Scott McInnis

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, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Louise Ficco and thank her for her many contributions to Ouray, Colorado. Louise has spent over 30 years helping the less fortunate in the Ouray County Public Health Office and, as she plans her retirement, I am honored to speak of her contributions here today. Louise began her service in Ouray in the early 1970's, helping the County Nurse with bookkeeping, and eventually expanded her duties to include home services and immunizations. Louise then began work in the ``Women, Infants, and Children'' division of the office, providing care for young mothers and their children. Her coworkers describe Louise as a ``people person,'' doing everything necessary to make her patients comfortable. The Health Department was so worried about losing Louise that they have asked her to remain on as a consultant for the next four months. Mr. Speaker, Louise Ficco has spent her life giving back to others. Public service is truly a noble calling which Louise has wholeheartedly embraced. Thank you, Louise, for your hard work and dedication to Ouray. I wish you all the best in your 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 passing of Ojay Hansen Worrell, an outstanding citizen from my district. Ojay was an active member of the Glenwood Springs community and he will be remembered as a respected businessman, an honored veteran, and a dedicated family man. Ojay passed away recently at the age of 79, leaving a legacy of leadership for his community to follow. Ojay was born in Oklahoma City but moved to Glenwood Springs, Colorado when he was only four years old. He graduated from Garfield County High School and later married his high school sweetheart Marcella. Ojay joined the Navy and served our country during World War II, returning home to receive his bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Colorado. Ojay found success in the business field, owning and operating Holland Auto Parts for over 30 years. Ojay eventually began work in public service, serving on the Glenwood Springs City Council, as well as serving two years as the city's mayor. He was also involved in the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Elks Lodge, and the Kiwanis Club. When not working in the community, Ojay enjoyed fishing, hunting, and area athletics. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Ojay Worrell before this Congress and this nation. His hard work, enthusiasm, and leadership in the community will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to Ojay's family and friends as they mourn his loss.

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 was willing to sacrifice in the service of our country. Ray Candelaria of Cortez, Colorado served this nation in World War II, going on to dedicate his time and effort toward the betterment of the Cortez community. In order to serve his nation during a time of need, Ray left high school early to enlist in the Armed Forces. Ray joined up shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, serving in the Army for two years. He was injured and returned home, where he became active in numerous veterans' causes. Ray served as Commander of the Ute Mountain Post of the American Legion, Chairman of the Ute Mountain Rodeo Parade, and currently commands the Disabled American Veterans Post. His hard work and dedication to veteran's affairs have truly made Ray a leader in the Cortez community. On May 22, 2003, Ray walked across the stage at Montezuma-Cortez High School and received his diploma after 60 years of service. He was one of several veterans who took advantage of a new Colorado law that enables those who fought in World War II to receive full high school diplomas. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Ray Candelaria and commend him for his service to our country. He and the other heroes of ``the greatest generation'' defeated totalitarianism and fascism, ensuring the freedom of all Americans. Ray left the simple pleasures of life in Colorado for the serious work of defending this great nation and it gives me immense pleasure to honor Ray and offer my congratulations on his graduation. Our country will always be grateful for his service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I stand before you today to recognize the almost four decades that Theresa McKinney of Rocky Ford, Colorado has contributed to the children of my state. For the last twelve years, Theresa has been kitchen manager at Rocky Ford High School, rising early in the morning to begin her many hours of cooking as she oversees the nutrition of Rocky Ford's children. Theresa will soon be retiring from her service at Rocky Ford, and I am proud to speak of her accomplishments here today. Theresa has seen many kids come and go in her years at Rocky Ford and I know she will miss the spirit and laughter that the children have brought into her life. Her dedication to the school system has provided the children with an exemplary model of hard work. Theresa always arrived early and worked hard until her job was done. