Scott McInnis

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to pay tribute today to a woman whose incredible heart and extraordinary efforts have made an indelible impact on the community of Pueblo and the State of Colorado. Sandy Gutierrez is both inspirational and courageous, and a true testament to the inherent greatness that resides in all of humanity. Throughout her life, she has consistently given her time, effort and love to others, and it is with a great deal of satisfaction and pride that I pay tribute to her for the tremendous accomplishment of being honored by the United States Justice Department for her significant civil rights contributions. As Director of the Latino Chamber of Commerce, Sandy has long been a champion of civil rights and has dedicated a significant amount of her time and efforts to improving relations in the Pueblo community. Recently, her tireless efforts and extraordinarily selfless endeavors culminated in the creation of the Pueblo Human Relations Commission, a 15 member panel which will discuss divisive community issues, and a long-time dream of Sandy's. Along with Diane Porter, Sandy was responsible for the Commission's creation, which will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for more open discussions on race related issues and other controversial issues facing the Pueblo community. Like all true pioneers, Sandy had to overcome a great deal of opposition to see her dream come to fruition, and I commend her for her courage and persistence in the face of such opposition. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before you today in order to bring the accomplishments of such an extraordinary woman to the attention of this body of Congress. Sandy Gutierrez has been instrumental in improving her community and her state, and I, along with the people whose lives she has so profoundly affected and enriched, are eternally grateful for everything she has done. I wish to offer her my sincere congratulations today on the creation of the Pueblo Human Relations Commission and for the tremendous accomplishment of being honored by the United States Justice Department for her efforts. I wish her the best of luck in all of her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize an outstanding individual from Pueblo, Colorado. Over the years, Mahlon ``Butch'' White has distinguished himself as a business executive, a community leader, and a vital participant in the funding of civic organizations and activities throughout the region. Butch's achievements are impressive and it is my honor to recognize several of those accomplishments today. Butch is a generous soul whose good deeds and generous acts certainly deserve the recognition of this body of Congress, and this nation. Butch was the former owner and operator of Minnequa Bank in Pueblo, a successful business operation he has run since his late twenties. He has carried on a long line of tradition in the banking industry, dating back to his great-grandfather, Mahlon, of whom he owes his namesake. As such, the White family has served the Pueblo community throughout the last century with professionalism and high standards and continues to serve as a model family for Pueblo as well as the State of Colorado. Throughout his life, Butch and his wife Maylan, have ensured that the White family remain true to its roots and give back to a community that has provided his business the resources to prosper throughout the bank's long history. The family charity, known as the Mahlon Thatcher White Foundation, has provided funds to charitable and community organizations in Pueblo for decades. The organization is a proud supporter of the YMCA, Pueblo Library District, the Sangre de Cristo Arts center, and the Pueblo Zoo, and a handful of other organizations in the area. Through these donations, the City of Pueblo has enjoyed a prosperous history and high culture rating that has elevated the area as a top destination in Southern Colorado. Mr. Speaker, Butch White's list of achievements have not been overlooked during his career and his efforts have been repeatedly awarded over the years. It is now my honor to congratulate Butch on his most recent and well-deserved award from his own community, the Citizen of the Year Award, provided by the Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce. On receipt of his award, Butch remained true to his philanthropic standards while a member of the chamber announced a further $50 million will be additionally donated to the community from the foundation. Butch has been a model citizen for the community and I extend my thanks to his charitable efforts. Keep up the good work Butch, and good luck to you and your wife Maylan in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate a young student from my district whose hard work and dedication has been rewarded with the great opportunity to pursue a higher education. Julia Haag of Florence, Colorado, was recently awarded the Boettcher Scholarship, and as she celebrates her achievement I would like to commend her for her determination and self- sacrifice in achieving this honor. She is certainly a well deserving recipient of this scholarship and I am pleased to represent her and her family in Colorado. Julia is a senior at Florence High School located in Southern Colorado. After a long, and no doubt difficult process, Julia was selected as a recipient of the Boettcher Scholarship. This scholarship will provide her with free tuition to the Colorado college of her choice, allowing her the opportunity to pursue a higher education degree with the opportunity to study abroad. This is a great program provided within Colorado to allow students to pursue higher education opportunities throughout the state. Julia has been graced with this opportunity for her hard work, attention to her studies, and exceptional aptitude test scores. She scored in the top percentile for the ACT, and will graduate in the top 5% of her senior class. A necessary requirement Julia has so aptly demonstrated is her leadership abilities among student and youth organizations and active participation in community service projects throughout the region. Upon graduation, Julia plans to attend law school or focus on broadcast journalism. Whatever her decision, I am certain she will successfully excel in her endeavors with the same aptitude she has demonstrated throughout her young life. Mr. Speaker, the diligence and commitment demonstrated by Julia Haag certainly deserves the recognition of this body of Congress, and this nation. Julia's achievement serves as a symbol to aspiring college bound students throughout Colorado, and indeed the entire nation. Her reward is proof that hard work and attention to your studies can lead to assistance in achieving your goals. The Boettcher Scholarship is a model program for the states throughout this nation and ensures that our future generations are guaranteed the opportunity to improve their lives through the resources of education. Congratulations Julia, and good luck in your future endeavors!

