. He made it clear at the state conference that he would work harder than any other nominee, an attribute that is essential to the position. Doug's commitment to the American Legion is evident in his plans as Chaplain. He hopes to visit all 164 American Legion Posts throughout the state during his one-year term, sponsor workshops at state conventions, and start a Prayer Program that will be mailed to families around the state. Doug enjoys all aspects of the Chaplain position, but he particularly enjoys having an impact on families across the state. Mr. Speaker, I join with my colleagues here today in applauding Doug's civic-mindedness and in recognizing this prestigious honor. This recognition to Doug for the work he does in his community is long overdue, and I am proud to bring his achievements to the attention of this body of Congress today. Congratulations and thanks again, Doug, for your many years of hard work on behalf of Craig and the State of Colorado. May you have many more to come!

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress to recognize a remarkable woman that is a long time resident of Cedar Mesa, Colorado. Mildred Bowles has witnessed the evolution of her hometown in the last century and simultaneously worked to preserve its invaluable memories. I am proud to recognize Mildred's contributions to my district before my colleagues here today. Mildred's adventurous spirit can be traced back to her ancestors, who traveled in a covered wagon from Nebraska to Colorado in 1902. Mildred's father, L.E. Dolph, played an integral role in the founding of both Cedar Mesa and Cedaredge. His responsibilities included serving as sheriff and delivering mail to local residents. Mildred has developed a plethora of memories in Cedar Mesa during the 93 years that she has spent in the area. She notes that while children now have spring break, she remembers the days when students had ``mud breaks,'' when the spring weather inhibited any type of travel, and ``apple breaks,'' when students provided an extra hand during harvest season. Mildred also remembers the days when electricity was only available two days a week and silent movies were a popular form of entertainment. She has helped to preserve her precious memories by performing a one-person skit over the years and participating in the local historical society. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize Mildred Bowles, a woman who provides her community with a priceless link to our past. We are fortunate to have her memories, which serve as a reminder of the hard work and determination that have made our nation strong. I commend Mildred for all that she does in her community and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to Larry Kisling of Grand Junction, Colorado. Through hard work and dedication, Larry has received national attention for the quality of his competitive racing engines, which he builds and maintains for racing teams across the country. Larry's work provides him with the ability to be involved in the sport he loves, and I am proud to speak of his accomplishments here today. Moving to Grand Junction in 1990, Larry set up his shop and began business. Larry's hard work is evident in his high quality products, which is why his customers keep coming back. Larry's business expanded so much that he recently moved into a new location and a brand new 3,400 square foot facility. Today he works on all kinds of engines, from forklifts to boats. Larry's passion, however, will always be high-performance racing engines, despite the fact that they are the least profitable part of the company. Larry does the work because he loves it, noting the personal satisfaction he gets when he sees one of his engines on the track. Larry gets the most fulfillment when a driver returns to his shop and lets him know his race car has never gone faster. Mr. Speaker, I join with my colleagues here today in applauding the hard work of Larry Kisling. I commend Larry on his successful business endeavors and the respect he has gained from his peers. I wish him all the best in the years to come.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I stand before you today to pay tribute to the life and passing of Dean Gray, a resident of Grand Junction, Colorado. For three years Dean volunteered at KAFM radio, a station that showcased his musical passion, jazz. Dean's hard work and dedication to KAFM made him a popular presence at the station, as he provided exemplary leadership and friendship to the other employees. I am honored to speak of the accomplishments of Dean before this body of Congress and this nation here today. Dean and his wife Jean moved to the Grand Junction area 10 years ago, relocating from the jazz-rich city of Chicago. Chicago provided an ideal atmosphere for jazz connoisseurs, offering a variety of clubs, concerts, and musicians that are based in that area. The couple's passion for jazz grew, and when they arrived in Grand Junction, they immediately tuned to KAFM Community Radio. As a retired member of the community, Dean wanted to expand his involvement in the jazz world. This passion for music led Dean to volunteer as a programmer for KAFM, and his hard work and dedication landed him his own show on Sunday mornings. Dean was an instant hit; he was happiest when listeners called in, telling him how much they enjoyed the show. The station appreciated Dean's dedication so much that he was recently honored with a party and plaque thanking him for his hard work at the station. Mr. Speaker, I am saddened by the loss of such a kind and caring individual. Dean's commitment, compassion, and hard work garnered him respect at KAFM, and it is for those very qualities that I bring his life to the attention of my colleagues here today. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Dean Gray.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress today to recognize James McNeil for the courageous act that led to his untimely passing. James displayed extraordinary bravery in an attempt to save his father from drowning in a fishing accident. It is with a solemn heart that I join my colleagues in paying tribute to his heroism and sacrifice. James McNeil and his father, Kelly McNeil, were fishing on San Luis Lake when Kelly suddenly fell from his boat into the water. Without hesitation, James dove into the 55-degree water and began swimming toward his father in a rescue attempt. Unfortunately, James did not survive the frigid, treacherous waters and passed away before reaching his father. The Carnegie Hero Fund has awarded James a Bronze Medal in recognition of his brave act. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize James before this body of Congress today. His brave act serves as a reminder to all Americans of the courage upon which our nation is founded. While James will be dearly missed, his family can take solace in the knowledge that his spirit will live on through those whom he has touched. I extend my deepest sympathies to James' loved ones 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 pair of selfless community servants and dedicated parents, Wey and Sue Chen of Greeley, Colorado. As active members of the Colorado community, they are this year's recipients of the Excellence in Parenting Award presented by the National Parents Day Council. I would like to join with the Colorado community in honoring the Chens and their commitment. The Excellence in Parenting Award is a unique tribute, honoring immigrants who, as parents, demonstrate exemplary leadership and parenting skills. The Chens are deserving recipients; after arriving in the U.S. from China, they have worked hard to create new lives for their children in America. They frequently volunteer at their children's schools, and have become involved in a variety of Chinese- American organizations. The couple has raised two wonderful children, Elisa and Davis, who are a testament to their hard work and dedication as parents. Davis is currently enrolled at the University of Colorado at Boulder, and Elisa is enrolled at the University of Northern Colorado. They serve as examples to their fellow classmates by practicing the lessons that were passed on to them by their parents. Mr. Speaker, I join with my colleagues here today in applauding the Chen's civic-mindedness, family values, and in recognizing this prestigious honor. This recognition to the Chen's for the work they do in their community is long overdue, and I am proud to bring their achievements to the attention of this body of Congress today. Congratulations and thanks again for your many years of hard work and your inspiring dedication to your two children.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to the passing of a woman from my district who spent a lifetime in the service of others. Gladys McBee of Durango, Colorado recently passed away, and as her friends and loved ones mourn their loss, I would like to recognize a few of her many achievements here today. Born in La Plata in 1917, Gladys settled in Durango where she became well known in the community for her enthusiastic involvement in numerous causes. She helped establish the Durango and LaPlata Senior Center and spent 20 years working with seniors at the San Juan Area Agency on Aging. As a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the League of Women Voters, Gladys helped foster patriotism and educate others of our nation's unique heritage. She continued these efforts through numerous articles about the Constitution and Bill of Rights for her local newspaper, the Durango Herald. Many people in Durango also knew Gladys for her extensive involvement in water issues and the Animas Museum, Durango's only history museum. Mr. Speaker, Gladys McBee continually worked to improve the lives of others, and she is certainly deserving of praise before this body today. She is survived by her sister Aileen, son Douglas, grandson Teddy and other extended family members. Our thoughts are with them during their time of bereavement. To her family, friends, and the many people in the community who knew her, Gladys McBee will be deeply missed.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this nation today to recognize the many years of public service that Jim Gray of Alamosa, Colorado has devoted to our state. Jim's selfless contributions to his community as a member of the San Luis Valley Hospital's Board of Directors and as a local fireman have helped secure the health and lives of countless Coloradans. On his retirement, I am honored to speak of his accomplishments here today. Jim joined the San Luis Valley Hospital Board in 1969, serving for thirty-four years. Some of the most notable improvements to the hospital and the quality of care provided there occurred during Jim's tenure as Chairman of the Board. Jim was instrumental in adding physicians to the board, providing doctors with a voice in the overall operation of the hospital. While running his own business and serving the hospital, Jim also volunteered for more than twenty years as a fireman, retiring as Captain