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the contributions Theresa has made to the well being of Colorado's children. Her hard work and dedication to Rocky Ford High School is certainly deserving of recognition before this body. Theresa, I wish you well in all of your 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 to pay tribute to Frank Modica, an outstanding citizen from my district. Frank was an active member of the Trinidad community and he will be remembered as a respected businessman, an honored veteran, and a dedicated family man. Frank passed away recently at the age of 79, leaving a legacy of leadership in the Trinidad community. Frank was a lifelong resident of Trinidad, graduating from Trinidad High School in 1938. Two years later, he married his wife Jane, a union that would last for the next 62 years. Several years later, Frank answered his country's call to duty, serving in the Army during World War II. Upon his return to the states, Frank worked with a number of companies, eventually owning Modica Trucking, The East Side Inn, and Modica Brothers Red-E-Mix. Frank was also active in the Catholic Church, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Trinidad Planning Commission. When he was not busy within the community, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, bowling and gardening. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Frank Modica before this body of Congress and this nation. His hard work, enthusiastic attitude, and leadership will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to Frank's family and friends.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to Irving Jaquez, the long-time warden of the Trinidad Correctional Facility in Trinidad, Colorado. Irving will soon be retiring as warden of the prison, where his leadership will be truly missed. I want to honor his many contributions here today. Irving worked his way up through the ranks of the Colorado Department of Corrections, starting as a correctional guard. From there, he served as a correctional sergeant, lieutenant, case manager, admissions officer, housing supervisor, deputy warden, and warden. During his time at the prison, Irving was responsible for a mass transfer of prisoners, as 326 inmates had to be moved into the new maximum-security prison in Canon City. Like all of his work, the transfer was carefully planned and went off without a hitch. Irving saw the prison system go through numerous changes through his many years of service. Irving worked hard to eliminate the potential for escapes from his facility. Recently, however, he has focused on the problem of contraband in prisons. As always, Irving works hard to protect the safety of his guards and protect the safety of the prisoners as well. Mr. Speaker, I am proud of Irving's contributions to the Colorado Department of Corrections. His detailed and efficient management style has led to a well-run, well-organized prison, providing the utmost safety for prisoners and Trinidad citizens alike. Thank you, Irving, for your hard work and dedication.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to Timothy Tymkovich, who will soon become the next federal appellate judge for the Tenth Judicial Circuit. A Colorado native, Timothy has spent his career practicing law and serving the people of Colorado. I am proud to stand today and congratulate Timothy on his appointment. Timothy began his distinguished law career at the University of Colorado School of Law, where he became the managing editor of the University's Law Review. Upon graduation in 1982, Timothy worked for Chief Justice William H. Erickson of the Colorado Supreme Court. He was appointed as Colorado's Solicitor General in 1991, working with both Republicans and Democrats effectively. He left that post in 1996, returning to practice law in the private sector. In addition to his time in the courtroom, Timothy has served on the Governor's Columbine Review Commission and currently chairs the Colorado Board of Ethics. Mr. Speaker, Timothy Tymkovich is an outstanding member of the Colorado community who certainly deserves the praise of this body of Congress and this nation. The commitment he has given to Colorado and to the practice of law clearly shows his dedication to justice. Timothy will be a fantastic judge in the Tenth Circuit and it is my pleasure to congratulate him here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress today to pay tribute to a courageous and benevolent young woman from my district. Sarah Shank of Durango, Colorado was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer three years ago at the age of eleven. When the disease went into remission the following year, Sarah decided she wanted to dedicate her time and efforts to help other affected children and their families combat cancer. With the help of her family, Sarah founded ``Country Kids With Cancer,'' an organization that provides emotional support to kids battling cancer and financial help to their families. People who live in rural areas, such as Sarah's family, often have to travel long distances to get treatment. ``Country Kids With Cancer'' works with Children's Hospital in Denver to identify and help such families with travel related expenses, which can be very expensive and are rarely covered by insurance. Even though Sarah still deals with health-related problems stemming from cancer, she works hard to raise funds by speaking to neighbors at the local mall, hosting chili cook-offs, and organizing a charity golf tournament. Her efforts have directly helped nine families so far, and she is working to help more. Mr. Speaker, I am truly honored to recognize Sarah Shank here today. That she would work so hard on behalf of others--after all she has been through--speaks volumes about her character. Sarah embodies the spirit of sharing and service that helped build this great nation, and