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I pay tribute today to Mr. Mel Coleman, a man whose dedication to his profession, his customers, and his loved ones, is both extraordinary and inspirational. Mel was not only an incredible rancher and businessman, but, more importantly, a man of unquestioned integrity and of unparalleled morality. He will be sorely missed by each and every person whose life he touched. As his family mourns his loss, I believe it is appropriate to remember Mel and pay tribute to him for his contributions to his city, his state and his country. Mel Coleman, the great-grandson of pioneers who settled in the San Luis Valley of Colorado in 1870, created a cattle ranching empire by employing a novel and often overlooked practice--listening to his customers. By responding to complaints that there was no good source for hormone-and-stimulant-free beef in the marketplace, Mel turned an unprofitable ranching business into Coleman Natural Products, a $70 million-per-year empire, which controls 50 percent of the natural beef market and sells to 2,500 retail outlets throughout the United States and Japan. His beef is now preferred by an ever-growing population of people who prefer its taste, which results from the cattle never being given any hormones, antibiotics or growth promotants, and which graze on ground that is never fertilized. Mel's vision and dedication to his cause is truly remarkable. He was bold enough to venture into an untested market and talented enough to become extraordinarily successful in this endeavor. In 1981, he was the first to receive permission from the United States Department of Agriculture to label his beef ``hormone and stimulant free,'' which subsequently led to an influx of competition into the marketplace that continues to be dominated by Coleman Natural Products. Mel is survived by his wife, Polly, who was always at her husband's side in both business and in life, his two sons, Mel Jr. and Greg, and his daughter Dianne. Mr. Speaker, we are all terribly saddened by the loss of Mel Coleman, but take comfort in the knowledge that our grief is overshadowed only by the legacy of courage, success and love that Mel left with all of us. Mel Coleman's life is the very embodiment of all that makes this country great, and I am deeply honored to be able to bring his life to the attention of this body of Congress.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I take this opportunity to pay respect to the passing of a friend, Gerald ``Jerry'' Edwin Sorensen, who recently passed away at the age of 55. Jerry was a pillar of the Glenwood Springs community and as his family mourns his loss, I think it is appropriate to remember Jerry and pay tribute to him for his contributions to his community. Jerry will always be forever known as a true sports fan, a man who lived and thrived for sporting events. He is remembered as a superb athlete during his high school years, participating on and playing for the Roaring Fork High School football and baseball teams located in Carbondale, Colorado. His passion for sports continued throughout his life branching into hunting, fishing, 4-wheeling, bowling and watching his favorite football team, the Denver Broncos. Although known for his athleticism and hard work, Jerry's true love was working and interacting with people, particularly his two sons and grandsons. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and friend. He affected the lives of so many of Glenwood's residents with his kindness and his generosity and he will be greatly missed. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that we note the passing of Gerald ``Jerry'' Edwin. He was known for his kind heart and the gentle demeanor he displayed throughout his life and his good deeds and dedication to his fellow man certainly deserve the recognition of this body of Congress. I, along with a grateful community and loving family will miss Jerry dearly.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Diane Porter and thank her for her extraordinary contributions to her community and to her state. As a resident of Pueblo, Colorado, Diane has dedicated herself to helping her community by selflessly giving her time and energy to a number of philanthropic endeavors. The remarkable work she has done with the people in her community is surpassed only by the level of integrity and honesty with which she has conducted herself each and every day. It is with a great deal of satisfaction and pride that I pay tribute to her today for the tremendous accomplishment of being honored by the United States Justice Department for her significant contributions to her community and to her state. As Director of the YWCA, Diane has long been active in the Pueblo community and has dedicated a significant amount of her time and efforts to improving community relations and upholding civil rights. Recently, her tireless efforts and extraordinarily selfless endeavors culminated in the creation of the Pueblo Human Relations Commission, a 15 member panel which will discuss divisive community issues, and a long-time dream of Diane's. Along with Sandy Gutierrez, Diane was responsible for the Commission's creation, which will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for more open discussions on race related issues and other controversial issues facing the Pueblo community. Like all true pioneers, Diane had to overcome a great deal of opposition to see her dream come to fruition, and I commend her for her courage and persistence in the face of such opposition. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Diane Porter is a woman of unparalleled dedication and commitment to her community and to the people whose lives she has touched while serving it. It is her unrelenting passion for each and every thing she does, as well as her spirit of honesty and integrity with which she has always conducted herself, that I wish to bring before this body of Congress. She is a remarkable woman who has achieved extraordinary things and enriched the lives of so many people. It is my privilege to extend to Diane my sincere congratulations on the creation of the Pueblo Human Relations Commission and for the tremendous accomplishment of being honored by the United States Justice Department for her efforts. I wish her the best of luck in all of her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Mr. Theodore ``Ted'' Makris and recognize his contributions to this nation. Now a resident of Pueblo West, Colorado, Ted began his service as a soldier during the Vietnam War when he joined the Army and served in Southeast Asia. During his tour, Ted was stationed in the province of Quang Loi, and like many young Americans, was involved in fierce fighting for the control of South Vietnam. Ted was recently decorated with an award long overdue for wounds sustained in combat. On September 15, 1967, Ted was wounded during an enemy engagement. Suffering from numerous shrapnel wounds to his body, Ted refused medical treatment and continued to fight amongst his fallen and wounded comrades. After several days of constant prodding from his commanders, he finally relented to leave the battlefield and receive treatment for his wounds. When a member of our armed forces is killed or wounded in combat, he or she receives the Purple Heart medal for their sacrifice. Ted refused the medal once in 1967 and still refuses it today. Despite his objections and belief the he does not deserve the decoration, his wife Jan has persisted. She, along with family friend Brigadier General Philip Erdle, worked diligently to see that Ted received the long overdue award for his dedication and commitment to his country. The medal was presented to Ted at his home in late December by General