Scott McInnis

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I now take this opportunity to honor Deputy Tom Proud of the Pueblo County Sheriff's Department. I wish to recognize Deputy Proud for his dedication, hard work and involvement in the Pueblo community. I would like to commend him for his efforts and for receiving designation as the Outstanding Deputy of Pueblo County Sheriff's Department. Serving in various capacities, Proud is particularly dedicated to protecting the youth of Pueblo. Assigned as Crime Prevention Officer to Pueblo West in 1993, he has continued to be involved in prevention efforts including Pueblo County Safety Fair and the implementation of the Pueblo West Crime Watch. Deputy Proud is an active participant in the Pueblo West Substation Committee in which he contributed to the fulfillment of the Sheriff's Office vision of decentralization. He has taken a leadership role in the Child Safety Seat Program through his work to organize safety check-points to serve thirty families with installation of new car seats. Currently, he has extended his duties to dedicating time as School Resource Officer for Pueblo West High School, Pueblo West Middle School, Pueblo West Elementary School, and Sierra Vista Primary School. He has undertaken many tasks, in particular, special missions on traffic control around the schools. Deputy Sheriff Proud is becoming a talented instructor in the subjects of drug and alcohol awareness. Men like Tom Proud are a rare breed. I appreciate his involvement in the Pueblo community and his dedication to the citizens and youth of Pueblo. Deputy Sheriff Tom Proud is a great asset to the Pueblo County Sheriff's Office and to Pueblo. I would like to congratulate him on a job well done, and I hope that he will continue in his service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I now recognize Jan Jacobs of Creede, Colorado. After 29 years of dedication to education and long hours of planning as a teacher of History, Geography, and Government, Ms. Jacobs has retired. I would like to thank her for her commitment to the youth of Creede and for her involvement in the Creede community. After graduating from Western State, Ms. Jacobs taught for three years in Nebraska before making Creede her home. Jan Jacobs not only taught, but she cared and was dedicated to her students. She served as a sponsor for trips to Washington, D.C. and annual trips to Mesa Verde. Trips to Denver and various other projects were made possible through her efforts. Ms. Jan Jacobs touched the lives of countless individuals through her work in education. Students undoubtedly gained much and benefitted greatly from her expertise and kindness. As students, parents, and community members say farewell to this much-respected and loved teacher, I would like to wish her well as she enters a new era of her life, and congratulate her on a remarkable career of dedication and service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I now recognize Mr. Clay Bader of Mancos, Colorado. His years of service and dedication to the Mancos Water Conservancy District are worthy of the highest praise. Appointed by the district court judge for four year terms, the Conservancy District board consists of five members. The seat held by Mr. Bader has only been held by one other, Mr. Bader's father-in-law, Ira Kelly. After 28 years as a member of the board, Mr. Bader has decided to retire. Each member represents a different geographic division of the Mancos Valley. Since 1971, Mr. Clay Bader has served as a representative for the Upper Mancos division. For his years of service, involvement and leadership I would like to thank Mr. Bader. His efforts and the example he has set are to be commended. It is with this in mind that I congratulate Mr. Bader on a job well done. Many have benefited from his hard work and expertise. I wish him the best of luck in all of his future pursuits as he enters into a new era of his life.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor and recognize the hard work, strength and courage of one of Colorado's finest, Mr. Todd Olson of Carbondale, Colorado. I applaud his positive outlook and determination and wish him luck in his battle with leukemia. For over 20 years, Mr. Olson has worked to help others enjoy and appreciate the natural beauty of Colorado. Guiding visitors on exciting river trips on the Colorado and Roaring Fork rivers, Mr. Olson came to love working outdoors. In 1970, he made his way to Aspen after growing up in Minnesota. He began work as a ski instructor for Aspen Skico and later became quite fond of summer rafting. His love of the outdoors and the rivers led him to become a guide for Glenwood's Whitewater Rafting. At age 47, Mr. Todd Olson maintains a dual career as ski instructor in the winter and raft guide in the summer. Throughout his life and outdoor career he has experienced great challenges and has overcome many obstacles. Now as he faces a life threatening battle with leukemia, I hope that his battles with nature will give him encouragement and the will to continue fighting. Mr. Speaker, it is with this in mind that I wish to pay tribute to Mr. Todd Olson for his work to maintain and help others enjoy the wilderness of Colorado. Mr. Olson is a man with spirit, a man who knows the meaning of enjoying life. I would like to thank Mr. Olson for the example he has set, and I would like to let him know that our thoughts and prayers are with him.