Scott McInnis

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is a great honor to rise before this body of Congress and this nation to recognize the accomplishments of Bryanne Salazar of Grand Junction, Colorado. Several years ago, Bryanne founded Mothers Inc. to assist other mothers in the difficult and important task of child rearing and to provide a forum in which mothers around the country could share their advice, experiences and support one another financially and socially. Mothers Inc. provides many forms of assistance to mothers, including financial aid, job training, food, clothing and opportunities to meet and form bonds with other mothers. Mothers Inc. is a non-profit organization that raises money through bake sales, garage sales, and the sale of t-shirts and aprons. Her efforts truly embody the spirit and greatness of this nation. Through Mothers Inc., Bryanne has contributed greatly to the welfare of many women and children and served as an inspiration to those with whom she has come in contact. Mr. Speaker, it gives me a profound pleasure to stand before this body of Congress today to pay tribute to Bryanne Salazar, a remarkable woman who has worked to improve the lives of so many families. The children whom Bryanne has helped are the future of this nation and it is comforting to know they are in such good hands. Bryanne, thank you for your many contributions to the mothers and children of Colorado and for your persevering spirit that has inspired so many.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my great privilege to stand before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to Steve Moore, a police officer from Grand Junction, Colorado whose optimism and courage have rightfully garnered him the Optimist Officer of the Year Award. Steve has spent most of his adult life serving his community, working with determination to protect his fellow citizens in Grand Junction. Steve has been involved in law enforcement for 17 years, and has spent the last five with the Grand Junction Police Force. Steve loves working as a member of the Motor Department because he enjoys being around people and spending his time outdoors. Fellow officer Sergeant David Krouse, who describes Steve as an excellent officer, coach, co- worker, friend, and father, nominated him for the Optimist Officer of the Year. When not protecting the streets of Grand Junction, Steve volunteers his time to make a difference in the community. He is currently developing a safe-driving program for local high schools in hopes of educating teens as they take the wheel. In an effort to improve community safety, Steve instructs traffic violators in a program called Traffic School. When not teaching Traffic School, Steve spends much of his time with teenagers, and relishes the positive impact he makes on their lives. With a role model like Steve, teens become confident in their ability to make the right choice the first time. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to Steve Moore. His hard work and determination in the Grand Junction community have helped create safer streets and smarter students. Steve certainly deserves the respect and admiration of this body and it is clear he is deserving of the Optimist Officer of the Year Award. Thank you Steve, for your outstanding service to the community.

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 business that has given more than 50 years of service to the community of Mesa County, Colorado. Coloramo Federal Credit Union is a non-profit organization that provides the citizens of Mesa County with essential banking services. Coloramo recently celebrated its 50th Anniversary and I am happy to recognize its service to the Mesa Community today. Coloramo first opened its doors in 1953 and was built to serve employees of the Colorado Raw Materials Office. The company then grew to accommodate all federal employees and eventually opened its doors to all Mesa County residents in 2002. Since then, the company has continued to grow and recently opened a new state of the art building. The Credit Union operates with a unique ownership system: when customers open an account, they pay a fee that makes them a part owner. This allows Coloramo to better serve its customers because of its non- profit, customer-owned status. The company stands by its mission statement, which is ``to build lifelong member relationships based on quality service, integrity, solid financial management and education.'' With hard work and dedication, Coloramo has become an exemplary member of the Colorado business community. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great joy to recognize the Coloramo Federal Credit Union. Its customer owned philosophy has provided the people of Mesa County with excellent service for many years. Congratulations on 50 years of service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to Millie Harmon of Lake City, Colorado. Millie will soon retire from the National Weather Service, where she has been a distinguished volunteer for the past 30 years. As she nears her retirement, I would like to recognize her many years of service to her community. Millie began her career with the National Weather Service at the same time that her husband Hal was embarking on his position as the Superintendent of Santa Maria Reservoir. At the Weather Service, Millie was responsible for measuring and reporting several important weather statistics, including precipitation amounts and snow depth. Millie then began to measure the depth, runoff, and water speed of the Lake Fork River. Millie always worked her hardest to provide the Weather Service with accurate information. She was known to snowshoe into the mountains to get her readings, a difficult task at well over 9,000 feet. For her dedication and many years of hard work, she was recently honored with a certificate of achievement from the U.S. Department of Commerce. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this Congress and this nation to recognize the accomplishments of Millie Harmon. Her hard work and dedication provided the Weather Service with important, accurate information. Volunteering is a noble calling, and Millie's 30 years with the Weather Service is truly a very impressive accomplishment. Thank you, Millie, for the service you have provided our community.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to a hospital with a long history of service. The Arkansas Valley Regional Medical Center in La Junta, Colorado is celebrating its 75th anniversary, and I am honored today to recognize this outstanding facility. The hospital began as a treatment clinic for tuberculosis 99 years ago, before becoming a full-service hospital in 1928. Although the facility was much smaller and operated under a different name then, it still gave the best quality care possible, just as it does today. Medicine has changed significantly in the 75 years since the hospital first opened its doors, with numerous innovations improving the manner in which we care for the ill. However, the Arkansas Valley Regional Medical Center has always kept up-to-date with the latest medical procedures. After 75 years, the Arkansas Valley complex now includes a health clinic, veteran's clinic, and doctor's offices in addition to the hospital itself. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to the Arkansas Valley Regional Medical Center. Its outstanding care and commitment to the citizens of the Arkansas Valley deserves the praise and recognition of this body of Congress. Congratulations on 75 great years, and thank you for your service to the people of Colorado.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to the Hotchkiss Elks Ladies Auxiliary, who have served their community in Colorado for over 50 years. The women of the Hotchkiss Elks Ladies Auxiliary have worked hard to create a friendly, positive atmosphere in their community and I am proud to pay tribute to them here today. Through many years of distinguished service, the Ladies Auxiliary have contributed to all aspects of their community, raising and contributing money to Laradon Hall, the Sunshine School, various clothing drives, the March of Dimes, a cancer fund, a polio fund, the AIDS project, and the Hotchkiss High School Band. They also put on several community parties, allowing citizens the opportunity to relax and have some fun over the holidays. The ladies have done more for their community than raise money; they have provided the town of Hotchkiss with the opportunity to have fun. Their hard work and dedication produces events that entertain the community, helping to bring joy into the lives of its residents. They are famous for their Christmas and Halloween parties. They have Easter egg hunts, Chili cookouts, and a Charity Ball. Mr. Speaker, the Hotchkiss Elks Ladies Auxiliary has provided my district with over 50 years of selfless service. Their distinguished efforts in the Hotchkiss community are certainly deserving of praise before this body and this nation. I am honored to offer my sincere thanks and gratitude to the Hotchkiss Elks Ladies Auxiliary and congratulate them on 50 years of outstanding contribution.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to an outstanding educator from my district. Keith Owen of Pueblo is the recipient of the 2003 Colorado National Distinguished Principal of the Year award from the Colorado Association of School Executives. Keith's peers selected him based on his leadership, respect from his school, and community service. Keith has worked as an educator for 10 years and has served as the principal of Beulah Heights Elementary in Pueblo since 1999. Since taking the helm at the school, fourth grade reading scores have skyrocketed. Their performance on the Colorado Student Assessment Program, CSAP, have risen from 50 percent to 86 percent in only three years. The difference was so dramatic, Keith received an invitation to travel to the White House where President Bush and Secretary of Education Rod Paige cited Beulah Heights Elementary for its achievements. Mr. Speaker, because of Keith Owen's exemplary leadership, the student's at Beulah Heights Elementary School have a greater chance of success in school and in life. Keith has made Pueblo and the State of Colorado proud, and I am truly honored to recognize him here today. Congratulations, Keith, and good luck with your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress today to pay tribute to the contributions that the men and women of the Telluride Volunteer Fire Department have made to the Telluride community and the State of Colorado. This year, the Telluride Volunteer Fire Department will be marking its 125th anniversary of service to the community. As we reflect upon this landmark anniversary, I would like to commend the Telluride Volunteer Fire Department for its invaluable public service. The Telluride Volunteer Fire