Erdle. Mr. Speaker, it is a great privilege to recognize Theodore ``Ted'' Makris before this body of Congress and thank him for his dedicated service during the war. If it were not for servicemen such as Ted, America would not enjoy the many freedoms that we have today. He served selflessly in a time of great need, bringing credit to himself and to this great nation. Thanks Ted for your service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to pay tribute today to a woman whose life is the very embodiment of kindness, selflessness and love. Lee Bahrych is both inspirational and courageous, and a true testament to the inherent greatness that resides in all of humanity. Throughout her life, she has consistently given her time, effort and love to others, and it is with a great deal of satisfaction and pride that I pay tribute to her as we celebrate her tremendous accomplishment of being named the recipient of the Colorado Women 2002 Power of One Award. Lee's long list of accomplishments is as impressive as the award being bestowed upon her today. The dedication and quality with which she has conducted herself in her distinguished career in the Colorado House of Representatives, as well as in the many philanthropic endeavors she has undertaken in her lifetime is truly remarkable. After retiring from the Colorado House of Representatives in order to attend to a loved one who had fallen ill, Lee began a much-appreciated effort to beautify the State Capitol. She created an attractive setting in the basement so that citizens could come to the State Capitol and find an aesthetically pleasing environment while experiencing government in action. This remarkably selfless act has served to enrich the experience of innumerable Coloradans who visit the State Capitol each day, and we, as Coloradans, will always be thankful for her effort. In addition to her efforts at the State Capitol, Lee has created one of the most well kept treasures in all of Colorado. She has spent countless volunteer hours interviewing former and current leaders of Colorado, capturing on tape a priceless historical account of actions taken on behalf of the citizens of Colorado. She has spent innumerable hours with former Governors and other political leaders from the state, recording humorous, sad, dramatic and moving stories that will forever be preserved because of Lee's hard work and passion. She is also a talented woodworker, having crafted numerous pieces of fine furniture; a white water rafter, having conquered some of the toughest rivers in the world; and a mother of three successful daughters. She is truly a remarkable woman, who has lived her life in a manner befitting her remarkable character and personality. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before you today in order to bring the life of such an extraordinarily caring and compassionate woman to the attention of this body of Congress. Lee Bahrych has lived a truly remarkable life, and I, along with the people of Colorado whose lives she has so profoundly affected and enriched, are eternally grateful for everything she has done. I wish to offer her my sincere congratulations today on being named the recipient of the Colorado Women 2002 Power of One Award, and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I pay tribute today to Mr. Waldemar ``Walt'' Winkler, a good friend of mine and a good friend to all who knew and loved him. Walt was a man of unquestioned integrity and of unparalleled morality. He will be sorely missed by each and every person whose life he touched, and I am no exception. As his family mourns his loss, I believe it is appropriate to remember Walt and pay tribute to him for his contributions to his city, his state and his country. Walt, who was born on October 27, 1912, was an avid outdoorsman who dedicated his life to his nation and to the principles of forestry. He received a forestry degree from the University of Minnesota and went to work for the U.S. Forest Service shortly after graduating. When Pearl Harbor was attacked, Walt joined the Air Force and fought bravely in the European Theatre. After returning from the war, he went back to work for the U.S. Forest Service, serving in the Medicine Bow, Rio Grande and Black Hills national forests. In 1957, Walt took a position with the White River National Forest, where he served until his retirement in 1975. Walt was not only a soldier and a trusted government employee, but he was also a dedicated volunteer. He selflessly gave his time to the Boy Scouts of America, the American Red Cross, the Rotary Club, the American Legion and the Society of American Foresters. He was also an avid painter and sportsman. He is survived by his wonderful wife Jane, his son Waldemar Jr., brother Clyde, daughter-in-law Lisa Pedolsky and granddaughter Merritt. Mr. Speaker, we are all terribly saddened by the loss of Walt Winkler, but take comfort in the knowledge that our grief is overshadowed only by the legacy of courage, selflessness and love that Walt left with all of us. Walt Winkler's life is the very embodiment of all that makes this country great, and I am deeply honored to be able to bring his life to the attention of this body of Congress.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Susan Smith and thank her for her extraordinary contributions to her community and to her state. As a resident of Pueblo, Colorado, Sue has dedicated herself to helping her community by selflessly giving her time and energy to a number of philanthropic endeavors. The remarkable work she has done with the people in her community, both young and old alike, is surpassed only by the level of integrity and honesty with which she has conducted herself each and every day. It is her tremendous efforts that have led to her recognition as the recipient of the Colorado Women 2002 Power of One Award, and I would like to applaud her efforts and express my thanks for all she has done. The amount of work that Sue has done in and for her community is truly remarkable. She has served as a board member of Start-Up Education, a youth entrepreneurship program, since it relocated from Atlanta to Pueblo. She was instrumental in the start-up phase, coordinating the donation of desks, workstations, chairs and computers, as well as identifying a facility to house the program. Sue was also responsible for writing several successful grants to fund the program. She often takes time to visit the program, offering her support and encouragement while serving as a mentor to the program participants. Additionally, Sue volunteers to help coordinate numerous veterans' affairs in Pueblo, including the 2000 Jubilee of Liberty Medal of Honor Ceremony and the Veterans Day celebration at Pueblo Community College. She is a board member for SEEDS (Sharing Electronic Equipment District and Statewide), and helps to secure resources, write grants and allocate supplies for the organization. For the past three years, she has volunteered for the Pueblo Hispanic Education Foundation's annual Horizons Telethon, the organization's major fundraising event, as a runner, greeter and telephone operator. She also finds time to volunteer at a number of food drives in Pueblo and even reads to fourth graders at a local elementary school once a week. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Sue Smith is a woman of unparalleled dedication and commitment to her community and to the people with whom she works. It is her unrelenting passion for each and every thing she does, as well as her spirit of honesty and integrity with which she has always conducted herself, that I wish to bring before this body of Congress. She is a remarkable woman who has achieved extraordinary things and enriched the lives of so many people. It is my privilege to extend to Sue Smith my congratulations on winning this award and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to take this opportunity to recognize an outstanding individual who has dedicated his life to serve and protect the citizens of the State of Colorado. Sergeant Steve Samek of the Pueblo Police Department has faithfully served his fellow Coloradans for over twenty-six years. After a long and successful career as one of Colorado's finest, Steve announced his retirement from the force in December of last year. As he looks forward to a new career, I would like to take this time to highlight Steve's service to his community. Steve has faithfully served the Pueblo Police Department in various capacities throughout his long career. As a member of the Narcotics Division, he worked to keep our streets safe and free of drugs. He trained to defend our citizens and protect their lives as a supervisor of the department's SWAT team. Most recently, he headed the Internal Affairs Division to ensure our peace officers are responsible in the enforcement of our laws and properly execute their role in the community. I understand his retirement will not last long, since a body armor manufacturer has recently acquired his expertise and I am confident that the experience and diligence Steve has shown in his dedication to law enforcement will serve him well as he prepares to help protect his fellow officers. Mr. Speaker, as a former law enforcement officer, I am well aware of the dangers and hazards our peace officers face today. These individuals work long hours, weekends, and holidays to guarantee their fellow citizen's rights and protection. They work tirelessly and with great sacrifice to their personal and family lives to ensure our freedoms remain strong in our homes and communities. Their service and dedication deserve the recognition and thanks of this body of Congress and this is why I bring the name of officers like Steve Samek to light today. I wish you all the best Steve and good luck in your future endeavors. Thanks for your service to Pueblo, Colorado.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the life and memory of Charles Hansen, a Colorado newspaperman and visionary whose life and dedication to his community is being inducted and honored by the Colorado Business Hall of Fame. Though Charles has passed away, I am honored today to bring his good deeds and contributions to light before this body of Congress. Charles began his career in journalism and later was instrumental in establishing the gathering of the West's most precious resource, water. As a young newspaperman, Charles came to the town of Greeley, Colorado in hopes of furthering his career in journalism. His first job was working as a part-time reporter/editor for the Greeley Tribune, where he covered stories throughout the Western Slope of Colorado. Several years later, he bought several small local newspapers and combined their resources and created the ``Greeley Republican.'' He further merged his resources with the Greeley Tribune in 1913 and successfully operated both endeavors as publisher and eventually as President of the ``Greeley Tribune Republican Publishing Co.'' Charles Hansen was a great cultural contributor to the region and was instrumental in bringing well known musicians and talent to the area. He was responsible for establishing the Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra, which enticed symphony orchestras from New York and Los Angeles to visit the state, as well as bringing in notables such as the John Philip Sousa Marching Band. As a member of his community, he was active in the Greeley Chamber of Commerce and dedicated his time and energy to the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy Districts. It was for his dedication to bringing water to the plains from the mountains that Charles will be most remembered. As any Westerner knows, water is our most precious resource. The water in our state not only satisfies our human requirements, but also is necessary to provide moisture for our agricultural industries. Charles, well aware of the need for this resource, lobbied Congress on behalf of the region and secured funding for what came to be known as the Colorado-Big Thompson Water Diversion Project. The project not only satisfied northern Colorado's water needs but also became a model for aspiring agricultural communities throughout the world. His contributions to the project were later honored when a portion of the canal was named in his honor. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I have risen today to pay tribute to a patriarch of the State of Colorado. Charles Hansen dedicated his life to improving his fellow Coloradan's lives through contributions to his community, commitment to quality journalism, and dedication to providing his region with its most precious resource. I would like to take this time to congratulate his family on Charles' recent award and let them know that all his fellow Coloradans have benefited from his vision and sacrifice, which had made the region strong and viable today.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Franklin L. and Joy S. Burns for their extraordinary contributions to their community and to their state. As residents of Colorado, Franklin and Joy dedicated their lives to improving Colorado by selflessly giving their time and energy to their jobs, their family and their community. Although Franklin has passed, it is impossible to forget his extraordinary accomplishments, and we are all tremendously grateful to Joy for all that she has done and for carrying on Franklin's legacy of achievement, philanthropy and success. As we celebrate their induction into the Colorado Business Hall of Fame, it is an honor for me to pay tribute to such extraordinary people. In 1938, Franklin, a Denver native, went to work the D.C. Burns Realty & Trust Company, which was founded by his uncle, Daniel Cochran Burns. The company was dedicated to providing affordable housing for low-income families, selling houses for only ten percent down long before the Federal Housing Authority came into existence. At the age of 28, Franklin became President of the company and began developing subdivisions and shopping centers in and around Denver. Under Franklin's leadership, the company developed more than 13,000 pieces of property totaling $129 million. In 1958, Franklin met Joy Steelman Colwick at a golf tournament at Cherry Hills Country Club, and by 1960, they were married. Joy immediately contributed to the success of her husband and his company and by the 1970s she was making quite an impact of her own. Having studied business at the University of Houston, she founded The Women's Bank, now known as the Colorado Business Bank, in 1976. She then remodeled the Hampshire House, which her husband's company had bought, and turned it into what is known today as the Burnsley Hotel, a Denver landmark. The hotel opened in 1985 and Joy remained involved with it, serving as President until 1993. She now serves as President of her