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, looking forward toward July 4th, Independence Day, I believe it is absolutely appropriate that this country reflect on the sacrifices made to keep this country independent. Towards that goal, I would like to submit for the Record an essay by Philip Burgess which most eloquently makes the point. A Note of Thanks to the ``Greatest'' A few days ago I received an e-mail from a friend, an attorney who reads a lot and is thoughtful about what he reads. He had a good idea for Memorial Day. ``Like many other Americans,'' he began, ``I have been reading Tom Brokaw's The Greatest Generation. As you know, it is a book of short stories about how ordinary Americans (farmers, factory workers and store clerks) came of age during the Great Depression and the Second World War and, in Brokaw's words, `went on to build modern America--men and women whose everyday lives of duty, honor, achievement and courage gave us the world we have today.' They sought no praise or glory; they simply did a job they had to do.'' He continued, ``Today, I had an interesting experience. I attended a family gathering of a new Naval Academy graduate. His grandfather was there. As a young man, the grandfather had fought in the Pacific during WW II. Here I was, face-to- face with a member of the `greatest generation.' As I visited with him, I was moved by my increasing awareness of how much he and his peers had contributed to democracy and other values I hold dear. I was also moved by the realization, that on an individual basis, I had never thanked a WW II veteran for what he or she had done for me and my family and the freedom and opportunities we now enjoy and too often take for granted. ``So, during a lull in the conversation, I approached the grandfather. I looked him in the eye and I told him that I'd been reading about and reflecting on what he and others like him had done for me and for the country during WW II. And then I said: `Thank you for what you did.' ``As he looked at me, the grandfather's eyes began to water and he said: `No one has ever thanked me for that before.' He then reached up and put his arm around my shoulders and said: `Thank you. That means a lot to me.' We embraced, and then, with a tear in my own eye, I turned around and walked away.'' My friend's idea: ``As this Memorial Day approaches, I encourage you to think of WW II veterans (or any other war veteran) you know and communicate to them your personal thanks for what they did during that great war. WW II veterans are in the twilight of their lives. They will not be around forever to receive your thanks.'' I was moved by this note. I decided to start with a letter to my relatives who were part of ``the greatest generation.'' Uncle Bud served in the Pacific and would have been part of a Japan invasion force, but was delivered from that fate by President Truman's decision to use the atomic bomb rather than more American blood to end the war in the Pacific. Uncle Walt was a B-24 bomber pilot and a flight instructor. Aunt Betty was an Army nurse who accompanied the first infantry units in the liberation of the concentration camp at Dachau and returned with pictures and other mementos that document that many horrors that occurred there. I have talked with them many times about their wartime experiences. But I have never thanked them for answering their call to duty nor for their many subsequent achievements, the fruits of which I enjoy today. I intend to fix that before the week is over. I've already started the letters, and with the first words last night, I began to realize that it's my spirit that will be enriched by writing these letters--at least as much as theirs will be lifted by receiving them. A heart-felt ``thank-you'' always seems to work that way, but it's their spirit and their achievements that we need to remember this Memorial Day.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a great deal of sadness that I wish to recognize the remarkable life and spirit of Mr. J.B. Whittemore of Pueblo, Colorado. With this, I would like to take a moment to pay tribute to Mr. Whittemore who embodied and exemplified hard work, dedication, and compassion. For more than half of a century, he dedicated his energy to ensuring the happiness of thousands of Pueblo children, never letting a lack of money keep children from enjoying the ride. J.B. Whittemore was born in Pueblo, Colorado in 1914, the same year in which the City Park carousel was manufactured. With nickels earned by milking cows, Mr. Whittemore escaped the world by riding the carousel. On March 1, 1943, he joined the City Parks Department staff--a job which became a career spanning 33 years. While working for the City Parks Department, Mr. Whittemore also worked nights, Sundays and holidays as the maintenance man and operator of the City Park carousel. Just as Mr. Whittemore cared about the happiness of children, he also cared about his family. He loved and appreciated his family and shared his light with all. Mr. Whittemore was a man of kindness and generosity. Through his involvement in the community, he touched the lives of many. His smile, his devotion, and his zest for life will long be remembered and admired. Those who have come to know J.B. Whittemore will miss him greatly. I am confident however, that in spite of this profound loss, the family and friends of Mr. Whittemore can take comfort in the knowledge that he made a significant impact on the quality of life of the citizens of Pueblo.