Department's technology has evolved at the same rapid pace as the town that it serves. Since its early days, the department has become one of the best-equipped volunteer fire departments in the country. In addition to its technology and equipment, the efficacy of the Department has depended upon its volunteers' unwavering commitment and the community's steadfast support. The department's skill and level of commitment have earned it a position as one of the most respected organizations in the community. The Department serves the Telluride community in numerous ways. Each year, the Department provides a $1,000 renewable scholarship to one graduating senior from Telluride High School. This year, members of the Fire Department expect to increase the amount of the scholarship to $1,500. Moreover, the Department is responsible for putting on a spectacular fireworks display each year for its Fourth of July celebration. Mr. Speaker, I am deeply honored to pay tribute to the Telluride Volunteer Fire Department. The Fire Department's volunteers selflessly sacrifice their time in order to provide a vital service to the Telluride community. I commend the Telluride Volunteer Fire Department for 125 years of excellence and thank its volunteers for their exemplary public service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise before this body of Congress to pay tribute to Jeff Bartleson of Pueblo, Colorado, who has faithfully and unselfishly served the needs of Coloradans for many years. Jeff has contributed to the quality of life in Colorado in many significant ways and I am proud to highlight his accomplishments before this body of Congress. Throughout his life, Jeff has exhibited the virtues of compassion, self-determination, self-sacrifice, and hard work that have made this country great. In his capacity as a foster parent, Jeff has helped several youth in the region through his work with the Young Life Association and the El Pueblo Boys and Girls Ranch. His service and dedication to the needs of his community have increased progressively over time. He has been instrumental in the foundation and development of the Interfaith Hospitality Network, one of Pueblo's newest self-help organizations, and he is currently serving as the second president of its board. Mr. Speaker, I am deeply honored to pay tribute to Jeff Bartleson for the various ways in which he has brought strength and joy to the people of Colorado. Despite his achievements, Jeff has remained humble and continued with his selfless work. For this great work on behalf of the citizens of Colorado, I commend him before this body of Congress and this nation. Jeff, all the best to you now and in the future.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor a group of people who create hope and opportunity for those who are challenged with disabilities. The people of Bayaud Industries have helped the mentally ill and disabled find meaningful work in my home state of Colorado since 1969. By providing jobs for people with disabilities, the people of Bayaud reach out to a group with the highest unemployment rate in the country. Bayaud is funded under the government's JWOD program to identify jobs for some 300 people a year who might otherwise not be able to find work. They do this by partnering with public and private organizations, from Coors to the EPA, helping numerous Coloradans lead more meaningful and productive lives. In addition to this, the people of Bayaud help a number of their employees move on to private sector jobs every year. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to the people of Bayaud Industries and their work under the JWOD program. By giving the disabled a hand up instead of a handout, they help numerous people realize the satisfaction that comes with meaningful employment. I commend their efforts to serve Colorado's disabled community.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress today to pay tribute to Ella Moon of Fruita, Colorado. Ella Moon is the person behind Moon Farm, a remarkable place where thousands of kids have gone to play and learn for nearly four decades. It all began in 1954 when Ella and Wallace Moon moved from Utah to an old hog farm in Western Colorado. Their children needed something to do during the summer so they built a tree house. The following summer, the kids built a small one-room schoolhouse. As the years rolled on, the ideas kept coming, and eventually the property included homes resembling those in Italy, Mexico, Japan, and the Middle East. A log cabin, Pyramid, and a Viking ship went up too. Soon people the Moons had never met were stopping by to enjoy the buildings and have picnics on their lawn. The Moons embraced these visitors, offering pony rides and a petting zoo, which included a llama, peacocks and other animals. Visiting children learned Indian dances, performed in talent shows, and listened to Ella's riveting stories. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great joy to recognize Ella Moon. Although Ella is now 85 years old, she still plays with the kids, tells them stories, and teaches them lessons they can use in real life. Ella has helped create a unique place where children can play, learn, and grow. I thank Ella for her many contributions to her community.