in 1979. He volunteered for the sole purpose of helping others, working to keep the community he loved safe. Mr. Speaker, it is my sincere pleasure to pay tribute to Jim Gray before this body of Congress and this nation. I join with my colleagues here today in applauding Jim's civic-mindedness, and I am proud to bring Jim's years of service to the attention of my colleagues in this House today. Thank you, Jim, for the service you have provided our community, and I wish you the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege today to recognize an outstanding educator from my district. Jeremy Koselak of Pueblo, Colorado is my state's recipient of the Educator of the Year Award given out by the Colorado Association of Family and Children Agencies. Jeremy was an obvious choice for the award, as he has dedicated his time and efforts to teaching troubled children the skills they need to be successful in life. Jeremy recently completed his first year at El Pueblo Boys and Girls Ranch, a school designed to help children escape problems that have plagued them in the past. Jeremy teaches mathematics, and the difficulty of the subject means many students need special attention. Some need help with general arithmetic and some need help with high school level math, like algebra and geometry. These differences have allowed Jeremy to take a unique approach to general math skills. He tries to incorporate real world applications, such as balancing a checkbook. Jeremy instills a positive work ethic in his students; he makes them believe they can succeed and then helps them to do it. Jeremy loves his job at El Pueblo, where he develops close relationships with his students. Because the kids come from troubled backgrounds, Jeremy makes himself available as a teacher, friend, and role model. He commonly spends extra time with his students, providing them opportunities they would not otherwise enjoy. He recently took some of his students to the University of Colorado--Colorado Springs to compete in a math competition. Mr. Speaker, the students at El Pueblo Boys and Girls Ranch include many less fortunate youth, but Jeremy Koselak's innovation and hard work have greatly improved their chance of success in the classroom and in life. Jeremy has made Pueblo and the State of Colorado proud, and I am truly honored to recognize him here today. Congratulations, Jeremy, keep up the good work and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

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 dedicated community servant from my district, Sam Stapleton of Aspen, Colorado. Sam has overseen the Aspen Fire District Board for 50 years, many of them as its President. His hard work and determination have created a top-notch volunteer department that protects 87 square miles of land in and around Aspen. Fifty years of service is truly a remarkable feat, and I join with my colleagues in offering our congratulations and appreciation to Sam today. Before joining the fire board, Sam and his wife Elizabeth raised sheep and cattle on the family ranch. As a landowner, Sam knew firsthand the vulnerability that he and his neighbors had to wildfire. When he was approached to become a member of the board in 1953, Sam jumped at the opportunity. There, he helped turn the Aspen Volunteer Fire Department into an effective, efficient force. Sam was instrumental in the purchase of a new, fully functional fire engine, and three new stations. Today the department owns and operates over $4 million in equipment, assets that provide Aspen with needed protection. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Sam Stapleton's accomplishments before this Congress and this nation. His hard work has helped make the community safer, and helped to protect some of the most beautiful land in the United States. Thank you, Sam, for the service you have provided our community. I wish you all the best in the years to come.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I take this opportunity to pay tribute to the life and memory of a dedicated community member in my state, Tom Hartney of Durango, Colorado. Tom passed away recently at the age of 72 and as his family mourns their loss, I would like to take this moment to pay tribute to his life and accomplishments here today. Tom grew up in the Midwest, graduating from Northwestern University in Illinois. He married his wife Shelly in 1956 and they began their life together in Michigan. The couple eventually moved to Durango in 1979 and fell in love with their new surroundings. Tom became involved in the Durango Community, beginning with his membership in the local Rotary Club. He spent his time raising and contributing money to the college scholarship fund, and serving as the club historian. When not helping the Rotary Club, Tom helped the community youth by coaching in the Babe Ruth Baseball League. Tom provided his players with a role model, as a coach they could look up to and admire. One of Tom's greatest contributions was the time he spent serving on the Durango School Board. Tom served there for five years, spending one year as its President. Even after his retirement, Tom stayed involved with the school system, spending time consulting and advising the new members and committees. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Tom Hartney. Tom was a solid contributor to his community and his nation, and I am grateful for his service. My thoughts and prayers go out to Tom's family and friends during their time of loss.