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize and honor Mr. Herold Hein of Durango, Colorado. After 59 years of remarkable dedication and hard work, Mr. Hein has retired as one of Colorado's most talented craftsman. As the last working certified master watchmaker in Durango, Herold has spent nearly 20 years perfecting his craft while devoting his time and skill to creating a successful business. Mr. Hein began repairing watches in 1942 when he joined the Navy. Stationed at Pearl Harbor, he worked with five other men, repairing various clocks around the base. In 1944, Herold was transferred to Midway Island in the Pacific Ocean where he worked on submarine stopwatches. He then left the Navy in 1945 with three years of extensive training and practice in watch and clock repair. In 1980, Mr. Hein settled in Durango where he repaired jewelry and watches for several years. Ten years later, he opened his own repair shop, where he fixed everything from dime store clocks to Rolex's. Herold soon established himself as one of Durango's finest craftsman. Mr. Hein's dedication to his craft and to his community have earned him the respect and admiration of those who have been fortunate enough to know him. I would like to congratulate him on his accomplishments and wish him the best of luck in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a great deal of sadness that I take a moment to recognize the remarkable life and significant achievements of one of Larimer County's leading businessmen, Theodore ``Ted'' James. An entrepreneur and developer of Grand Lake Lodge and Hidden Valley Ski Area, Mr. James died at his home on June 8 in Estes Park, CO. While family, friends and colleagues remember the truly exceptional life of Mr. James, I too would like to pay tribute to this remarkable man. Mr. James was a resident of Estes Park for 46 years; moving to Larimer County in 1953 to run sightseeing buses, two lodges, and a store in Rocky Mountain National Park. During his time in Estes Park, Ted was the president and manager of the Hidden Valley Ski Area, Trail Ridge Store, Grand Lake Lodge, and the Estes Park Inn. A graduate from Greeley High School, Ted attended the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. During his college career, Mr. James received numerous football awards and was selected by Knute Rockne for the All- West football team. Upon graduating college, with a bachelor's degree in business, Ted played football for the Frankford, PA., Yellowjackets, now known as the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League. Many years later, Mr. James was inducted to the Nebraska Hall of Fame at Memorial Stadium. In 1947, Mr. James was instrumental in merging the Burlington Bus Co. and American Bus Lines to create American Bus Lines in Chicago. With previous experience as the manager of the Greeley Transportation Co., Ted was immediately offered a job as the president and general manager of American Bus Lines Chicago branch. In 1953, Mr. James was given the opportunity to develop Hidden Valley Ski Area by the Larimer County Park Service. He was a park concessionaire for Hidden Valley, Grand Lake Lodge, and the Trail Ridge Store, as well as operating the Estes Park Chalet. Mr. James was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, Scottish Rite and Estes Park Knights of the Belt Buckle. He was commissioner of the Boy Scouts of America in Denver, president of Ski Country USA, and member and director of Denver Country Club. Although his professional accomplishments will long be remembered and admired, most who knew him well will remember Ted James as a hard working, dedicated, and compassionate man. I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Mr. James for their profound loss.