husband's company, the D.C. Burns Realty & Trust Company. Not only were Franklin and Joy extraordinarily successful in the business world, but they also made significant philanthropic contributions to their community, city and state. Franklin was active in a number of charitable organizations in Denver, including the Inter- County Regional Planning Commission, Mount Airy Psychiatric Center, the United Way and Mercy Hospital. Joy, too, has devoted a significant amount of her time and energy to the community. She has been a long- time volunteer at the University of Denver, serving as the Chair of the Board of Trustees and as the President of the University of Denver's Pioneer Sportswoman. In appreciation of her tremendous contributions to the University, DU named the Joy Burns Ice arena in her honor. Joy is also the founder of the Women's Foundation of Colorado, was the only female member of the Metropolitan Football Stadium Board and serves as President of the Sportswomen Colorado Foundation. - Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Franklin and Joy Burns have, for over fifty years, made extraordinary contributions to the community of Denver through both their business and charitable endeavors. It is not only their unparalleled business savvy that I wish to bring before this body of Congress, but also their selflessness and love for their community. Though deeply saddened by Franklin's passing, I wish to extend my sincere congratulations to Joy on their joint induction into the Colorado Business Hall of Fame, and want to take this opportunity to thank her for carrying on her husband's legacy. We are proud of you both!

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I pay tribute to New York City firefighter Kevin Dowdell who passed away on September 11, 2001. Kevin died tragically while carrying out the very acts of selflessness and bravery that were the hallmark of his life. As his family mourns this loss, I believe it is appropriate to remember Kevin and pay tribute to him for his many contributions to his country. As a distinguished firefighter in the New York City Fire Department, Kevin dedicated his life to serving and protecting others, and embodied the spirit of courage and bravery that has sustained this country during these times of tragedy and mourning. Not only was Kevin one of New York's bravest, but he was also one of this country's bravest. It is because of men like Kevin Dowdell that all of us, as Americans, can hold our heads high and take comfort in the fact that we live in the greatest country on Earth, and among the most courageous and extraordinary people on Earth. Kevin's mother, Gloria--a long-time resident of Colorado--remembers that Kevin had dreams of becoming a firefighter from the time he was four years old. After realizing that lifelong dream, Kevin excelled as a firefighter, becoming an expert in difficult rescues and garnering high praise from both his colleagues and superiors alike. Not only was Kevin an exceptional firefighter, but he was, perhaps more importantly, an exceptional father, husband, brother and son. The selflessness that propelled him to a career as a firefighter was even more evident in his family life. He tirelessly gave his time, love and energy to each and every member of his family, taking them on tours through New York, playing in his son's band and organizing family vacations. He is survived by his loving wife RoseEllen and his two sons Patrick and James. Mr. Speaker, we are all terribly saddened by the loss of Kevin Dowdell, but take comfort in the knowledge that our grief is overshadowed only by the legacy of courage, selflessness and love that Kevin left with all of us. His life is the very embodiment of all that makes this country great, and I am deeply honored to be able to bring the attention of this body of Congress to his life. It is in times of great tragedy and hardship that true heroes emerge, and I am proud to say Kevin Dowdell is a hero not only to me, but to his family, his friends and to this country.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Morley Ballantine and thank her for her contributions to the State of Colorado and the Durango community. Morley will always be remembered as a dedicated pillar and leader of the community. She has been honored and idolized throughout the years for her hard work and commitment to preserving the Southwestern heritage and culture. As we celebrate her exceptional honor of being inducted into the Colorado Business Hall of Fame, I would like to take the time to highlight her career and bring several of her accomplishments to the attention of this body of Congress. Morley became a member of the community when she and her husband, Arthur, relocated to Durango in 1952 and established a local newspaper, the Durango Herald. Their passionate, lifelong pursuit of providing quality, trustworthy news to Colorado citizens has been rewarded and praised throughout the region for over fifty years. As the Durango Herald passes this recent milestone, it enjoys the ranking as one of Southern Colorado's most influential news sources in the region. Morley, along with son Richard, have led the paper's efforts to produce quality journalism and are additionally responsible for several other successful outlets, notably the Mancos Times, the Cortez Journal, and local magazine Inside/Outside. In their quest to continue and promote our Western roots, the Ballantines have dedicated their resources and energy to preserving our historic cultures. Beginning in 1964, the family contributed $10,000 to fund the Center for Southwest Studies located at Ft. Lewis College in Durango. The center is responsible for the collection and maintenance of artifacts, records, and accounts of Colorado history, most notably the ancient Anasazi Indian culture. Their initial donation was just a prelude to the enormous and generous donations of $500,000 over the last century. Mr. Speaker, Morley Ballantine, as well as her family, have been model citizens and icons of the State of Colorado. Throughout her life, Morley has dedicated her time and energy to improving her fellow citizen's lives through organizations such as the Colorado Forum, Women's Foundation, and ensuring our younger generations are provided with a quality education as a trustee emeriti for Fountain Valley School in Colorado Springs. She has been a true leader for Colorado and her efforts certainly deserve the praise and adulation of this body of Congress, and this nation. Congratulations on your recent honor Morley, and good luck in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize an outstanding civic and economic leader from the State of Colorado. Joe Wagner of Denver, Colorado has been actively involved in improving citizens lives through his many activities in the region. He is the founder and operator of one of the state's most successful businesses, Wagner Equipment Co, and is a well known activist and leader in many community activities. As he celebrates his induction into the Colorado Business Hall of Fame, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight the many achievements and incredible dedication that have led to this extraordinary honor. Joe founded Wagner Equipment Co., a Caterpillar tractor dealer, in 1976 after gaining experience as a senior manger for a similar operation in North Texas. His desire to begin a business of his own led Joe to Colorado, where