I commend her for her leadership, thank her for her community service, 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 to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen from my district. Donald Whalen of Durango, Colorado has touched countless lives. He has served as a coach, friend, and mentor to the students of Fort Lewis College. The respect for Donald in the Durango area cannot be overstated, and it is for this reason that Fort Lewis College has dedicated their gymnasium to him. Donald has committed his life to Fort Lewis, serving in numerous leadership positions within the school. He has worked as a physical education teacher, head coach of the men's golf and basketball teams, director of athletics, and interim school president. While performing these duties, Donald has always made time for his students. He provides them with friendship, advice, counseling, and has an attentive ear. One student even refers to Donald as ``Mr. Everything.'' Mr. Speaker, Donald Whalen is an outstanding member of his community, a man who certainly deserves recognition before this body of Congress and this nation. The hard work and dedication that Donald has given to Fort Lewis has positively impacted the lives of many students. It is clear that Donald has influenced America's youth, and I hope that his message of kindness, generosity, and resiliency will spread. Thank you, Donald, for your dedication to the community.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to Mike McGuire, a Colorado State Patrolman who will be retiring after eight years of distinguished service. Mike served in Durango, Colorado as a Community Resource Officer, where he worked with area schools to promote automobile safety. Mike joined the State Patrol in 1995, and was quickly promoted to Community Resource Officer. It was there that Mike worked with organizations such as the Colorado Department of Transportation and Mothers Against Drunk Driving, teaching the virtues of seat belt use and driver safety. He works as an instructor in the ``Alive at 25'' program, which gives ticketed drivers the option of a lesser fine if they attend a safety class. Mike was also instrumental in the formation of the Victim Impact Panel for Drunk Drivers, a panel that consists of family and friends of people who have been killed by a drunk driver. Mr. Speaker, Mike McGuire is the type of person whose dedication and commitment to improving safety has made a difference in the lives of many young Coloradans. The Durango community has greatly benefited from Mike's hard work and perseverance, and I thank him for his efforts. Good luck, Mike, in all of your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, last month, the House passed the Healthy Forests Restoration Act on an overwhelming bipartisan basis. The bill creates a number of new procedures and programs to deal with the nation's exploding forest health crisis. Importantly, Title VI of the bill would authorize and direct federal land managers to establish early detection programs for insect and disease infestations, with an emphasis on hardwood forests, so that agencies can isolate and treat adverse conditions before they reach epidemic levels. Even though the bill was first considered and marked up in the Resources Committee, the House Agriculture Committee, under the outstanding leadership of Chairman Bob Goodlatte, received primary referral. While associating myself with the able and accurate work in the Agriculture Committee's Report on H.R. 1904, as the bill's primary author I want to insert some additional language into H.R. 1904's legislative history so as to provide further clarity as to the intention of Congress in Title VI. Title VI of H.R. 1904 authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a program that uses geospatial and information management technologies (remote sensing imaging and decision support systems) to inventory, monitor, characterize, assess, and identify forest stands (and potential forest stands) in the southern and eastern portions of the United States, with special emphasis on hardwood forest types. The approach for this effort includes utilizing NASA remote sensing technology, emerging geospatial capabilities in research activities, validating techniques using application demonstrations, and integrating results into pilot operational systems. Important issues to be addressed in this region of the U.S. include, but are not limited to, early detection, identification and assessment of environmental threats (insect, disease, invasive species, fire and weather-related risks, other episodic events), loss or degradation of forests, degradation of stand quality due to inadequate forest regeneration practices, quantification of carbon uptake rates, and other counter management practices. Developing a comprehensive early warning system for potential catastrophic environmental threats to Eastern forests would significantly increase the likelihood that managers could isolate and treat any such outbreak before it gets out of control. Such a system could prevent the kind of epidemic, like that of the American chestnut blight in the first half of the twentieth century, which could be environmentally and economically devastating to Eastern forests. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1904 is as important as any environmental legislation that this House has passed in a very long time. Title VI in the bill is a critical piece of that landmark forest health program.