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to honor an outstanding American from my district. Bill Werner is a real estate broker from Alamosa, Colorado who loves his country and understands that the freedoms we enjoy in this country come with a price. Bill also knows that, just as great nations must lead during difficult times, so too must great citizens. I am pleased to recognize Bill before this body of Congress as a citizen of character. Bill's son, Billy, helped keep America safe and free by serving as a paramedic with the 3rd Infantry in the Iraq conflict. This fact made it particularly difficult for Bill to watch war protestors march past his Main Street office. Rather than watch in silence, Bill decided to give the ``silent majority'' of Alamosans who support our troops a chance to be heard. Bill organized a parade that included a police honor guard, veterans groups and other citizens who wanted to take part. Our troops deserve to know that our country is behind them and that they will not be forgotten. Bill followed the parade by collecting books and candy for U.S. troops in Iraq at his real estate office. He will distribute these goods to the Red Cross who will then dispense them to the troops. Bill hopes that the parade along with the gifts will show that Alamosa is a patriotic town, one where the citizens support the troops that protect their freedom. Mr. Speaker, it would have been easier to not get involved, but Bill Werner had the courage and conviction to stand up for what he knew was right, and I applaud him for that. It is people like Bill who have helped make America great, and I am proud to tell his story before this body of Congress today. Thank you, Bill, your support and optimistic enthusiasm provide an example for us all.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute today to the memory of a remarkable woman from my district. Margaret Youmans, who passed away recently at the age of 104, was the oldest resident of Gunnison County in Western Colorado, with a life spanning parts of three centuries. Born in 1898, Margaret was the second of eight children born to Lake City businessman Charles Mendenhall and his wife Manetta. Margaret graduated from high school in 1918 and began a career as a teacher. Eight years later she was elected as a write-in candidate for Superintendent of the Hinsdale County Schools. Margaret also worked as a cook and for a newspaper, spending more than 60 years on a ranch, growing nearly everything her family ate. Mr. Speaker, Margaret was a tough, self-reliant, and determined woman who attributed her long life to her love of family, good genetics, and plenty of good, hard work. Her ``can-do'' attitude exemplified the qualities that helped make this nation great, and I am honored to pay tribute to her memory here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise before this body of Congress today to recognize the life and passing of Alice Drake of Pueblo, Colorado. Alice left us recently after a prolific life that spanned 107 years. Her sense of humor and determined approach defined her life and made a strong impact upon the Pueblo community. A descendant of German parents, Alice was born in Phillips County, Kansas, where she developed a strong work ethic on her parent's 360- acre farm. Throughout her life, Alice used her strength to aid others-- protecting her younger brother on the way home from school and assuming the household responsibilities when her mother sadly passed away. Alice was also notorious for her adventurous spirit, learning to bowl in her 80s, riding on a motorcycle for the first time in her 90s, and developing a reputation wherever she went for her renowned pool playing abilities. Mr. Speaker, individuals like Alice provided the spirit and strength of character that made this nation great. While she will be dearly missed, Alice's spirit will live on through the lives of those whom she has touched. I extend my deepest sympathies to Alice's family and friends during this difficult time.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I rise before this body of Congress today to recognize the life and passing of Tom Peirce of Aspen, Colorado. Tom recently left us after a battle with cancer. As his family and friends mourn their loss, I think it is fitting to remember a few of Tom's contributions to the Aspen community. Tom lived in Aspen nearly his entire life. After graduating from Aspen High School and Colorado State University, he formed a travel company that focused on natural history and cultural trips. Although he traveled extensively, Tom loved Aspen and gave back to the community. Six years ago, Tom joined the board of the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies, and, before his health failed, launched a bid for the Aspen City Council. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize the life and selfless dedication Tom Peirce demonstrated throughout his life. People like Tom who get involved in the community, create jobs, and work to improve our government, are the bedrock of this great nation. Tom is survived by his father Everett, sister Melanie, and brother Fred, and our thoughts are with them during this difficult time. Tom will be missed by his family, friends, and the many people in the Roaring Fork Valley who knew him.