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a great deal of sadness that I wish to recognize the remarkable life and spirit of Mr. J.B. Whittemore of Pueblo, Colorado. With this, I would like to take a moment to pay tribute to Mr. Whittemore who embodied and exemplified hard work, dedication, and compassion. For more than half of a century, he dedicated his energy to ensuring the happiness of thousands of Pueblo children, never letting a lack of money keep children from enjoying a ride on the carousel. J.B. Whittemore was born in Pueblo, Colorado in 1914, the same year in which the City Park carousel was manufactured. With nickels earned by milking cows, Mr. Whittemore escaped the world by riding the carousel. On March 1, 1943, he joined the City Parks Department staff--a job which became a career spanning 33 years. While working for the City Parks Department, Mr. Whittemore also worked nights, Sundays and holidays as the maintenance man and operator of the City Park carousel. Just as Mr. Whittemore cared about the happiness of children, he also cared about his family. He loved and appreciated his family and shared his light with all. Mr. Whittemore was a man of kindness and generosity. Through his involvement in the community, he touched the lives of many. His smile, his devotion, and his zest for life will long be remembered and admired. Those who have come to know J.B. Whittemore will miss him greatly. I am confident however, that in spite of this profound loss, the family and friends of Mr. Whittemore can take comfort in the knowledge that he made a significant impact on the quality of life of the citizens of Pueblo.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to recognize and honor Mr. Fran Gradisar. Later this month, Mr. Gradisar will retire after 39 years as a leading veterinarian in Pueblo, Colorado, and I would like to pay tribute to him for his hard work, dedication and service to citizens of Pueblo and their pets. After graduating from high school, Mr. Gradisar was drafted and served two years in the Army. Searching for a career after completing his military service, Mr. Gradisar remembered his admiration of dogs and decided to become a veterinarian. He enrolled at Colorado State University, was accepted to vet school and in 1960, he graduated and returned to Pueblo to work for Dr. Ed Eden for several years. After gaining valuable experience from Dr. Eden, Mr. Gradisar established his own practice which he has maintained since 1964. His dedication to the health of animals has instilled in the owners of his patients a sense of trust which now brings the third generation of some families to his office. Mr. Gradisar has not only cared for the animals which have visited his office, but he has also volunteered time and services to the humane society. Individuals such as Mr. Fran Gradisar, who contribute to the community in which they live, and set a good example for all, are a rare breed. Today, as Mr. Gradisar opens the page on a new chapter in his life, I would like to offer my gratitude for his work ethic and for the inspiration which he has provided. It is clear that Pueblo has benefitted greatly from his practice. I would like to congratulate him on a job well done, and wish him the best of luck in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to recognize one of Colorado's outstanding individuals, Mel Takaki. In doing so, I would like to pay tribute to an individual who, time and again, has exemplified the notion of public service and civic duty. A resident of Pueblo, Colorado, Mel Takaki has taken an active role to better his community. Recently, Mr. Takaki, a Pueblo civic leader, was recognized with a ``Distinguished Service Award'' from the University of Colorado for his work in medicine and community service. A graduate of the Northwestern Dental School, Mel Takaki has previously been honored by the University of Colorado as an honorary alumnus. He was nominated for the ``Distinguished Service Award'' by Dr. Robert Schrier, chairman of the CU Health Services Center in Denver, Colorado. Mr. Takaki has worked to better the community of Pueblo in various capacities. He has cared for the citizens of Pueblo through his work as a dentist, and he has provided leadership as an economic-development leader and former City Council president. He is an outstanding citizen and great contributor, and for this I would like to express my gratitude and pay tribute to him for his extraordinary efforts.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize and pay tribute to the memory of John LaVoo who died in Vietnam during an ill-fated combat mission. Mr. LaVoo will, at long last, be laid to rest on July 19, 1999, in Arlington Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. Mr. LaVoo was a native of Pueblo and a graduate of the United States Naval Academy. On September 19, 1968, John and his navigator, Robert Holt, were killed when their plane crashed in North Vietnam. LaVoo was declared missing and was believed to be dead by the Marines, and in his honor, his widow, Rosalie Rusovick, commissioned the fabrication of a memorial anchor. Over the years, the memorial, which has hung in the Orman Street entryway of Tabor Lutheran Church, has served as a special place for family and friends, and in the absence of a gravesite, has provided them with some solace. The memorial serves as a constant reminder of the life and sacrifice of John LaVoo and none pass through without learning of the history behind the anchor. Recently, the remains of Mr. LaVoo were discovered through DNA evidence, and now his courage and sacrifice shall be honored through burial in Arlington. Though John will finally be put to rest in Virginia, his spirit will always rest in Pueblo where the anchor hangs in his memory. It is with this that I wish to pay my respects to Mr. John LaVoo, and I would like to express my gratitude to the LaVoo family for John's strength, patriotism, and service for our country.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Chairman, if the gentleman would yield, I do. It is Interplay Corporation, based out of California. Just for the information of my colleagues, the web site is ``www.kingpin.corpse''.