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise today to recognize the hours of dedication and hard work that Perk Vickers has invested for the betterment of the Lake Fork community of Colorado. Perk has recently announced his retirement from his seat on the Hinsdale County Planning Commission, a seat he has held for almost 30 years. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the great leadership that Perk has shown and to highlight the many accomplishments he has made to his community. Perk has served Colorado with vision and commitment for over half a century. Besides his notable service to the Hinsdale County Planning Commission, Perk has served as chairman of the Hinsdale Republican Party for over 50 years, as well as serving as the 34-year director of the Upper Gunnison River Conservancy District. In addition, Perk has spent 36-years serving as Hinsdale County's representative to the Colorado River Water Conservation District. In the 1950's, Perk was instrumental in the creation of Club 20, which he helped form to bring twenty Western Slope counties together in order to promote roads and tourism. He also founded the Hinsdale County Chamber of Commerce, which celebrated its 50th anniversary this year. In short, Perk's dedication has been inspirational, and Colorado has benefited greatly from his service. Mr. Speaker, it is with great admiration that I pay tribute today to the many services Perk Vickers has performed on behalf of the citizens of Colorado. I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude for his many examples of community service that have helped make Colorado a more prosperous, friendlier, and beautiful place to live. I know that men like Perk never rest, and so I wish to congratulate him now on his Lifetime Achievement Award and his retirement. I wish him success in all of his future endeavors. Perk, thank you for your service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I stand before this body of Congress today to mourn the passing of Quigg Newton, who served the state of Colorado with distinction as Mayor of Denver and as President of the University of Colorado. For ninety-one years, the energy and spirit Quigg Newton brought to life made many of us believe that he would never pass away. I honor his many accomplishments here today. Returning from his service in the Navy after the Second World War, Quigg Newton moved to Denver where he ran for mayor and served two terms, retiring in 1955. He was the grandson of a Colorado territory pioneer and his tenure as mayor is fittingly known for the hard work and pioneering spirit he brought to the office. For his dedication and commitment, the city has named a senior center and an auditorium after him. Mr. Speaker, Quigg Newton will be remembered fondly. His service to this country serves as an example to us all. Quigg Newton lived his life with integrity, honor, and bravery. It is an honor to stand before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to a fine man. My prayers go out to all of Quigg's friends and family in their time of mourning.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I honor the life of a well-respected rancher from my district. Barton Porter of New Castle, Colorado recently passed away, 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. Barton was born in Glenwood Springs, Colorado and spent almost his entire life on the state's Western Slope. He was a part of what many call the ``Greatest Generation'' learning the meaning of hard work and sacrifice on the battlefield. Like so many young men of his day, Barton served his country by joining the U.S. Army during World War II. After the war, he came home to his family ranch and also worked in real estate. Barton understood what really matters in this world, and he made his family the top priority in his life. Barton was also active in the community through his involvement with the local school board, the 4-H Club, and Stewards on the Range, which promotes sensible management of natural resources. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the life and memory of Barton Porter. Barton believed a man could achieve anything he wanted through hard work and perseverance, setting a great example for younger generations. To his family, friends, and the many people in the community whose lives he touched, Barton Porter will be deeply missed.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor a lifelong educator from my district. Bette Lunn, of Pueblo, Colorado, has given the gift of music to students for 46 years. As Bette embarks on her retirement, I would like to recognize her career before this body of Congress and this nation. Bette began teaching in Ohio in 1957 and moved with her husband to Pueblo in 1972. After spending 12 years as the vocal music teacher at Heaton Middle School, Bette transferred to East High School where she has taught for the last 19 years. Her ability to connect with children has inspired a number of students to become teachers and has also earned her a number of awards. Bette has been named an outstanding teacher in her district and is also a member of the Colorado Music Educators Hall of Fame. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to stand before this body today to recognize Bette Lunn, a woman who has clearly demonstrated her commitment to our nation's youth. Even though she is retiring, Bette still plans to volunteer to work with young people in her community. She possesses the spirit of giving that helped make our country great. Thank you, Bette, for many years of service to the youth of Pueblo.