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the Enstrom family of Grand Junction, Colorado. The Enstroms own and operate Enstrom's Candies, one of the premier candy manufacturers in the United States. For many years, the Enstroms have worked hard to produce high quality candy, earning a reputation as a valuable member of Colorado's business community. Under the leadership of Chet Enstrom, the family has strived to serve not only their customers but the state of Colorado as well. Chet Enstrom began his career at the age of 14, working in a Colorado Springs ice cream shop. It was there that Chet learned about making quality candy, a craft he would later perfect in the basement of his home. He gave a small amount of his now famous ``almond toffee'' to family and friends, who encouraged Chet to open what became Enstrom's Candies. The quality of the candy was evident to all of Enstrom's many customers, ensuring that the company has enjoyed many years of success. Chet worked hard to keep the business in family hands and there have now been three generations of Enstroms involved in its operation. In 1965, Chet passed the company on to his son Emil and his daughter-in- law Mary. By 1979 Enstrom's Candies was producing over 65,000 pounds of candy every year. The third generation of Enstroms operates the company today. The ``Candy Kitchen'' in Grand Junction is run by Chet's granddaughter Jamee and her husband Doug. Their Denver retail stores are operated by Chet's grandson Rick and his wife Linda. Together the Enstroms still focus on the family values of hard work and dedication that have made the company successful for so many years. Mr. Speaker, Enstrom's Candies has provided Colorado with high quality confections and dedicated service for over 40 years. The Enstrom family has worked hard to keep the business in family hands, providing numerous jobs to the surrounding community. Enstrom's Candies is truly a Colorado icon and I congratulate them on 43 years of service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize Tom Sharp, a helicopter pilot from Telluride, Colorado and thank him for the contributions he has made to local search and rescue efforts. Tom recently risked his life and his helicopter to save two avalanche victims trapped on a steep slope near Telluride Ski Area, and today I would like to honor his service before this body of Congress and this nation. Tom has been a pilot with Helitrax, a heli-ski guide service, for over twelve years. When he was called to assist in the rescue of two skiers caught in an avalanche, he immediately responded along with two Helitrax guides, braving a dangerous landing near one of the injured skiers before picking up more rescuers and dropping off more medical supplies. Then Tom made a daring attempt to reach the other skier, flying close to dangerous jagged rock in spite of unpredictable afternoon winds. Though he was unsuccessful, Tom and his fellow rescuers dropped supplies to the stranded skier that allowed him to climb out of the couloir and communicate with rescuers. Mr. Speaker, pilots with the expertise and skill of Tom Sharp are crucial to successful search and rescue operations, and it is a great privilege to honor Tom here today. His years of experience and his willingness to take risks are a tremendous asset to the citizens of Telluride and to all of Colorado.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I recognize the passing of Charles Leinberger of Pueblo, Colorado. Charlie, as he was known, served his country faithfully as a Marine in the Second World War, where he received the Purple Heart. He also served Pueblo for many years as an Ambassador for the Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce. I would like to take this time to pay tribute to the honorable contributions Charlie made in defense of our freedoms and his involvement in the Pueblo Community. Only recently, Charlie was honored by the Chamber of Commerce for almost fifty years of work on behalf of that organization. His energy and skill in developing the Chamber of Commerce will be missed sorely by those he has left behind to continue his work. In addition to his labor on behalf of the Chamber, Charlie also volunteered with numerous community organizations in Pueblo, bringing his vitality and dedication to a number of worthy causes in his community. Charlie's life, his patriotism and his altruism will continue to inspire the Pueblo community for years to come. Mr. Speaker, although it is with sorrow that I stand before you here recognizing the passing of Charles Leinberger, I take solace in the knowledge that his legacy and example will continue to make my state and this country a better place to live. Charles' life and deeds are examples to us all and it is fitting that I recognize them before this body of Congress and this nation. My prayers go out to Charlie's family and friends in this difficult time.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I stand before this body of Congress to pay tribute to an outstanding woman from my district. Mary Clark Walker passed away recently at the amazing age of 108. Mary was one of a small number who had witnessed the dawn of two centuries, and the astounding advancement of technology in the United States over that time. Mary was lucky enough to see the beginning of the airplane, the television, and the modern automobile. At a very young age, Mary moved from California to Ouray, Colorado where her original house on Oak Street still stands today. Mary gained a reputation as a hard worker. At a very young age, Mary began working to provide her family with extra spending money. She would often travel by train to Montrose, Colorado, where she would work a week at a time for the Ashenfelter Ranch. Mary sometimes stayed at the ranch for up to a month before she would return home to her family. It was this kind of work ethic that garnered Mary the respect of her town, which congratulated her by throwing a special 100th birthday party in her honor. Mary was also blessed with two sons, Jack and Lester, who claim her secret for a long and healthy life was nothing more than clean living and hard work. Mr. Speaker, it is people like Mary that constitute the heart of our great nation as well as the spirit of the West and I am honored to recognize her life before this body of Congress and this nation. While we are all saddened by the loss of such a great woman, we can take some solace in knowing that she lived a long and happy life. My thoughts and prayers go out to Mary's friends and family during their time of mourning.