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Chairman, I am amazed when I sit over here and listen to people stand up here after the tragedies that we have experienced in this country and say, let us not assess any blame. Mr. Chairman, how do my colleagues think we are going to find a solution? I used to be a police officer. And when we came up to the scene of a car accident, we did not stand there and say, well, let us not assess any blame. We put a lot of resources into trying to figure out who made the mistake. Was it because of a mechanical problem in the car? Is it because we had a drunk driver? We always assessed the blame. How are we going to find the solution? How are we going to get the bad drivers off the road? Are my colleagues afraid to stand up? I ask the Democrats, are they afraid to stand up to these kind of video games and tell them it is wrong? The previous speaker said we should not condemn anybody. Well, I am standing here today telling my colleagues, I am condemning this particular game. We ought to take a look at this, my colleagues, take a look at the game titled ``You're Gonna Die.'' It is made by Interplay Corporation. Let me go through this in a little more detail. This specific game, and by the way, it is advertised in a magazine. We can find it in any magazine store we want to. Now, my colleagues may not want to condemn this. But I condemn it. ``You're Gonna Die.'' Six pages centerfold. Do my colleagues know what this game allows us to do? This game allows us to zoom in, take a look at the body parts so that we can observe the exit wounds. My colleagues do not want to condemn this? It is interesting. Before the President went to Hollywood, he stood in front of the Nation and he condemned Hollywood. Then he goes to Hollywood and he raises millions of dollars. Then he comes back from Hollywood and he condemns Hollywood. Republicans stand up here today with the resolution of the gentlewoman from Missouri (Mrs. Emerson) which, by the way, does not put on more laws, does not create new Federal agencies, and does not create a new movie police force outside there. It calls for peer pressure. It says to the industry they have community responsibility. We stand up here and express concern, and I am surprised that my colleagues are condemning us for this. Do they have another trip going to Hollywood to raise more money in Hollywood? Let me tell my colleagues, it is interesting about this game. Do my colleagues know what the company that made this game did for the Democratic National Party? They sent them $10,000, the maximum contribution. These games are nothing but murder simulators. Do my colleagues know what these games are like? Do they want a comparison? Do they want something to condemn? It is like giving the keys to a drunk driver, giving him the keys to a car knowing he is drunk. That is what they are doing with these games. I urge the Democrats, I urge them from the bottom of my heart, stand up here today and condemn these games with me. And do my colleagues know what? The industry has been responsive. Disney Corporation voluntarily, and I commend them, stepped forward and said no more of these games in our facilities. Six Flags stepped forward, no more of these games in our facilities. The City of Denver went throughout their airports, their arcades, and said, get those games out of our arcades. So the key here, the industry will be responsive. But we have got to be willing to stand up to those people. I am asking the Democrats to put their entertainment bias, whatever, aside and stand up with the Republicans and say, we do condemn these kind of games. We do assess some blame. Obviously, as the Republicans have stated time and time again, it comes to family responsibility. But there is community responsibility which is a contributing factor.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Madam Speaker, I was not going to address the House until I heard the previous speaker. I would say to the previous speaker that I would like to show him a poster which I am going to show a little later on, a very violent poster. And, of course, this company contributes maximum contributions to the Democratic National Committee. Second of all, as the previous speaker brought up, that the Republicans are questioning what kind of action went on in Kosovo. Doggone right we are questioning about that. Who is paying their fair share over there? Are the Europeans doing their fair share of burden sharing? Or once again, is it the taxpayers of the United States of America that are going to pay for all of the action in Kosovo, or the great majority of it? Let us not kid anybody around here. The American taxpayer and the American citizens want to know what business we have overseas, how we are paying for it, how many of our troops are in danger, how much we have diluted the United States military. Now, the previous speaker, apparently speaking for the Democratic Party, does not think that is any of our business. Well, I do. I think it is our business. We have the obligation to, number one, see what the mission is and how we complete it.