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I take this time to pay tribute to a remarkable woman, Virginia Rockwell of Swink, Colorado. Virginia has devoted more than twenty years of her life to mentoring and guiding many of Colorado's children. From kindergarten to their senior year of high school--and often times beyond--Virginia has performed her duties as a school counselor in the Swink schools admirably. Virginia's devotion to our youth is remarkable and it is fitting that she be recognized here before this body of Congress and this nation upon her retirement. In the early nineties, Virginia was State Multi-Level Counselor of the Year, as well as a runner-up nationally. She has worked not only with children but also with their parents and their teachers in order to provide them the support and guidance they need to flourish in school and in life. Even after college, former students have not hesitated to come back and seek help from Virginia, whose door is always open. Mr. Speaker, Virginia has touched the lives of generations of Swink's children and I know that she will continue to influence lives in the future. She has inspired Colorado with the spirit of dedication and hard work that have contributed so much to this great nation and I thank her for her efforts. Good luck to you, Virginia.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to a beloved football coach and Grand Junction, Colorado native. Tony Santy has touched many lives in the past 25 years as a teacher, football coach, and mentor. Today, I would like to recognize his accomplishments before this body of congress and this nation. Tony grew up in Grand Junction where his family has lived since the 1890s. Tony played football in his younger years and went on to play at Mesa State College. He later attended the University of Colorado and proceeded to earn his teaching certificate from Western State College. Although Tony's father had originally encouraged him to become a lawyer, his high school coach, George Ryan, inspired Tony to pursue his interest in coaching. As recognition for his efforts, Tony was selected as one of the 2002 AFLAC National Assistant Coaches of the Year. However, he deflects the attention from this award by explaining that the most gratifying part of his job is the interaction with his student-athletes. He has been particularly pleased to see some of his former athletes follow his example and dedicate their lives to coaching. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to stand before this body of Congress today to recognize the positive influence that Tony has had upon the students and student-athletes of Grand Junction. I commend Tony for the fundamental role that he has played in imparting strong values to our future generations. Congratulations, Tony, and good luck with all your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this body of Congress today to pay tribute to a hardworking American. Esco Billings Jr., of Pueblo, Colorado, selflessly served this great nation throughout his long and dedicated life. It is with great pride that I take this opportunity to highlight the many contributions Esco made to his community throughout his life. Esco answered the honorable call to military service twice in his lifetime, serving with the U.S. Navy during both World War II and the Korean War. Esco continued his life of public service when he returned home in 1951, embarking on a career with the Pueblo Fire Department. He ascended to the position of Assistant Chief in 1964, where he continued to serve until his retirement in 1979. Esco's strong commitment to public service was only superseded by his devotion to family. Within his extended family of fellow policemen and firemen, he will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to stand before this Congress today to recognize Esco's devotion to his family and service to his country. Citizens like Esco provide the strength of spirit and character that make this nation great. While he will be dearly missed, we can all take solace in the fact that Esco's spirit will live on through the lives of those whom he has touched.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute today to a pioneer in the field of aviation. Betty Pfister of Aspen, Colorado has been named by Women in Aviation International as one of the 100 Most Influential Women in aviation history. Betsy joins well-known figures Amelia Earhart and Sally Ride, on the list, and it is easy to see why-- her accomplishments are truly impressive. Sally began flying while in high school and served as a Woman's Air Service Pilot (WASP) during World War II. WASPs piloted planes around the country to help free-up men to fly combat missions in Europe and Asia. After the war, Sally worked as both a pilot and flight attendant, getting in plenty of flying on her own time as well. In 1950 and 1952 Sally won international air races, and in 1973 and 1978 she piloted for the United States in the World Helicopter Championships. Sally also piloted balloons, founded the Pitkin County Air Rescue, and created scholarships to enable flight instruction among high school age children. One of her former planes, a World War fighter she named ``Galloping Gertie,'' is on display at the Smithsonian's Air And Space Museum. Mr. Speaker, Betty is more than a talented and versatile pilot. She is a leader who, through her remarkable success, helped motivate and inspire future generations