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I have the pleasure to stand before this body to pay tribute to a great individual who, even at a very young age, understood the price of freedom. His story is one of honor, selflessness, and sacrifice, and I am honored to tell it to this Congress today. In 1946, while just 15 years old, Don George had an exciting future ahead of him. Although just a high school freshman, he was already a starter on his high school basketball team. His country was finally at peace, having just defeated the Germans in Europe and the Japanese in Asia to close out World War II. Although he was too young to fight in the war, Don was old enough to understand how much his countrymen had sacrificed to help keep America free. So, he went off in the service of his country, pretending to be older than he was in order to meet the military's age requirements. After his return from the service, Don came home and married the love of his life, Helen, to whom he has been married for 53 years. Don forged a career in the oil refinery business before retiring to pursue the things he and Helen love, such as country line dancing, bowling, and playing cards. Don is blessed with three children, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Don sacrificed his diploma in order to serve his nation. However, a new law in Colorado enables veterans to receive their high school diplomas, and now Don, who is 72-years-old, will walk across the stage with his graduating class, the class of 2003 at Fruita Monument High School in Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize the achievement of Don's upcoming commencement. The drive and dedication that Don has displayed in pursuing this diploma is extremely impressive, and his determination, along with his sacrifice to his country, is an outstanding example for America's youth. Don is truly a dedicated patriot and citizen, and I am honored to recognize his accomplishments.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I honor the life and memory of an outstanding young man from my district. Kristopher Entz, a 17-year-old student from Center, Colorado passed away recently. As his family and friends mourn their loss, I would like to pay tribute to the memory of Kristopher before this body of Congress and this nation. Kristopher was a well-rounded, perpetually happy, all-American teenager, liked and admired by all. His sense of humor and penchant for pranks made him one of the most popular students at Sangre de Cristo High School. He was an outstanding student, as evidenced by his membership in the National Honor Society and his participation in Knowledge Bowl, an extra-curricular academic competition. Kristopher excelled in athletics as well, and was a terrific football player who also liked snowboarding, golf, and lifting weights. Kristopher is survived by his parents Mike and Rhonda, his older sister Brynna, and a loving extended family, and my thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time. Kristopher's good- natured spirit will live on in the many lives he has touched in the San Luis Valley. His love, laughter, and dedication to his family, friends, school, and community will be greatly missed.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, as the battle for freedom rages across the globe, the United States has stepped forward to defend the world against tyranny and aggression. This includes sending forth brave men and women to protect the sovereignty that we hold dear. One of these brave souls has been wounded in battle, and his courageous actions and determination deserve the admiration of this body of Congress and of this nation. Jordan Ferrell, a 19-year-old soldier from Moffat County, Colorado was wounded in the service of his country during Operation Iraqi Freedom. As a member of the Army's 82nd Airborne, Jordan was wounded by shrapnel when a grenade exploded on the roof of his Jeep. After being injured, Jordan wanted nothing more than to return to active duty, so he began the long road to recovery. I am proud to say that through hard work and determination, Jordan has resumed active duty, and is once again protecting the freedoms we enjoy. Upon completion of his military service, Jordan wants to pursue a career in computers. His mother hopes he might consider creative writing. Regardless of the profession he chooses, if Jordan displays the same determination and drive, I know he will achieve much success in his life. Mr. Speaker, I cannot fully express my deep sense of gratitude for the sacrifice and heroism of this soldier and his family. Jordan has served his country well, and it is soldiers like him who make the United States military the best in the world. Jordan has done all Americans proud and I know he has the respect, admiration, and gratitude of all of my colleagues here today. Thank you, Jordan, for your honorable and admirable service to this nation.