his business today thrives after 25 years of dedicated service to his community. As a result of this success, the company is now the Caterpillar dealer for the state, enjoying over 20 locations in Colorado and internationally in Mongolia and Siberia. Wagner equipment employs over 900 workers who serve customers in mining, agriculture, forestry, power generation, construction, manufacturing, and government, as well as supplying quality Caterpillar products to consumers. Joe's success in business is one, but not the only, reason for his selection as a recipient of this award. Part of the award is based on commitment to the community and giving back to those who have supported you and allowed for your success. In this endeavor, Joe has been a valuable participant. He has been active helping Colorado's youth in the Denver Area Council Boy Scouts, the Denver Boys & Girls Club, Children's Hospital and the Children's Hospital Foundation. As a local businessman, he plays an active role in the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and as a board member for Wells Fargo Bank. He also remains an active member of his church as an elder with Presbyterian Church of the Covenant. Mr. Speaker, it is truly a pleasure to bring forth before this body of Congress the names of individuals who have done so much for Colorado communities. Joe Wagner has been an active civic, business, and religious leader and patron for Colorado. I would like to further extend my congratulations on the award and thank him for all his efforts in improving his fellow Coloradoan's lives. Congratulations Joe, and good luck in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Emmett Heitler and thank him for his extraordinary contributions to his community and to his state. As a resident of Colorado, Emmett has dedicated his life to improving the state by selflessly giving his time and energy to his job, his family and his community. His remarkable business and philanthropic accomplishments are surpassed only by the level of integrity and honesty with which he has conducted himself each and every day of his life. As we celebrate his tremendous accomplishment of being inducted into the Colorado Business Hall of Fame, let it be known that I, along with the people of Colorado, applaud his efforts and are eternally grateful for all that he has done for our state and our community. Born in Denver in 1909, Emmett excelled academically, graduating with honors from the University of Colorado with a degree in engineering before he was twenty years old. Shortly after, he took a job with General Electric as an electrical engineer, and later became a partner and founder of Fashion Bar stores in Denver. After marrying his wife, Dot, in 1937, Emmett went to work for Shwayder Bros. Inc., a manufacturer of Samsonite Luggage. Over the course of his career with Shwayder Bros. and Samsonite, Emmett advanced to General Manager, and eventually to Executive Vice President. He was instrumental in building Samsonite from a small local business into the world's largest luggage manufacturer and pioneered Samsonite's movement into new, cutting edge technology, most notably using plastics in manufacturing sleeker, more durable luggage. Emmett was not only an extraordinary businessman, but he was also a true philanthropist. Despite his demanding schedule, he always found time to give back to his community and lend a helping hand to anyone who might need it. He was active with the Jewish Community Center, serving as Chairman of the Board of Trustees, and was a founding member of the Mile High United Way. He served as Executive Trustee of the Eleanor Roosevelt Institute for Cancer Research, was Chairman of the Board of the National Jewish Hospital and was a Member of the Board of the Denver Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, Emmett has contributed a significant amount of time to the Anti-Defamation League, chaired the effort to build Temple Emanuel and was instrumental in renovating Green Gables Country Club. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that Emmett Heitler is a man of unparalleled dedication and commitment to his job, his community and his family. It is his unrelenting passion for each and every thing he does, as well as his spirit of honesty and integrity with which he has always conducted himself, that I wish to bring his efforts before this body of Congress. He is a remarkable man who has achieved extraordinary things and enriched the lives of so many people. It is my privilege to extend to him my sincere congratulations on his induction into the Colorado Business Hall of Fame and wish him all the best in the future.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Ron Bergmann and thank him for his contributions to the Chaffee County Sheriff's Department and community. Ron will always be remembered as a dedicated leader and guardian of the community, and as he celebrates his retirement, let it be known that this will be a great loss for a community that has relied on him for his knowledge and wisdom in times of hardship and prosperity. Ron was elected Sheriff of Chaffee County eight years ago and has served in this position with great diligence and commitment to his fellow Coloradans. As a former law enforcement officer, I know the challenges and hardships our peace officers face every day. The greatest honor bestowed on these brave men and women is not awards and promotions, but the maintenance of integrity. Through his responses to render assistance and guidance, Ron has always maintained his composure and served in his capacity with the utmost professionalism and compassion. Ron has been an active member in the civic community by dedicating his time and energy to noble community activities throughout the area. He serves on the Chaffee County Child Protection and Child Evaluation Teams, as a board member for programs such as ``Kid's Campus'' and ``Build a Generation,'' and the Chaffee County Fairboard. He continues to serve the area's younger generation as a 4H leader and as coach for a little league baseball team. In addition, Ron can be found training residents in the prevention of wildfires, forming neighborhood watch programs, lecturing about drug use prevention, and teaching First Aid/ CPR to local high schools. Mr. Speaker, I have mentioned several of the many successes and accomplishments in Ron Bergmann's life, but none compare to his character and dedication to the people of Chaffee County. He is known as a kind soul and caring father and his efforts towards improving the community certainly deserve the recognition of this body of Congress, and this nation. I would like to extend my congratulations on Ron's retirement and wish him and his wife, Sarina, the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I pay tribute to a local hero whose life-long pursuit of improving and enriching the lives of others is an inspiration to us all. Lud E. Washington recently died just short of both his 88th birthday and his 50th wedding anniversary to his wife Marguerite, but his life was one of immense fulfillment and a source of endless joy for those who knew and loved him. As his family mourns the loss, I believe it is appropriate to remember Lud and pay tribute to him for his contributions to his community, his state and his country. Lud was a true pioneer who fought courageously to break down racial barriers and open doors for