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I honor the life of a well-respected veterinarian and volunteer from my district. Edwin Smith of Pueblo, Colorado passed away recently, and as his loved ones mourn his passing, I would like to pay tribute to this outstanding individual before this body of Congress and this nation today. Edwin was born in Minturn, Colorado, grew up in the San Luis Valley, and spent much of his life in New Mexico before returning to Colorado nine years ago. Much of his childhood was spent on the family farm or in church, where he played the clarinet in a family band. After completing his education at Colorado State University, Edwin served his country in the military and then embarked on a career as a veterinarian. He treated his most famous patient in 1950, a two-month old cub who had been rescued from a forest fire in New Mexico. ``Smokey Bear'' soon became the center of the U.S. Forest Service's campaign to prevent forest fires. In addition to his work treating large and small animals, Edwin's professional achievements included serving as secretary for the New Mexico Veterinary Exam Board and as veterinarian for the Santa Fe Downs racetrack. Yet he still found time to give back to the community. Edwin was active in the Elks, Masons and Lions Clubs in addition to working with the Boy Scouts and serving as a church deacon. Even in his eighth decade, Edwin volunteered at a Cooperative Care Center, drove for Meals on Wheels, and took part in activities at his church. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the life and memory of Edwin Smith. He was a true community servant who loved to help animals and people alike. To his family, friends, and the many people in the community whose lives he touched, Edwin Smith will be deeply missed. My condolences go out to his family and friends during their time of bereavement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I stand before this Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to the life and passing of June Owens, an outstanding citizen of the State of Colorado. The beloved mother of five children passed away at the age of 86, leaving a legacy of hard work, commitment, and a kind, loving spirit we would all be wise to emulate. I am honored to recognize her accomplishments and her life here today. June was a North Dakota native, growing up in Fargo and attending North Dakota State University. Upon graduation, she moved to Minneapolis and began work at a local newspaper. While in Minnesota she met Arthur Owens, and the two married in 1943. June eventually found her way to Colorado, where she would spend the rest of her adult life. June was more than a mother to her five children; she was a teacher and a role model as well. Her son Bill, the Governor of my state, acknowledges that his mother provided all of her children with strength and taught them lessons that will be with them for the rest of their lives. June was an active member of the Colorado community, spending time volunteering for organizations throughout the state. She was known to help the Cancer League, Porter Adventist Hospital, and the Cherry Creek Republican Women's Association. June was always helping those in need, one of the many reasons she was widely acknowledged as a respected member of the Colorado community. Mr. Speaker, I am saddened by the loss of such a kind and caring individual. It is June's strength, loyalty, and generosity that garnered her respect, and it is for those very qualities that I wish to bring her life to the attention of my colleagues here today. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of June Owens.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to Ross Worley of Durango, Colorado. Ross recently retired from Fort Lewis College, where he has directed the Audio/Visual Department in their John Reed Library since 1969. As Ross retires, I would like to recognize his many years of hard work and dedication to Fort Lewis College. Ross began his work with Fort Lewis College in 1969, starting first as an audio/visual student assistant before his eventual promotion as director of the department. In his 32 years as director at Fort Lewis, Ross supervised over 150 students, providing each of them with an exemplary model of commitment. An effective Audio/Visual department can provide students with interesting and exciting ways to present and engage information. With technology changing daily, Ross worked diligently to provide our youth with the educational tools to succeed in this demanding field. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this Congress and this nation to recognize the accomplishments of Ross Worley. His hard work and dedication provided Fort Lewis College with the ability to reach its students in unique, effective ways. Serving an educational institution is truly a noble calling and Ross' 32 years of service are truly a remarkable accomplishment. Thank you, Ross, for the service you have provided our community. I wish you all the best in your retirement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to a selfless community servant and dedicated businesswoman from my district, Barbara Acosta of Durango, Colorado. An active member of the Durango community, Barbara is this year's recipient of the 2002 Athena Award, presented by the Durango Area Chamber Resort Association. I would like to join with the Durango community in honoring Barbara's commitment and recognizing this distinct honor. The Athena Award is a unique tribute, honoring women who demonstrate excellence and creativity in