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I stand before this body of Congress today to honor a man who has been wounded on the field of battle while in the service of his nation. Wesley Uhland, a 26-year-old Army Specialist, is a mechanic who received a bullet to the abdomen after an ambush by Iraqi soldiers. However, doctors have assured Wesley and his family that he will make a full recovery. As he recuperates, I would like to recognize his admirable service before this Congress and this nation today. Wesley graduated from Canon City High School in 1994 and joined the Army in 2000. He was stationed out of Fort Carson and was deployed in Operation Iraqi freedom on April 11, 2003. As a mechanic, Wesley is responsible for the care and maintenance of tanks, Humvees, and Bradley Fighting Vehicles. During the ambush in which he was shot, four of Wesley's companions were also wounded, though all were lucky enough to survive the incident. Wesley is recuperating in an Iraqi hospital and is to be transferred to Germany before traveling home to Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I cannot fully express the gratitude and respect I feel for Wesley Uhland. Each generation must renew its commitment to defend our liberties. Today in Iraq, a new generation of young Americans is fighting bravely for the freedom of others. I know that those who seek the true meaning of duty, honor, and sacrifice will find it in dedicated servants like Wesley Uhland. This Congress and all Americans should feel proud that we have soldiers like Wesley Uhland defending our great Nation. Thank you, Wesley, for putting your life on the line to honorably serve our country.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great joy that I recognize an individual today who has spent his life in the service of our youth. Howard Culp has spent 33 years as an educator in Colorado's Four Corner's region. As Howard begins his retirement, I would like to thank him for his contributions to the community before this body of Congress and this nation. Howard is one of those special people in our society who chooses his profession based not on the amount of money he can make but rather the difference he can make in the lives of his students. As a fifth and sixth grade teacher for eight years and the principal at Mancos Elementary and Kemper Elementary Schools in Southwest Colorado for a combined 25 years, Howard has positively impacted the lives of thousands of young people. The commitment Howard has exhibited throughout his 33 years of service in Colorado's schools is truly inspirational. It is clear, based on the impact Howard has had on his students, that his presence will be truly missed. Mr. Speaker, our society owes a debt to the Howard Culps of this nation who sacrifice so much to give our youth the tools they need to succeed in life. I am truly honored to recognize Howard here today and to wish him all the best in his retirement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to stand before this body of Congress to honor a man known as Colorado's ``Mr. Baseball.'' Sam Suplizio of Grand Junction, Colorado has spent his life playing, coaching, and promoting the game. As he retires from his position as Director and Chairman of the National Junior College World Series, I would like to pay tribute to this outstanding leader. Fifty years ago, Sam was one of the top amateur baseball players in the nation. Following a brilliant collegiate career in which he became the University of New Mexico's first All-American baseball player, the New York Yankees signed Sam and quickly labeled him as their top prospect. As a minor leaguer in 1955, Sam hit more home runs than Roger Maris, and the next year the Yankees called him up to the big leagues. Unfortunately, only three days after joining the team, Sam suffered a career-ending injury while sliding into second base. Despite the setback, Sam rebounded to become a professional scout, coach, and manager with the California Angels and Milwaukee Brewers. He coached superstars Paul Molitor, Robin Yount, and Bo Jackson, participated in selecting members of the U.S. Olympic Baseball Team, and earned a World Series Ring in 1982 with the Brewers. While his association with professional baseball lasted 50 years, Sam always took the time to give back to the community. In addition to four decades of leadership with the Junior College World Series, thousands of little leaguers, high school, and college players in Colorado benefited from the free clinics Sam frequently conducted. As co- chairman of the Colorado Baseball Commission, Sam led the effort to bring the Rockies to Colorado and was instrumental in the building of Coors Field. He was so effective in that role that Colorado's Governor appointed him to help build a new stadium for the Denver Broncos as well. Mr. Speaker, athletics teach our young people important life lessons about dedication, sacrifice, and teamwork, and I am proud to pay tribute to a man who has spent five decades imparting these values to our youth. Sam is a true public servant who has done so much for the game of baseball and the state of Colorado, and I am proud to honor him before this body of Congress today.