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor an individual who, for so many years, has provided a strong voice and dynamic leadership to one of Colorado's schools, Charlene Nelson. In doing so, I would like to honor this individual who, for so many years, has exemplified the notion of public service and civic duty. As a sixth grade teacher at Penrose Elementary School, Charlene Nelson has spent the last 8 years making an impact on her students and teaching how learning can be fun. Specializing in rain forest issues, Mrs. Nelson has sparked lasting interest in her students by contributing to the World Wildlife Fund, and teaching about diminishing rain forests. With all the things that Mrs. Nelson does to encourage her students, it is not hard to see why she has been awarded the title of ``Teacher of the Year''. To earn this title, Charlene Nelson was nominated by her peers and selected by a committee of past winners and administrators. Mrs. Nelson has proven herself to be a woman with a warm heart who, selflessly, gives to those who look up to her. Individuals such as Mrs. Charlene Nelson, who contribute and set a good example to our youth, are a rare breed. Fellow citizens, as well as students, have gained immensely by knowing Charlene Nelson, and for that we owe her a debt of gratitude.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I wish to take this moment to recognize the remarkable life and significant achievements and contributions of one of Colorado's finest, Ms. Elizabeth Jean Bain. Ms. Bain passed away on Monday, June 14, 1999, at age 89. While family, friends, colleagues, and community members remember the truly exceptional life of Jean Bain, I, too, would like to pay tribute to this remarkable woman. Born in 1909, Ms. Bain was a member of one of Colorado's pioneering families, and the spirit, work ethic, and leadership of a pioneer was exemplified in her. Jean was a graduate of East High School and the University of Colorado. In 1960, she was elected to serve as a Republican to the Colorado General Assembly where she worked for 12 years to represent the city of Denver. Serving on more than 30 boards and advisory councils, she provided leadership and inspiration to all she came into contact with. Ms. Bain, at one time, was a trustee of the University of Northern Colorado and Doane College in Crete, NE, and was a member of the National Executive Council of the United Church of Christ. She also found time to serve as director of the Colorado Mental Health Association, the Metropolitan Denver YMCA, the Better Business Bureau of Denver, the Girls Club and the Mile High Chapter of the American Red Cross. Ms. Jean Bain touched many lives through her involvement in the community and through her desire to serve others. Although her professional accomplishments will long be remembered and admired, most who knew her well will remember her dedication to service and the inspiration she provided. It is clear that the multitude of those who have come to know Ms. Bain will be worse off in her absence. I am confident, however, that in spite of this profound loss, the family and friends of Ms. Jean Bain can take comfort in the knowledge that each is a better person for having known her.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Madam Speaker, I object.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the dedication, hard work, and great achievements of Wendy Raso, of Pueblo, Colorado. Her efforts, in conjunction with the March of Dimes, to improve the health of babies and to prevent birth defects and infant mortality and membership in national nursing organization, have contributed to her selection as a recipient of a $5,000 national nursing scholarship. Ms. Raso has devoted eight years of work at the Pueblo Community Health Center while pursuing graduate studies at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center. As a perinatal case manager, she focuses her time on the health of an infant before birth. Wendy's desire to better the lives of unborn children is the reason why she promotes healthy lifestyles for her patients. Ms. Raso is hopeful that her award will call attention of Colorado's fifth-highest of low birth-weight rate in the nation. Through her work and achievements she is optimistic that Colorado can improve its birth weight ranking. Ms. Raso's determination and dedication to improving the health of unborn children have led her to pursue graduate work in Denver in order to achieve certification as a midwife. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank Ms. Wendy Raso for helping to ensure the health and future of Colorado's newest citizens. Individuals such as Ms. Raso who give so much time and energy to bettering the lives of others are to be commended. I would also like to congratulate Wendy Raso on being chosen as a recipient of the national nursing scholarship, and I would like to wish her the best of luck as she continues to pursue her education and service to others.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to recognize and pay tribute to Mr. Richard Urrutia of Pueblo, Colorado, who after 39 years of work for Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company, has announced his retirement. Because of his tremendous work ethic, his drive, and dedication, Mr. Urrutia has proven that one can achieve the American Dream. After graduating from Central High School in 1958, Mr. Urrutia was offered a job as a janitor at the R.C. Cola plant. Upon accepting the position, Richard began his uphill climb. Through hard work and determination he eventually became the General Manager of Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company. Mr. Urrutia grew fond of many Pueblo organizations through his interaction with various groups as a delivery-truck driver. Dear to his heart are the YMCA and its camp near San Isabel where for many years he delivered beverages. Even though he is retiring, Richard Urrutia has no intention of slowing down and plans to stay involved in the Pueblo community. I know he hopes that the next generation of youth in Pueblo will have the opportunities to achieve the success he had, and he will undoubtedly contribute his time to ensuring a bright future for the younger citizens of Pueblo. Today, as Mr. Richard Urrutia opens the page on a new chapter in his life, I would like to offer my gratitude for the example he has set and for the inspiration which he provides. It is clear that Pueblo has benefited greatly from his honest work ethic and desire to help others succeed. I would like to congratulate Mr. Urrutia on a job well done, and wish him the best of luck in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to honor and recognize Mr. Dick Dixon of Salida, Colorado. Mr. Dixon has touched many lives as a teacher of Western History and Journalism at Salida High School, and I would like to recognize his hard work, dedication, and achievements. Mr. Dixon is a man of great experience who has received state and national awards, dined with the Governor, and taken the Tenderfoot Times student newspaper of Salida High School to greatness. After his arrival, the student newspaper began winning numerous awards and became one of the most recognized high school newspapers in Colorado. Mr. Dixon guided the newspaper team to three national Gold Crown awards, a Peacemaker honor and a rank as one of the top high school newspapers in the nation. Dixon also helped his students win many Colorado High School Press Association sweepstakes awards which gave them the opportunity to have lunch at the Governor's Mansion. Though students changed each year, Dixon remained consistent in his drive and dedication, and continued to inspire greatness in his staff. His strength and presence at Salida High School will truly be missed. Mr. Dixon not only taught, but for 12 years he also worked for the Pueblo Chieftain as the Salida correspondent. His lessons came to life as students heard his words of wisdom on covering the news, and then were able to read his bylines and see his photographs in the Chieftain. Mr. Dixon led by example and his work and lessons will continue to inspire. Mr. Speaker, I would like to say thank you to Mr. Dick Dixon for touching the lives of many and for inspiring the youth of Salida. Individuals such as Mr. Dixon who dedicate so much time and energy into shaping the minds of students and ensuring a bright future for all are to be appreciated. I would like to congratulate Mr. Dixon on a job well done and wish him the best of luck in all his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor Trooper Charles Pulver who, after 31 years in the Colorado State Patrol, has announced his retirement. In recognition of his service and dedication to the citizens of Colorado, I would like to take a moment to pay tribute to Trooper Pulver. After graduating from Central High School in Pueblo in 1960, Pulver went on to serve in the United States Air Force from 1960 to 1964. In 1968, Pulver received his first assignment to serve the citizens of Golden, Colorado. He was transferred to Idaho Springs where he served from 1972 until 1980 when he returned home to serve the community of Pueblo. Throughout his 31 years of service, Chuck has undoubtedly witnessed a great deal, yet one thing has remained the same, Chuck's dedication to the citizens of Colorado, and his high moral standards. In 1974, Trooper Pulver was awarded the Red Cross Life Saving awards for performing CPR on a heart attack victim until further medical help arrived on the scene. Named Officer of the Year several times by the Optimist Club, Chuck was most recently nominated in 1998 for his outstanding dedication to duty. He has been recognized numerous times for his efforts in DUI