business, while providing selfless service to the community. Barbara is a deserving recipient, as her business skills and community service are known throughout Durango. She opened her first business, the General Hair Store, in 1982, and has since added a hair salon, day spa services, and beauty school. Her hard work and dedication to her business has indeed made Barbara a respected member of the Durango business community. Barbara is also known for her dedication to community service. Barbara has been active in a number of committees and organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity, the Durango Art Center, and the Volunteers of America. Barbara has also been an active fundraiser for a variety of non-profit organizations. Barbara has consistently been at the forefront of community service projects, always sacrificing her time to improve the Durango area. Mr. Speaker, I join with my colleagues here today in applauding Barbara's civic-mindedness and in recognizing this prestigious honor. This recognition to Barbara for the work she does in her community is long overdue, and I am proud to bring her achievements to the attention of this body of Congress today. Congratulations and thanks again, Barbara, for your many years of hard work on behalf of Durango. May you have many more to come!

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to begin by saying, with all due respect to my colleague, whose comments we have just heard, a lot of those comments I happen to agree with; but with due respect, you were not in the room at the time that an incident occurred not dealing with process but dealing with order in the committee; and with all due respect to your fellow colleagues, with the exception of one, the rest of you were all out of the room in another room. That particular individual was not arguing process. In fact, that particular individual threatened me with physical harm. Now, fellow colleagues of mine realize that I like engagement, but it was clear there was going to be fairly prompt disorder beyond the magnitude that was probably originally anticipated when a member of the minority committee made his first comments. I think it was entirely appropriate, entirely appropriate, with considering my own actions, I think it was entirely appropriate for the chairman of that committee to call the Sergeant at Arms and the Capitol Police so that order in the committee could be maintained. I think this discussion about process at midnight or process of when the police were in the library is all, and I am not saying this in a derogatory fashion, but is all diversionary from the fact that we were within moments, frankly myself and another Member on your side of the aisle, were within moments of, I would guess, a physical engagement; and I considered that threat serious. I considered the bodily threat not just to the order of the committee but to me, and I fully intended to defend myself. So to calm this down, I know that is the purpose of why the chairman had done that, and I think any one of you in the same exact position that that chairman was in would have done exactly the same thing.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress today to recognize Anthony Preite for the integral role that he has played in the economic development of the Western United States. Anthony's long and distinguished career has made an indelible mark upon the State of Colorado and the Western United States. In recognition of his widely renowned public service, he was recently recognized with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Award, in addition to being selected as the Outstanding Fifty State U.S.D.A. Director. Anthony began his career in Montana as a teacher and coach after graduating from Northern Montana College in 1963. In 1968, Anthony accepted a position as Community Development Specialist, where his responsibilities included implementing an economic development plan for a portion of north central Montana. He proceeded to serve as Special Project Director of the Economic Development Administration for the U.S. Department of Commerce for much of the Western United States. Many of Anthony's initiatives resulted in infrastructure improvements and the creation of hundreds of job opportunities. Fortunately, Anthony has not gone unrecognized throughout his life. The Denver Regional Office of the Economic Development Administration selected Anthony as the 1993 winner of the Forrest Koch Award for Excellence in Economic Development. Subsequently, President Clinton appointed Anthony as the State Director of Montana, Farmers Home Administration in 1993. In his role as Head of Rural Development, Anthony oversaw Rural Housing Service, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, and Rural Utilities Services. He was selected to serve as the Denver Regional Office Director for the Economic Development Administration in December of 1999 and currently oversees activities in ten different states as the Regional Director. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct privilege to recognize Anthony Preite before this body of Congress and this nation. His dynamic career and selfless public service have advanced the well-being of thousands of Americans through economic development programs and initiatives. I congratulate Anthony on the awards that have been bestowed upon him and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in this body to pay tribute to Bob and Joan Weiss of Grand Junction, Colorado. Bob and Joan have met the needs of the health-conscious in their community for the last 25 years, and I am honored to recognize their achievements here today. Bob and Joan opened Sundrop Grocery Natural Foods Store in 1978 in a tiny 400-square-foot location with limited inventory. Over the years, however, the couple's reputation for providing the freshest organic and naturally prepared foods available grew, and so did their business. Today the Weiss's many customers don't have to compromise on any ingredients. Bob and Joan have ensured that their patrons have access to a wide variety of wholesome foods, from bulk foods and herbs to the freshest fruits and vegetables. Mr. Speaker, I am truly honored to recognize Bob and Joan Weiss today. Twenty-five years in the health food business, serving the Grand Junction community, is indeed an impressive accomplishment. I join in celebrating this milestone, and I congratulate them on their success.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress today to recognize the devoted service that Edward Atencio has provided to the students of his hometown in San Luis, Colorado. Edward is retiring from Centennial High School after having served as Athletic Director for the last 31 years. I commend him for the positive impact that he has had upon so many young individuals in my district. Edward moved to the San Luis Valley as a small child with his parents and two brothers. He graduated from Adams State College in 1968 with a Bachelor's degree in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation in 1968. He proceeded to obtain a Master's degree from Adams State College four years later and ultimately obtained his Type D administrator certificate at Western State College. Edward's qualifications as Athletic Director also include advanced coursework at the University of Colorado, Colorado State University, and the University of Northern Colorado. Edward's first endeavor after joining the Centennial faculty was to build a track facility in order to create a track and field team. Edward's dedication to his students has persisted over the past 35 years, teaching close to 4,600 students and coaching approximately 1,400 student athletes over the course of his career. Dating back to 1978, Edward has received 40 distinguished awards in addition to his nominations for Colorado Prep Coach of the Year and Colorado Teacher of the Year. While Edward is grateful for the personal recognition he has received, he most appreciates the gratitude that he receives from his former students and athletes. Given his invitation to return as a substitute teacher, Edward's involvement with Centennial High School will likely continue even after his formal retirement as Athletic Director position. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct privilege to recognize Edward's achievements and laudable record of public service before you today. Individuals like Edward embody the dedication and commitment necessary to impart strong values to future generations and allow them the opportunity to succeed. I commend Edward for his long and prolific career and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I stand before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Dan Foulk, an outstanding citizen from my district who recently passed away. Dan was a member of the Pueblo Rural Fire Department and he will be remembered as a dedicated firefighter, loyal friend, and committed father. As a member of the Pueblo Rural Fire Department, Dan spent his life protecting the community he loved. Dan was an Assistant Chief for the Department and was hired as their first Fire Marshal in 2001. Dan was able to accomplish both jobs simultaneously, working hard to insure the safety of his community. Dan was honored to be able to perform both of these duties. He loved being a fireman, and he loved protecting Pueblo. This dedication made Dan a role model in the Pueblo Fire Department. When not working to protect the community, Dan was at home with his family. He was blessed with a lovely wife, five children, and ten grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Dan Foulk before this body of Congress and this nation. His hard work, enthusiastic attitude, and leadership will be missed. Dan will forever be remembered for the contributions he provided his community and I am sorry for his loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to Dan's family, friends, and his coworkers on the Pueblo Rural Fire Department.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the Inslee amendment and commend to my colleagues the following letter and dear colleague. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Secretary, Washington, DC, July 17, 2003. Hon. Richard W. Pombo, Chairman, Committee on Resources, House of Representatives, Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC. Dear Mr. Chairman: Your letter dated July 11, 2003, jointly signed by Representative Robert Goodlatte, requested the Department of Agriculture's views of the effects of a proposed legislative rider to the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations bill that would prohibit the Forest Service from expending funds to either: (1) modify the Roadless Area Conservation Rule (Roadless Rule); and/or (2) undertake certain management activities within lands affected by the Roadless Rule. Either approach could have serious, unintended adverse effects. The Department strongly opposes the proposed riders. If they were included within the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, I would recommend that