of young male and female pilots alike. Betty embodies the competence and can-do spirit that helped make America great, and I am proud to recount her impressive story here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I stand before the nation and this Congress with a heavy heart, as the communities of Alamosa, Colorado and Adams State College have lost a tremendous human being. Ladislav Colin ``Pops'' Bauer is nothing short of a legend in Alamosa, particularly to the Adams State College cross-country team, where he served as a source of employment and motivation to numerous student athletes. ``Pops,'' as the students affectionately knew him, was the owner of the legendary Campus Cafe. This small restaurant served as a way for Colin to provide jobs to the school's student athletes, enabling them to earn a little extra money between classes and practice. It was here that Colin displayed incredible heart, and he was the type of guy that just kept on giving. When one of the Adams State runners could not find a sponsor to send him to the Olympic trials, it was Colin and the Campus Cafe who stepped forward with the money. This is just one example of the kindness and dedication that Colin displayed toward the Adams State Cross Country team. Mr. Speaker, I am saddened by the loss of such a kind and caring individual. However, I am inspired to know that men like Ladislav Colin ``Pops'' Bauer were able to have an impact on America's youth. It is Colin's heart, modesty, and loyalty to the students of Adams State that garnered him respect, and it is for those very qualities that he has earned my respect here today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound pleasure today that I pay tribute to Commander Rick Oreskey of the Pueblo County Sheriff's Department, who has recently been honored by the Department with its Medal of Valor. In his many years of dedication to the police force and to the Pueblo community, Rick has embodied the ideals of integrity and courage that make Coloradans and all Americans proud of their police men and women. I am proud to pay tribute to Rick for his contributions to his community, his state and his country. Rick has served with distinction for many years, having previously earned the Silver Star of the American Law Enforcement Association for saving the lives of two police detectives. This incident occurred in 1977 when a man, disregarding orders to drop his gun, instead aimed it at the two police detectives attempting to apprehend him. Rick acted swiftly and professionally to protect the lives of the two detectives. Mr. Speaker, Commander Rick Oreskey is a law enforcement officer of exemplary courage and commitment to his community. He has made Pueblo County a happier place to live and a safer community. It is Rick's unrelenting commitment to his community as well as his spirit of courage and integrity that I wish to bring to the attention of this body of Congress. It is my privilege to extend to Rick my heartfelt congratulations on his being honored with the Medal of Valor.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise before this body of Congress to pay tribute to Krystal Mize of Pueblo, Colorado, for her incredible achievement at the University of Southern Colorado. Krystal is the deserving recipient of the Threlkeld Prize for Excellence for her success in the field of psychology and today I would like to recognize her accomplishment before this nation. Krystal, a single mother of three boys, is not only dedicated to her education but also donates her time to work as a peer mentor, psychology lab assistant and tutor. Krystal is the true embodiment of the ``American Dream'', having overcome adversity to achieve the highest of goals. She has proven to her family, the community and most importantly, herself that she can succeed. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Krystal Mize's achievements before this body of Congress. It is the work of people like Krystal that makes the community of Pueblo strong. It is truly an honor to praise Krystal's hard work, and I wish her the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Jonathan Post from Colorado's Pueblo County Sheriff's Department. Jonathan was recently recognized with his department's Medal of Valor. Although he has worked with the Department only a short time, he has already served with great distinction and I would like to acknowledge Jonathan's service before this body of Congress and this nation. In February of this year, Jonathan arrived at the scene of a fire where two men were trapped inside. Although the structure was in danger of collapse, Jonathan entered the building to save the two men alongside his fellow officer, Fred Cortese. Unfortunately, the men that Jonathan and Fred were attempting to rescue were not initially cooperative, being unaware of the imminent danger they faced. Even after successfully getting the men to safety through a window exit, it became necessary for Jonathan and Fred to rescue one of the men a second time when he disregarded their orders and rushed back into his burning home. Mr. Speaker, it is dedicated men and women like Jonathan that work selflessly to protect our rights and freedoms. I would like to draw attention to the further service he has shown to our country as a Marine Reservist serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom. I extend my gratitude to Jonathan for the heroism he has shown and for the great services he has performed for Colorado and for this Nation.