future generations of African-Americans and minorities. He gave his time and energy to those who needed him most. He began his career by running the all African-American Lincoln Home, which served as a boarding house for African-Americans of all ages who were in need of a caretaker and mentor. He dedicated his life to ensuring that no child grew up without the proper guidance, love, or care. Lud believed that he could, by offering his help to one child at a time, have a dramatic impact on an entire community. Lud was the first African-American foreman at the Pueblo Army Depot, breaking down barriers that enabled others who followed him to attain increasingly higher-ranking positions within the military. He, along with long-time friend Linc Wilson, led Pueblo's first and only all African-American Boy Scout Troop in the late 1940's, an undertaking that served as an indispensible resource for the young African- Americans of the Pueblo community. By fostering a spirit of leadership, camaraderie and cooperation, the Troop helped provide the positive reinforcement that so many children had previously not been able to find elsewhere. Lud's efforts and courage in the face of long odds are a testament to his indestructible and benevolent human spirit. Mr. Speaker, we are all terribly saddened by the loss of Lud Washington, but take comfort in the knowledge that our grief is overshadowed only by the legacy of courage, selflessness and love that Lud left with all of us. His life is the very embodiment of all that makes this country great, and I am deeply honored to be able to bring the attention of this body of Congress to his life. Lud Washington will be deeply missed by his family, his friends and the entire community.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I rise today to pay tribute to the passing of a great man from the state of Colorado. Henry Salazar passed away on December 22, 2001 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. Henry was 85 years old, and as his family and friends mourn his passing, I would like to draw attention to his good deeds and accomplishments throughout his life. Henry was known as a hardworking and compassionate man who valued education over wealth during his entire life. His eight children were raised with high religious morals, encouraged to receive an education, maintained their integrity, and served the citizens of their community. Seven children, fourteen grandchildren, and his dedicated and loving wife, Emma, survive Henry. Henry carried on in the family tradition as a rancher on his family's homestead in Los Rincones, Colorado. The homestead has been a part of the Salazar family since the 1850s also a pillar of the San Luis Valley community for over a century. Throughout his life, Henry was dedicated to his community and nation. He served in the army during World War II, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. After the war, he worked as a rancher and farmer and served in the Colorado Port of Entry. His community efforts included preservation of local landmarks, most notably the preservation of the Los Cerritos Cemetery where he will be buried. I personally met and spoke to Henry on a number of occasions, including a little over a year ago when Henry spoke at the kick-off ceremony to make the Great Sand Dunes a national park, an undertaking which was greatly appreciated by everyone in the community and in the state. Every time I met with him or his family I felt fortunate. Mr. Speaker, Henry Salazar was a great and noble man who deserves the recognition and praise by this body of Congress. It is always a sad moment when a loved one passes away from our lives. Henry Salazar was a loved and compassionate man who went out of his way to improve the lives of all those he touched. Those who remember him for his kind words and the good deeds will certainly mourn his passing. My heart goes out to his family and friends during this time of remembrance and bereavement. We'll miss you Henry.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I pay tribute today to Pueblo Police Department Sgt. Bill McCluskey, who recently lost his life to cancer. In his 38 years of dedication to the police force, Bill embodied the ideals of integrity, honesty and courage that we, as Americans, have come to expect from the brave men and women who serve as our law enforcement officers. As his family mourns his loss, I believe it is appropriate to remember Bill and pay tribute to him for his contributions to his city, his state and his country. Bill McCluskey was not an ordinary police officer. In 1999, he was recognized as the Pueblo Police Department's officer of the year, and during his tenure in the department, he received over 100 letters of commendation. In 1989, he was promoted to sergeant, and through his tireless work ethic and impeccable reputation for honesty and integrity, Bill emerged as the department's patriarch and role model. It was Bill's dedication and love for his job, his family and his community that distinguished him from, and endeared him to all who knew Bill. He is survived by his wife Sharon, and his two sons Michael and Jonathan. Not only will he be missed by his immediate family, but also by the many brave men and women who served with him in the Pueblo Police Department. He is, without question, one of this country's true heroes. He was a man that served his community with a passion, and helped to make it a much better and safer place. The Pueblo community and I are eternally grateful for his service. Mr. Speaker, we are all terribly saddened by the loss of Bill McCluskey, but take comfort in the knowledge that our grief is overshadowed only by the legacy of courage, selflessness and love that Bill left with all of us. His life is the very embodiment of all that makes this country great, and I am deeply honored to be able to bring his life to the attention of this body of Congress.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor a woman whose passion for life and whose incredible human spirit is an inspiration to us all. Tomasa Bargas, a Pueblo, Colorado resident of over seventy years, recently passed an impressive milestone, celebrating her one-hundredth birthday with four generations of her friends and family. Tomasa was born December 29, 1901 in Irapuato, Guanajuato, Mexico. She came to the United States at the age of sixteen, settling in Trinidad, Colorado with her husband Joaquin, and later moving to Pueblo, where she still resides today. Incredibly, Tomasa is the matriarch of a family that includes 11 children, 34 grandchildren, 74 great-grandchildren and 37 great-great-grandchildren. It is an impressive lineage of which she is extremely proud, and which, more importantly, is extremely proud of her. Battling overwhelming odds, Tomasa managed to reach this impressive milestone while battling Alzheimer's disease, a condition that has conquered neither her mind, nor her spirit. Her memories are still very much alive, and her family and friends are all fortunate to be able to share in a life as rich and varied as hers. The remarkable longevity of Tomasa's life is a testament to both her will to survive and her unparalleled passion for life. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I bring to the attention of this body of Congress, the life and spirit of such an incredible woman. Through overwhelming odds, she has managed not only to endure, but to brighten and invigorate the lives of those around her. She is truly an inspiration to all of us, and I, along with the many people whose lives she has touched, am honored to recognize her tremendous accomplishment in reaching her one-hundredth birthday, and more importantly, her passion for life and indomitable human spirit.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Mr. Rudy Rudibaugh and recognize his contributions to this nation. Now a resident of Parlin, Colorado, Rudy began his service as a sailor during World War II when he joined the Navy and served in the Pacific Theatre. During his tour, Rudy was involved in five allied invasions, including the invasion and subsequent liberation of the Philippines. Rudy was assigned to Underwater Demolition Team 10, serving as a ``frogman'' or combat swimmer. As a member of the team, Rudy was a demolition expert assigned to demolish obstacles that would prevent the landing of allied forces on Japanese controlled islands. Rudy's exploits as a frogman were recently brought to light by the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization. A recent surprise ceremony highlighted a mission on the island of Peleliu in the Palau Island Nation chain. It was here that Rudy, along with several UDT demolition experts, cleared underwater obstacles and traps opening a path for occupation of the island by United States Marine forces. Although Rudy will not brag, he was recently awarded the Bronze Star for his service as a frogman, as well as the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, the Philippine Liberation Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. The surprise ceremony took place at the Colorado Outfitters Convention in Gunnison, Colorado. Rudy and his wife Deb, currently reside in the town of Parlin, where he serves as a local outfitter. Mr. Speaker, it is a great privilege to recognize Rudy before this body of Congress and thank him for his dedicated service during the war. If it were not for servicemen such as Rudy, America would not enjoy the many freedoms that we have today. He served selflessly in a time of great need, bringing credit to himself and to this great nation. Thanks Rudy for your service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise today to pay tribute to and recognize the passing of a great statesman and national leader. On January 21, 2002, former Colorado Governor John Love, a leader and pillar of the State of Colorado and this nation, passed from us during the night at the age of 86. To many Coloradans, Governor Love will be remembered as a great statesman, but to those who knew him best, he will be remembered as John, a caring and kind soul always willing to lend a helping hand. I would like to take this opportunity, before this body today, to highlight Governor Love's many years of service to this nation. Born in Illinois, John Love's family came to Colorado in 1919, settling in the city of Colorado Springs. Following high school, he entered the University of Denver, earning a bachelors and law degree by 1941. While the escalation of World War II waged on, John answered his country's call to service and joined the armed forces as a naval aviator. His exemplary service and courage in battle were rewarded with several Air Medals and two Distinguished Flying Crosses, the highest award bestowed to aviators in the arena of flight. Following the war, John returned to Colorado with his wife Ann, whom he married in 1942, and opened a private law practice. In the years following the war, John stayed active in local politics, served as a member of the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce and the GOP Central Committee. Dissatisfied with Colorado's chief executive, and having no political office experience, John considered a bid to run for governor. In 1962, John entered the Colorado gubernatorial race and ran as the ``citizen's governor'' with a platform of growing the state economy and increasing educational opportunities. He defeated incumbent Steve Nichols, and became Colorado's 36th Governor. During his three terms as Governor, John was responsible for increasing public support for secondary and higher education, improving health care, reducing state income taxes, eliminating the state property tax, and implementing economic policies that resulted in record growth for the state economy. His efforts drew national attention, resulting in an appointment to Director of the Energy Policy Office for the Nixon Administration, an office that would later become the Department of Energy. Mr. Speaker, John Love was a great servant and patriot of this nation. His tenure as Governor, role as energy director, and self- sacrifice to defend his nation clearly deserves the recognition of this body of Congress and the thanks of a grateful nation. It has always been known that his greatest passion was his love and dedication to his family. John Love is survived by sons Dan and Andy, and daughter Becky. Ann, his wife and companion for over fifty years, passed from us in 1999. It is with a solemn heart that we say goodbye and pay our respects to a great statesman, and a patriarch of the State of Colorado. John Love dedicated his life to improving the lives of his fellow Americans, and he will be greatly missed.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise today to recognize the life and contributions of DeeAnn ``Dee'' Frances Weitzel of Grand Junction, Colorado. Dee peacefully left us on a Friday evening, January 11, 2002. Dee was a popular member of the community and was often sought by many in the community for her listening ear, advice, and warm smile. Over forty years ago, Dee moved to Grand Junction, Colorado where she quickly became an entrepreneur in the Western Slope community. Dee managed to start an employment agency, while raising a family that appreciated and valued the importance of hard work, honor, and perseverance. She raised her sons Scott, Kirk, Clay, and Tim to be respectful men who were determined to succeed in their pursuits. Dee's influence touched many lives outside of her immediate family and she was also a loving grandmother, wife, sister, and friend to many. Dee's innovation in the business world led to her ownership of Warning Lites & Equipment, Inc. Although she was President and General Manager of her company, Dee and her husband Dewey could often be spotted along the highway working next to their employees and repairing the weather-beaten roads of the Western Slope. Dee was a respected employer and community benefactor who recognized the importance of providing for a community that had offered her a comfortable setting to raise a family and build successful businesses. Dee's business ventures brought jobs, dollars, and security to the community. Additionally, Dee made a number of charitable contributions in the area and donated her time and energy to many community events. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to DeeAnn Weitzel for the great strides she took in establishing herself as a valuable leader in the Grand Junction community. Her dedication to family, friends, work, and the community certainly deserves the recognition of this body of Congress. Although Dee has left us, her good-natured spirit lives on through the lives of those she touched. I would like to extend my regrets and deepest sympathies to Dee's family and friends during this difficult time.