the President exercise his veto authority for the following reasons. On Monday, July 14, a Federal District Court in Wyoming issued an order setting aside the Roadless Rule for the entire country. Under this decision, no Roadless Rule will be in effect unless and until the Department lawfully promulgates a new Roadless Rule--but that is exactly what the proposed rider forbids. As a result, the rider would have the perverse effect of preventing the Department from protecting roadless areas. Indeed, the Chief of the Forest Service could not even-issue interim direction to the field governing the protection of roadless values, as he did the last time the Roadless Rule was enjoined by a court. In the event the nationwide injunction were overturned at some point in the future, the proposed rider would still impede the Department's ability to protect roadless areas in other respects. For example, USDA recently reached an agreement with the State of Alaska in a lawsuit challenging the Roadless Rule on special grounds applicable only to Alaska. In order to settle the suit, the U.S. agreed to propose a rule that would prohibit timber harvest on 95% of the roadless acres in the Tongass and Chugach National Forests while making a small portion of roadless areas in these forests (less than 3%) available for management. If the proposed rider were to be enacted, the State of Alaska would certainly re-file its lawsuit against USDA, threatening to remove protection for all Alaska roadless areas. Additionally, the proposed rider would not allow the flexibility to address unforeseen circumstances in the future to respond to threats to the environment and adjacent private property. It would not even allow the flexibility to take pre-emptive action to treat known problems and potentially dangerous situations to prevent threats to public health and safety such as reducing wildfire risks to communities in the wildland-urban interface when communities abut roadless areas. While a rider preventing modifications to the current Roadless Rule would harm roadless values in these ways, a rider prohibiting funding for management activities within inventoried roadless areas could have even more significant negative effects. Such legislation would negate the existing exceptions contained in the original rule allowing some on-the-ground management flexibility. These original exceptions, while overly narrow and difficult and costly to implement, nevertheless, allow a limited amount of active management to: (1) improve roadless characteristics; (2) improve threatened, endangered, proposed, or sensitive species habitat; (3) maintain or restore the characteristics of ecosystem composition and structure; and (4) protect public health and safety in cases of an imminent threat of flood, fire, or other catastrophic event that, without intervention, would cause the loss of life or property. Prohibiting management activities in inventoried roadless areas would be even more prohibitive then provisions allowing some level of management in areas designated by Congress as wilderness. More importantly, such a rider would severely compromise and most certainly delay implementation of the National Fire Plan and the Ten-Year Comprehensive Strategy Implementation Plan developed in cooperation with the Western Governors Association. Such delays could result in an increased risk of catastrophic wildfire, with an increased risk of environmental destruction and loss of human life and property. Finally, such a rider would substantially modify many of the goals and objectives in existing land and resource management plans, overturning over 25 years of public involvement in the forest planning process. It could, moreover, prevent management activities that could actually maintain or improve roadless characteristics. The proposal announced by the Department last month would, by contrast, retain the existing Roadless Rule, while providing limited additional flexibility to modify the rule in exceptional circumstances at the request of the Governor of an affected state to address forest health and other issues. This could, for example, allow for activities that reduce wildfire risks to communities or otherwise protect human health and safety. This approach is consistent with the land and resource management planning process, and invites the state to participate as partners in federal resource management. I urge the House to at least review the Department's upcoming proposal before precluding it. Thank you for the opportunity to address your concerns about the potential riders. I am sending an identical letter to Representative Goodlatte. Sincerely, Ann M. Veneman.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to provide broader explanation of my vote in favor of an amendment offered by my colleague, Peter DeFazio, which would remove a provision from the Interior appropriation spending bill extending the Recreation Fee Demonstration Program for the Forest Service, BLM, and Fish and Wildlife Service. Historically, Mr. Chairman, I have been a proponent of the Rec Fee Demo Program under certain narrowly tailored circumstances. Regrettably, recreation-related appropriations have never reached the level of need. The agencies covered by the Fee Demo Program have experienced massive and growing deferred maintenance backlog expenses, large portions of which are recreation related. At the same time, more and more Americans are flocking to our national forests and parks to experience the wonders of nature. Under the weight of these