enforcement, as a drug expert, and safety belt compliance by the Colorado State Patrol. Today, as Trooper Pulver embarks on a new era in his life, I would like to offer my gratitude for his years of service. It is clear that Pueblo, Colorado has benefited greatly from the hard work and honest endeavors of Mr. Pulver. On behalf of all of Colorado, I would like to say thank you to Trooper Charles Pulver and wish him all the best as he begins his much deserved retirement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I now recognize Mr. Jim Selke, who after 31 years of dedication to educating the students of District 51 in Grand Junction, Colorado, has decided to retire. In doing so, I would like to pay tribute to the extraordinary career of this remarkable individual, who for so many years, has worked to shape the minds of the youth of Grand Junction, and who has worked to preserve a high standard of education. Mr. Selke began his career in Grand Junction, Colorado at Central High School in 1968, and for 24 years he served in various capacities, coaching football and baseball, and serving as activities coordinator. After his years of inspiring the students of Central High School, Mr. Selke was ready to return to the classroom. For the past 7 years, Jim Selke has served as the athletic director for Palisade High School. There is no doubt that his positive attitude and uplifting words of encouragement will be missed. Teachers like Mr. Selke, who give tirelessly to their students and inspire great success, are a rare breed. It is with this, Mr. Speaker, that I say thank you to Mr. Selke and wish him the best of luck as he begins his much deserved retirement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. If the gentleman would yield, if the gentleman would give the web page to the colleagues on the floor, that would be helpful.

Mr. McINNIS. I think the gentleman from California's points are very well made. He says the choice. Is the choice that we take, and I think actually the costs run about $1 billion a day. I spent a lot of time in business and in cost accounting. In fact back here I like to track the numbers. I like to figure out where we are. There is a lot of money shifting, not illegally but they put it in this account or take it out of that so it is hard to get a true, accurate reflection of what this is going to cost us. My estimation is by the time it is all rebuilt, it will cost somebody about $100 billion. Now, I think militarily we have probably spent about $16 billion, would be my guess. Now, they only got the supplemental appropriation for an amount but there are other moneys that they have drawn upon. But, that said, the question that the gentleman from California asked, which is a very sound question and, that is, do we take away from Social Security and from the programs, domestic programs of the United States? I think the people of the United States are willing to help make a contribution. Or the other option is, do you completely ignore the needs of these refugees? Do we ignore the fact that these villages have been destroyed primarily by NATO military aircraft? I am not saying it is NATO's fault, I am just saying that is the fact, that is how they were destroyed. Do we ignore the fact they do not have electricity for the winter, they did not put in their spring crops, et cetera, et cetera, et cetera? No, we cannot ignore that. What is the answer? I think the answer is a third option, that is, we go to our European partners and say, ``Look, this wasn't supposed to be a one-sided deal. You weren't supposed to get a free ride. You're supposed to help on this thing. You've got to help gather wood for the fire. If you want to sit by the campsite and sit by the fire, you've got to help gather wood.'' So I think the option that we have to be very aggressive about and reach out and grab hold of is the fact that our European partners, our colleagues in NATO, have an obligation to pitch in. They have got to help pay for this. They have to have their taxpayers help with this. Not just the American taxpayers, but the European taxpayers. And do not just make American programs like our schools, our Social Security, our transportation, our Medicare, et cetera, et cetera, do not make just the American taxpayers go up to the bar and throw money on the bar; make the Europeans. They are our allies. Frankly, I think they have gotten a free ride. Ninety percent of our military force over there has been American. Now, the British, let me make one exception when I say European allies. The British, the United Kingdom, they have been wonderful. They are as solid as you can get. Frankly, the other allies we have over there are not gathering enough firewood. I am one of those people, and the gentleman is one of those people who have been doing a lot of gathering. I am saying to the other 17 people out of the 19 at this campsite, I am saying guys, gals, I am stopping. You are going to help pitch, or we are not going to have a fire. Now, obviously we are going to have a fire, but it is not going to be warm enough for all of us. You have to pitch in.