self- escalating pressures, both the resource and the user-public suffer. This is unacceptable. I have supported the Recreation Fee Demo Program as a mechanism to augment recreation-related appropriations. But when the Fee Demonstration Program was established as part of an appropriation bill in the middle 1990s, it was done so on a pilot basis. It was a public policy experiment--a test of the user pays concept, and the ability of the affected agencies to implement this authority fairly, wisely and with accountability, both to Congress and the user public. Today, some 9 years after Congress initiated this laudible test, and several Fee Demo extensions later, I believe it is time for Congress to make a longer term judgment as to whether or not the program should be extended into the future. Piecemeal extensions for all agencies that yield no oversight and exact no accountability are not longer in order. I believe it is time for Congress to sit down and in a thoughtful and deliberative way review this experiment and determine what has worked and what hasn't. We need to enter into a dialog with the user public, the affected agencies, the General Accounting Office and others with a stake in this program and make an informed decision--an accounting of lessons learned. Where weaknesses in the program exist, Congress should address them. Where strengths are found, those should be augmented. Where accountability has been lacking, greater accountability should be required. In any case, there is a legitimate policy debate that must be entered into before we again decide to extend this user pays experiment. So while I commend Chairman Taylor and all of the Appropriations Committee members and staff who have worked so hard on this program over the years, I am voting for the DeFazio amendment today with the knowledge that I intend to work with the chairman of the Resources Committee, Mr. Pombo, as well as other interested member of the Resources and Appropriations Committee, in a deliberative and systematic discussion about the future of ``user pays'' on our national parks, national forests, and public lands.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Chairman, first of all, I would like to point out to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Davis), the gentleman is from Tampa, Florida. I am not even sure the gentleman has been out to the public lands. We live on the public lands out there. I am getting a little tired of some of my colleagues who have no idea of what public lands mean, who do not live out there on those public lands, who do not suffer the wrath of forest fires that we are suffering right now in the West. Instead, my colleagues stand up here gallantly and say, hey, the President, as the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Inslee) says, the President is going to clear-cut tens of millions of acres. What a bunch of baloney. That has more fiction in it than Harry Potter. Mr. Chairman, do my colleagues want to know where there is friction in this country? It is not between Democrats and Republicans; it is between you folks in the cities that have never experienced mountain life or life on the public lands, that do not know what fire does to us out there. Do my colleagues know what kills more endangered species than any other thing in this country? It is wildfire. Now, I invite any of my colleagues to come out there sometime with the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Inslee), either to the wilderness areas that he has proposed or, in effect, what we have here, de facto wilderness areas under this bill; and my colleagues can tell me what happens when they will not let us drive a fire truck up there. My colleagues can tell us what happens when they will not let us fly a helicopter and land it up there. My bet is during the fire season, I say to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Davis), with all due respect, the gentleman is sitting comfortably in Tampa.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I stand before this body of Congress today to pay tribute to a lifelong journalist and journeyman. Clarence McGinley, known to friends and family as Doyle, dedicated his life to a career in journalism. His profession took him on adventures across the country, finally settling down in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. As we reflect on his passing, I would like to recognize Doyle for his journalistic accomplishments and the impact that he had on his community. When Doyle's skills as a plate maker for newspaper presses became outdated, the paper presented him with an opportunity to work as a reporter. Doyle's career flourished, winning a Pulitzer Prize for his reporting on Vietnam protests only two years later. While Doyle did not have traditional schooling as a reporter, he was widely known for his ability to track down a story. He continued his career in journalism and began a new career in the bail bond business when he moved to Glenwood Springs in the 1980s to care for his aging parents. Doyle's son, Wayne, noted that Doyle will be remembered by the community as a friend to everyone and by his children as a loving father. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to stand before this body of Congress today to recognize the positive impact that Doyle had on my district and the State of Colorado. Individuals like Doyle provide the spirit and strength of character that make this nation great. I extend my deepest sympathies to Doyle's family and friends during this difficult time.